Bath Life – Issue 511

Have you got a happy place? Somewhere that you know, in that exact moment, all is well with the world?

Mine is probably at a festival.

Not the planning, not the packing, not the pitching of the tent – no, I actually moan quite a lot during these points; I moan so much that I wonder why I’m bothering to come (as does everyone else around me), but then, once I’ve ‘nested’ and organised my belongings, layered up for the evening, taken a little swig of red wine from my camping plastic goblet, and I’m about to head off to explore and catch a band or two – then I’ve reached my happy place. Nothing really matters for the next few days other than which food stall I need to try next and how much catching up and gossiping I can do between the music, talks, shopping (oh yes – many a faux fur is a festival purchase), demos and doing nothing moments.

On re ection, I don’t think it’s any accident I live in this neck of the woods –it’s almost embarrassingly greedy how many festivals we have locally, as you’ll see on page 22. Here you can check out our 12-page guide, where I hope you’ll discover your happy place too…

Enjoy!

SARAH MOOLLA ©

PHOTO

JULY 4-7

DREAM OF LE SUMMER

Thrusting le fun into fundraising poppy.smith@mediaclash.co.uk

Teams? Now on sale - quick!

Sponsor? Talk avec La Poppy!

Charity fundraiser? Ah oui oui OUI!!

IN AID OF LOCAL CHARITIES

Nouveau!

Friends et family tix en Sunday!

Music into art

KEY MOMENTS

How The Piano Shop Bath is helping make art from ‘landfill’ pianos

A pioneering creative project has been set up to save Played and is the initiative of Jon Kelly, owner of The Piano Shop Bath on the London Road, who uses unwanted and end of life pianos to make artworks. Jon estimates he is asked to help dispose of around 350 unwanted and unfixable pianos every year, each of which contains valuable materials, such as native and exotic woods, piano keys, cast iron, brass, felt, copper, and steel wires. is solution is to offer artists, craftworkers and furniture designers their free pick of these resources for creative re-use, exhibition, and then sale via the shop. is our creative and collaborative solution to the problem. It enables skilled artists to make something magical and new by giving them free access to materials which would otherwise end up on a scrap heap while also giving the public the chance to admire or own glorious and unique items with eco-friendly credentials.”

Jon and his team are currently working on plans to open a permanent, regularly changing, exhibition of Played and Remade pieces in the shop later this year, but a taster showcase opens on 1 May.

Among the artists contributing to the first collection are lare Burnett, ex resident of the oyal ociety of Sculptors; illustrator Andy Council; The Piano Shop’s own artist and piano technician Marc Hackworthy; Marlborough-based artist and educator, Julieann Worrall Hood; and Victoria Topping from Bath, whose work blends digital and traditional techniques.

For more: www.thepianoshopbath.co.uk

Typical materials from an upright piano

Bath artist Victoria Topping is just one of the creatives working with the piano pieces; INSET: Jon Kelly of The Piano Shop Bath wanted to help save some of the instruments from going to landfill

Marc Hackworthy creates an eagle from waste pianos

TOPLEFT: Music man Elton by Kirk Andrews gets the Played and Remade treatment; LEFT: Julieann Worrall Hood is one of the artists featured in the exhibition; ABOVE: Sculptures by Clare Burnett

FLIGHTS OF FANCY

A bird’s eye view of our gorgeous city

@bassmanphotography

@doelchris

SCENE

THE LATEST ADVENTURES IN PARTY-GOING ACROSS BATH

ART OF THE MATTER

Bath Pavilion recently hosted the Bath Art Fair weekend, which is organised by artist Alce arfield, and opened with a private view. ore than 4 people attended to browse and buy works from over 90 eclectic artists from all round the country. Look out for the next

As well as browsing, many visitors were buying too

Bath Art Fair, happening –eptember.

Photos by Anna Barclay www.bathartfair.co.uk

Gail Mason and Diane Haddon-Moore

Helen Kingston and Neil Kingston

Cat Randall

Sara Barna, Alce Harfield and Linda Walz

Over 400 visitors came to the Bath Pavilion

Tess Armitage

There were 90 artists exhibiting

Ellen Frost, Bali Chapman, Doug Chapman, Alce Harfield, Jane Huish and Sian Philips

Alce Harfield and Andy Walker

The Bath Art Fair returns to the Pavilion in September

RUNNING ON

The sun shone to help the Bath Half marathon celebrate its 42nd anniversary on Sunday 17 March. More than 8,000 participants took on the famous race through the heart of the city, with an estimated 20,000 spectators cheering them on. Omar Ahmed Birchfield arriers won the men’s division in 1:04:42 and Becky Briggs ity of ull A won the women’s division in 1:14.24, crossing the line 30 seconds ahead of a local runner, Team Bath’s Anna Domville.

Photos by Matt Cardy and Anna Barclay www.bathhalf.co.uk

Do you need more than just accounts and tax returns from your accountant?

Being able to prepare your MTD returns, accounts and tax returns is a given for a professional rm.

But can your accountant help you make more money?

Does your accountant have experience working in your specialist eld?

Does your accountant give you answers or just more questions?

We are more than just your accountants; we are your complete business partners.

DAVID FLATMAN

Written in the spas

Flats on why he’s coming round to the idea of pampering

As someone who has always secretly felt a bit cool when telling anyone who’d listen that he doesn’t like being pampered and, therefore, doesn’t like spas, I’m having rather a di cult time admitting that my stance is softening.

It’s not entirely clear to me why I felt –and feel – cool when I tell folks this. Maybe I just enjoy the notion of PRing myself as a man too rough and tough and stoic to take pleasure from such unproductive, indulgent pursuits. Anyway, it’s only partly a lie, I think, as actually the idea of going to an actual spa for a whole day – or even half of one – does not make me happy in any way. It’s only as my dear, deserving wife has this morning nipped off on yet another it’s her first one in my memory, in truth) spa day without the

“Beauty treatment has gone beyond indulgence and reached the point of outright necessity”

two feet that really shouldn’t be seen by the general public unless part of a Sir David Attenborough documentary on elephants of the Kalahari. Fortunately for me, my wife doesn’t seem to notice these things, and when I point them out, doesn’t care. Phew.

I got back and was straight on the phone to Monika at MK Beauty, who landed from a holiday of her own, dumped her bags at home, and drove straight to her shop to open just for me.

A few minutes ago, during a break from the white-hot intensity of writing this column (I was also served a sausage sandwich on Bertinet sourdough – wowsers), I sat on the oor with our smaller two girls – the bigguns being at school – and compared feet. Truly, one hour and not very many pounds later, I have the feet of a six foot, 20 stone baby. Could I do without this treatment now? No. No, I couldn’t. So I guess I’m that guy…

children at the Royal Crescent Hotel that I mention it. She couldn’t wait, and I bet she’s having a swell old time at the hands of somebody with the grip strength of a silverback gorilla.

The Royal Crescent Hotel is wonderful, and I’ll pop down to meet her for a at white (the baby still needs mummy’s milk so both of us will take a tasty drink on location), but I’m the wrong guy to send there for anything but food and drink. However, there is now such a thing in my life as a beauty treatment that has gone beyond indulgence and reached the point of outright necessity. I get my feet done. I’m meant to get them done every month, but I often forget and they fall into grave disrepair. On a sun lounger in Spain last week I laid on my back and looked down past my lovely brown tummy all full of calamari and cold, gassy beer, and caught sight of

Oh and the other one isn’t really one. But it’s a product. One of the make-up ladies at ITV told me to get a moisturiser for my big bald head called ‘Skin Food’. It’s so thick that it feels like rubbing tar into yourself, but golly gosh it’s good. I go to bed (when I remember to use it) looking like an embalmed Beluga whale. And I wake up looking like…just a Beluga whale.

Also – since you asked – I mentioned recently on this page that I was after a garage, and someone actually got in touch! I’m now renting a perfect one right near my house. Dreamy, and thank you to its kind owners who also have nice coffee at their house). Good old Bath Life – keeping us all connected and informed. Now, just to check out that spa guide over on page 60…

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

© BETTY BHANDARI BRAND PHOTOGRAPHY; WWW.BETTYBHANDARIBRANDPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

HOME TURF

There’s a Somerset festival for everyone, and each one outstanding in their field...

By Sarah Moolla

FESTIVALS

We’re going to own this, and brag that our region literally has something for everyone –music (of course) but also food, arts, theatre, yoga, motor cars, poetry, dance, workshops, talks – you name it, hum it, want it, downward dog it, you can find a festival for it. Even right now. It may only be late spring but there are already lots of days-long, allsinging, all dancing affairs across omerset to pitch up to, continuing right through to late autumn, from the coolest boujee glamp camps to international extravaganzas showcasing heavyweight headliners. Don’t do wellies, mud, or long term commitment, you say? No problem, there are also one-day options and city centre specials. o get planning with our field of dream local choices

SHINDIG FESTIVAL

When 23 – 26 May

Where illington Estate, Ilminster, omerset www.shindigfestival.co.uk

Headlining Groove Armada et , Brand New Heavies, Kurupt FM, Ewan McVicar, Congo Natty, Mad Professor, DJ Rap and

If you see one thing New York house DJ John Morales – who has remixed all the greats, from The Rolling tones, pandau Ballet and Aretha Franklin to Hall & Oates, andi taton and od tewart – will be playing on aturday. Also, pioneering Ecotricity founder Dale Vince is giving a talk. Field report Developed by the record label Ghetto Funk, this fabulous event has always been centred on dancing, dress up and a dedicated sense of fun. Magical Creatures is the theme this year – perfect for party animals – and there’s always Cross-Dressing Friday and e uin unday to get your groove onto. Expect lots of random performances from Interstellar ircus, from drag ueens and disco divas to sword swallowers, and look out for the raucous, ingenious and insane talent of the Pirates of the Carabina. Need more proof? Well, Emily Eavis (yes, of Michael’s daughter fame is a massive fan, and suggests hindig as an alternative to Glastonbury. Look out for This is, very sadly, hindigs’ last shindig. After ten glorious, biodegradable glittery years, the team are bowing out (disgracefully, we hope), so make sure you pick up an ‘I was there’ keepsake programme.

THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW

When 30 May – 1 June

Where The Showground, Shepton Mallet; www.bathandwest.com

Headlining TV chefs Clodagh McKenna, Rosemary Shrager, and Andy Clarke

On the programme

The Great British Kitchen is the centre stage for the cooking demonstrations from the big name chefs. Proving its West Country provenance, there’s a lot of cider-ness happiness happening, including the UK’s biggest cider competition, along with demonstrations of cider-making, tutored cider-tasting sessions, and expert advice on making apple juice, orchard management, and yes, you’ve guessed it, cider!

The Food & Drink Marquee has expanded, and includes delicacies from Barbers, Bath Soft Cheese, Black Cow Vodka, Devon Rum Co, Bridge Farm Cider, and Cherry Tree Preserves.

There’s also the The Horticulture Village, an Artists in Action marquee, and an entirely new section of the show dedicated to four-legged friends called the Bark & West; plus, pony club games, heavy horses, showjumping, vintage vehicles, roaming musicians, and assorted woodland pursuits.

Do not miss The legendary Jamie Squibb’s Freestyle Motorcycle Stunt Show, packed with radical airborne motorcycle aerobatic stunts and a oor show.

“There’s a lot of cider-ness happening”happiness

Irish chef Clodagh McKenna will be visiting the kitchen stage; INSET: Cider and fun times at the Royal Bath & West Show

FESTIVALS

VINTAGE NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL

When 31 May – 2 June

Where Stockton Park, Stockton; www.vintagenostalgiafestival.co.uk

Headlining The Bandits, The Boulevards and The Old Time Sailors.

If you stay in one spot Hang around the intimate and friendly Tipi Tent for impromptu acoustic sets.

Field report The VNF is a real celebration of yesteryear and all things 1950s and vintage –just people-watching your fellow revellers is a treat in itself. Children are also catered for, with circus skills workshops, fairground attractions, hair braiding and face painting.

Alongside lots of camping and motorhome options, this festival, which was established in 2012, caters for the daytripper, with a bargain £20 ticket option.

Top tip Bring a camping chair and cash, as the phone signal can be hit and miss in the wilds of this ’ere part of Wiltshire.

FOODIES FESTIVAL

When 7 June – 9 June

Where Victoria Park, Bath; www.foodiesfestival.com

Headlining Performances from Example, Blue and Symphonic Ibiza mash up alongside demos from local chefs including Noya Pawlyn, Chris Cleghorn and Kasae Fraser.

Field report The UK’s biggest food festival, known as Gastro-Glastonbury, comes to Bath for the first time. The three day event will feature live cooking demonstrations from TV celebrities and chefs drawn from the ranks of MasterChef, reat ritis a e and Great British Menu, along with our homegrown talent. Also on the menu are T chef battles, fire pit barbecue sessions, a drop-in cook school, a silent disco, the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, fairground rides, walkabout artists, drum troops, choirs, children’s activities, and, maybe the hottest ticket of all, a chilli eating competitions featuring the current world champion. Plus, it wouldn’t be a food festival if there wasn’t a plethora of artisan producers, all offering up their tasty wares.

Good to know For the fifth year running, the Foodies Festival is supporting Musicians Against Homelessness (MAH), with tickets helping to raise money for UK-wide homelessness charity Crisis.

TOP: Visit Vintage Nostalgia Festival for a day? Yes, you can-can; BOTTOM: There will be a vast array of food and drink stalls at the Foodies Festival; INSET: The event is coming to Bath for the first time

IFORD MANOR JAZZ FESTIVAL

When 20 – 23 June 2024

Where Iford Manor Gardens

Headlining Elaine Delmar, Ian Shaw with The Martin Sjostedt Trio, and a Blue Note special from QCBA.

If you see just one thing The intimate cloister concert on Thursday, with seating for just 90 people within Iford’s Grade II* listed cloisters, is not to be missed.

Field report Both the historic setting within the Grade 1 listed gardens, where you can picnic before an evening concert, as well as the line-up curated by Claire Martin OBE, with a programmed filled with acclaimed artists from around the world, as well as rising stars, are amazing. Thursday evening sees British jazz legend Elaine Delmar accompanied by Barry Green (piano) and Simon Thorpe (double bass). Expect music from the likes of Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hart, George Gershwin, Michel Legrand and Stephen Sondheim.

At the Friday and Saturday evening concerts, DJ Mike Vitti of Saturday night’s Funky

Nation Upstairs@Ronnies will be playing on the lawn in front of the summer house both before and after the main headliner has played, then well into the evening when the lawn becomes a dance oor.

Need to know There are jazz lunches in Iford Manor Kitchen, but they sell out super quick –now you’ll know for next year.

GLASTONBURY

When 26 –30 June

Where In a Somerset town called Glastonbury with a population of just over 8,000.

Entry level Yes, of course you should have tried for tickets and at least stood a chance of being one of the lucky 200,000 to descend on Worthy Farm. Be warned, though: the boast that ‘you’ve only travelled from down the road’ probably won’t be endearing you to those who’ve traversed the globe to get to what is probably the most famous, and definitely one of the best, festivals in the world.

What we know so far Dua Lipa makes her Pyramid Stage debut as the Friday night headliner, alongside Glastonbury veterans LCD Soundsystem and PJ Harvey. Coldplay, becoming the first act to headline Glastonbury ve times, make their first yramid tage appearance since 2016 on the Saturday night, with the only European festival appearance of their record-breaking current world tour, and rapper-singer-actor-mega talent Little Simz is back. Sunday night headliner is SZA, the multiple Grammy and Brits winner – and quite possibly the hottest hip hop/R&B act on the planet, following Sunday sets from Afrobeats megastar Burna Boy and Janelle Monáe. This year’s Sunday teatime legend will be Shania Twain, and we’ll be honest – that does impress us ver much.

Need to know If you get the GLASTO FOMO, then you’ll need to register for 2025 before they actually go on sale this November.

TOP: It’s jazz, baby, at the Iford Manor Jazz Festival; BOTTOM: Hands up who got a Glastonbury ticket?!; INSET: Coldplay will be playing the famous Pyramid Stage on the Saturday night

FOREST LIVE

When 4 – 12 July

Where Westonbirt Arboretum; www.forestryengland.uk

Headlining: Gregory Porter, Anne-Marie, The Corrs, Van Morrison, and Nile Rodgers & CHIC.

In a nutshell

As well as great shows, these events are for a great cause, raising money to continue Forestry England’s important conservation work, maintain the nation’s beautiful natural areas, and allow them to keep planting trees.

The forest site is set across 600 acres of Gloucestershire countryside, with a 7,000 person capacity, so there’s plenty of room. And each concert takes place against a stunning and unique forest backdrop, the perfect setting for a magical musical performance.

Top tip

That beautiful backdrop is exposed to the elements so, while this may not be an overnight festival, you’d be wise to dress for the outdoors, including waterproofs. Get comfy too, as folding chairs and blankets are also permitted.

Forest Live enjoys the spectacular backdrop of Westonbirt Arboretum for its concerts

FESTIVALS

WOMAD

When 25 – 28 July

Where Charlton Park, Malmesbury; www.womad.co.uk

Headlining Progressive hip-hop trio Young Fathers, multi-genre hero Sampa the Great, bluesy duo Amadou & Mariam, cultural visionary Baaba Maal, punk rock showstoppers Gogol Bordello, and electronic trailblazer

Alison Goldfrapp.

If you see just one thing DAM, who rap in Arabic and whose name means ‘everlasting’, are the first alestinian hip hop crew.

Field report Established in 1982, WOMAD is one of the biggest festivals around the world, and is less than a 20 minute drive from Bath.

Founded by Peter Gabriel, it is renowned for curating the best music from around the world, and encompasses an eclectic mix of talent, spanning every musical genre including rock, blues, electro, folk, punk, jazz, neo-soul, gospel, indie-pop, psychedelic rock, Qawwali, mambo, boogaloo, amenco and everything between. Plus, more events, workshops, stalls, and shopping than you can shake a tent peg at. And another thing Young ’uns are made to feel very welcome at this festival, with their own World of Children site which has more child-friendly activities and workshops than any other festival. This year’s theme is Superheroes, which will culminate in the now-legendary Sunday afternoon parade across the festival site.

VALLEY FEST

When 1– 4 August

Where Chew Valley Lake, Chew Valley; www.valleyfest.co.uk

Headlining Sister Sledge – featuring Kathy Sledge, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Tinie Tempah, The Feeling and The Skids.

Field report This year Valley Fest is ten years old, and founder Luke Hasell is encouraging us to ‘Get on his land!’, which is just over ten miles from Bath, to help him celebrate.

Along with an exemplary dance-tastic lineup, foodie feasts are the jewel in the Valley Fest crown. Expect sumptuous seasonal plates from Pegs Quinn; Thomasina Miers MBE will cook up a storm; and Jack Briggs-Horan is behind the famous Regen Roast on Sunday. This year also sees a new intimate eating experience, with chefs introducing the courses so diners can understand the story behind each dish.

Take time to check out the extensive wellness, health and fitness programme too, with saunas, talks, massages, classes, and ice baths.

Little people? The entire Arcadia’s Alchemist Playground will house the Woodland Tribe, where kids can make their own playground stage then party on it, with activities from DJing and beatboxing to aerial workshops.

“Foodie feasts are the jewel in the Valley Fest crown”

TOP: Founded by Peter Gabriel in 1982, WOMAD is now one of the biggest festivals in the world; BOTTOM: Arcadia can be found at this year’s Valley Fest; INSET: Celebrating the fact that Charlton Park is a mere 20 minutes from Bath

WE OUT HERE

When 15 – 18 August

Where Wimborne St Giles, Dorset; www.weoutherefestival.com

Headliners A creative and imaginative line-up that includes Sampha, Kae Tempest, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Ebo Taylor & the Family Band, and André 3000.

“The do-not-miss event of the summer”

Field report Curated by BBC Radio 6’s Gilles Peterson, this relative baby on the festival circuit, having been founded in 2019, is fast gaining a reputation as the do-not-miss event of the summer, thanks to the slightly ‘out-there’ line-up and friendly vibe.

As one might expect from Mr Peterson, this award-winning four-day event platform pioneers the best in emerging talent across the realms of soul, hip hop, house, afro, electronica, and jazz.

Make a date with...The Near Mint Record Store – mega record fair by day, and discothèque by night.

IF OPERA

When 23 – 31 August

Where Belcombe Court, Belcombe Road, Bradford on Avon; www.ifopera.com

Headliners Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor and Strauss’s Die Fledermaus, together with the popular picnic prom featuring The James Taylor Quartet (JTQ), and the children’s concert, Little Red Riding Hood

In a nutshell Returning to the elegant and beautiful grounds of Belcombe Court, If Opera has several acclaimed productions to its name and a reputation for artistic excellence, with a focus on supporting emerging artists and enriching the local community. It has been quite rightly described as ‘punching above its weight’ and ‘one of the most magical opera festivals in England’.

The purpose-built garden theatre can seat up to 316 and has an enclosed roof, so rain will definitely not stop play.

The children’s concert on the Sunday is Little Red Riding Hood, and Roald Dahl’s wicked Revolting Rhymes will be brought to life in this sparkling musical adaptation by composer Paul Patterson. Join the Bristol Ensemble’s wind quintet and piano on a magical narrated journey through the Enchanted Forest. Bring a picnic and go on your own fairy tale adventure as you explore Belcombe Court’s secret pathways, hidden grotto and landscaped lawns. Top tip Bring a torch. Once the sun has gone down there are certain parts of the garden that will be very dark. Also, keep it casual with no heels required, due to the uneven garden landscape. Informality and a welcoming vibe are lovely features of If Opera, making it the perfect festival for both true aficionados and complete opera newbies.

TOP: Big logo at We Out There, and even bigger bands; BOTTOM: Civilization, thy name is If Opera

END OF THE ROAD

When 29 August – 1 September

Where Larmer Tree Gardens, Blandford, Dorset; www.endoftheroadfestival.com

Headliners Idles, Slowdive, Fever Ray, Bonny Prince Billy, Baxter Dury, Jockstrap, Lankum and Cornelius.

Field report Once the full stop on the summer of festivals (now there’s no end to ‘in the field’ activity), this gentle, gorgeous and intimate multi-awardwinning four-dayer is the sort of event that once you’ve been to, you’ll be back for more. EOTR, which started back in 2006, is one of those festivals that routinely gets five stars across the board, from the broadsheets to the music press to the TikTokkers. The crowd is of a laid-back and happy sort, and there’s many a teacher enjoying a last hoorah before the start of term, which is no bad thing.

As for the bill, there’s always a progressive, folk-leaning, storyteller slant, plus an impressive line-up in the comedy, literature and talk tents. Art abounds here, including wondrous woodland installations.

Call in at The Wonderlands Lawn activities are worth a visit, especially if you have children – but they aren’t a prerequisite. And the Prime Wellbeing Foundation return once more to curate the healing area – perfect after a hard night’s gigging.

“One of those festivals that ro tine ets ve stars across the board”

FESTIVALS

VERVE WELLNESS FESTIVAL

When 21 – 22 September

Where Hatch House, Tisbury, Wiltshire; www.feeltheverve.com

Headlining Healer to the stars Katie Brindle, wellbeing coach Dr Aria, and TV presenter Nick Ede top the bill, but there are also various DJ sets and dance classes.

If you visit one thing Its extended woodland spa now includes healing as well as massages. Think quantum energy healing, Celtic shamanic healing and reiki.

Field Report Conde Nast dubbed Verve, now in its fifth year, ‘the Woodstock of Wellness’, and it is the only wellness festival in England to be set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and International Dark Sky Reserve.

It’s a relatively small and exclusive affair, with just a 1,500 capacity, but boasts luxury loos and hot showers, 4G throughout, saunas – and there’s even a cold water plunge pool in the woods.

The food is top notch and nourishing, with Bath café Nook returning, selling poke bowls and juices. Flames and Feasts bring their amazing fire cooking, and Bristol based Ceylon and Beyond are serving up dhals and curries.

It’s not exclusively female, but it is mainly women you’ll find here, all in search of a space to chill out, get mindful and concentrate on their breathwork, but in an upbeat and celebratory environment. Top tip Bring layers and your own roll mat. Lots of the classes involve lying down, such as gong baths and meditation sessions, so it’s important to stay warm and cosy.

“Set

It’s female friendly (and female dominated) at the ‘Woodstock of Wellness’

IF CAMPING’S NOT YOUR BAG

While there might be festivals for all, wet fields and overnighters aren’t for everyone. Here are some citycentre, terra firma options. So block out your diary and make the most of these unique festival options

FREE COMMUNITY MUSIC FESTIVAL: THE GROOVE EDITION

When 5 May

Where Komedia Bath

Headlining Cable Street Collective, Ryan D’Auria, Badlands, and Vonj + Plume. Do not miss Cable Street Collective has built up a stellar reputation as a live band, with upbeat rhythms and Congolese-influenced guitar sounds, and if you miss Ryan D’Auria’s dance moves (left) you’ll be kicking yourself – think Prince meets a welloiled robot.

In a nutshell This is a totally free one-day festival, thanks to funding support from Arts Council England and Bath Spa University. The Groove Edition features five funk, soul and pop bands from the local area, including up-and-coming young talent as well as more established bands – all of which are guaranteed to get you grooving. And when you are in need of a little

fuel, the in-house kitchen’s handmade stonebaked pizzas are a delight, along with the fullystocked bar with local favourites including Bath Ales, Korev and Lilley’s Cider. Good to know All main stage performances actually feature live British Sign Language interpretation – such a great idea.

THE BATH FESTIVAL

When 17 May – 26 May

Where Across the city

Headlining Clive Myrie, Ruby Wax, Michael Ball, Stile Antico, George Monbiot, and Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock.

If you see one thing A screening of the gloriously spooky silent film Nosferatu in Christ Church, with a live organ accompaniment. In a nutshell A carefully curated, unique event put together by the Bath Festival team along with their artist in residence, guitarist Sean Shibe (below), and Joe Haddow, radio producer and the man behind the BBC Radio 2’s Book Club. Party in the City, from 5pm on Friday 17 May, will see bands, choirs and solo musicians performing in dozens of venues across Bath city centre, including Green Park Station, Parade Gardens, Bath Abbey, Milsom Place and Victoria

Art Gallery, all for free. This is followed by ten days of readings, music, and screenings, along with visits from authors, artists, musicians, educators, experts and creatives. Did you know? Bath Festivals also runs the Bath Children’s Literature Festival every autumn – now Europe’s biggest children’s literature festival.

FESTIVAL OF MOTORING

When 15 – 16 June

Where Walcot Rugby Club grounds, opposite the Lansdown Park and Ride; for tickets, search for Bath Festival of Motoring on www.eventbrite.co.uk

Headlining 500 classic and vintage cars and motorbikes. The lowdown As well as a familyfriendly display of interesting and nostalgic vehicles, there will be live music throughout the weekend on two stages, a great selection of local food and drink, activities for children, and the chance to have a mini-road trip in one of the many supercars on display, which include Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches and assorted Mercedes.

Good to know The charitable event is being run by the Rotary Club of Bath, and proceeds will go towards the Great Western and Wiltshire Air Ambulance services, and homeless charity St Mungo’s.

FRINGE ARTS BATH (FAB)

When 24 May – 9 June

Where Various, including Bloomfield Park and empty units in the city centre

What’s in store The city’s annual free contemporary visual arts festival is popping up in unexpected locations throughout Bath over two weeks to transform the city into a vibrant exhibition space.

True to its inclusive ethos, Fringe Arts Bath showcases artists regardless of background, location, or professional status, providing creative opportunities for everyone, and promoting contemporary visual arts in Bath.

Don’t miss The opening night Arty Party on Friday night, starting at 6pm in most FaB venues across the city.

The Bath Festival’s concert at Parade Gardens pulls a happy crowd

FESTIVALS

BATH FRINGE FESTIVAL

When 24 May – 9 June

Where City centre venues such as The Bell, Burdall’s Yard, Chapel Arts Centre, The Grapes, Komedia, The Mission Theatre, The Museum of Bath at Work, and The Rondo Theatre; www.bathfringe.co.uk

What’s in store A line up boasting over 100 events, featuring a diverse array of performances from local and international artists. Look out for the Latin Fusion Extravaganza at Komedia with fringe veteran Robert Pla & his Latin Ensemble. There’s a songwriting masterclass with Jennifer Crook at the Raven Library, plus an opportunity that she’ll be performing at The Royal Oak. Join Wiltshire-based musicians Tamsin Quin (above) and Oliver Lavery as they weave mystical Celtic tales with original compositions at Burdall’s Yard, and venture into the realm of psychedelia with the legendary Ozric Tentacles, who promises a mesmerising sonic journey filled with psychedelic landscapes and cosmic vibrations. Far out!

Do note Not to be confused with Fringe Arts Bath – but they do work in partnership.

FROME FESTIVAL

When 5 –14 July

Where Many venues; www.fromefestival.co.uk

Headliners Sir Willard

White, Jenny Eclair (that’s her below), Richard Herring, Paul Mason, Swinging at the Cotton Club, Alberta Cross, and Raghu Dixit.

If you see just one thing Old Time Sailors will be a raucous immersive experience of traditional seafaring music at the Cheese & Grain, with fancy dress encouraged.

Established in 2001, this is a true community arts festival with 250 events happening across 50 venues in the town over ten days. There is something for everyone, young and old, with different types of music, theatre, comedy, spoken word, art, dance, film, workshops, and food and drink experiences.

“Fancy dress is encouraged”

Family events this year include bouldering, a comic art masterclass, science, an exploration of pondlife, The Extraordinary Time-Travelling Adventures of Baron Munchausen theatre

production, and even a Willy Wonka Rave. The Festival’s food feast, Yum!, is on the Saturday and hosts many outdoor food and drink stalls, plus live music. Vallis Farm will be hosting a delicious ’30 Mile Feast’, with all the ingredients sourced locally. Popular French restaurant Bistro Lotte is teaming up with Frome-based Still Life Gin for a four-course menu paired with creative cocktails and the opportunity to blend your very own gin at the table. And Palmer Street Bottle are holding a couple of ‘Meet The Maker’ events, introducing Pilton Cider and True Story Brewing Co. Other events include wine and cheese pairings, Guyanese food at an Afro-Caribbean music night, and a Cajun feast with live music.

FROME CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL

When 21 July

Where Various venues across Frome; www.purpleelephant.org.uk

In a nutshell The Frome Children’s Festival is a free, one-day community event offering around 40 different activities for children and families to enjoy. Held near the centre of the town at the Cheese and Grain, along the river’s edge and woods, and through to Welshmill Play Park, the event includes activities such as forest school, storytelling, arts and crafts, creative activities, music, the chance to record in a professional music studio, sports, adaptable sports, magic, fun science, theatre, dance, performance, sensory tent, story-telling area, and zip-wires over the river. Good to know Free for all to attend, and donations are encouraged, if possible, to help raise money for the organisers, a local charity for children and families called Purple Elephant.

FILMBATH FESTIVAL

When 18 – 27 October

Where Various locations across the city; www.filmbath.org.uk

In a nutshell FilmBath Festival will return for its 34th year to bring you the best in cinema from across the world, and the inclusive-to-all Pay What You Can model. The planning is in the early stages with the programme to be announced at the end of summer, but expect silent movies with live scores, film walking tours, quizzes, awards evenings, industry days, Q&As and panel discussions, along with world premières and bold previews.

There are over 40 activities at the one day Frome Children’s Festival

HITTING THE HIGH NOTES

Bath based charity VOICES FOR LIFE is enjoying its biggest year yet!

This year Bath based charity Voices for Life has already inspired 6,000 children through singing. The charity is now preparing hundreds of Bath children for its annual celebratory performances in Bath Abbey on the 27 and 28 June.

So far in 2024 the charity has launched the album Extraordinary! with singing from 100 Bath children; brought together 90 children to perform in front of Her Majesty the Queen at the St John’s Foundation 850th anniversary service in Bath Abbey; and got thousands of Bath children singing the anthem Let’s Go

The remainder of this year will be just as busy with the sending of a musical message to Team GB for the Paris 2024 Olympics (watch this space) and more than 200 children learning a brand-new

Voices for Life commission in preparation for the June gala performances in the Abbey.

Tessa Armstrong, Voices for Life’s founder and executive director says, “It is such an exciting year for Voices for Life as we continue to put children at the heart of us all, providing them with life changing musical experiences.”

Voices for Life’s annual celebratory performances will be taking place in Bath Abbey on 27 and 28 June and will include the world premiere of The Elements Cantata by Russell Hepplewhite and Jamila Gavin and songs written by local writers Jools Scott and Sue Curtis from Voices for Life’s album Extraordinary!

Join us to hear 250 local primary school children, the Voices for Life Children’s Choir, and BBC Young Chorister of the Year 2023 winner Belinda Gifford-Guy as together we

witness how Voices for Life uses the power of music to build confidence in children and encourage them to share with their communities in a way that makes everyone want to sing, smile and dance.

Scan the QR code to buy tickets for the children’s performances. For more information about Voices for Life and its projects, visit: www.voicesforlife.org.uk tessa@voicesforlife.org.uk

The Voices for Life performance in Bath Abbey last year Photo

© MARTIN TOMPKINS PHOTOGRAPHY

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S CULTURAL LIFE

MERGER AND ACQUISITION

Two of our favourite art curators are about to collide, when Modern ArtBuyer pops up at the Pencil Tree Gallery on Cleveland Terrace. From 25 April until 4 May, works by Sam Peacock, Miranda Carter, and Paul Minott will be shown alongside Pencil Tree’s own Paul Jackson and its represented artists.

Also new to the Modern ArtBuyer collection is Anna Simmons. “We’re thrilled to have a new selection of works by Anna,” says Jessica Lloyd-Smith, founder of Modern Artbuyer. “She is an exceptional painter who captures her subject peacefully and sensitively, and always with an element of intrigue. The subject draws you in and asks questions of the figures. Anna’s predominant fascination is with painting the drama of light shining in a dark place, seeing it as a metaphor for our lives.”

Man in Red Coat, King’s Cross by Anna Simmons, oil on canvas, £1,200; www.modernartbuyer.com

WHAT’S ON

27 April25 May

EXHIBITIONS

Until 4 May

MODERN ARTBUYER POP UP

Pencil Tree Gallery hosts Modern ArtBuyer’s latest pop up, which includes unique monoprints by the ever popular Paul Minott. Turn to page 45 for more. www.modernartbuyer.com

Until 22 June

DRAGONS, DRAGONS, DRAGONS

A fun, informative, and visuallyinspiring exhibition, with trails and activities that incorporate over 50 dragon-themed objects from the Museum of East Asian Art’s extensive collection. www.meaa.org.uk

Until 29 September

TOULOUSE-LAUTREC AND THE MASTERS OF MONTMARTRE

The latest Victoria Art Gallery exhibition celebrates the bohemian side of Paris with more than 100 artworks including ToulouseLautrec poster work for the Moulin Rouge. www.victoriagal.org.uk

30 April – 5 May

THE COSTS OF LIVING

Organised by PhotoBath and hosted at 44AD, this exhibition focuses on stories of diverse communities’ experiences of rising costs of living, across decades and across continents. www.44ad.net

3 May – 1 September

MR DOODLE!

MUSEUM MAYHEM

The olburne presents the first ever UK museum exhibition of internationally renowned artist and internet sensation Mr Doodle, aka Sam Cox, who has been let loose to doodle all over the walls, halls and oors There are also beautiful standalone pieces to be found in and amongst the permanent collection. www.holburne.org

3 May – 8 September

HENRY MOORE IN MINIATURE

This new exhibition features more than 60 of Henry Moore’s works that can fit in the hand. The collection will have pieces from every decade of his career, and

includes stone and wood carving, Plasticine models, clay and plaster, lead and bronze. www.holburne.org

12 May

BATH CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS FAIR

Since its creation in 2020, the BCAF has showcased more than 600 artists, many of them local, bringing the best of contemporary art to Green Park Station once a month, starting in April and running until December. www.bcaf.co.uk

18.– 19 May

NEWBRIDGE ARTS TRAIL

In its 13th year, the Newbridge Trail features over 30 artists and makers in 11 venues, including private homes, Locksbrook Inn and Fairfield ouse. www.newbridgeartstrail.org

THEATRE / CINEMA

1 – 4 May

THE INCIDENT ROOM

At The Rondo, Platform 8 present

a tense detective drama set in the incident room during the investigation of one of the most notorious serial killers, the Yorkshire Ripper. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

2 May – 1 June

THE DEEP BLUE SEA

In another Ustinov big hitter, Tamsin Greig, Oliver Chris, Felicity Montagu, Finbar Lynch, and Nicholas Farrell star in Terence Rattigan’s 1950’s study of obsession and the dangerous power of love. The wife of a British judge is caught in a self-destructive love affair with a oyal Air Force pilot. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

6 – 11 MAY

CLUEDO 2: THE NEXT CHAPTER

Starring Heartbeat and Casualty’s Jason Durr and Strictly champion Ellie Leach, Cluedo 2 is set in the swinging 1960s and introduces a new house, new suspects, and lots of new bodies, in this all-new tale of murder, mystery and secret passageways. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Costs of Living is the new exhibition by PhotoBath, on display at 44AD

CLOCKWISEFROMABOVE:

Nick Helm Brings His Super Fun Good Time Show to The Rondo on 8 May; appearing at Komedia on 12 May is magician Oliver Tabor is; promoting her sixth album, The Glorification of Sadness, Paloma Faith performs at Bath Forum on 9 May; Henry Moore In Miniature features more than 60 pieces of the sculptor’s work

12 May

WEST END MAGIC

London’s longest running magic show heads to omedia, hosted by a multi-award winning member of the agic ircle, Oliver Tabor. www omedia at o

13 – 18 May

THE GLASS MENAGERIE

Atri Banerjee’s acclaimed production of Tennessee Williams’ semi autobiographical, intimate and intense masterpiece, first seen at the oyal Exchange Theatre, stars Geraldine omerville as Amanda. www t eatrero a or

MUSIC

2 May

DISCO INFERNO –IN CONCERT

It’s glitter balls and good times when West End performers join forces with some of the UK’s most talented musicians to deliver over two hours of ’70s classics from icons such as ister ledge, ose oyce, The acksons, Gloria Gaynor, Billy Ocean, The Weather Girls and andi taton. www at or m o

2 May

ANNIE DRESSNER

On her I T o t It o d e asier album tour, Annie demonstrates rich storytelling, mesmerising melodies and lyrics that cut straight to the heart. www a e arts or

9 May

PALOMA FAITH

Following the dazzling doubleplatinum success of her previous five albums, aloma is touring with her sixth studio album, The ori ation o adness, which is described as ‘her most personal album to date’. www at or m o

17 May

BOOTLEG BEE GEES

In front of a seated cabaret with a dance oor, the group perform all the Bee Gees classics including ta in ive, ore T an a oman and i t ever, along with the megahits they wrote for others such as ain ea tion, Is ands in t e tream, and rease. www a e arts or

COMEDY

Every Saturday

KRATER COMEDY CLUB

Both up-and-coming and established talents provide the weekend laughs. revious alumni include omesh anganathan, Tom Allen, arah illican, aliso haponda, and Luisa Omielan. www.komedia.co.uk

8 May

NICK HELM’S SUPER FUN GOOD TIME SHOW

After years and years of therapy, pills, personal growth and being a living legend, the nation’s favourite n e and International Treasurein-Waiting is at The Rondo to

PHOTO BY ED MOORE

WHAT’S ON

mesmerise a whole new generation of thrill seekers with this, his all new, brand new, box fresh show. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

16 May

BATH COMEDY CLUB

Ian Stone, Susan Murray and Ben Richmond deliver the funnies at the Nowhere bar on Lower Bristol Road. www.bathcomedy.com

17 May

DALISO CHAPONDA

In this brand-new show, Daliso, now 43 and after more than 20 years of stand-up, comes to The Rondo and mulls over his early relationships, which included a stripper, a compulsive liar and a bot. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

CHILDREN

Until February 2025

THE GRUFFALO PARTY TRAIL

The deep dark woods of Westonbirt are hosting a year-long celebratory

trail to mark the 25th anniversary of the award-winning picture book The r a o www orestr en and

16 – 18 May

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Bath Theatre Academy Students perform the extraordinary and fantastical musical tale of Audrey II, a peculiar plant with an appetite for more than just sunlight. Suitable for 12+ T e www t eatrero a or

23 - 25 May

BTA METAMORPHOSES

A playful retelling of some of Ovid’s ancient myths, written by The Globe’s writers-in-residence. 14+ T e www t eatrero a or

OTHER

25 May – 2 June

STEVE BACKSHALL LIVE

The intrepid naturalist presents an all-new wildlife Longleat show to help raise funds for the conservation charity, Tusk. www on eat o

CULTURE CLUB with Catherine Tyldesley

Coronation Street and Strictly Come Dancing star Catherine Tyldesley comes to the Theatre

Royal Bath, 30 April – 4 May, to make her musical theatre debut in the West End cult-sensation Bonnie & Clyde

The last great film I saw I watched Maestro a few weeks ago. I adored it. Everything about it, but especially the incredible, career defining performances by Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan.

A film I could watch over and over again

Titanic – not the happiest of films, for obvious reasons, but I just love it. I love Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, and I’m a huge history buff. Director James Cameron is an immense talent and the soundtrack is both beautiful and haunting.

A painting that means something to me

My favourite artist is Maria Rivans. Her work is a scrapbookstyle collage aesthetic and is incredible. A few years ago, we commissioned her to create a Barbra Streisand portrait. It has pride of place in our home and I still find new things within the collage every time I look at it.

Best TV show ever…

I am obsessed with This Is Us, about the entwining lives of three very different triplets. Made in

2016 – 2022, it has six seasons and 106 episodes – this is how you do a TV series!

The book that changed my life

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. I have learnt how to ask the universe for what I want, and how to keep my vibrations high. The power of thoughts and words are EVERYTHING.

The book I could happily re-read

I adored A Working Diary by Julie Hesmondhalgh [who played Hayley Cropper in Coronation Street]. It is a reminder of why, as actors, we are so utterly and completely in love with what we do, and how we as artists have the power to make the world a better place by sharing our stories. It’s also very honest – the highs, the lows, the exhaustion, the adrenaline. I find her words empowering.

Last live music gig

Aloe Blacc – his voice makes me melt. I could listen to him all day.

Desert island disc

Baby Mine from Disney’s Dumbo It’s the song I sing to my babies.

Karaoke go-to

Big Spender. I adore Shirley Bassey, and this was the first song I ever learned!

For more:

www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Catherine Tyldesley with Sam Ferriday in Bonnie & Clyde

PHOTO BY RICHARD DAVENPORT

A close-up detail of Simbah Pilé’s Bath Windrush 75; she’sone of the artists on the Newbridge Art Trail

THE REEL THING ELLIE HENDRICKS

Tennis, body-building and extreme movie stunts, the Little’s got an action-packed line up for you this May

Challengers

Release date 26 April

All’s fair in love and tennis according to Luca Guadagnino’s latest drama, Challengers.

The director of Call Me by Your Name (2017) and Bones and All (2022) serves up a heated love triangle on the courts of the American tennis circuit. Tashi (Zendaya) is a talented player turned coach to husband Art (Mike Faist), but while they live the high life, Tashi’s frustrated with Art’s lack of passion for the game she loves. Things get complicated when they cross paths with ex-best friend/boyfriend Patrick (Josh O’Connor), who’s fallen on hard times.

As things come to a head on the court, is it Tashi’s husband, Art, or Patrick, her charming ex, that has the advantage? Challengers is a sexy, sweaty, competitive thrill ride that will keep you engrossed from start to finish.

The Fall Guy

Release date 2 May

The latest release from David Leitch (Bullet Train, John Wick) follows Colt (Ryan Gosling), a stuntman held back by a past injury, and Jody (Emily Blunt), Colt’s spurned ex turned director. They’re on the hunt for Jody’s leading man (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), who’s disappeared in Sydney and needs to be returned to set before production shuts down. Naturally, things get

out of hand and chaos ensues with witty banter, impressive action and challenging stunts that would make Tom Cruise nervous.

CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Action thriller The Fall Guy stars Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt; Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian play body builders Lou and Jackie in Love Lies Bleeding; the heartfelt drama Blackbird Blackbird Blackberry comes to the Little 3 May; it’s a love triangle thing going on in Challengers

The film is a love letter to physical practical effects, drawing on Leitch’s own background as a stuntman. Equal parts comedic and romantic, The Fall Guy is a fun and funny visual feast that –despite its early ’80s TV show origins – needs to be seen on the big screen.

Love Lies Bleeding Release date 3 May

‘

Revenge Gets Ripped’ is the tagline for Rose Glass’s new release Love Lies Bleeding, and if that doesn’t grab you, the ’80s mullets will.

Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian star as Lou and Jackie, a pair that pump iron and take no nonsense in this gripping, and at times gruesome, body-building action comedy.

The pair meet at Lou’s gym, where Jackie’s passing through on a mission to win a bodybuilding competition in Vegas and Lou’s doing her best to keep her head down in the midst of an FBI investigation into her family.

parks y, but it’s not long before things get messy and bodies start piling up around the loved-up couple. Will the new romance be able to withstand death, corruption and unfortunate family connections? Or will it crumple under the weight…?

Blackbird Blackbird Blackberry Release date 3 May

Lonely and longing, Blackbird Blackbird Blackberry is a character study of 48 year old Etero (Eka Chavleishvili). She’s lived her life without romance and without children, something that appalls the neighbours and relatives in her small Georgian village.

While confident in her independence, a near fatal accident gives Etero a new lease on life that brings forward a sexual awakening – one with life changing consequences.

Blackbird Blackbird Blackberry is a touchingly beautiful story of a woman’s struggle with mortality, along with a need for independence versus sexual and romantic longing, all conveyed fantastically by Chavleishvili. As bittersweet as the fruit in the title, this is a truly heartfelt drama that needs to be experienced.

Ellie Hendricks is the Little Theatre Cinema’s marketing manager. The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place, Bath; www.picturehouses.co.uk

RAYA’S THAI THALI

Rachel Ifans pops in to chef Will Gillbard’s new pop-up and is wowed

Sometimes it’s the fusion of things that makes them special, and after experiencing Raya’s Thai Thali pop up I’m pretty enamoured with this particular mash-up. The food is Thai with an Anglo in uence, with the ‘thali’ concept borrowed from the small plate Indian style of dining, but it’s the setting that’s also really making this sing – it’s pure old school boozer, and it’s fabulous. The Crown in Bathford, the pub where chef Will Gillbard holds his Bath-based supper clubs, is a proper pub. There’s a big three-sided bar in the centre, spacious seating areas, and pictures, photos, mirrors and even musical instruments jostle for space on the walls.

Music was playing, kids were happy, adults were kicking back… and they all seemed to know and love

Will. At one point, a diner popped their head in the door to the kitchen and reversed back out quickly, giggling, “He looks just the same but older!” It was like Will was a returning celebrity which, in some ways, he is. Originally from London, he moved to Bath as a teenager and found himself returning here after living in Thailand for 11 years, having worked in a restaurant in the north east of the country.

It all adds to the charm and the authenticity of Will’s menu –a no-fuss, no-pretension, just-excellent-food ethos. The tastes are exquisite, fresh and beautifully executed. There’s also a friendliness and the warm fuzzy feeling of a family celebration to the pop-up experience that would be hard to replicate in a traditional restaurant. This is downtown Thai meets Bathford village and at a remarkable price point.

The menu is based around bowls, bites, nibbles and sharing platters, and all with a Will Gillbard edge, as

he explained: “While papaya salad is a staple dish on any decent Thai menu, you won’t typically find it served with crispy fried chicken, like we do here. y assaman curry is another example it usually includes diced potato, but I use a slow cooked, tamarind infused potato fondant instead, which packs a rich and buttery avour and adds a slightly more sophisticated layer to the dish.

We kicked off with a small bowl of soup, some prawn crackers and tamarind and lime sweet chilli dip. The cool soup was perfectly balanced to awaken the taste buds a lime freshness with a lively chilli kick that was rounded and warm rather than spiky and harsh. The prawn crackers were fresh, snappy and full of taste, and the dip delivered another friendly punch of zesty freshness.

The starter, a fresh grated papaya salad, was a wonderful balance between sweet and sour and had a lovely peanutty and garlicky crunch. Next to this was a pile of crispy crumbed chicken in a sweet, satay sauce. It didn’t cloy like some satays can and managed to maintain a good balance between freshness and interesting avours that Will had surely mastered during his years in Thailand. The third treat on the starter platter was a crunchy vegetable spring roll, which worked in perfect harmony with the slightly gelatinous lime and citrus dip. ains arrived in much the same way as the starters had, on a long plank of wood holding four small metal bowls full of steaming goodies. We shared in the delights of our chicken assaman – a rich and creamy peanutty sauce with tender tasty chicken pieces – and the pork krapow, a drier and hotter mix of minced pork and green beans, both served with fragrant Thai rice. udding was a feather light yet still creamy Thai milk tea cheesecake.

Will’s Bath venture he also pop ups at imbers Farm hop in Wincanton may be a relative new one, but he comes with great credentials after a super impressed Noya awlyn of Noya’s itchen introduced him to her private dining clientele. Will’s cooking has real heart and it can only be a matter of time before he’s popping up in venues all over Bath and spicing up our lives with a little taste of Thailand.

“The tastes are exquisite, fresh and beautifully executed”

DINING DETAILS

Raya’s Thai Thali; www.rayasthaithali.co.uk

Owner and chef Will Gillbard

Established December 2023

Popping up Regular evening events at The Crown in Bathford and also Kimbers Farm Shop in Wincanton

The concept The business model is a ‘Pop up Package’ that can be taken to any establishment, removing the need for Will to have a permanent venue and also allowing him to enrich established venues with an alternative food experience

Type of food Will’s Thali boards hold four bowls with a selection of Thai dishes

Recommendations Got to be the Prawn Bonbons – a delicious ‘dinky’ take on Thai fishcakes

Price Set menu starts at £40

Drinks Depends on pop up location, but Will is working on curating a tailored Thai cocktail pairing menu

We say A unique and immersive dining experience that brings the rich tapestry of traditional Thai flavours to life with a contemporary Anglo influence

A NICE CUP OF TEA

Sarah Moolla visits the Museum of East Asian Art to learn more about the fine art of Japanese tea ceremonies

When you are normally invited for a cup of tea somewhere, you might expect some digestives, gossip, and sugar on the side. But the cup of tea I’m experiencing at the Museum of East Asian Art, along with six other visitors, is part of a Japanese tea ceremony, and elevates an everyday hospitality to a thoughtful art form.

To begin, the museum’s Yukie Scott presents a brief but fascinating history of ancient ceremonial tea drinking. The powdered green tea, known as matcha, we’re about to taste was originally brought to Japan from China by Zen monks, but the refined ritual style we’re about to witness was developed in the 16th century under the guidance of Sen no Rikyu, the revered tea master of feudal Lord Hideyoshi. Central to Rikyu’s teachings are the concepts of wa-keisei-jaku – meaning harmony, respect, purity and tranquillity – and ichi-go-ichi-ei, which translates as ‘one opportunity,

the carefully choreographed art of making the matcha.

one encounter’, which is interpreted as ‘we may never experience this moment again, in this place with these people, and for that reason it should be treasured’. We are invited to absorb these mindful principles, as our tea ceremony, this one known as the Urasenke ceremony, now unfolds.

“We realise this is what is meant by go-ichi-ei”ichi-

In a departure from the traditional tatami mat setting, which would mean being seated on the floor, the Ryurei style is adopted, allowing us to sit comfortably on chairs – a nod to Japan’s embrace of Western influence during the Meiji era.

First we savour a small mochi sweet, then remove our hand jewellery so as not damage the chawan (the ceramic bowl used for preparing the tea), and as a gesture of respect. Yukie Williams, who has more than ten years’ experience practising Japanese tea ceremonies, begins

She purifies and prepares the utensils, the chawan is preheated with hot water and, when the water is discarded, is then wiped clean with the chakin (a special cloth, folded a certain way). Two large scoops of matcha powder are placed into the chawan and hot water added. The tea is whisked for about 30 seconds before the chawan is passed for the tea to be consumed with the front of the bowl facing the guest. It may seem strange to list the steps here, but it is watching the precise and ritualistic method that is so vital to the experience. We then follow Yukie Scott’s lead and receive our bowls with a gentle bow of our head and a murmured expression of thanks. Sipping the matcha, we quietly savour its subtle complexities –both bitter and mellow, with an earthy grassy finish. It’s also a moment of quiet reflection, each of us privately connecting with the centuries of tradition encapsulated within the humble bowls we cup.

As instructed, and in keeping with tradition, we indicate when we have finished with a quiet

slurp, and return the bowls to our host’s hands with the same care they were given.

Slowly, as the ceremony ends and after we’ve regrouped to talk about the experience, we grow to realise that this is what is meant by ichi-go-ichi-ei – this was a moment to be treasured.

The next tea ceremonies are 30 May and 11 July, and cost £30. The matcha tea is available from Bath’s local independent tea merchant Comins Tea on Monmouth Street.

For more: The Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett Street, Bath; www.meaa.org.uk

CLOCKWISEFROMTOPLEFT: Yukie Scott with Yukie Williams seated; the matcha powdered green tea; traditional Japanese tea making is a carefully choreographed art; the tea bowls are known as chawans

FOOD & DRINK

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S FOOD SCENE

TOP TIP!

The ig near Bath will be adding to every bill generated in the restaurant to raise vital funds for a local charity, amie’s Farm. This runs a transformative five day residential and follow up programme to act as a catalyst for change, helping young people thrive at school and beyond. For more: www.thepighotel.com | www.jamiesfarm.org.uk

Jamie’s Farm is a charity helping young people

MOST CORDIAL

When you can’t find the drink you want – make your own. That’s what amillah Booty and Tine tapelfeldt, who are both Bath based, decided to do when they created an alcoholic cordial called ordiality.

The Hop Pole is now an Abbey Ales pub

ABBEY HOUR

Bath based brewery Abbey Ales has now taken its fourth pub in the city. oining The Assembly Inn, oeur de Lion and The tar Inn is The op ole, based on the pper Bristol oad opposite ictoria ark, which has been closed since last August.

It fits in nicely with our small group, says operations director imon organ. We will reopen it as a family friendly pub, and we will have TNT sports showing rugby and eventually hope to have our own pub teams for darts, football and other pub games.

Abbey Ales, which set up in , was the first brewery in Bath for over years. The then local on Foster was a huge fan, and so impressed with its Bellringer ale he arranged for it to go on sale at the ouses of arliament. For more: www.abbeyales.co.uk

Jamillah

They explain Over the years, sharing much joy and laughter with all our friends, it was starting to show that recovering from the enjoyment of cocktails and good company was getting harder as we were getting older. The calories in our ‘go to’ tipples were getting less forgiving, too. We found ourselves drawn to ‘hard seltzers’ – alcoholic, fruit avoured sparkling waters – that were low in calories and had a low AB alcohol by volume too. owever, after trying a fair few, we felt that what was on the market didn’t uite meet with what we were looking for, and drinks from cans really didn’t appeal to us either.

They then had a eureka moment, and began to work on alcoholic cordials – which are made up of the essence of fruit and herbs, and are designed to be mixed with sparkling water and ice. ordiality gives the wielder of our bottles the personal choice of how strong or weak they want their drink to be in terms of both avour and alcohol content, alongside the versatility to create different kinds of drinks Bellinis, other cocktails or hard seltzer style drinks. It can be added to cocktails as a lower calorie alternative to sugary li ueurs too.

Available avours are rhubarb, ginger and thyme blackberry, lime and lavender and peach, pear and bay. Each tipple is a low calorie alcoholic option at just calories per ml serving, and just a . per cent AB . For more: www.yourcordiality.com

and their

KITCHEN GRILL

Food for thought with Flute’s new executive chef

ANGELO ERRIGO

Originally from Eastbourne just outside Brighton and now living in Bath, Angelo’s first job in the kitchen was at Gravetye Manor in East Grinstead, working as an apprentice in their one Michelin star restaurant. He now works in Bath’s seafood restaurant Flute, on George Street. Here he talks seafood platters, meatballs and standing on lasagnes.

Angelo, when did you first become interested in food?

A lot of my life has been centred around food, due to being half Italian. Dinner is the main thing in our house. Spending all day cooking, and then enjoying it for hours and hours.

First thing you remember cooking?

Meatballs with my Nona when I was two. Meatballs are a big thing in our family, and in Italy it’s a proper culture thing. We also kept the tradition of the youngest person having to stand on the lasagne to try and weigh it down – there is photo somewhere of me in a nappy doing just that.

What was it like training in a Michelin starred restaurant?

This was my introduction to what it’s like being a chef, and I got the opportunity to learn and see what it takes to work in a high-level kitchen. I learned all the dos and don’ts of cooking –it was a proper introduction, where we were taught to think about each ingredient. It was a thought-provoking way of looking at food, and is not just about what’s in front of you.

Who do you cite for influencing your approach to cooking?

Jamie Halsall of Cin Cin fame is a wicked chef. He trained under Marcus Wareing for a long time, and is very good at what he does. He showed me how to take the angst out of cooking, and that it doesn’t have to be in an intense environment. I also very much admire Tim Siadatan at Padella in London.

What brought you to Flute? And when? I moved to Bath in October 2023 with my girlfriend, who is from here. I love seafood, and as I’d worked in Brighton in a champagne and oyster bar, I knew I had unfinished business with seafood, so the chance to join Flute was too good to pass up.

What was it about Flute that appealed to you?

I hate food snobbery and like that it is super relaxed here. I’m all about making things fun but not too pretentious. For example, our tuna steak and chimi churi is just two ingredients –so simple, but tastes amazing.

What will you bring to the menu?

A lot of seafood ingredients are so fresh and such good quality they speak for themselves, so my policy is to let them shine. Of course, there is technique in what we do – but our job is to enhanced those already fresh and succulent avours that good uality seafood has. We have just introduced our seafood platter, which is piled with langoustines, mussels, clams, oysters, crayfish, crab – it’s the full works. We are introducing a top tier sandwich menu too, including a lobster roll, as fresh fish and bread go so well together.

How do you set about creating your menus at Flute?

They are based on what is in abundance rather than what I think sounds nice. It’s a much more sustainable way of working when you source what’s in season, and the customers love it.

What is your personal recommendation?

My current favourite dish is the seafood linguine. We use mussels, clams, prawns and s uid. It’s also sustainable – we butter y the squid so once we’ve taken what we need for

calamari, we use the off cuts in the linguine. We also use the heads of every prawn we cook, and cook it down into an intense bisque/stock over two days to add to the linguine to really bring out the seafood avour. And then we use all the butter we can get our hands on.

What’s a food you couldn’t live without?

Since working at Flute it would have to be the hake hot and sour broth – it’s so tender and just a great mix of avours.

Best ever holiday food experience?

A place called Bar Canete in Barcelona – it’s an outrageous tapas bar with fab selection of wines, great for sharing food with friends. It is my happy place.

Your kitchen cupboard must-have…

I’m a chef, so of course I make it a point not to cook at home!

A dinner party staple... Sushi. I love it and it’s real crowd pleaser.

Guilty pleasure

I’m terrible when it comes to chocolate. instrels are a weakness. Net ix and chocolate combined are totally my guilty pleasure. or more www fl te at om

Flute’s amazing seafood platter

Angelo’s first job was at the Gravetye Manor

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

Discover the culinary treasures of the Mediterranean at Pomegranate Meze, nestled within the enchanting walls of a beautiful chapel on Walcot Street. Immerse yourself in the essence of Greek and Turkish cuisine, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

Pomegranate Meze | 88 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD 01225 462992 | info@pomegranatebath.co.uk www.pomegranatebath.co.uk

Garden Tours 2024

The gardens at Whatley are something very special; across our 12 acres there are 13 individual garden rooms, a wildflower meadow, orchard and an array of sculptures and garden art to discover. During our guided Garden Tours you will learn the history of the gardens, discover our plans for the future and how the gardens are managed across the year.

£45 per person including tea, co ee and biscuits on arrival, guided garden tour, two course lunch with a glass of house wine. Garden tours start from Thursday 9th May, with various dates until September.

Book online, call 01666 822 888 or email events@whatleymanor.com

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com

Copper rooms, champagne and thermal cabins – we find out what makes a spa extra special

The gorgeous indoor pool at the Garden Spa by L’Occitane at The Bath Priory

“ The stage is set for indulgent relaxation”

Your back aches, the day’s been long, and the world is noisy. The daydream is to head off somewhere tran uil and therapeutic for a little me time. Fortunately, in Bath we have a raft of local spa choices to help us relax, rewind and rejuvenate. ome have B treatments, others have landscaped gardens, but all have that something special – here we find out more.

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Lucknam Park, Colerne, Chippenham; www.lucknampark.co.uk

own the mile long avenue of lime and beech trees that leads up to the grand Palladian mansion, guests are invited to immerse themselves in a little luxury me time. The pa at Lucknam ark, established in , is at the heart of acres of unspoilt parkland, which ensures that guests are seamlessly connected to nature throughout their experience. As director of spa and wellness essica Grant loyan explains, isitors are greeted by a harmonious blend of wood, marble, and glass, re ecting the warm seasonal hues of the outdoors. The impressive metre indoor pool, adorned with a fireplace, sets the stage for indulgent relaxation. The indoor outdoor hydrotherapy pool offers serene views of the arboretum, while seven thermal cabins, an ice fountain, and preand post treatment lounges provide a complete wellness experience. Working with essica are a team of highly trained therapists, who specialise in personalised luxury treatments, focusing on relaxation, mindfulness, sleep and skincare in the nine therapy rooms. Among their most sought after offerings are the Lucknam Bespoke assage, IN elestial Black iamond Facial, and the exclusive B leep oundly itual. The B leep oundly itual actually stands out as a real highlight, offering guests a restorative experience using natural B balm and aromatherapy oils. This exclusive treatment combines massage techniques with warm poultices to induce deep relaxation, leaving guests feeling soothed and ready for a rejuvenating night’s sleep.

One of Lucknam ark’s signature packages, the pa ay and Afternoon Tea, promises an exquisite blend of pampering and indulgence. Enjoy a minute luxury treatment, followed by sumptuous afternoon tea in the stylish estaurant ywel ones.

The Garden Spa by L’Occitane at The Bath Priory, Weston Road, Bath; www.thebathpriory.co.uk

Led by spa manager Charlotte Evans, The Garden Spa, with its team of six therapists specialising in facials and massages, was established as the first and only L’Occitane spa in the . This award-winning sanctuary has been a beacon of relaxation since its extensive refurbishment in , and offers a selection of luxurious treatments in four relaxing treatment suites, as well as an indoor pool, pool-side sauna, elliptical steam pod and shower. enture outside through the hotel’s beautiful gardens and you will also find a heated outdoor pool, which overlooks the thoughtfully landscaped grounds.

The Garden pa by L’Occitane has a sleek, modern design whilst also incorporating the elegant touches of the hotel’s period building, giving it a special touch of character, says harlotte. The reception ows into the changing rooms, leading you to the indoor poolside. A few short steps outside of the main building, visitors will find four treatment suites, which provide a tranquil and calm environment in which you can totally relax (the dual treatment suite, complete with a walk in double shower, is perfect for couples or friends , a relaxation room and the L’Occitane bouti ue, where trained staff can provide beauty advice. Each treatment is meticulously crafted using ingredients sourced from L’Occitane’s grand herbarium.The seasonal spa day package is our most popular choice, offering a delicious two course lunch with a glass of champagne in The Pantry and a 60-minute treatment, along with full use of the spa facilities, robes and slippers.

The Spa at No.15 by GuestHouse, 15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.guesthousehotels.co.uk

From the moment you step through the doors here, the ambience, the art and the vibe all inform you that your experience at The Spa at No. by Guest ouse is going to be something special.

Our spa nurtures real relaxation, says group spa manager arah

ABOVE: Lucknam is set at the heart of 500 acres of unspoilt parkland; INSET: Homewood is expanding its spa offerings

SPAS

“Commitment to personalised wellness”

Morris. “What sets it apart is its commitment to personalised wellness. With a team of highly skilled holistic therapists, each treatment is tailored to meet the unique needs and desires of every guest.

We have no ‘one size fits all’ appointments. Whether it’s easing muscle tension or addressing skincare concerns, the therapists are dedicated to crafting bespoke experiences that leave guests feeling revitalised and renewed.”

Among the most sought-after treatments is the signature ‘Copper oom’ experience, where guests can luxuriate in a shared bath infused with opulent indulgence, followed by side-by-side treatments. Sarah adds, The ‘Lessen our tress’ package offers a blend of tension relieving massages and rejuvenating facials, leaving patrons glowing from head to toe.

“With our commitment to eco-luxury, using organic, vegan, and sustainably sourced products, The pa at No. offers not just a treatment, but an unforgettable journey towards holistic well-being.”

The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Beau Street, Bath; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Named after the artist Sir Thomas Gainsborough, who lived in Bath for years, the luxury five star hotel is centred around pa illage Bath and, uniquely in the UK, boasts the exclusive privilege of having access to the natural thermal, mineral-rich waters.

Inside the pa illage, tran uility reigns supreme, with soft lighting and natural elements fostering an atmosphere of serenity. Private treatment rooms offer secluded spaces for personalised therapies, while the central relaxation area beckons with plush seating and tranquil water features.

Marianna Antoniou, the spa manager here, leads a dedicated team of professionals, all committed to providing an exceptional experience for every guest. Specialising in body massages, facials

and body treatments, which also provide a contemporary perspective on the city’s thermal water heritage, one of its most coveted offerings is The Gainsborough Signature Massage, a blissful journey enhanced with body oil and arnica and montana ower balm. We recommend using the thermal waters before the treatment to get the full benefits it’s warm and gets the muscles ready, says arianna. The treatment is an enhanced classic full body Swedish massage that delivers an unsurpassed level of relaxation.

Benefits include reduced stress and anxiety, reduced pain and muscle tightness, improved circulation and immune system, increased relaxation and uality of sleep, decreased joint in ammation and muscle stiffness, improved exibility and range of motion.

Homewood, Abbey Lane, Freshford; www.homewoodbath.co.uk

Homewood Bath maybe well be known as an ultimate staycation destination – eclectic, luxurious and slightly eccentric, with a grand Georgian country house and acres of grounds filled with creative artworks. But it’s also gaining a reputation for its spa offerings, as Ed Fitzpatrick, omewood’s general manager, explains With work well underway, the spa development marks the start of a phased capital investment project to cement Homewood as a leading boutique hotel.

“The project sees the addition of a brand-new vitality hydrotherapy pool, experience shower and poolside sauna, along with a relaxation room with views of the Avon alley.

“The next phase of development will see the creation of six brand new 50sqm spa suites, featuring private gardens with hot tubs, plunge pools and saunas.”

ABOVE: The Copper Bath treatment is one of No 15’s most sought after treatments; INSET: The Gainsborough Bath Spa has the privilege of having access to the natural thermal, mineral-rich waters

SHOPPING

IN FULL BLOOM

Revitalise your living space ready for sunshine spring times with a rejuvenating splash of green paint. Shades like sage, mint, and a cool neutral grey-green, as seen here, help usher the season’s uplifting energy into the home and act as the perfect backdrop to those lush blooms brought in from the garden.

Terre Verte wall paint by Annie Sloan, prices start at £55.95, stockists Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

PEONIES TEA TOWEL, £21

A kaleidoscopic representation of the exquisite beauty of the peony rose, which is part of Avenida’s Floral Collection and has been created in collaboration with New York design house Patch NYC. rom venida ome www avenida ome om

ROSE OF SHARON PRINT, £95

A timeless piece remastered to enhance its vibrant colours, making it perfect for any home. Thanks to it already being framed, it can be hung immediately. rom ren re Interiors rton treet at www ren re interiors o

DARLING BUDS

Take your cue from blossoming trees with a fresh pink and soft green palette

BIGNOR SOFA, FROM £4,890

A classic, versatile and deep scroll arm sofa with a valanced skirt in the Gertrude Jekyll Trailing Vine design, which is part of the RHS collection. Also comes as a sofabed. rom o as t ew ana a is r www so asandst om

HUMMINGBIRD GREEN ORGANIC

COTTON OVEN GLOVE SET, £18

The kitchen essential just got an opulent upgrade. This set includes a chunky quilted oven glove and matching pot holder made from 100 per cent organic cotton, so it’s useful, beautiful and made with the planet in mind. rom wa s nda tore road treet at www a wa ss nda store

THREE FAUX

PEONY STEMS, £35

In full bloom, the remarkably realistic petals offer the softest of blush tones, paired with stems and leaves of gentle sage. From Cox & Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk

ELSDON UPHOLSTERED OTTOMAN IN WASHED ROSE, WAS £1,750, NOW £875

With a mango wood frame, handwoven upholstery and hand screen-printed cotton dhurrie, the deliberately worn appearance gives this multifunctional ottoman an artisanal charm.

From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

JADE GREEN FLORAL BONE INLAY CHEST OF DRAWERS, £1,695

Exquisitely handcrafted by a team of skilled artisans, each set of drawers are unique and embellished in a striking geometric oral pattern.

From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

TAPESTRY BY MÄRTA MÅÅSFJETTERSTRÖM, £2,600

The works of Swedish textile hero Märta Måås-Fjetterström were being readily collected well before she died in 1941, and can be found in museum and gallery collections across the world.

From 8 Holland Street, 23 Brock Street, Bath; www.8hollandstreet.com

SPRING IS COMING BY EMMA ROSE, £900

Wellow-based artist Emma Rose has developed an original style, melding Indian and French inks with acrylic paints, producing vibrant and arresting work with a uidity and passion for life.

From Emma Rose; www.emmaroseartworks.com

ROYAL GARDEN PINK VELVET FABRIC, FROM £150

A wonderful design by Mind The Gap, with a pink oral background and beautifully colourful birds.

From Mind The Gap; www.mindtheg.uk

It’s a hive of activity inside the Beezantium; BELOW: Head beekeeper Kerry Ann Redman

QUEEN BEE

Ever wondered what a Beezantium is? The Newt in Somerset’s beekeeper explains all…

By Elsie Chadwick

IT’S WORLD BEE DAY on 20 May, a day when we recognise the importance of the work of the humble pollinating bee as a fundamental process necessary for the survival of our ecosystems. Over at The Newt in Somerset, the importance of bees is something they have been celebrating every day, with a lakeside apiary for bees in the grounds. With several hives built into its walls, the Beezantium is designed to house bee colonies and to also serve as an exhibition centre. Here we learn more from head beekeeper Kerry Ann Redman...

A Beezantium sounds so cool. What exactly is it, though?

A Beezantium is a building that you can walk into and see the world from a bee’s eye view. You can observe them in live observation hives in the walls of the building, with their copper pipes going outside of the walls. You can learn about honeybees and other pollinators while listening to the audio at various points around the displays inside. You can also sit in one of the replica supersedure queen cell seats and listen to a poem, while gazing out of the huge glass window overlooking a pond. It’s a tranquil, relaxing place to be.

How did it come about at The Newt in Somerset?

The idea for the building was to engage visitors with not just what we are doing with bees here on the estate, but how and why humans have kept bees throughout history. It’s literally a hive of information, all in one place, with observations hives to look inside and really get a bee’s eye view. Once the idea was there, it took seed quickly and became a reality.

It looks bee-autiful! What went into its construction?

The Beezantium is a primarily wooden structure made of unseasoned oak, topped by a sloping roof wrapped in copper. The building was created by Invisible Studio Architects, with interiors by exhibition studio Kossmanndejong – working closely with Paula Carnell and the bee team to fill the content and concept.

Beekeeping isn’t an everyday job. How did you come to be doing what you’re doing?

I’ve been beekeeping for 12 years now. Beekeeping was something I always wanted to do. My grandad was a beekeeper and, once I had retired, I thought I’d keep bees, but it came sooner than that; I had a smallholding, and it was the perfect time for me to get some beehives.

What brought you to working at The Newt?

The team now consists of myself, Rande, Imy (the new bee), and honorary member Joe.

What does being a Newt beekeeper entail?

y role as head beekeeper differs on a daily basis, depending on the time of year; the weather being a huge part of this. Bees are in torpor from November to February, so during these months it is all about maintenance of the hives and preparing for the year ahead. We observe and check the hives weekly and place on ‘supers’ for honey storage when needed. As natural beekeepers, we take very little honey off our bees we take rent when there is a glut on their hives. We don’t feed our bees sugar; we let them have their own stores.

“I was blown away by The Newt’s natural beekeeping ethos”

I came to join a ‘bee safari’ hosted by then head beekeeper Paula Carnell. While on the tour, I was blown away by The Newt’s natural beekeeping ethos. I was hooked. Several weeks later and after a cup of tea interview, Paula welcomed me to the team with Joe, Linda and Rande. I was the ‘new bee’ for some time until Linda retired, and Goldie joined. This worked well and we all helped out with the bees, the safaris and, latterly, the honey tastings in the hotel cellar. Late last year, when Paula was leaving, she put me forward as her replacement. This has been an exciting time, and in March I started my new role as head beekeeper.

How can we learn more about bees?

We run bee safaris every weekday at 2.30pm from the Threshing Barn. We walk through the gardens and end our tour at the Beezantium – it’s a great opportunity to understand more about our approach to kind beekeeping, and we hope it will inspire others to look at bees, and what they do for both people and planet, very differently.

An annual membership to The Newt in Somerset starts at £35 for local residents and or t ose ivin rt er a e d

or more www t enewtinsomerset om

CLOCKWISEFROMTOPLEFT: Here you can learn about bees and other pollinators; the exterior is made with unseasoned oak; the hives are checked weekly; chill out in a replica supersedure queen cell seat

GARDEN SPLENDOUR

The gentle transformation of 40 acres of derelict grounds into the thriving, magical gardens of Caisson

Words by Nick Woodhouse Photos by Jason Ingram

The transformed Caisson Gardens in Combe Hay

“The former waterways cutting through the hillside are sculptural landforms in their own right”

Until now, the gardens at Caisson in Combe Hay have rarely been open to the public. Since buying the property in 2010, husband-andwife team Amanda and Phil Honey have immersed themselves in the landscape there, the gardens only opening occasionally; once to raise funds for the village church, and once as part of the National Garden Scheme. The couple now feel it’s time to not only to share the sense of peace and rejuvenation that they themselves have gained from the gardens, but also to inspire and excite others with the benefits of working the land in a regenerative, sustainable manner.

Amanda and Phil met in London when working together creating greenery sets for T and film productions. After two decades of living and working in the capital, and with a family of their own, the couple were keen for their children to experience nature as they once had. Their backgrounds were similar, having both been raised on dairy farms in Somerset, with Phil spending his childhood years on a farm just half a mile from Caisson itself, exploring the land with his seven siblings. The choice to return to Somerset was a natural one, with the couple falling in love with Caisson as soon as they saw it.

The task in front of them was no easy one, however. The 40 acres of grounds were intersected by a series of dry locks, once part of the ten-mile Somerset Coal Canal that linked the coal fields of aulton to Bath’s Dundas Aqueduct, where it would join the Kennet and Avon Canal. The level changes of Combe Hay were initially navigated by a revolutionary water chamber mechanism that shared its name with Caisson, one which failed – to great embarrassment – on its gala opening, witnessed by a wealth of dignitaries, including the Prince Regent. With the coal mines of outh Wales fast taking over, a temporary railway was uickly introduced, whilst a series of conventional locks was constructed to navigate the transition from the lower to the higher reaches. Fifteen of these locks sat within the grounds of aisson, which would soon become the lynchpin of one of the most profitable canals in the world, fuelling both the industrial revolution and the British Empire.

Amanda and Phil discovered a very different aisson on their first visit. It was a serendipitous viewing, thanks to an inkling by the estate agent that the then owner might be interested in selling. All of the grounds had become overgrown, with brambles and roses reaching heights of ten foot. The locks had dried up, established ash trees growing out of the huge Bath stone blocks testament to the engineering ingenuity of those that worked there two centuries before. espite the formidable task, it was obvious to the couple

ABOVE: The gardens haven’t been open to the public regularly before now; BELOW: The grounds were once a series of dry locks; INSET: Amanda and Phil Honey have transformed the space

GARDENS

what needed to be done. Passionate about wildlife, they were determined that the space be transformed by regenerative practices. Soil health was restored using garden waste and composted vegetables, selected areas deliberately left untouched to allow ora and fauna to ourish.

The former waterways cutting through the hillside are sculptural landforms in their own right, each lock providing its own distinct microclimate ferns, lichen and moss offering a wealth of diverse wildlife habitats. Amanda, a trained garden designer, was determined that water be sympathetically brought back to the land. The frontage of the main house, once home to a car park, is now anchored by an oval pool and rill, attracting newts and the rare freshwater pea mussel. The pound between two of the locks has also been dammed and lined to create a small lake, the adjoining English oak boardwalk anked with water irises, fennel, euphorbia and hesperis.

Thanks to this sympathetic, gentle transformation, the gardens are host again to a wealth of wildlife. Numerous pollinating insects, honey and solitary bees and crickets are drawn to repurposed spaces such as the wild ower meadows. Once horse paddocks, these are now punctuated by cowslips, primroses, cranesbill, knapweed and scabious. Those fortunate enough to visit the gardens in June will also be witness to at least six varieties of indigenous orchid.

Originally built in by The omerset oal ompany as their head o ce, the Grade II listed house has also been lovingly restored, the interiors testament to the couple’s huge passion for art and design. This is re ected too in their choices for aisson’s first series of workshops, hosted in the recently converted stables. Enjoying spectacular views across the valley, the studio is now home to a programme of sustainable gardening and art workshops, include those from award-winning photographer Jason Ingram (whose work is seen here and on the cover) and from gardener and artist Jackie Mills, who will be hosting an ‘art from the garden’ workshop celebrating the sweet pea. As Phil explains, “We want aisson Gardens to be a magical, inspirational and fun place that enriches people’s lives and feeds their souls. After a 4 year labour of love for the couple, the parallels of endeavour and innovation between past and present are undeniable, with a future that looks equally as exciting and promising.

For more: Caisson Gardens, Combe Hay, Bath; www.caissongardens.com

Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse and Law at 4 George’s Place, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

ABOVE: Pollinators are now attracted to the flora and fauna; BELOW: The Grade II listed house has also been restored; INSET: Selected areas have been left to flourish

MEET THE GARDEN DESIGNER

Love beautiful gardens? Hate stress? You and us both. Here are a few people we think you should meet…

SAM SELBY

SELBY LANDSCAPES

01225 571350; www.selbylandscapes.com

What key bit of advice would you give to a client?

When thinking of what you would like to see in your garden, consider how you currently use it. What spaces would you like to see and how do you intend on using them?

ROSIE NOTTAGE

ROSIE NOTTAGE GARDEN DESIGN

07967 316259; www.rosienottage.com

What sets you apart?

I have a background in Plant Science, but also spent five years building gardens, so I have an understanding of plants as well as the nuts and bolts of how gardens fit together. The planting is the most visual part, but the construction details are key too. I have experience of both.

What key bit of advice would you give to a client?

Take the time to really get to know the garden – it’s tempting to want to make changes as soon as you move into a space, but it’s worth taking a year or two to get to know how the light moves, which bits are wet, and where you find yourself lingering in your garden before you make any changes.

What is your favourite part of the job?

The emotional response of clients through the process. I like finding out where people stood in their home when they decided to buy the house; often it’s somewhere in the garden, which becomes a powerful memory. I love creating moments which help reinforce this connection between people and place.

If you weren’t working as a gardener, what would you be doing?

My original career plan was to be a plant hunter, travelling the world collecting rare specimens to be researched and developed. I would still love to travel, but also to be funded to do more research, especially into soil science and ecology.

What do you love most about working in garden design?

Every garden is different, which means that there are always new challenges when it comes to designing them – whether it be that the layout is unusual, or that the client is after a certain feel for their garden.

– however, unfortunately we must be realistic in regards to how much things can cost. There are multiple ways to develop a garden to a budget, but if you dream big, you can expect a big bill as well. Be ready to adapt your dreams to suit your budget.

What’s the best project you’ve worked on? We worked on restoring an old country house garden a few years ago, bringing back some character to the garden to reflect the beauty of the house. This included a bespoke pergola and creating a large natural pond. The end results were fantastic, and it was a real pleasure to bring back the character of the garden.

What is the biggest mistake that can be made with gardens? Not considering the budget. It’s all well and good to have dreams for your garden

Tell us something about you and why people should contact you?

We have a fully trained team, some of whom have been with us for over five years. We value our people and ensure they are always performing to a high standard. We will treat you and your garden with complete respect, and be honest with you throughout the whole process. Please do get in contact with us if you are looking to transform your garden: we will take the time to get to know you and your garden before coming up with a plan that will suit your budget and garden dreams, to ensure you have complete satisfaction.

NICK WOODHOUSE

WOODHOUSE & LAW

01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

What is your favourite part of the job?

We have a very talented team; I love to work with them and our clients to produce unique, personal schemes. Whether that involves sourcing new and exciting products or designing a scheme around an unusual brief, it’s lovely to see people so excited and pleased to spend time in a space that you’ve designed.

How would you describe your signature style?

We don’t necessarily have a signature style. We try to approach every brief differently and with fresh eyes; this ensures that our designs reflect the style and individuality of our clients, as well as measuring up to their lifestyle. This makes our role much more varied and exciting, as we have worked on everything from city courtyards to off-beat English country gardens.

How did you get involved in garden design?

My partner, John, is an interior designer and we wanted to create a design company that would work alongside clients to create schemes with a strong cohesion between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Tell us something about yourselves and why people should contact you?

Our clients often say they like working with us because we really listen and respond with creativity and practicality.  So much so that, in some cases, we have worked on as many as six projects for the same family.

Where and how did you train in garden design?

I trained as a garden designer at The English Gardening School in Chelsea Physic Garden.

Rosie Nottage

Nick Woodhouse

LIGHTING THE WAY

THE ROMAN BATHS LEADS THE CHARGE FOR BATH’S TOURIST TRADE

HI TECH!

The three-day Bath Digital Festival is back HEALTH CARE

The Dyson Cancer Centre opens ON TO BETTER THRINGS Top law firm promotions A CUT ABOVE The Bath Life Award winning No 45 salon

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH

Unique social business occasion: live interview with Dr Chris Stephens, director of the Holburne Museum

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

JOIN

US

Tuesday 14 May at Walcot House from 12pm

Sponsored by:

If you would like to get involved, email Poppy.Smith@mediaclash.co.uk

The sun’s out, the sky’s blue, and the tourists are back – in numbers

ONE IN A MILLION

Bath’s Heritage Services shows strong financial recovery, with the Roman Baths & Pump Room welcoming one million visitors a year

More than one million people visited the Roman Baths & Pump Room in 2023. This is the first time the milestone has been reached since before the pandemic, and re ects the strong return of tourism to the city.

Figures released by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) show that visitor numbers to the Roman Baths have grown by 25 per cent, from 851,854 in 2022 to 1,061,240 in 2023. The historic site is the 29th most visited attraction in the UK rankings and, after Stonehenge, is the second most visited attraction in England outside of London.

“To be 29th in a list of the country’s best museums, historic sites and attractions is a ringing endorsement of the Roman Baths as one of the country’s must-see visitor destinations, and re ects the importance of Bath within the UK tourism industry,” says councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic & Cultural Sustainable Development. “These visitors contribute a huge amount to the local economy, and all the profit made at the Roman Baths is used to improve the lives of local people and conserve the site for future generations.”

The figures tell the bigger story of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Heritage Services’ positive levels of income and profitability this year. A March report to Bath

& North East Somerset Council’s cabinet revealed the service, which manages the council’s heritage sites including the Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery and the Fashion useum, will return a .4m profit during 2023/24, rising to £12.2m in 2024/25. This money will be used to directly support people across Bath and North East Somerset by contributing significantly to the council’s wider activities.

“THESE VISITORS CONTRIBUTE A HUGE AMOUNT TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY”

A strong programme of popular exhibitions at Victoria Art Gallery has led to a 30 per cent increase in exhibition visitors in the past year. Bath has also benefitted from the strong return of American tourism to the UK, and it is anticipated the return of the Chinese market in 2024/25 will contribute to further growth in tourism throughout the region. Whilst overall visitor numbers remain lower than peak pre pandemic figures, actual income returned to the council is now the highest on record and is predicted to continue to grow in 24/25.

Recent research carried out by Visit West reveals thevalue of tourismto the region is currently estimated to be worth£2.13bn – with over 41,000 peopleestimated to be employed within the industry. Food & drink and retail account for almost 60 per cent of all visitor spend. Day trips make up almost half of the spend in the region, while 79 per cent of staying visitors are from within the UK and 21 per cent international.

For more: www.romanbaths.co.uk | www.bathnes.gov.uk | www.visitwest.co.uk

The new Dyson Cancer Centre is now open

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

The new yson ancer entre at the oyal nited ospitals Bath N Foundation Trust has now opened, with the state of the art purpose built facility providing a cancer services hub for more than , people across much of the outh West.

The new centre is backed by over 4 m in Government funding as part of the New ospital rogramme, but was also supported by a m campaign from , the hospital’s o cial charity, including a 4m donation from the ames yson Foundation

Space, cities and sport are the themes of this year’s event

and m donated by the edlock haritable Trust. On top of this, a further . m was donated by acmillan ancer upport to fund the acmillan Wellbeing ub. This will provide a welcoming, non-clinical space designed around the needs of patients and their families. pread across three oors, the hub includes counselling rooms, complementary therapy spaces, information space, and comfortable accommodation where relatives and loved ones can stay overnight. For more: www.ruh.nhs.uk

CUTTING EDGE TECH

The Bath Digital Festival is returning 14 – 16 ay. urated by tech A and split across three days, the event will focus on three areas sport, space and cities. Each theme has been carefully selected and curated, to explore Bath’s heritage in each, but also to change the perceptions of the city itself.

“Bath has an incredible and well-deserved cultural heritage. But peel back the Georgian

egency and you’ll find that there is actually so much more to the city than you likely ever realised, says tech A ’s managing director, Ben horrock. The 4 Bath igital Festival will explore how Bath’s past has shaped its present and how we can tap into the challenger mindset of the city’s cutting edge businesses to build a better tomorrow. For more: www.techspark.co

ON THE UP

MOGERS DREWETT has strengthened its commercial property team with the appointment of experienced lawyer Helen Gate. Helen joins the firm from Clarke Willmott, where she was a senior associate in the commercial property team, advising landowners on telecom agreements and disputes. www.mogersdrewett.com

Wiltshire-based solicitors

GOUGHS has welcomed new senior associate Elmira Moore at the firm’s Chippenham High Street office. Elmira says, “I am delighted to be joining such a successful and forward-thinking residential property team with values that are close to my heart.” www.goughs.co.uk

Sally Higham has been appointed as the new nonexecutive chair for Bath & North East Somerset Council’s property and development group of companies, AEQUUS

Sally, who lives in Bath, is currently group chair of the Rooftop Housing Group, advisory committee member for the Growth Impact Fund, and managing director of In a Box Services. www.aequusdevelopments.co.uk

LAW MAKERS

Thrings has welcomed the ualification of three new lawyers in its Bath o ces. Ella ichardson is the newest residential property solicitor, having completed a seat of her traineeship with the team, as well as in the firm’s family and agricultural property teams. tacey old and Lisa odge will continue as part of the firm’s private client team, having completed their ILEx ualifications, both becoming chartered legal executives. imon oldsworth, Thrings managing partner, says, As a proud supporter of junior members of staff developing their careers through different routes to ualification, it is great to see this latest round of ualifications showcasing a diverse array of experience. For more: www.thrings.com

Elmira Moore

Sally Higham

Helen Gate

Ella Richardson, Stacey Mold and Lisa Hodge outside the Thrings Bath office

© IBI ARCHITECTS

ENTRECONF STEPS UP

The region’s leading event for entrepreneurs, EntreConf, is expanding, with two new conferences, more awards, a doubling of its main activity and the appointment of a key new advisor.

The new conferences are for young entrepreneurs in Bath and Bristol. Called EntreConf Go, the aim is to inspire early stage entrepreneurs with relatable case studies, advice on starting up and some useful introductions. The events will be free to attend for 16-25 year olds, and welcome those from whatever educational background.

“It’s important to support and encourage young entrepreneurs, particularly because they have been the most affected by the pandemic, said EntreConf’s founder, Greg Ingham. “It’s about entrepreneurialism as a career choice, seeing employment through a different lens. It’ll help generate new business in the city and provide a powerful channel for companies keen to be associated with the next generation.

EntreConf Go in Bath will be at Komedia in the autumn. It has already been backed as anchor partner by Bath Spa University. EntreConf itself is doubling up to two days this year, following last year’s sold-out success. It will run on 19 –20 June at Watershed in Bristol, with keynotes, speakers and sessions ranging from foodie entrepreneur Charlie Bigham to a former PlayStation, Xbox and Google SVP Phil Harrison on pitching for funds. Plus, the remarkable inside story of EnsiliTech.

EntreConf is joined this year by a special advisor, David Maher Roberts. He has had many years experience with tech and creative entrepreneurs,

BUSINESS DIARY

14 MAY

Bath Life Network Lunch; www.mediaclash.co.uk

15 MAY

Creative Bath Business Breakfast; www.creativebath.org

22 MAY

Creative Bath Awards; www.creativebath.org

5 JUNE

EntreConf Awards nominations close; www.entreconf.com

19 – 20 JUNE

EntreConf; www.entreconf.com

27 JUNE

Bath Property Awards nominations open; www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

4 – 7 JULY

Bath Boules; www.bathboules.com

26 SEPTEMBER

EntreConf Awards; www.entreconf.com

8 NOVEMBER

Bath Property Awards; www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

and was most recently chief executive of Dialect. He also founded TechSPARK and advises Bristol Innovations amongst several others.

Meantime, the EntreConf Awards are returning. Nominations have just opened and include two new categories of Advisor and Pre-Revenue Businesses. Finalists will be revealed at EntreConf in June, with the Awards running in September at the Aerospace Museum at Filton.

Entrepreneurialism is so strong in this region, Ingham added. “Multiple great successes, plus extraordinary universities backed by an appetite for

both innovation and risk, has created the most wonderful ecosystem of new businesses and scale ups.

Companies currently involved in EntreConf include: Cazenove Capital, University of Bath, Ambitious, Burges Salmon, Lombard Odier, London Stock Exchange, Bath Spa Uni, Link Stone Advisory, Storm Consultancy, Mostly Media, Modular, Thrive, Optimising IT, Bristol Creative Industries and Babbassa. To be part of EntreConf, please contact claudia.butler@mediaclash.co.uk

For more: www.entreconf.com The

The Juice team know their onions when it comes to Boules

PHOTO BY JON CRAIG | INSTAGRAM@JON_CRAIG

PHOTO BY LLOYD EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY

Greg Ingham, founder of EntreConf

HHAVE YOU DECLARED GAINS MADE ON CRYPTOASSETS?

Jacqui Bowden from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY highlights HMRC’s guidelines on cryptocurrencies for individuals

M Revenue & Customs (HMRC) are continuing to send so-called ‘nudge letters’ to those individuals whom they believe are invested, or have been invested, in any cryptoassets. If you think this may apply to you then it is important that you tell HMRC before they get to you (in other words, don’t wait for the ‘nudge letter’!).

If you believe you might have undeclared income or gains in connection with cryptoassets and don’t make a voluntary disclosure before HMRC write to you, you could suffer penalties of up to 100 per cent of the unpaid tax or even face criminal prosecution. Even higher penalties potentially apply to matters involving offshore income or gains.

What are cryptoassets and when might a tax charge arise on them?

Cryptoassets (also referred to as ‘tokens’ or ‘cryptocurrency’) are cryptographically secured digital representations of value or contractual rights that can be transferred, stored and traded electronically.

If that still means nothing, then the Bank of England usefully breaks it down:-

Crypto – means hidden or secret, referring to the secure technology used to record who owns what, and for making payments between users.

Currency – tells us the reason cryptocurrencies were designed in the first place: a type of electronic cash.

Cryptoassets generally, including cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, are becoming more common and HMRC have established a Cryptoasset Manual which explains the tax consequences of different types of transactions involving cryptoassets.

HMRC generally seeks to treat cryptoassets as a non-trading activity giving rise to a chargeable gain, chargeable to capital gains tax on an individual. The gains are calculated in the same way as a gain on shares, with tokens of the

same type being pooled into their own pool. A taxable disposal of a cryptoasset generally takes place when it is:

• Sold

• Exchanged as a form of payment for goods or services

• Exchanged for tokens in a different type of cryptoasset

• Gifted (subject to usual interspousal exemptions)

• Donated to charity and the donation is tainted

• Disposed of to charity resulting in a gain arising on the disponer.

This means that taxable gains on cryptoassets can often arise without disposal proceeds being realised from which tax liabilities can be paid. Such so-called ‘dry’ tax charges can cause financial difficulties so individuals should bear this in mind before undertaking any such transactions.

To date, HMRC generally expects that when an individual is holding cryptoassets, they are unlikely to be trading. They have also taken the view that most businesses (including most incorporated businesses) are unlikely to buy and sell cryptoassets with such frequency, level of organisation and sophistication that the activity amounts to a financial trade. However, as the trade in cryptoassets continues to increase, HMRC may well change their view and as ever, the tax position of the activities will depend on the facts in each particular case. If individuals or businesses purchase cryptoassets with the intention of generating profit and trading them regularly, there is bound to be an increased risk that HMRC would try to tax any profits to income tax (or corporation tax, as the case may be), rather than capital gains tax.

What should I do if I haven’t declared income or gains on cryptoassets to HMRC? If you need to report income or gains on cryptoassets that relate to the 2023/24 tax year then these should be included on your tax return for that year, which will usually be

due for submission by 31 January 2025, which is also the date by which any tax in relation to such income or gains should be paid.

For any income or gains relating to the tax year ended 5 April 2023, there is still time to amend a previously submitted Tax Return for that year.

For any income or gains on cryptoassets relating to earlier tax years, a new voluntary disclosure facility has been created by HMRC to report such historical tax liabilities.

In accordance with existing information sharing between third parties (e.g. banks and financial institutions, Airbnb etc.) and HMRC, HMRC have a data-sharing program with all UK exchanges and can track cryptocurrency transactions going back as far as 2014.

Going forward the UK is spearheading the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework, where crypto platforms will share taxpayer information, with exchange of information between countries, and this is expected to take effect from the beginning of 2027. It is therefore increasingly important that you are confident that your tax reporting duties are fully complied with in connection with any cryptoassets. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are concerned that you may have overlooked income or gains arising from these assets.

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

NO 45 HAIRDRESSING BATH LIFE AWARDS 2024

HAIR & BEAUTY WINNER

SPONSORED BY

No 45 Hairdressing is an independent boutique salon based on Moorland oad in Oldfield ark, offering high end styling in a luxury, unisex environment. Here owner Natasha Bishop, who set up the business in , talks about what it means for her and the team to win a Bath Life Award.

Tell us about a few of things that prompted you to enter the Bath Life Awards

We had an incredibly successful year, and I am so proud of everything myself and the team working at No 4 airdressing have achieved. For example, we have become a Keune ambassador salon. Keune is a salon exclusive manufacturer of hair products that not only supplies us with high end products and Hair & Beauty Award Sponsored by Creative Bath

invites us to use their training facilities, but are also working towards per cent sustainability, which we at No 45 wholeheartedly support.

How did you find the process of applying?

Entering the Awards was a great way to review the changes we have made to the business throughout the year. I think that when you analyse your business, it can also highlight areas for change and gives you ideas to improve for the future.

Have you entered before?

es, we entered as a new business two years ago and this helped me to identify areas for change, which in turn has helped me to keep developing.

Highlight of the night?

Not any single highlight – but a whole load of brilliant highlights It was like a great big party in a great venue, with fabulous food and lots of lovely people. But, of course, suddenly seeing the salon’s name up there as a winner was an incredible feeling. I almost couldn’t believe it.

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

“SHOWCASED STRONG BELIEF IN FRESH TALENT, TRAINING TWO SUCCESSFUL APPRENTICES WHILST GARNERING OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER FEEDBACK”

It means so much to us all, and for us to receive the recognition for all the hard work makes us all proud. It really is a great feeling to have won this Award.

Any advice for someone thinking of entering the Bath Life Awards?

Believe in your business.

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk | www.no45hairdressing.co.uk

PHOTO

THE BATH LIFE AWARDS JUDGES

Natasha Bishop, owner of No 45 Hairdressing, with husband Craig

CHARLIE BIGHAM Bigham’s: £120m sales foodie business. How?

MIKE OGDEN CAREER PATH

Meet the general manager of Hartham Park Estate

Originally from Manchester and having played professional football, Mike Ogden is now general manager of Hartham Park.

Established in 1795, the Hartham Park Mansion House in Wiltshire has been visited by Sir Winston Churchill and Prince Arthur, and, in the 1960s, the Estate became a hub for business innovation, setting the stage for its current role as a multifaceted venue.

Mike, tell us a little about your background before Hartham Park Estate...

I signed for Bradford City FC as a schoolboy, Stockport County FC as an apprentice and professional, playing centre midfield until I was years old. I then transitioned into a personal trainer for the next years.

How did you fall into your current line of work?

After qualifying as a Level 3 personal trainer, sports remedial therapist and group fitness instructor, I realised that climbing the ladder into management was my ultimate aspiration. Prior to joining Hartham Park Estate, I worked at Combe Grove, Bowood, and The Royal Crescent. Each

experience further honed my skills and passion for creating exceptional guest experiences.

What first brought you to the West Country?

I relocated here with my then wife-tobe, who I’d met in Ibiza. Within 18 months I was appointed as the deputy country club manager at Combe Grove Manor, where I maintained my fitness profession but also gained experience within management.

What were the early days in hospitality like?

They presented their fair share of challenges, from navigating administrative hurdles to weathering the storm of the pandemic.

How might you describe the key clientele of Hartham Park?

We cater to forward-thinking businesses and professionals seeking state-of-the-art conference facilities, modern o ce spaces, and a collaborative environment leading to growth and innovation.

What have you found to be the best tools for growth in your business?

The keys to our growth lie in our straightforward offerings, the expertise of our team, exceptional

customer service, and a proactive approach to networking. Additionally, platforms such as Bath Life have played a pivotal role in showcasing our offerings and connecting us with the local community.

How does being near Bath help your business?

Bath’s charm permeates every aspect of our business. Moreover, our close-knit networks within the Bath community foster collaboration and mutual support, further bolstering our growth and visibility.

“THE FUTURE OF HARTHAM PARK ESTATE IS BRIMMING WITH EXCITEMENT AND INNOVATION”

Any exciting immediate plans for the Estate?

So many! The future of Hartham Park Estate is brimming with excitement and innovation. As we continue to invest in enhancing our infrastructure, including upgrading our wi fi capabilities and modernising our o ce spaces, we are also preparing to relaunch our weddings offering in the summer of this year, promising unforgettable experiences for couples and their guests.

Finally, any collaborations?

We are proud to partner with Wiltshire Air Ambulance, an organisation that closely aligns with our values of community support and philanthropy.

For more: Hartham Lane, Corsham; www.harthamparkestate.co.uk

The traditionally grand Hartham Park Estate

PLAN IT IN ADVANCE

Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains the use and effect of an Advance Directive

Astatement signed by an individual to confirm what medical treatment they would and/or would not want to receive if at some future date they were to lack capacity to make informed decisions and give appropriate instructions to their medical advisers themselves is most frequently termed an ‘Advance Directive’ or ‘Advance Decision’. The term ‘Living Will’ is also sometimes used but is becoming less popular as it is thought that it can cause confusion. Whereas a ‘Will’ deals with a person’s property and finances a ‘Living Will’ does not. It deals with health decisions only.

So, what is the use and effect of an Advance Directive? And how does it differ from a Lasting Power of Attorney relating to an individual’s health and welfare?

An Advance Directive is an instruction to the medical advisers, current and future, of the individual making it to give or withhold certain types of treatment in particular situations. Once signed it is registered in the individual’s medical records. It is binding upon medical practitioners in England and Wales and its contents will override any contrary decisions made by any representative of the patient. A doctor giving life-saving treatment to a patient against their wishes would be laying him or herself open to legal action.

An Advance Directive may address:

• particular forms of treatment – eg cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the use of intravenous fluids, pain control and or nutrition and hydration,

• particular conditions – eg brain damage,

• particular religious beliefs – eg blood transfusion for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

What an Advance Directive cannot do is:

• request something illegal – eg assisted suicide,

• request specific medical treatment (in terms of specific medication and/or surgery) which must be decided by the medical adviser in the light of his or her specialist knowledge but in line with the general aims of the patient,

• appoint someone to make decisions for you –this can only be done in an appropriate Lasting Power of Attorney.

A doctor may not follow the directions given in an Advance Directive if:

• the wording of the document is unclear,

• the individual has made changes invalidating its contents – eg changed his or her religion,

• there have been advances in medical treatment which may have affected the individual’s original decision – unless the Advance Directive specifically stipulates that he or she would decline treatment even if scientific advances had been made.

To be effective, an Advance Directive must be signed, dated and witnessed and made of his or her own free will by an individual with the mental capacity at the time of signing to make the decisions reflected in it. If there is any doubt about any of these elements the doctor will be unable to act upon the instructions contained in the document.

An Advance Directive differs from a Lasting Power of Attorney in relation to an individual’s health and welfare in that the latter appoints a third party (the Attorney) to make decisions about medical treatment – but also in relation to general care, residence and other welfare matters. Whilst the LPA gives authority to the Attorney it does not give instructions, as the Advance Directive does, to the individual’s medical advisers.

For anyone concerned about their potential treatment in a time of particular need the most secure way of making their wishes known and

ensuring that they are carried out is to make both an Advance Directive and an LPA for their health and welfare. The two documents should be carefully drafted to ensure that their contents are consistent with each other and that neither inadvertently revokes the other. The Advance Directive should be registered in the patient’s medical records and a copy deposited with their Will. The LPA should be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian so that it will be immediately available for use in an emergency and the registered LPA should again be deposited with their Will.

This article contains general advice and anyone contemplating making either an Advance Directive or a Lasting Power of Attorney should seek advice specifically designed to cover their particular views and circumstances.

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

EMPOWERING BATHONIANS

A very social springtime with BLUEBIRD CARE

“S

pring is such a beautiful time of year in Bath,” says Claire Nolan, registered manager of Bluebird Care. “But for many people, it’s a lonely time. They can see the weather changing, the sun breaking through grey skies and daffodils emerging, but they struggle to go for a stroll and enjoy it. This is why our craft sessions hold a special place in my heart.”

For over a decade, Bluebird Care has empowered Bathonians to live life on their own terms. For many people, this includes support to access the community.

“Our Easter Craft Day is a day of conversation, craft creation, delicious food, and lots of smiles. Having a special craft you’ve made yourself to take away and display in your home as a

memory of the outing is important. It signals to our customers that they can do it; they can get out and about, they can make new friends and have new experiences. Sometimes it’s just a little bit of support that makes all the difference.”

Mrs Smith, who has regular visits from Bluebird Care, says she loves these gatherings. “I look forward to these events, as without them I wouldn’t go out much. Claire and her Bluebirds are so full of kindness.”

“For many people, their main aim is accessing the community,” says Claire. “One gentleman has been on a tour of the South West over the past several months, on outings with his carer to see the sights of our beautiful part of the country. I can assure you he is better travelled than me at this point. Whether it’s a day trip to Bristol or a visit to Brighton Beach, we are proud to help Bath residents live life to the fullest. If you can dream it, our Bluebirds can help make it happen.”

Claire is also keen to dispel the myth that they only support older members of the community. “Some young adults need kindness, compassion, encouragement, and professional support to fully access their community and their workplace. We are here to help them

take big steps towards realising their dreams.

“One young woman we assist recently went swimming for the first time in 10 years; this has been a dream for Sally and her parents, for her to enjoy the water again. Finding the right pool and the best time to visit took some doing, but Sally’s experience was a great success. We are so proud to play a part in her growth and development.”

“Having Sally’s carer Olivia to support her is like having a professional friend,” said Sally’s parents. “Without Olivia’s help, Sally can be a prisoner in her own home. We are grateful that Bluebird Care matched Sally to her perfect person. It’s helped her achieve several fantastic milestones.”

“Our care extends far beyond what you’d expect of a CQC Outstanding provider,” says Claire. “We are here to help you live beyond your perceived limits.”

Whether you’re 18 or 108, our Bluebirds are here to empower your every day.”

The Traditional Timber Window Co.

SPECIALISTS IN SASH WINDOWS

Providing a range of window services in Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas.

We supply and install Hardwood Windows and doors and specialise in transforming single glazed sash windows into double glazed heat efficient ones while retaining all traditional features. Proudly serving Bristol and Bath for more than 35 years. Our products are lovingly handmade in the UK.

PROPERTY

PLACES TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY

Residential

TERRACE END

Row of Georgian townhouses comes on the market

A terrace of 17th-century Grade II-listed Georgian townhouses in the centre of Bath has just come onto the market with Carter Jonas, and for only the second time in its history. Guide price is £3.45million.

Originally situated within the Bath Abbey Garden Wall, the three five story houses, which are all connected, are 7–9 North Parade Buildings. Built in 1753, they represent one of the oldest examples of

Georgian architecture in the city. Owned by Simon Harrison from the Bath-based company Portico Designs, the buildings are currently run as serviced o ces however, there is planning consent for a change of use to residential for some of the buildings, with the opportunity to increase this to the entire terrace. The lower ground oors are arranged as three holiday let apartments, already with their own private accesses.

When we first bought North arade, it was rather run down, to say the least, having been owned by the council for many years,” says Simon. “Working with listed buildings, we completely refurbished it to a high standard throughout and have employed our own full-time maintenance person to retain this standard ever since.

For more: www.carterjonas.co.uk

The whole terrace is up for sale; INSET: One of the current office spaces

Country estate REAL ESTATE

Ston Easton Park Estate, the Grade I listed Palladian mansion located in the Mendip Hills and sitting in 28 acres of grounds and gardens, is up for sale, with a guide price of £4.5million, through joint agents Christie & Co and Savills.

The estate, which was originally owned by the Hippisley family for more than 400 years, features a Grade II listed formal landscaped

garden designed in the 1700s by English landscape designer Humphrey Repton, a rear terrace overlooking a tiered weir, kitchen gardens, orchards and woodlands.

The historic property has been converted into a luxurious country house hotel with 20 en suite guest bedrooms, but the hotel ceased trading in 2021 and the estate is now being sold with vacant possession. Alistair

Heather, who is marketing the property on behalf of Savills, says, “It is a privilege to represent the sale of one of Somerset’s most impressive and historic country estates. The property offers incredible potential for use commercially or, subject to the necessary consents, reinstated as a residence of considerable grandeur.”

For more: www.christie.com | www.savills.co.uk

Architecture BUILDING INTEREST

The Museum of Bath Architecture has reopened its doors after being closed since 2019. The museum, which is owned by Bath Preservation Trust, tells the story of the rich architectural history of Bath, from its transformation from a small medieval town into a world-famous Georgian city, and from its Victorian expansion to the 20th century demolitions.

The collection includes maps, models, drawings, videos, paintings and tools that tell the story of how 18th-century architects and craftspeople helped turn a small walled town into the destination of choice for Georgian high society.

Patrizia Ribul, director of Museums for Bath Preservation Trust, says: “We are thrilled to be opening up this special museum to the public again; the fascinating scale model of Bath alone is worth a visit, but there are plenty of other items – such as an original stone acorn from the famous Circus – that will delight any fan of architecture or history.”

For more: www.museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk

Ston Easton Park Estate is up for sale

The 1:500 scale model of Bath gives a miniature bird’s-eye-view of the whole city; INSET: The Museum of Bath Architecture has now reopened

PHOTO BY ALEX PENNCOVE TUCKER

BRIDGING SUSTAINABILITY AND DEVELOPMENT

The wide-ranging, expert-led Property Symposium explores how to build a sustainable legacy for future generations, starting right now

Bristol’s social history museum M Shed was an apt setting for the latest Property Symposium, organised by MediaClash and focussing on sustainability. Once a dockside transit shed, M Shed’s evolution and reuse of purpose was one of the core issues explored by many of the key note speakers, along with climate change, resource depletion, and changing social values that are driving changes within the property industry. Challenges and responsibilities were also discussed, as well as opportunities and innovative solutions. Below are just a few highlights from the half-day event on 16 April, with further information available on the Bath Property Awards website.

THE URGENCY OF ACTION

Nick Spicer, CEO of Your Eco, the solar energy contractor based in Frome, emphasised the urgency of addressing energy consumption right now, citing its tangible impact on global carbon emissions. With buildings alone responsible for 40 per cent of these emissions, the need for immediate action is clear.

Nick spoke of major global initiatives like piping solar energy from Morocco, showcasing the potential for large-scale sustainable solutions. But, given that we have just had the hottest decade on record, it is evident we need to speed up what we are doing threefold. “We need to go further than box ticking, and not just look at the bare requirements.”

He noted that one of the most economic ways to ensure sustainability in house building is to do it at source to design assets fit for purpose, and to make sure people understand the long term returns in an investment now.

LOOKING AHEAD

Ann Cousins, associate director at Arup, shed light on the global megatrends shaping sustainable development. With a focus on population growth, resource consumption and climate breakdown, alongside less obvious factors such as digital innovation, uncertain governance, wars and a growing middle class, the interconnectedness of the long term and short term sustainability challenge was made clear. Design strategy solutions include the circular economy approach, a system where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated, so materials and products are continuously cycled at their highest value for as long as possible. “With a multi-stakeholder model, the circular economy seeks to unite parties within the value chain to design out waste and avoid emissions,” she said.

DIGITISING FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Third key note speaker was Allison Bradbury, head of HM Land Registry, who informed the 140-strong audience of a new system for local land charges to overhaul the current outmoded, unreliable and inconsistent register. The project, now in its third year and due to continue for another four, is pulling together the records of 331 local authorities, and

creating an online register for a consistent and more e cient service. Everyone accessing this data will be able to know the planning conditions in a region almost immediately, and could therefore help reduce costs – and prevent mortgages falling through at the last minute.

IN DEVELOPMENT

We then had perspectives from Savills head of planning Craig O’Brien, and the company’s sustainable design director Dan Jestico, who cited Bristol as now the 13th most expensive city in the world to build in. This is partly due to competition for labour and supply chain resources in the city, given Bristol’s proximity with Hinkley Point, Europe’s single largest infrastructure project.

Using examples in Bristol as the backdrop to illustrate their points, they spoke about emerging policies in the world of housing development, and how to weigh up whether it is more sustainable to refit, refurbish, or rebuild an old building. The fate of the Premier Inn Bristol City Centre (Haymarket) hotel, site of the former Avon County HQ, was decided by measuring tangible carbon factors, such as materials, transportation, and water consumption, alongside the improved public realm and better internal design quality. The building was then deemed more appropriate for a refit and is now 44 purpose built student accommodations and co living units.

HAVING GOALS

Peter Smith, head of change and sustainability with Bristol Sport, based at Ashton Gate, shared insights to its Project Whitebeam, which is named after a tree only found around Avon Gorge. He spoke passionately and informatively about the work his communitybased business is involved in to help reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability within sport. He conceded that while there might be a cynicism, when the amount of carbon emissions top level football generates is considered, for example, there was also hope in that, historically, sport is often at the forefront of pioneering for positive change.

FROM AMBIVALENCE TO ADVOCACY

Before the networking lunch, a closing panel of Emma Sueref, director of sustainability and growth at Coreus Group; Nick James, a sustainability professional with years of experience working with property investment, development, design and construction organisations; Tina Radka, the co-founder and managing director at Airsat Real Estate; and Your Eco’s Nick Spicer, discussed a range of topics, including how to connect and highlight the issue of sustainability with those who are ambivalent, as well as the power there is in refusing to work with those who won’t accept that change is important.

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

More than 140 people attended April’s Property Symposium

PHOTO BY JON CRAIG

PHOTOS

JON CRAIG;

Peter Smith

Allison Bradbury

Craig O’Brien and Dan Jestico Ann Cousins

Ben Lowndes

Tina Radka, Emma Sueref, Nick Spicer and Nick James were on the closing panel

The Property Symposium was held at Bristol’s M Shed Nick Spicer

Hannah Bearman

11 GREAT PULTENEY STREET

Even in a row of properties where classical magnificence is the norm, this home is remarkable

By Elsie Chadwick

She’s the one. In a sea of beauties, in an ocean of never ending elegance, in a world devoted to charm, you catch a glimpse of 11 Great Pulteney Street and she’s the one. The Grade I listed Georgian terraced townhouse is utterly magnificent, and this is coming from a street where ‘classically magnificent’ is a way of life.

The property, which is arranged over six oors, is on the market for a heart-stopping, swoon-worthy £4.895million. But what you’re getting is not just a film star of a Bath address, but also a thoughtfully, beautifully, immaculately renovated home. The 6,000 square-foot property comprises four bedrooms and four bathrooms, with many original period details retained and restored including high ceilings, stately sash windows, traditional wedding doors, ornate plasterwork, and elaborate cornicing.

On entering, the main hall opens up to a formal dining room and a cosy library that doubles as a

“Exceptional, exclusive, this is a rare gem of a home”

study. The first oor of the property also features two generously sized reception rooms, including a light filled drawing room. A sheltered and sunny roof terrace is found on the half landing.

Upstairs, the primary suite occupies the entire second oor and is decked out with an en suite bathroom and dressing room. The rest of the sleeping quarters are located on the third level along with two shower rooms.

On the lower ground oor is where the wonderful open plan kitchen and breakfast room can be found, along with period agstone ooring, bespoke kitchen cabinetry, high specification appliances and a log burner. The kitchen and laundry room both have external doors leading into the garden via a handsome stone staircase. And oh my, what a garden.

The private and quiet landscaped space at the rear of the house is a delight. There is a generous terrace area ideal for dining and entertaining, an open mains gas fireplace, neat box and yew hedging, as well as mature trees, vibrant borders, thriving shrubs, and a central meditative water feature.

HOUSE NUMBERS

Bedrooms 4

Square feet 5,909

Bathrooms 4

Guide price £4.895 million

Cinema 1 Gym 1

For more: Savills Bath, 21 Milsom Street, Bath; www.savills.co.uk

The wonderment doesn’t end there, though – at the front of the property there is a courtyard with vaults which have been turned into a chilled wine cellar.

The basement level also offers a cinema room, gym, sauna and shower room, and this is where the secondary garden kitchen is located. There is also scope for further expansion, as construction has recently begun to create garaging for two cars, with a two bedroom en-suite apartment above.

Whoever secures 11 Great Pulteney Street isn’t just buying their dream home, they’ll be living in everybody’s dream home. But don’t just take our word for it. Luke Brady of Savills Bath, one of the city’s most exclusive property specialists, says, This is one of the finest examples of a complete Grade I listed Bath townhouse that I have seen.”

Exceptional, exclusive, this is a rare gem of a home that entices everybody to fall in love with it.

Talk with us about sponsorship:

Connect with leading Bath property businesses, across all sectors

Bene

t from a multiple channel marketing campaign, reaching thousands

Stand out amongst your peers at this prestigious, unique event

For details: bathlife@mediaclash.co.uk

FOR THE HOME

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

BONITI Situated on the outskirts of Bath, Boniti presents an extensive array of top-notch interior and exterior products. erings include natural stone and timber flooring, Everhot Range Cookers, as well as porcelain and decorative tiles. Providing exceptional installation and restoration services, Boniti pride themselves on delivering a friendly and personalised experience, with customer satisfaction at the heart of it all. Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton,Wiltshire SN14 8JA; Tel: 01225 892 200; www.boniti.com

TILE & FLOOR or over years, ile loor has been synonymous with the supply of a range of top-tier design-led materials and professional installation services. Our commitment to quality has forged enduring relationships with discerning homeowners overseeing their personal projects, as well as with design and construction professionals serving the property industry. Exciting news! We are now also conveniently located at Chippenham M4. Tel: 01225 310561; www.tileandfloor.co.uk

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. er 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 426905; www.clairstrong.co.uk

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

WOOLF INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE &

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

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

MENDIP FIREPLACES BATH

ath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. rom 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, wam, Stuv and etmaster. et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD; info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.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. pen since their e tensive ath 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

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. o arrange a consultation for interior design services, do not hesitate to get in touch. Tel: 01249 716445; www.perfectrooms.co.uk

BATH LIVES

JUANO DIAZ

The internationally acclaimed artist on his difficult beginning, writing his memoirs, and his love for Bath

For the last 20 years, Juano Diaz has been incredibly successful in the world of fashion, art, and music. His creative endeavours, which have been exhibited across the world, including at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, blend digital imagery with painting, often showcasing notable figures like Madonna, Grace Jones and Pharrell Williams. He has partnered with notable designers and artists including Gilbert and George, Pierre et Giles and David La Chappelle, and is currently working with film director Sophie Fiennes.

Yet Juano’s start in life was a difficult and at times traumatic one, having been born with heroin and alcohol withdrawal syndrome and placed in care at the age of four. He has written about his early life in Slum Boy:

A Portrait, which has received huge critical acclaim. Juano lives near Chippenham with his partner David Paris-Malham, who is also a creative, and their seven year old son.

My earliest memories are a tangle of living in South Nitshill, Glasgow, in the early 1980s with my addict mother and her then partner. The strongest of these memories is witnessing mum’s partner drown at a local beauty spot. I was four years old, and the moment was both chaotic and very frightening.

Mum was not able to cope and would often leave me alone at home for days on end, neglected and hungry. um was reported to social services and I was removed from her care and put into a children’s home.

“Grace Jones told my son to call her his Art God Mother”

The first thing I remember writing was a short story about my love for the film The Sound of Music when I started my new primary school. I loved the film because it reminded me of a nun called ister auline who cared for me in the home. he would sing and play her guitar. I was then adopted, aged six, by a omany gypsy family just outside of Glasgow, and I never saw her again.

I always wanted to be an artist. As an infant in care, I would draw my mum’s face over and over with crayons. It was the only way to hold onto her visually, since I was left no photos of her. I think my love for portraiture came from this time.

I’ve had many jobs in my life. y best job was learning my craft, working alongside legendary French artists ierre et Gilles in aris. From them I learnt so much. They were also my creative heroes and so to work with them in their studio was an opportunity of a lifetime. The same for ames Bidgood in New ork. Working with artists who inspire was everything to me.

Among my worst jobs was working as a labourer for a building film in Edinburgh. It was hard physical work, which I didn’t mind, but what I despised was not being able to paint in the daytime. till, that job enabled me to buy canvases; I would work all day and then paint all night.

The last time I worked with Grace Jones, she told my son to call her his Art God Mother. The last time we were in her apartment, my son played on the piano with her son, aulo. Grace stood behind them and whooped and cheered and sang along. That was a stand-out pinch myself moment.

Many of my tattoos were designed by the late fashion designer Thierry Mugler for a short film I worked on with him. Thierry drew them onto my skin and then on paper and I decided I wanted them tattooed for real for the film – I’m nothing if not committed!

Writing Slum Boy: A Portrait was an incredibly painful, yet cathartic process. I had to revisit and edit moments that were very traumatic from my early life. I have a file with pages of social work records and I used these to back up my memories. Every action was documented in these files by social workers. From what I ate, to my habits and the events in my early life.

The process was also enlightening. It was like doing a jigsaw. I had to find all the pieces and put them together. It took me two years. The sense of completing that jigsaw has been liberating.

We love Bath and we’re house hunting there right now. The best cities on earth always have an in ux of tourists and visitors, and I never tire of that energy –it’s renewing.

My son goes to the brilliant Theatre School at The Egg in the Theatre Royal. This affords us a precious few hours on a weekend of freedom. We will often head to Cortado Cafe on Bridge treet for brunch. The menu is Argentinian, and the food is lovely there, as is the coffee.

Juano Diaz will be at Topping & Company on 27 May to talk about his book Slum Boy: A Portrait For more: www.juanodiaz.com