Bristol Life - Issue 222

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 222 / NEW YEAR 2017 / £3

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

ISSUE 222 / NEW YEAR 2017 / LET’S DO IT, BRISTOL!

FOR

K C I T S P A SL

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 222 / NEW YEAR 2017

42

SPROCKET MAN

Buster’s kindly sorting out the running order for Slapstick 2017

Thanks for the memories Sorry, that sounds a bit more elegiac than I’d intended. It’s not like we’re planning on going anywhere; quite the reverse – you’ve heard about the 2017 Bristol Awards, yes? Don’t forget to nominate your favourites!

But it is our end-of-the-year issue, and there does seem to be quite a lot to feel grateful for, at least in Bristol, and that’s why we’ve spent a big chunk of this issue looking back at some of the best events and new openings of the year.

And if that’s still not enough to bring a wan smile to your frozen January lips, we also have our annual feature on the Slapstick Festival – so cheer up, for Briz sake.

I’d also like to thank some of the people who’ve contributed to this magazine over the past 12 months; columnists Baz Barrett, Kyle Traynor and Josh Eggleton; the IgersBristol crew for letting us use their beautiful images; and the brilliant PRs out there for all their creative and proactive help – team Plaster, team Spirit, and all the PRs for Bristol’s theatres, concert halls and festivals – you’re all fabulous.

This issue should reach you in between Christmas and New Year – we hope the former treated you well and the latter sees you ringing in the new Bristol year in style. Can’t wait to see what 2017 brings.

Deri Robins, editor Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram:@bristollifemag

O PE NE NI W NG S H FE O BR WR UA OO RY M 20 17

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REGULARS / ISSUE 222 / NEW YEAR 2017

M EET T H E T EAM

NEW YEAR

Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk

18 Season to be cheerful Just look at all the stuff you can learn and do in 2017

Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Kyle Traynor, Josh Eggleton, Seb Barrett, Advertising manager Steve Grigg steve.grigg@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Emma Stroud emma.stroud@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager James Morgan james.morgan@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

THE ARTS 25 Art intro Brightening up the Glo Ro, one banner at a time

28 What’s on Including New Year’s Eve parties you’ll actually want to go to

32 2016: The Verdict The best events from the last 12 months

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

42 Festival Putting funny into January

48 Books A splash of summer colour for this grey and chilly January

32

SHOPPING 55 Shopping intro Colour me happy, as we used to say in the ’80s. Oh yes we did

56 Editor’s Choice Skins, innit

A MAN’S WORLD

PROPERT Y

75 Seb Barrett

106 Property Showcase

Run, Baz, run

On the waterfront

In which we attempt to eat our way through Cargo

SPORT

DEPARTMENTS

69 Recipes

81 Kyle Traynor Get behind your local rugby team

11 Spotlight 85 Snapped 122 Bristol Lives

FOOD 62 Restaurant

Part two of our wintry recipes from Josh

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

BUSINESS

72 Food and drink

95 Business Insider

Meet your baker; and the Briz foodie world round-up

Our Awards, other stuff, and then more about our Awards

On the cover Can Bath Rugby’s latest recruit help to reverse the club’s fortunes in 2017?

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FEBRUARY

In February we supported our colleagues at @igersbath by attending their first Instameet, and we went along to a private breakfast catch up at Bristol Museum.

Bristol’s instagram crew have had a stellar year with 5k new followers and two new moderators. JESS SIGGERS gives us a glimpse of her 2016 insta-diary, and chooses some of the pics that sum up the year for her. (She was too modest to choose any of her own – but you can find her on instagram @porthjess)

We also enjoyed some lovely daffodil shots like this one from @rachelwotton1

APRIL

JANUARY

We launched our weekly Freebie Friday competition, giving flights away to Munich with BMI Regional for the best photos on instagram tagging #igesrbristol. We were given a special preview of RWA’s Centre Stage exhibition and teamed up with Colston Hall, supporting their ‘45k for 45m’ campaign.

Glorious late winter sunshine captured by @robmuch

April saw three great Instameets, with a preview of the new Bristol University student hub Beacon House, a nose around Bristol Museum and Arnolfini on the same evening for the Art Elsewhere exhibition and a trip aboard the Bristol Insight Instabus for the World Wide Instameet weekend.

The first hot air balloon of the year took off and was captured by @hannahbella_photography

MARCH

Incredible night photo by @bentiley

@moodycolin319 captured the moment when hundreds of people flocked to Totterdown to support the Jamia Mosque following an attack

We recruited our third moderator @antimitch, and held a giant joint Instameet with our friends at Visit Bristol. This saw us jumping on a Bristol Ferry for a harbourside tour, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the new Underfall Yard visitor centre before it had opened to the public, and getting up close and personal with the ss Great Britain.

We saw some beautiful sunrises with the promise of warmth to come. This one was by @michaelbuckle

Sunshine and showers resulted in some beautiful rainbows – @josh.perrett was on hand with his drone to capture the very best one

I also loved this shot taken in April of Bristol Cathedral by @richimal_bristol

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 11

SPOTLIGHT

MAY

In May, we became the first public group to be shown around the Suspension Bridge vaults and we were also treated to a preview of Hollow at Royal Fort Gardens.

Bright summer greenery, captured at St.George’s Park by @codfishy

There was also a pesky chip-stealing seagull hanging around the White Lion, captured by @helenisbell

AUGUST

August was all about the Bristol Balloon Fiesta and Bristol Life, as we teamed up with both this month, making it possibly our favourite month of the year! [Aww thanks, Jess!].

May was a month of beautiful cherry blossom pics such as this one by @sichan.he

We had some beautiful blue skies, shown here in this shot by @riverslade

JULY

July was another big month for us as we cohosted our very own Instagram gallery with Arnolfini as part of The Other Art Fair. We also enjoyed a (sweltering) Instameet aboard the ss Great Britain as part of their anniversary.

Here are two of my favourite Fiesta shots, the first by @juliawimbush

Wisteria hysteria was big on Instagram; @carolyn.eaton joined in with this one!

JUNE

In June we took part in a special Bristol Instameet hosted by Canon, which saw us going behind the scenes at the Old Vic and taking an old red bus from Bristol Insight to watch a show by Cirque Bijou.

We also had a preview of the Jamaican Pulse exhibition at RWA. 12 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The Wills Memorial building was lit in rainbow colours for Bristol Pride – here’s @carolyn.eaton again

And the second one is of the Fiesta fireworks by @bristoljj

SEPTEMBER

September saw us supporting our IgersBath colleagues again by attending their Instameet as part of World Wide Instameet weekend; we also enjoyed (another!) exhibition sneak preview, this time Daphne Wright’s Emotional Archaeology at the Arnolfini.

Another gorgeous aerial shot of the city, this time by @paddyo.11 from the Bristol Uni balloon

Here’s my favourite shot from the Instameet, by @atkennyc

DECEMBER

To round off a great year we teamed up with Visit Bristol for #MerryBristmas, awarding prizes from various Bristol tourist attractions for the best Christmassy pics. We visited Spike Island for a private view of a couple of their exhibitions, got to check out an At-Bristol After Hours session and held a fabulous Christmas social for our community at the Bristol City Centre Marriott.

Don’t forget to tag #igersbristol in 2017!

The Tour Of Britain came through Bristol, and @paddyo.11 captured the peloton crossing the Suspension Bridge beautifully

I loved this Severn Bridge shot by @alka.lloyd this month

NOVEMBER

At the beginning of November we were sad to say goodbye to our moderator Jon Jerrome, but we were very happy to welcome Ben Adams to the team. We also hosted a humongous BS3-loving Instameet.

December was a month of fantastic foggy shots, such as this one by @ashdarlingxx:

And we weren’t about to let the balloons drift off . . . especially when pilot @darwinp tagged us in a basket-view shot like this

OCTOBER

A super-busy month for us with the unveiling of a new (ongoing) IgersBristol gallery at the Bristol City Centre Marriott, a preview of the Warrior Treasures exhibition at Bristol Museum and putting Mitch through his paces with a spooky 5k Ashton Court run for Gung-Ho. We also hit a milestone, sailing past 100k photos being tagged with #igersbristol.

What a great shot of Kingsdown by @sauntimo

And frosty beauties such as this Ashton Court shot captured by @em_crumpets

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NEW YEAR COURSES

SEASON TO BE CHEERFUL January – you can run from it, but you can’t hide. So why not use the darkest, coldest time of the year to master a new skill or fine-tune your life and style?

By L I SA WA R R E N

F

ew people would cite January as their favourite time of year.

Apart from, we guess, those who have actual birthdays this month – and we bet they secretly wish they’d been born in August.

There are two ways of handling January; you can hide from it – do the hygge thing – or you can seize it by the horns, and do something incredible with it.

Wish you’d seen more shows and concerts last year? Book up some for 2017 now. Want to get fitter?

There are no shortage of PTs and gyms poised to help. Fancy learning a new skill, from flower arranging to chocolate making? Ditto. And if you’ve been dying to change your looks, whether it’s a full-on medical procedure or a new head of hair, this is the perfect time of year to get this sorted.

We invited an eclectic range of businesses to suggest a new activity or treatment, and asked them what new thing they’d love to have a go at this year.

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

BECOME A BAKE OFF BOSS

Bakesmiths has quickly established itself as one of the city’s favourite bakeries; there’s a resident cake and pastry chef, Marianne Stewart, along with artisan Master bread baker, Steve Tucker.

Their baking classes, started in late 2016, will gather momentum in 2017 with classes intended to make Great British Bake Off contestants out of the population of Bristol. The schedule is pending, but monthly classes will soon be posted on the Bakesmiths website with sourdough, brownie, macaroon and layer cake classes all on the agenda,

JANUARY: YOU CAN EITHER DO THE HYGGE THING, OR GRAB IT BY THE HORNS

www.bakesmiths.co.uk

GET MOVING

Bored with the gym? Need a fun, challenging and motivating session? Try Kettlercise®! Both John Clayton at Clifton College and Nick Moffat of NDM Coaching find that this class really hits every goal, with its unique and challenging combination of functional movement patterns.

This page: ready for the Great Bristol Bake Off? Opposite Elisabeth Barry with a slippery customer

“Kettlercise(R) has so many varied benefits for a wide range of people,” says Nick. “People can push as hard as they like with varying size kettlebells, and be introduced in a step-by-step way to an exercise they have never done before.”

“It’s the single most effective Kettlebell fatburning workout,” says John, “designed to shape and sculpt your body in as little as 20 minutes for rapid fat loss and a lean toned body. It’s fun, super-quick and super-effective.” www.ndmcoaching.co.uk/kettlercise www.ccsl-cliftoncollege.com

you should cocoa

Chocolatier Zara Northcott offers starter chocolate-making workshops. “Our truffles and pralines class covers the basics of making your own fresh cream truffles, flavouring them with high-quality ingredients, then piping, dipping and decorating them to your own designs,” she says. “Alternatively, our chocolate-tempering masterclass is a good way to delve further into the world of chocolate. We try out two different hands-on methods and get to create some delicious fruit-and-nut topped chocolates.” www.zaraschocolates.co.uk

discover your style

Lukas Szejka and Bristol Style Collective, a collective of experienced independent stylists working with the best in the industry, can offer a bespoke day of personal styling, helping you 

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 19

NEW YEAR COURSES

Above: the Style Collective will give your look a makeover; if you’re still not happy afterwards, you could always make a big hat . . .

to reconnect with who you want to be and make current trends your own. The day, which ends with a fashion shoot includes: personal outfit advice (with style report and shopping list), haircut and colour with styling tips and make-up. www.bristolstylecollective.com

BLAST YOUR VEINS

YOU’LL

MASTER

BASIC TECHNIQUES AND

FASHION MOLTEN GLASS INTO BEAUTIFUL OBJECTS

Superglue for treating varicose veins? Sure; it’s as effective as laser, but needing fewer injections, says Prof Mark S Whiteley of Clifton’s The Whiteley Clinic. “Although endovenous laser has proven to be an excellent walk-in walk-out treatment, there are people with more minor veins, who don’t want to undergo local anaesthetic injections and the new superglue treatment can be used as an out-patient treatment.” www.thewhiteleyclinic.co.uk

MAKE YOUR OWN HAT

We’ve often featured the beautiful headgear from Milliner’s Guild in this magazine (look out for a special shoot in our next issue), so we’re strongly tempted to head for one of Ani Townsend’s hatmaking courses. Ani recommends either the winter or summer school for a full millinery experience; she also holds one-day courses in silk flower-making, silk-painting and ribbon origami. www.millinersguild.com

TREAT YOUR HAIR

There’s a common misconception that extensions are for those wanting waist-length TOWIE style

locks; at McQueens, Emma Choremi uses real hair supplied ethically by Great Lengths to create fabulously normal looking hair – just like your own, but so much better. Ideal for a quick fix and instant glamour – and nobody will know you didn’t grow them yourself. www.mcqueenshairbristol.co.uk

TRIM THE FLAB

After over-indulging at Christmas, January is a popular time for fat-freezing treatment ‘coolsculpting’; this selectively targets fat cells by freezing them, which causes them to be destroyed and be gradually eliminated by the body over an 8-12 week period. The results include a reduction in unwanted bulges by up to 30%. www.simonleeclinic.co.uk

BLOW A BAUBLE

At Bristol Blue Glass, the glassmaker prepares the molten glass for you to blow, and gives you stepby-step instructions to make your own bauble.

You can also take the full beginner’s glass-blowing course, in which you’ll master basic techniques, and fashion molten glass into beautiful objects such as drop hangers, flowers and a paperweight. www.bristol-glass.co.uk

CREATE A BOUQUET

Ivory Flowers run hand-tied bouquet workshops, teaching spiralling, flower-conditioning and the use of different foliages and blooms. They also run flower crown workshops and festive wreath- w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 21

NEW YEAR COURSES

AND YOU...?

“I’d love to learn to make sourdough. I need to make a New Year’s resolution to wake up at 3am to join our baker and master the craft.”

Alex Williams, Bakesmiths “I’d like to learn sign language, start Reiki properly and take some counselling courses. I want to make everyone happy by healing them . . . really!”

Sharon, Bristol Blue Glass

making workshops if, for some crazy reason, you’re looking ahead to next Christmas. www.ivoryflowers.co.uk

BECOME A STYLEMONGER

. . . or maybe take the steps to becoming an interior designer? Zoe Hewett’s Stylemongers of Bristol workshops aim to demystify the design process, exploring how to first find inspiration, then channel it into a cohesive design scheme.

Through hands-on exercises, you’ll learn about colour and how to apply it with confidence around the home. A practical session will also enable everyone to create a moodboard to take away. No previous experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided, along with tea, coffee and biscuits. This is ideal for anyone planning a redecoration project, or simply fancies a relaxing morning of creative fun. www.zoehewettinteriors.co.uk/workshop

THROW A POT

We discovered the beautiful pottery of Elisabeth Barry through Bristol shop, Midgley Green.

Elisabeth also holds workshops for small groups at her studio in the idyllic village of Claverton, and we can attest first-hand that she is the most wonderfully kind and inspiring teacher; this is one new hobby that you’ll want to keep going all year. www.elisabethbarry.com

WEAVE RIGHT NOW

Weaving is a fast-growing trend, and one that’s well-known for its therapeutic tendencies; it allows you to play with texture and colour, culminating in the creation of your own wall hanging. Join Lucy Davidson from craft and design blog Peas & Needles and learn the gentle 22 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise from top left: weaving at the Forge; kettles aren’t just for making tea; master the art of interior design

art of weaving at The Forge; the next class, on 3 February, is ideal for beginners interested in learning the basics of weaving on a lap loom. peasandneedles.co.uk

“Mine would be climbing – I love outdoor sports but I’m still yet to start scaling rock faces. I bet there is a great sense of achievement.”

Nick, Kettlercise “Jazz singing! It’s in me, but I’m quite shy, so classes would be great.”

Zoë, interior design “I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the piano. Maybe 2017, you never know.”

John, Clifton College “I would like to try surfing – Bristol is so handy for Devon and Cornwall.”

Lucy, Simon Lee Clinic “I’m hoping to take up spinning classes; I’m aiming to look and feel 30 when I hit 46 next year.”

Emma, McQueens “I would love to learn the art of calligraphy.”

Zara, Zara’s Chocolates “I’ve started playing penny farthing polo; by the end of the year, I hope to have set up my own competitive penny farthing polo team.”

Mark, Whiteley Clinic

GLOUCESTER ROAD WANTS YOUR ARTWORK! Giant Art Banners celebrating our wonderful Independent High Street to go on lampposts for 5 years.

Giant Art Banners celebrating our wonderful Independent High Street

to go up on lampposts for 5 years Get inspired

by Gloucester Rd, send Get Inspired by Gloucester Rd, Send Artwork

Artwork and be a part of a 2 mile

& be part of a 2 mile Open Open Air Exhibition Air Exhibition!

www.glosrdcentral.co.uk www.glosrdcentral.co.uk Deadline for Artwork Feb 2017

www.glosrdcentral www

SUBMIT YOUR DESIGNS BY FEB 20TH OPEN TO ALL! FOR MORE INFORMATION:

WWW.GLOSRDCENTRAL.CO.UK

At Artemis we are proud to offer our instant jewellery commission process - if you can’t find the perfect piece in one of our existing collections, you can sit and create something unique and special with one of our talented designers Artemis is also known as an Aladdin’s cave of gorgeous gifts and Christmas decorations which complement our jewellery perfectly Free gift wrapping service with any purchase Tel: 0117 924 1003 | www.artemisbristol.co.uk 214 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8 NU

Music/theatre/film/more

LET’S MAKE STUFF

If you know your Bristol artists, you’ll recognise the handiwork of Hannah Broadway in this colourful call-to-arms from the ever-industrious Gloucester Road traders. The cunning plan is to hang giant banners from lamp posts up and down the street, covering a distance of two miles – the longest outdoor exhibition in the world? Local artist all-stars such as Alex Lucas, Inkie, Cheba and Jenny Urquhart are already on board, but all and any Bristol artists and community groups can submit artwork inspired by the Glo Ro. The local traders and art-world luminaries will choose 80 images to go on the banners, which will be in place for up to five years, with a big launch event in June.

Find out more about the art banners at www.glosrdcentral.co.uk

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

23 December 2016 – 18 January 2017

PHOTO BY TONY WILHELMS

NEW YEA R ’ S EVE PA R TI ES A N D OTHER S TU FF

Jack’s back, at Colston Hall; let it snow at the Warren Mitchell Ski Film tour; a French Emperor’s not just for Christmas, at Watershed

Exhibitions UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

DAPHNE WRIGHT: EMOTIONAL ARCHAEOLOGY Major (and free) Arnolfini exhibition; moving, thoughtprovoking casts based mostly on domestic life; arnolfini.org.uk UNTIL 7 JANUARY

DECEMBER EXHIBITION Victoria Laird has a thing for skulls and fairy lights; Bill Moore is inspired by humanity, the commonplace and everyday life; John Garland paints expressionist landscapes. All at Grant Bradley; grantbradleygallery.co.uk UNTIL 5 MARCH

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR The annual photography treat returns to M Shed. Don’t expect LOL captures of cats in Santa hats; bristolmuseums.org.uk

UNTIL 19 MARCH

STRANGE WORLDS Chagall, Rego and Pacheco evoke the haunting magic of Angela Carter in an explosive new exhibition, 25 years after her death. At RWA; rwa.org.uk

is challenged to the fight of his life, the Italian Stallion must learn to float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, dance like a rock’n’roll star and sing like a queen; thewardrobetheatre.com UNTIL 8 JANUARY

UNTIL 23 APRIL

LITTLE TIM AND THE BRAVE SEA CAPTAIN As the Bristol Old Vic’s studio’s currently under a pile of scaffolding, this year’s show for little ones will be held at The Lantern; bristololdvic.org.uk

Plays/Shows

UNTIL 8 JANUARY

WARRIOR TREASURES Dazzling collection of gold, silver and semi-precious gems – part of the Staffordshire Hoard. At Bristol Museum & Art Gallery; bristolmuseums.org.uk

UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS AT THE SPIEGELTENT Music, cabaret, comedy, parties and more, in the magical christmasspiegeltent.co.uk UNTIL 21 JANUARY

ROCKY; A HORROR SHOW When small-time boxer Rocky

28 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MISTLETOES & WHINEY COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS The Wardrobe’s festive show for 3-8s. thewardrobetheatre.com

UNTIL 15 JANUARY

CINDERELLA: A FAIRYTALE As opposed to the real-life version, presumably. It’s going to be great, because it’s Travelling Light; at the TFT. tobaccofactorytheatres.com THE SNOW QUEEN Lee Lyford directs the Bristol Old Vic’s festive offering, billed as ‘The Hunger Games meets Hans Christian Andersen’; bristololdvic.org.uk

Music 30 DECEMBER

JOHANN STRAUSS GALA Celebrate the New Year with the BSO’s annual celebration of all things Viennese; colstonhall.org

UNTIL 13 JANUARY

CINDERELLA It’s the festive biggie for The Hippodrome; this year with inline skating from Torvill & Dean. atgtickets.com

12 JANUARY

ROY WOOD Roy and the band bash through the backlist; at The Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

13 JANUARY

BOWIE EXPERIENCE Spectacular concert featuring the man’s music.

Revisit the golden years (whop whop whop); at The Hippodrome; atgtickets.com 15 JANUARY

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC The tribute act recreate the Mac’s back catalogue of bit hitters; colstonhall.org 14 JANUARY

THE BRISTOL SESSIONS One of the best live soul nights in Bristol; expect soul, R&B and rare groove classics at The Lantern; colstonhall.org 17 JANUARY

BILLY BRAGG & JOE HENRY In March 2016, Billy and Joe boarded a Los Angeles-bound train from Chicago, looking to reconnect with the culture of railroad travel music. Here’s the result, among other stuff; stgeorgesbristol.com

Comedy 17-18 JANUARY

JACK WHITEHALL: AT LARGE Jack was crowned ‘King of Comedy’ at the British Comedy Awards for three years running; now ‘the natural-born scamp’ is back on tour; colstonhall.org 18-22 JANUARY

SLAPSTICK FESTIVAL Turn at once to page 42 for all the dope.

Other 27-31 DECEMBER

NAPOLEON A special festive screening of Abel Gance’s silent 1927 epic with Surround Sound. Five and a half hours long, but with three breaks; watershed.co.uk 14 JANUARY

THE WARREN MILLER SKI FILM TOUR The world’s largest annual ski film tour comes to Bristol; at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com

New Year’s Eve 31 DECEMBER (OBVIOUSLY)

SPIEGELTENT NYE PARTY For their first-ever Bristol NYE, the Spiegeltent will be bursting out into three extra spaces around it to bring you a massive line-up of DJs, dance, raucous cabaret, immersive theatre, silliness, glitter, party poppers and free pizza; colstonhall.org ESCAPE THE METROPOLIS The Tobacco Factory has a reputation for throwing one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in Bristol; this year, they’re resurrecting Metropolis, Fritz Lang’s tale of a dystopian future, in an immersive experience; tobaccofactory.com DJ CHEEBA & MATUKI Bristol legend DJ Cheeba and one of the hottest afro-funk bands around play at Backwell House’s NYE party, in a Nordic tipi; backwellhouse.co.uk A NIGHT AT THE CIRCUS The Square’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza returns with a circus-themed party; thesquareclub.com HIP HOP VS. POP! The might of Pop Confessional takes on the power of hip-hop; at Thekla; theklabristol.co.uk GALA DINNER Celebrate the new year at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery while surrounded by thousands of years of history; bristolmuseums.org.uk THE MILK THISTLE’S LABYRINTH BALL A Bowie-themed NYE? No wonder tickets are flying out of the door; milkthistlebristol.com

Sport 26 DECEMBER

BRISTOL ROVERS V COVENTRY CITY At The Memorial Stadium; kick-off at 3pm; bristolrovers.co.uk BRISTOL RUGBY V WORCESTER WARRIORS At Ashton Gate, kick-off at 3pm; bristolrugby.co.uk

Slapstick’s back; Daphne’s still open at Arnolfini; Billy and Joe at St George’s 31 DECEMBER

BRISTOL ROVERS V AFC WIMBLEDON At The Memorial Stadium; kick-off at 3pm; bristolrovers.co.uk

7 JANUARY

BRISTOL ROVERS V NORTHAMPTON TOWN At The Memorial Stadium; kick-off at 3pm; bristolrovers. co.uk

1 JANUARY

BRISTOL RUGBY V SALE SHARKS At Ashton Gate; kick-off at 3pm; bcfc.co.uk

14 JANUARY

BRISTOL CITY FC V CARDIFF CITY At Ashton Gate; kick-off at 3pm; bcfc.co.uk

2 JANUARY

BRISTOL CITY FC V READING At Ashton Gate; kick-off at 3pm; bcfc.co.uk

15 JANUARY

BRISTOL RUGBY V BATH RUGBY ECC At Ashton Gate; kick-off at 3pm; bristolrugby.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 29

It was a cracking year really, Gromit: Aardman celebrated its 40th birthday

2016: the verdict So, 2016 – how was it for you? OK, maybe don’t answer that. But before you write the last 12 months off completely while tearfully polishing your votive shrine to Prince, take a look at these highlights from the past year – because here in The Briz, at least, it’s really not been a bad one

By De r i robi ns 32 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

CHRISTMAS CAME ROUND A SECOND TIME FOR BRISTOL’S MUSIC FANS, WHEN THE BBC 6 MUSIC FESTIVAL CAME TO TOWN

A

s years go, 2016 wasn’t a classic. Brexit divided the nation; the US election divided the world. Not that any of that will seem quite so important if our top astrophysicists are right, and there’s a gurt big alien mothership out there with its beady eye on the Earth. Who was it who said that sending out Voyager was the stupidest thing mankind has ever done? That’s quite a claim, when you think about it.

It was also the year the music died. Is it just a coincidence that everything began to go pearshaped after the death of David Bowie? Well, yes, obviously. But then again, no but . . .

However, before you file 2016 away in a box labelled ‘Oh, well’, we feel we should point out, at the risk of sounding parochial, that in many ways, Bristol had a very good year. We’ve picked out a few headline events from each month as proof that there were reasons to be cheerful. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 33

THE YEAR IN REVIEW A full house at Bristol Old Vic; insets, farewell to former BOVTS graduate Alan Rickman, and hello to baby Afia

The new year saw new brooms sweeping through many of Bristol’s top venues.

Bristol Old Vic geared up for its big 250th birthday, looking back at past successes but also to the final stage of its major refurb.

St George’s and Colston Hall both received major grants towards their own makeovers, though a lot more cash is still needed; Tobacco Factory Theatres are also looking to rehouse their Brewery studio. We’ll gloss over the subject of the Bristol Arena, which appears to have gone back on hold.

Sadly, the grim reaper took two of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s finest alumni this year – this month it was the much-loved Alan Rickman, with the death of Gene Wilder in August.

FEBRUARY

Christmas came round a second time for Bristol’s music fans when BBC 6 Music Festival came to town. Spreading the love across all of the city’s top concert venues, an eclectic range of top names kept us entertained for a long weekend, with some really tasty offerings at the Fringe. Tricky and Primal Scream were among the headliners, but that wasn’t the last Bristol would see of them in 2016. Oh no.

34 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WHAT THE INAUGURAL FILM FEST LACKED IN INDIE EDGINESS IT MADE UP FOR IN IMAGINATIVE

SETTINGS

The Hobbs Show: Bristol Born & Bred was held at The Passenger Shed; Doug Hobbs says it was the last one ever, but he’s said that before.

With it being the 400th year of the Bard’s death, Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory concentrated fully on Will with a repertory season of Hamlet and All’s Well – as classic a double-bill as you could hope for.

As part of its year-long birthday party, Bristol’s Old Vic welcomed back two 2015 big-hitters; Sally Cooksons’ epic Jane Eyre, fresh from a stint at The National, and Owen Sheers’s verse drama Pink Mist – reminding us what a producing force this theatre is.

James Blunt got his honorary degree from Bristol Uni, we were all hooked on Bristol-set thriller Thirteen, and Bristol Zoo proudly announced the birth of the baby lowland gorilla now known as Afia.

MARCH

The first Bristol Film Festival proved to be surprisingly mainstream, and the global village thing didn’t really happen, but what it lacked in indie edginess it made up for in imaginative settings, from horror movies in Redcliffe Caves to Sideways in Avery’s Wine Cellars. We’re

PHOTO BY STEVE TANNER

JANUARY

looking forward to seeing how the team build on this in 2017.

Underfall Yard opened its visitor centre, bringing some of Harbourside’s most historic and fascinating businesses back to life, and offering yet another reason to mooch around the waterfront; not that we ever need much encouragement.

APRIL

New residential development Wapping Wharf near M Shed brought the opening of a new walkway, Gaol Ferry Steps, and later, retail/food hub Cargo – much more about that on page 62.

An immersive stage version of Trainspotting at Loco Klub, an offsite show for Tobacco Factory Theatres, proved such a huge indie hit that it was immediately booked to return in September – though commiserations to those who ended up sitting next to that toilet.

“I was shocked, and I wrote the f*cking thing,” said original author Irvine Welsh.

Meanwhile, over at Trinity, Jimmy Cauty brought his Aftermath Dislocation Principle, shown in 2015 at Dismaland, to Bristol.

DON’T TAKE IT FROM US . . .

Here’s what other people said about Bristol this year • It’s the 4th most inspiring city in the world, and the most inspiring city in the UK, say holiday specialist TravelBird

Brian Wilson and his current band, including fellow former Beach Boy Al Jardine, played us through the Pet Sounds album and many other major hits. Hearing Al’s son Matt step up to cover many of Brian’s famous falsetto solos was unexpectedly touching.

JUNE

• It’s the kindest and most community-minded city in Britain, according to a poll conducted by Co-Op Food

In what may well have been the best Summer Series so far, we had four very different headliners in James Bay, Sigur Ros, Catfish and the Bottlemen, and those lush, bromance-y Last Shadow Puppets.

• It’s one of the happiest cities to work in, according to a survey conducted by psychologists, reported in The Guardian • It’s one of the top five coolest cities in the UK, according to research carried out by Web Blinds • It’s one of the best cities in the world for street art (no surprises there) from The Independent • It’s the eighth most colourful city in the world according to Buzzfeed Main pic: Grillstock: Insets, clockwise from left: Underfall Yard; Mayfest; Last Shadow Puppet Alex Turner; Meet Mr Graff; Jimmy Cauty’s ADP

JULY

The sun shone for Grillstock, and Comedy Garden returned with favourite headliners such as Stewart Lee; also back for 2016 was Nish Kumar, who made us laugh so much in 2015 that we did an interview with him for the July issue. Meanwhile, south of the river, this year’s Upfest was by far

w

MAY

We welcomed Bristol’s new mayor, Easton-born Marvin Rees, and bad farewell to outgoing George Ferguson. This was also the month that Bristol Rugby finally achieved promotion back up to the Premiership.

Mayfest exploded all over the city, offering fresh new drama, both at traditional theatres and improvised venues. Hope you made the most of it, as it’s taking a rest in 2017.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 35

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THE YEAR IN REVIEW the biggest (sickest, most dope, lit etc) and best attended to date. Festival artist Gemma Compton created one of Bristol Life’s most beautiful covers, while Cheo introduced us to the newest Mr Man – the very Bristolian Mr Graff.

Author, former Bristol Uni student and thoroughly nice guy David Nicholls received an honorary degree from Bristol University, which he can now put on the wall next to his original one, His talk at Encounters was one of the highlights of the festival, along with a special event celebrating the 40th birthday of Aardman.

AUGUST

Bristol Balloon Fiesta took off – eventually. After a slow couple of opening days, in which the wind would just not play ball, hundreds of balloons finally drifted across the city: we silently awarded a medal to Plaster PR and IgersBristol for keeping spirits up while we all waited.

by Tom Morris, with new tunes from Tim Phillips and Marc Teitler and with puppets from Gyre and Gimble, this bizarre little fairy tale set in an imaginary historic Stokes Croft was pure theatre.

MASSIVE’S HOMECOMING GIG PASSED INSTANTLY INTO LOCAL LEGEND

SEPTEMBER

Drops fell fast and fleeting on Massive Attack’s gig on the Downs, which also featuring Primal Scream, Skepta and a wealth of Bristol talent. And yes, it was a bit wet, but despite the rain and the infamous drinks queues, the boys’ homecoming was a slick crowd-pleaser that passed into legend almost before the last notes faded away.

NOVEMBER

November was a thoughtful month; the moving Shrouds of the Somme were laid out in front of Bristol cathedral, and living legend Sir David Attenborough was in town to launch Planet Earth II. While celebrating the Bristol-based Wildlife Unit’s brilliance, The Legend expressed concern over possible cuts to the BBC service, and revealed that he had one remaining ambition: to track down and film the giant squid.

DECEMBER

Here we all are, then! On page 35 you can read some of the many accolades that Bristol received in 2016; in previous years it’s been voted the best city to live in; the UK’s most musical city, and one of its most creative; the UK’s most liveable city; its smartest, tech-wise; one of the best places to raise a family and the best (for many reasons) for students. So stick Blackstar on the stereo if you must, but cheer up, everyone –because you live in THE BRIZ.

OCTOBER

Simple Things returned with more impact than ever; for many, the highlight was pop princess Charlotte Church’s 1am ‘pop dungeon’ at Colston Hall.

National History Film festival Wildscreen was back, with a record number of Bristol filmmakers up for the prestigious Panda awards; they netted eight in all, confirming what fans of Planet Earth II already knew – Bristol truly is the world’s Green Hollywood.

Akram Khan’s Giselle for English National Ballet at The Hippodrome blew us away – but our highlight of the month, and possibly the year, was Bristol Old Vic’s new musical The Grinning Man. Based on a story by Victor Hugo, directed

LOVED

Grant and Robert were back, with Tricky and Horace Andy (inset) in tow; we had lift-off on the Balloon Fiesta press morning; The Grinning Man was our arts event of the year

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 37

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ARTS

SLAPSTICK

* SILENT

NIGHTS * and not so silent: this year’s Slapstick Festival casts a wide comedic net, ranging from early Hollywood to nineties and noughties sitcom

By E M I LY V E R NON 42 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SLAPSTICK

ARTS

T

here was this Englishman, Irishwoman, Iranian, French guy, little kid from Knowle, Westbury pensioner and a part Native American of the Iroquois Nation . . .

No, really. It’s not the opening line of a joke. It’s a hint at the mix of attendees who unite in laughter at Bristol’s Slapstick Festival, in which a veritable Who’s Who of today’s top entertainers assemble to salute the vintage screen comedy legends of the past.

“What’s wonderful about the silent and visual comedy we showcase at Slapstick”, says festival director Chris Daniels “is that it doesn’t matter where audiences come from, their background or age – the ability to laugh at physical funniness is, was and, I’m fairly sure, always will be a universal experience.”

A main draw for the thousands who support Slapstick is the chance to see silent funnies as they were made to be watched: on a big screen, in an audience, with live music. Such screenings remain a key element again this year but Slapstick 2017 (18-22 Jan) will also offer a magical history tour of a full century’s worth of laughter-making, taking in gems from every decade since 1917, up to and including the final appearances of the late, great, Victoria Wood.

Turn the page for some festival highlights... w

THIS YEAR’S

SLAPSTICK WILL BE A MAGICAL HISTORY TOUR OF A CENTURY’S WORTH OF COMEDY Exit, pursued by bear?

It wouldn’t be Slapstick without Charlie

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 43

ARTS

SLAPSTICK

WHEN FILM WAS NEW

Travel back with London-born actor, writer, director and musician Simon Callow to cinema’s earliest days, as he shares anecdotes from his own career and the influence on it of another multitalented Londoner: Charlie Chaplin. The chat will be punctuated by three of Chaplin’s earliest short film successes, The Vagabond (1916), Easy Street (1917) and The Pawn Shop (1917) – all made for the Mutual Film Corporation at a time Chaplin described as being the happiest in his life. All are accompanied with live music from the European Silent Screen Virtuosi and special guests.

THE ROARING ’20s

In the cinemas of the 1920s, the roaring was nearly always with laughter and not just at the still famous male clowns, like Keaton, Lloyd and Laurel and Hardy, whose antics will be showing throughout Slapstick 2017. There were many delightfully funny leading ladies, too, among them Annette Benson, ‘It Girl’ Clara Bow and that pioneer of flapper sassiness, Colleen Moore, all of them with films in the programme.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

No-one guessed it at the time but the 1930s boom in sales of cheaper, smaller, projectors also resulted in an accidental treasury – ‘safety film’ copies of 35mm cinema releases, made just to sell or rent for home screenings, yet now often the only surviving versions of the fragile/flammable originals. Slapstick’s round-up of ‘accidentally preserved’ discoveries includes gems not seen in a UK cinema for 90 years or more, and introduces some forgotten but stellar talent.

LAUGHS FOR A SHILLING & NINEPENCE

Funny girls: the late Victoria Wood (above) and (below) Brooklyn babe Clara Bow

FRENCH POLISH

VICTORIA: A TRIBUTE

The 1940s and ’50s are often called the golden age of British comedy films, when going to the flicks cost less than 20p and the quality and range of home-grown talent reached new heights. At Watershed on January 22, Colin Sell (I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue, BBC Radio 4) provides a round-up of his favourite scenes and actors with clips featuring, among others, Hattie Jacques, Peter Sellers, Irene Handl, Charles Hawtrey, Alastair Sim and Margaret Rutherford plus – who else? – himself on piano.

Legendary entertainer Roy Hudd OBE makes his Slapstick début this month, recreating his tribute to music hall star Max Miller as part of the festival’s flagship gala, then joining broadcaster Matthew Sweet at Watershed the next day to share stories and clips from a career which began in the 1950s. He’ll also talk about the impact on his work of an icon of 1950s French cinema, Jacques Tati, whose Oscar-winning Mon Oncle (1958) is screening earlier in the festival, as is Le Soupirant, a film by Tati protégé, Pierre Etaix (winner of the Aardman/Slapstick Comedy Legend Award 2012).

STRANGE DAYS

It’s often said that if you remember the ’60s, you weren’t really there. Present or not, Slapstick 44 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

As Slapstick festival director Chris Daniels recalls, Victoria Wood once stepped in at the last minute when Gala MC Dara O’Briain had to pull out, due to an unexpected clash with Comic Relief.

“Graeme [Garden] told her we were in a hole, and asked if there was any chance she could help out.

It was really short notice, and she hadn’t done stand up for years. I thought there was no chance.

“She simply replied, ‘Oh go on then’. I couldn’t believe it. She saved the event, and wrote afterwards to say she had a great time and that it was a ‘jolly festival’. She was an amazing talent and true professional.

I feel honoured to have met her. We will always be grateful for the time she came to save the day.”

Not so young any more – actually, not all still alive – but The Young Ones ride again for Slapstick

THE YOUNG ONES The Bristol Connection • The house the students share is 1 Codrington Road, at its corner with Broadway Road, Bishopston • The Westbury Park Tavern (in its Cock O’ The North days) stood in as the gang’s local: the Kebab And Calculator • Bristol North Swimming Baths on Gloucester Road was used in several guises, including once as a police station and in another episode as the bank the boys attempted to rob • Different shops near the Baths served as an Army careers office and as TYO’s launderette • The zebra crossing on Linden Road was the one they crossed to get to the Kebab and Calculator and where they recreated the image used on the cover of The Beatles’ Abbey Road album

2017 is offering a choice of proofs of the decade’s strangeness: a virtually word-free screenplay by the Nobel prize-winning wordsmith Samuel Beckett; a silent short starring the usually chatty Roy Hudd and a newly-found and restored 1968 episode of the BBC series Colour Me Pop, showcasing the magnificently surreal Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band.

LET’S DO IT

Hardly a month went by in 2016 without the loss of a much-loved celebrity, with one of the saddest being April’s blow – the shock, early death of Victoria Wood, a favourite with all ages ever since she won a TV talent contest in 1974.

Gifted equally as a writer, actress, singer, stand-up, songwriter and director, Wood was also a good friend to Slapstick. So let’s do it. Let’s look back on her huge contribution to comedy with the help of two loyal fans and fellow stand-ups Pippa Evans and Lucy Porter.

ALTERNATIVELY…

Anarchic, brash and hilarious, The Young Ones (1982-84) was the first TV series to come out of

the alternative comedy revolution and it made household names out of its cast. Now Slapstick is bringing two of the show’s regulars – Nigel Planer and Alexei Sayle – back to the city where much of the action was filmed to share clips and look back at its impact. There will also be a separate salute to their co-star, the late Rik Mayall, and, by contrast, to an entertainer of the old school, Tommy Cooper, who died in 1984.

NINETIES, NOUGHTIES, NOW As ever, many festival events will be hosted by current showbiz names, among them Rory Bremner, Marcus Brigstocke, Simon Callow, Barry Cryer, Pippa Evans, Goodies Graeme Garden and Bill Oddie, Robin Ince, Neil Innes, Ian Lavender, Lucy Porter and Colin Sell, with yet more expected to put in surprise appearances.

Slapstick 2017 runs from January 18-22 at Arnolfini.

Bristol Old Vic, Colston Hall and Watershed. Find the full programme at www.slapstick.org.uk or look out for the free brochures. Tickets start from £8.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 45

ARTS

UPFEST

GOOD SPRAY DAYS

A new book from Upfest celebrates not only the hundreds of street artists who have taken part in the festivals, but also the photographers who captured them in action

By DE R I ROBI NS

Artist: Odeith; photographer Daz Smith (2016) 48 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

UPFEST

STREET ART HAS BECOME MIDDLECLASS. IT’S AS SIMPLE

ARTS

U

pfest – that’s a summer festival, right? So what’s it doing in a January issue?

Two reasons. One, these photos sure do brighten the pages during a grey and dismal time of year; two, Upfest II – A Photographic Diary 2008-2016 has just been published –and we’re all over it. w

AS THAT

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 49

ARTS

UPFEST

Obviously, you can enjoy the legacy of each Upfest all year round, simply by mooching around BS3 and admiring the artwork – but the energy and creativity of the actual festival can only be appreciated by seeing the artists in action.

The next best thing is looking at the photos taken during Upfest; these provide so much more than a record of the event and are works of art in their own right.

To launch the book, Upfest invited 100 street artists to create an original work of art, which were packaged anonymously in book presses – you paid your money, and you took your chance.

Hoped for Cheba, but got some hip-hop dude with a name made out of numbers and expletives?

Call it Upfest’s way of introducing a bit of cheeky, hazardous edginess into an art form that’s now so mainstream that posh people are paying to have their living rooms tagged.

Upfest II – A Photographic Diary 2008-2016 offers a fascinating chronicle of the past eight years of the most intrinsically Bristol festival of all (if you don’t count the ones with the boats and the balloons). It’s been beautifully designed by Jody Thomas, one of the original Barton Hill Youth Club graf gang who also included Inkie, Cheo and Banksy in the late 1980s.

“Since I started painting around 1987, I’ve always straddled, rather precariously, the word of fine art and what then was known as graffiti,” says Jody. “My influences have been far and wide; film, fashion, music, art and comic books. It just happened that the hip-hop movement took off in the late 80s and I could combine these and make the obvious transition to painting walls.”

You took a long break as a street artist – what brought you out of retirement?

We’d all been influenced by hip-hop culture, which became drowned out by the thenburgeoning acid house and rave scene. In many ways, graffiti had become irrelevant and tired, and I made the decision to go to college and study graphic design and illustration. I kept my eye on the odd piece that would appear, though.

After 18 years as a designer and art director, I was contacted by an old friend from back in the day, Felix ‘FLX’ Braun. He told me that he was writing a book about the birth and evolution of street art, and that he wanted to get my perspective on the then-underground scene that was based around Barton Hill Youth Club. His last question to me was: ‘Have you ever thought about painting again?’.

I was pretty ambiguous with my answer, and I told him that I’d considered it (I had) and that I may or may not have kept a sketch book (I did) of ideas. That rather ambiguous answer was printed in the book and it sounded like I was making a big comeback – I agreed to paint something for the launch of the book on a subzero day down at the docks and the piece came out fairly well. Well enough that inside a year I exhibited at the Royal West Art Academy and held my first ever solo show.

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

UPFEST

ARTS

Left, artist Otto Schade, photographed by Nim Jethwa during Upfest 2015 Below, Jody Thomas; below left, Jody at work during 2016, photographed by D7606

placement on North Street next to the NatWest works well. Before you ask no, I’m never 100% happy with my work.

Please describe Upfest in five words The Glastonbury of street art.

Which artists impressed you this year?

I love the Shok1 piece – the unicorn X-Ray, now sadly gone in place of some new windows on the building. And the beautifully painted Rocket 01 piece on the door just around the corner of the girl in a flying hat. Those really stood out to me.

Is it hard to see a lovingly crafted piece being painted over forever?

I am fortunate enough to be invited each year to paint a ‘permanent’ wall – ie for 12 months – I paint it knowing that that’s what will happen to it.

But there’s an opportunity there; I paint a canvas of the piece and make a print of it. And most walls and pieces have a digital lifespan that will always outlive anything on the street, via social media.

UPFEST

IS THE GLASTONBURY OF STREET ART

Have your style, methods and materials changed since the early days?

The main difference I would say is the paint – it’s now art-specific; slower, more opaque and has this magical quality of allowing the artist to paint over a wet colour with another colour with no runs or reactions. I use a rather unusual, and apparently unique technique of donning surgical gloves. This allows me to bounce and shield the paint with my left hand to narrow the spray down to achieve very fine details – a hallmark of my work.

Graffiti seems to have been almost entirely gentrified now . . .

Oh yes, ‘street art’, as it is now called, has become middle-class. It’s as simple as that. Graffiti was very much an underground working-class movement that was pilloried and looked down upon between 1980-90.

I can’t really answer this question without mentioning Banksy at this point, of course. He has been at the forefront of this ever-growing change (though I don’t ever feel that was his intention) for the last 15 years – in that time his popularity has paved the way for many artists, myself included, to make a living from this art form. There has been a move towards collecting art, again fuelled by the perceived value attached to anything street-art related.

Do you have a favourite from your work?

I would say my latest piece for Upfest 2016 – the three-storey figure of Cassie Meder. It came very close to hopes I had for the piece and I think its

Odeith’s new piece was tagged almost immediately. What’s your take on this?

It’s the nature of the beast, I’m afraid to say. His piece had a strong political message, and guess what? Someone didn’t agree and took umbrage.

You have to embrace these kind of ‘artistic interventions’ otherwise you would never sleep.

The book is almost as much as a showcase for the photographers as it is the artists – how did you go about designing it?

My design input is more a frame that surrounds the amazing array of photography that we were given. The hard part was choosing from literally thousands of photos taken across the three days and in the months after. That was the real task.

Can you choose a few spreads from the book that you really love?

I think the cover image of the PichiAvo piece being painted really summed up the festival – beautiful artwork being painted in the sun with hundreds of onlookers watching.

What are you working on at the moment?

I’ve just finished some huge walls up at Leicester City Football Club of their players, I’m currently painting a big set for Kylie Minogue’s new press launch for Specsavers and preparing for a show in New York for the new year.

For more: Upfest II – a Photographic Diary 2008-2016 is available from the Upfest shop at £19.95 www.upfest.co.uk

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

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 55

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5. THE PROTECTOR

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Vitamin E day crème, SPF 15, £53 (50ml) Jo Malone isn’t just all colognes and candles, you know. Nourishing and protecting, this day cream also – naturally – smells absolutely divine From Jo Malone at Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street; harveynichols.com

Invisiblur Perfecting Shield SPF 30, £55 Award-winning primer that blurs and primes the skin with a matte finish, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles From Otium Health and Leisure Club, The Grand, 53-58 Broad Street otiumhealthclubs.co.uk

Skinleya Fond de teint lissant anti-âge, £83.50 (reduced from £119) (or ‘anti-aging lift foundation’, in Brizspeak); the gel-cream texture is silky and creamy, providing a ‘second skin’ From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street harveynichols.com

Dermalogica Phyto replenish oil, £54 The feather-light oil rapidly absorbs into the skin to reinforce its barrier; wear it alone for naked beauty, or under foundation for all-day dewy skin From Beauty at 22 22 Heath Road, Nailsea beautyat22.co.uk

56 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

6

8

10

7

9

6. . . . AND RELAX

7. HAIR AFFAIR

8.DRINK ME

9. SWEDE SMELL OF SUCCESS

10. SMART MOVES

Cowshed Bath salts, £16; Bath & body oil, £22.50 If these don’t get you to sleep, nothing will. Sleepy Cow salts have a lovely citrussy aroma, while Lazy Cow bath oil has sleepinducing chamomile and jasmine. Zzzzzzz From Pod, 24 The Mall thepodcompany.co.uk

Hair bath, £17.50 We love the simple apothecary-style bottle; the anti-oxidant hair bath nourishes and prolongs colour shine while protecting hair from sun, water and pollution From Clair Swinscoe 78 Alma Road clairswinscoe.wixsite.com

Bobbi Brown Extra-repair nourishing milk, £54 The moisture of a face oil with the skin-renewing benefits of a treatment; the luxuriously lightweight milky formula leaves skin instantly radiant From Bobbi Brown Cabot Circus bobbibrown.co.uk

L:A Bruket body butter, £36 Tapping into everyone’s passion for all things Nordicrelated, this pampering Swedish wild rose body butter is silky and highly moisturising. Gorgeous From Swedish House at Home, Dodington, Chipping Sodbury swedishhouseathome.com

Clinique Smart Custom repair serum, £112 No less than five years of intensive research led to the production of this smart serum, which can ‘read’ your skin’s past – and change its future From House of Fraser Cabot Circus houseoffraser.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON BRISTOL LIFE LIFE II 57 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

0117 911 0556

We’re eating in a

BOX

(we’re eating in a Cargo box) In which the Bristol Life team attempts to eat its way through Cargo, one unit at a time by de r i robi ns Photo s by j onc ra ig photo s.com

62 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

CARGO FEELS LIKE A MICROCOSM OF THE BRISTOL FOOD SCENE AS A WHOLE

FOOD

U

nless you never bother reading a single word we write (huh, your loss), you’ll know about Cargo.

In the heart of Wapping Wharf, right next to M Shed, sits a former shipping container that now houses a wide variety of shops and restaurants – all indies, not a Costa in sight.

Wapping developer Stuart Hatton got the idea for Cargo while holidaying in New York.

“I saw shipping containers being used in exciting, innovative ways and because we’ve always focused on independents, it seemed like the perfect way to bring some of the best of Bristol and the foodie scene to Wapping Wharf,” he says. “It just seemed like the right thing to do, in a place like Bristol.”

Currently cooking up a storm for your delectation are Chicken Shed, Woky Ko, Box-E and Pigsty. The dining spaces range from the tiny to the snug, depending on the number of units; Chicken Shed, for example, is a lot roomier than cosy little Box-E. Unsurprisingly, each was packed out on the night we visited.

Each restaurant has stamped its own style on its décor; Chicken Shed, for example, wittily apes egg boxes on the walls. They also have an outdoor terrace for balmier days, with views of boats bobbing boatily in the harbour; these guys have definitely bagged the prime spot. w

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FOOD

R E S TA U R A N T

‘These guys’ are Josh Eggleton and his Eat Drink Bristol crew, so we definitely didn’t have to worry about the provenance of the sustainable, organic, ethically-reared chucks, which are cooked up in every head-to-tail guise you can imagine; wings, hearts and livers, along with a full roast and even a full ‘chicken dinner’ for four, at £50.

This being just the first stop in our Cargo odyssey, we exercised monumental restraint and shared a chicken in a bun (£8.95) and four buffalo wings (£5). The wings were rich without being fatty, in an intensely spicy BBQ sauce; the chicken bun offered a tender beast of a burger in a brioche, with good salad, garlicky mayo and chips.

Downstairs, in ‘casual Asian diner’ Woky Ko, former Masterchef finalist Larkin Cen presides smilingly over diners beneath a ceiling of oriental parasols, while his team of ‘wok stars’ cook everything freshly in the open kitchen.

The menu reads alluringly, with a good balance of carni, pisci and veggie options. We tried a wonderful light and refreshing sea bass tartare with caramelised daikon, lime and chilli (£6.95), and a bao – a steamed Asian bun – filled with fiery Korean fried chicken and crunchy kimchi; good value at £3.95.

We’d left plenty of room for Box-E, the sole finediner among the bunch. As mentioned before, it’s a tiny, two-unit affair; décor is simple and undistracting, with chipboard on the walls.

Word has clearly got out, as we were lucky to find a couple of stools overlooking the kitchen – squeezed in next to a visiting Josh Eggleton and his charming girlfriend, Meg. While chef Elliot Lidstone cooks, wife Tess runs the front of house. They’re a hugely likeable couple, with an easy manner that makes you feel you’ve dropped in to dine at a mate’s house, albeit a preternaturally talented mate; Elliot cooks like 64 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

a dream, and this tiny diner feels like just the first step on this couple’s illustrious culinary journey.

The menu’s seasonal and local, and changes most days. We sampled a turnip dish (£6.50) that saw the root salt-baked and pickled – a really fresh and exciting take on an often ignored ingredient; truffle added woody depth, and a sliver of radish a dash of pepperiness. From the mains we shared a dish of crispy polenta on a creamy cauliflower purée, toped by mellow shavings of smooth, silky Fosseway Fleece (£14).

Leaving Pigsty until last was hilariously silly, but luckily a couple of passing pals were more than willing to help us plough through the enormous platter of porky brilliance that is the Pig Board (£30). There was a slab of pork belly; a pile of smoky pulled pork; chunky, flaky sausage rolls; bangers two ways, on a pile of chutney; big scotch eggs with molten golden yolks, and porky potato ‘hoguettes’ on baconnaise (mayo flecked with bacon; oh yes). Leaving hungry is simply not an option.

Pigsty’s the first restaurant for local sausage-makers The Jolly Hog, well-known to sports fans for their top-notch stadium catering.

Along with Box-E and Woky Ko, it highlights just what a useful launch-pad Cargo can be for small restaurants wanting to flex their mussels (!), in a venue that’s a big step beyond a pop-up.

It was no coincidence that Josh Eggleton should have been dining at Box-E that night; the chefs are in and out of each other’s gaffs all the time.

It’s not just industrial espionage, either; well, maybe a bit of it, but it’s mostly mutual support.

There’s a real ‘we’re in it together’ spirit at work at Cargo, making it feel like a microcosm of the Bristol food scene as a whole. As for Wapping Wharf, Cargo has pulled off the feat of turning this brand-new development into an instant, genuine village; a village of the damned good.

This page: Cargo I: look out for its twin in 2017; inset Pigsty (obv) Opposite, clockwise from top left: Box-E, Pigsty, Woky Ko and Chicken Shed

AND NOW FOR S OMETHI NG COMPLET ELY S I MI L AR:

CARGO II The second container will open in 2017, and will taste like this: • Gambas – sister restaurant to Bravas, specialising in seafood and authentic Andalusian tapas • Salt & Malt – Josh Eggleton’s second gluten-free fish & chipperie • Pizzarova – the second site for the Glo Ro pizza favourite • The Athenian – Greek streetfood, souvlaki-style • CUPP Bubble Tea – Taiwanese bubble tea and noodles • The Pickled Brisket – Bristol’s first dedicated salt beef bar • Oliver’s Ice Cream – artisan Italian gelato and sorbets • TARE – restaurant focusing on the best seasonal produce

FOOD

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

R E S TA U R A N T

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NEW YEARS EVE 2016 AT DYNASTY Book a table for dinner this New Years Eve and count down with us at Dynasty. £50.00 per person (min. 4 person)

Includes glass of champagne or festive cocktail per person

Braised Lobster with Ginger & Spring Onions with Noodles *** Barbequed Peking Roasted Duck Served with Pancakes, Garnish & Homemade Sauce

*** Stir Fried King Prawns with Fresh Mango Sizzling fillet Beef with Black Pepper sauce Sweet & Sour Crispy Squid Chinese Pak Choi with Garlic Mixed Seafood Fried Rice with Pineapple *** Mixed Tropical Fruit Platter Chinese Tea or Coffee *** For 6 persons, additional dishes of

Steamed Seabass with Ginger & Spring Onion For 8 persons, additional dishes of

Steamed Seabass with Ginger & Spring Onion Deep Fried Beancurd with Spicy Salt

NOW OPEN 10 The Mall | Clifton | BS8 4DR

info@nutmegbristol.com 0117 360 0288

RECIPES

FOOD

YES, chef!

In the last issue, JOSH EGGLETON showed us how to cook like a boss-chef at The Pony, Salt & Malt, and Chicken Shed. This time, we nick a couple of recipes from The Kenny and Yurt Lush w

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FOOD

RECIPES

THE KENSINGTON ARMS

Oxtail Braised Onions & Onion Rings

O

xtail is a great cut, and this dish is already proving to be a big favourite on the menu at The Kenny. Rich and full of flavour, it's an ideal meal for a New Year supper with the family.

1kg black grapes, off the stem 4 banana shallots, peeled and roughly chopped 1 garlic bulb, peeled and crushed 5 sprigs thyme 2 bay leaves 50/50 water/red wine

Braised onions 4 large white onions, thinly sliced 5 sprigs thyme, de-stemmed 1/2 pint of cider or quality stock (or both) 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Method: 1. Place all ingredients in a pan and add enough water and wine to cover.

2. Cover and place in oven for 6 hours.

When cooled, pick all the meat off the bone and place in a mixing bowl.

3. Take as much of the fat off the liquor as possible. Reduce the liquor and grapes in a pan on the hob until thickened to about 1/3 of its original volume, remembering to keep skimming the fat off.

4. Mash the grapes into the liquor using a potato masher and pass through a sieve.

Season the liquor with salt to taste.

Combine the oxtail meat with the liquor.

Method: Gently fry the onions and thyme in the oil, stirring occasionally. After about 30 mins, pour in the cider and continue to simmer until the liquor thickens. This could take another 30 minutes. Season to taste.

Braised oxtail 2kg oxtail 70 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

(Serves 6)

Onion rings with onion seeds 1 large onion, sliced into 5mm rings 100ml whole milk 1 tbsp onion powder 1 egg, whisked 75g panko breadcrumbs 1 tsp black onion seeds Vegetable oil Method: 1. Submerge onion rings in the milk for 5 mins. Sprinkle a thin layer of onion powder over the rings.

2. Gather 2 bowls – one for the egg and one for the panko with the black onion seeds mixed through it.

3. Coat the rings in the egg and then into the panko making sure there’s an even covering. Deep or shallow fry for a few minutes until golden.

Serve as shown: Josh also adds his favourite Yorkshire pudding recipe.

RR EE CC I PI P EE S

FOOD

YURT LUSH

Cauliflower pakoras with cauliflower rice and curried cauliflower purée (Serves 6)

Y

ou always end up with leftover veg over Christmas and the worst thing you can do is to let it all go to waste. Bubble & squeak is one option – which I’m a big fan of – but here’s a different way to use up any leftover cauli. You can make this a standalone dish, or just as a snack.

Ingredients for cauliflower pakora: 1 medium-large cauliflower 150g gram flour 1/2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp toasted fennel seeds 1/2 tsp ground turmeric Pinch smoked paprika Pinch cayenne pepper 2 banana shallots, finely sliced Small bunch coriander, finely chopped 1/2 red chilli, sliced 160ml cold water Salt Vegetable oil (preferably standard rapeseed) Method: 1. Cut the cauliflower into florets and sprinkle a fine layer of salt over them.

Leave for 5 mins, rinse off in a colander and set to one side to dry off.

2. In a mixing bowl, place the gram flour, baking powder, spices and salt. Whisk to get rid of any lumps, then slowly whisk in the water, which should give you a smooth batter with a slightly thicker consistency than double cream. Add a little more water if too thick, or gram flour if too thin.

3. Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, along with the shallots, fresh coriander and chilli, and turn them, making sure they are thoroughly coated.

4. Heat about 10mm of oil in a heavybased pan over a medium-high heat.

When the oil is hot, place the pakoras in one at a time with a spoon, remembering the temperature of the pan will drop too much if overcrowded. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, until crisp and golden brown on both sides.

5. Drain the pakoras on kitchen paper before serving.

Please note that the batter will get too runny if the vegetables are left in it overnight. It’s best to add the vegetables at the point of cooking.

Ingredients for curried cauliflower purée: 1 small cauliflower (250g chopped coarsely) 3 banana shallots 1 garlic bulb 2 tbsp mild curry powder 75g butter 300ml milk Salt and pepper to taste Method: 1. Roast garlic bulb and shallots in their skins for 30 mins at 180°C, or until soft.

2. Place the cauliflower in a small pan with the butter, curry powder and milk, and bring to the boil. Take off the heat and add the roasted garlic and shallots (cut the ends of the whole bulbs and push out the soft roasted garlic and shallot). Blend to a smooth purée, pass through a fine sieve and season with salt and white pepper.

Method: 1. Blitz the cauliflower florets (discard the stalks) in a blender until they’re all roughly the size of rice. Place in a mixing bowl and add the yoghurt to combine to a thick, coarse paste. Then finish with the coriander, rapeseed, lime juice, salt and pepper. Adjust the balance by adding more lime or rapeseed.

2. While the pakoras are frying, gently warm the purée.

3. Place 1 tbsp purée in the bottom of a bowl or plate, then a quenelle or tbsp of the cauliflower rice, followed by the pakoras when cooked.

4. Sprinkle with fresh coriander and sea salt along with a wedge of lime to serve.

Try spreading leftovers on toast, then add cheese, grill and serve with chutney.

Ingredients for cauliflower rice: 1 cauliflower 200ml yoghurt or crème fraiche (or enough to combine the cauliflower rice) Small bunch fresh coriander, finely chopped 1 tsp lime juice Splash oil (ideally first press rapeseed)

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 71 65

FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N B R I S T O L

TAKE FIVE

Our regular quick Q&A with the people making foodie news in the city right now.

Up for this issue: it’s Raja from Nutmeg

O

wning an innovative Indian restaurant has been a long-cherished dream for Raja Munuswamy, who along with Charlotte Brown, has recently opened Nutmeg in Clifton. Has it been a success? Put it this way; on the weekday night we visited, there were more eager diners than free tables . . .

So Raja, what makes Nutmeg special?

We’re proud of our culinary heritage.

Nutmeg brings the 29 states of India into one menu, highlighting the cuisine and diversity of each state.

Describe Nutmeg in five words…

A reflection of incredible India.

Who created that colourful décor?

Rob and Sophie Whelan at Graft Workshop created the beautiful mural, Whittaker Wells provided wallpaper throughout the restaurant, and Harshinder – a local artist –created the paintings.

Where do you source your ingredients?

Meat is sourced from Ruby and White butchers, fish is sourced from Charles Sanders and Bristol Sweet Mart provide our fruit, vegetables and grains.

72 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What was your first culinary influence?

Food and cooking was part of daily life from an early age, but Keith Floyd was my first culinary influence. I used to watch him on the Discovery travel channel when growing up in India, and that’s when I started to see cooking as an art rather than a chore.

What’s your favourite dish on the current menu?

Beef Madras, Sharabi Jhinga, Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani – to name a few.

We hear you’re planning to shake up the menu in 2017 – can you tell us a bit about that?

We intend to keep our current menu, and in addition to this we’re going to pick 12 states over 2017 to showcase a different state cuisine in a new tasting menu each month.

Name another Bristol restaurant that you love...

I’m a big fan of the Lido – great food but also very relaxing for just a tea or coffee.

Nutmeg, 10 The Mall, Clifton www.nutmegbristol.com

don’t look back in (h)anger As we may have mentioned once or twice, the food and drink scene in Bristol has gone a bit crazy.

Bonkers. Here are some of the best 2016 openings:

Bambalan: pure style in the Colston Tower

family-run Wilsons opened its doors this summer with an ‘English bistro’ offering. www.wilsonsrestaurant.co.uk Michelin magic at Casamia

Casamia (and co) The Sanchez Iglesias family relocated Michelin-star Casamia to a central new site in The General in Redcliffe in January; it’s is busier than ever, and well on its way to a second Michelin star. In summer they followed this with Pi Shop right next door, offering superior pizzas, cocktails and ices, while brand-new Paco’s, the brainchild of the boys’ Spanish dad, serving upmarket tapas, opened last month.

It seems that this family can’t put a foot wrong. www.sanchez-brothers.co.uk

Adelina Yard Bulrush, Birch and Wallfish can’t be called ‘new’ any more, but the opening of Adelina Yard in January had a similar ‘sit up and take note’ feel to it; smart London restaurateurs relocate/move back to

Bristol, serving exceptional cuisine for discerning diners. We visited Adelina early doors, and were hugely impressed by its refined and imaginative dining.

Just a few weeks later, down on Cotham Hill, Dom Borel and Ben Harvey opened neighbourhood Italian Pasta Loco; there’s a bit of a Bristol mafia thing going on, as these cousins have family ties that spread to Bellita and Adelina. www.pastaloco.co.uk

www.westburyparkpub.co.uk www.thekensingtonarms.co.uk

www.adelinayard.com

From the team that brought you Hyde & Co, Milk Thistle, The Ox and Pata Negra, Bambalan opened in the Colston Tower and instantly won us over with its affordable, colourful Middle Eastern-inspired wraps and pides and terrific roof terrace looking down towards the harbour. They’re also fond of throwing fun, daft events like silent discos and Brit Pop brunches. www.bambalan.co.uk

Wilsons As if Redland residents weren’t spoiled enough with Wilks and No Man’s Grace on Chandos Road,

In the refurb/new ownerships corner we have The Westbury Park in Henleaze (The Kebab and Calculator from The Young Ones), now unrecognisable thanks to the Zazu’s team. Less changed is The Kensington Arms, but as it’s been acquired by the Eggleton and Newell families, we’re expecting tasty changes in the kitchen . . .

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie and Polpo The opening of the Bristol branches of these Londoners were impossible to ignore, so we didn’t try. In fact, both are flawless; the swellegant Ivy serving top-notch comfort food/ brasserie fare on The Mall, Polpo offering irreproachable Italian small plates in a ‘backstreet bacaro’ on Whiteladies. Chains often start with a bang then decline with a whimper, but we have a feeling these two might manage to maintain standards. www.theivycliftonbrasserie.com www.www.polpo.co.uk

Cargo The single most imaginative foodie venture has to be this repurposed shipping container on Wapping Wharf, currently housing Chicken Shed, Pigsty, Box E and Woky Ko, as well as Bristol Cider, Lovett Pies and Corks at Cargo; on nearby Gaol Ferry steps you’ll find Bertha’s Pizzas, brewery/bar Wild Beer and cafés Little Victories and Mokoko Coffee. Cargo II is planned for 2017. Does anyone living in Wapping Wharf bother cooking?

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie (it likes its full name to be used)

Bristol Cider’s moved to Cargo

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 73

A MAN’S WORLD

I CONFIDENTLY STATED THAT I WANTED TO CARPE THE DIEM OUT OF LONDON

SEB BARRETT

RUN, BARRETT . . .

A

. . . run, Barrett, run, run, run. Is that enough cheerleading, Baz?

round a year ago, I disclosed on this very page my inability to get myself off the sofa to run the Bristol Half Marathon. Not for purely lazy reasons, if I recall correctly, just that the mere sight of somebody running ahead of me on a casual jog around the Downs was enough to produce inside me enough competitive juices to fuel an East German weight lifting team.

This year, with Christmas a month or so out, we received an email at

work welcoming us to put our names forward for a ballot to enter the 2017 London Marathon. They advise walking before running, or at least running a half marathon before a full one, but I was in a ‘carpe diem’ kind of mood when I fired off my response, confidently stating that I wanted to carpe the diem out of the streets of London.

I experienced a giddy sense of achievement through merely putting my name forward – a sensation that was only enhanced when it was drawn from a long list of co-workers to run the most famous 26odd miler in the world. Except that over the past few weeks, that smug cloud I’ve been floating on has slowly but surely started to evaporate into thin air.

It started when I spoke to a group of friends at a party. Dropping the m-word into the conversation, I confidently expected them to extol my virtues with a, ‘That’s amazing!’ here, and a, ‘Good on you, mate!’ there, while I lapped up the credit I have yet to actually earn. Except they didn’t.

“You’re a braver man than I am,” offered one. “You have to go to some dark places if you want to run a marathon.” What made this all the more worrying is that this particular friend, a semi-professional footballer, is as much of a fitness freak as

Run down to our store for all your sports goods this season!

PROFESSIONAL SPORT AND FITNESS, 1&2 Gordon Road, Whitehall, Bristol BS5 7DL. Tel 01179 619999. www.psfshop.com Running specialists and stockist of:

anybody I know. “You’re going to be tiny after all that training,” came the most cutting comment from one of the women.

Then it hit me: I won’t be running for my own enjoyment any more. Now, the act of lacing up my trainers to go for a run has more meaning than it did a month ago.

More so than charity – I know, I’m sorry – I’m running to maintain my ego and to manicure my self-respect.

Where I used to be able to tell myself I’d run far enough for one day, I will now have to push myself to go that extra distance, lest come April I get overtaken in Greenwich by a septuagenarian with a dishwasher on his back.

I’ve never run anywhere near a marathon distance, but if there’s one thing Bristol is good for, it’s running. I also need to fork out for the hi-vis gear and proper running gloves along with all the other fancy accoutrements that running long distances necessitates.

There’s also an upside to all this training: I’ll get to pile into the Christmas grub guilt-free this year. That’s worth all the pain, right?

Seb Barrett works in sports communications.

Follow him on Twitter @bazzbarrett

Visit our Massive Professional Sport & Fitness Superstore -

open 6 days a week!

FREE england rugby mug when you spend £20+

Bath Rugby and British Lion shirts in stock soon!

A cut above...

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

Join us in Clifton for a sophisticated 007 themed evening; canapes and 3 courses; Champagne on arrival and at midnight. DJ and dancing. £65 12-16 Clifton Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AF Tel: 01173 291300 Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 Email: info@themintroom.co.uk www.themintroom.co.uk

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Steve Grigg 01225 475800

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E F O O D & D R I N K

DINING in BRISTOL A selection of the best places to eat out in Bristol and the surrounding area JAPANESE BENTO BOSS Unit 6, Clifton Down Station, Whiteladies Rd, Bristol; 0117 973 6132; www.bentoboss.co.uk Pan Asian freshly made sushi in the heart of Whiteladies Road.

TAPAS BRACE & BROWNS 43 Whiteladies Rd, Bristol; 0117 973 7800; www.braceandbrowns.co.uk Creative Tapas Dishes, fabulous brunch and the BEST roast in Bristol!

KOH THAI TAPAS 7-9 Triangle South, Bristol; 0117 922 6699; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award-winning Thai tapas, small plates and cocktails.

NEW MOON CAFÉ 9 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DP; 0117 239 3858; www.newmooncafe.co.uk Quality drinks, soulful food and regular live music evenings in the heart of Clifton.

WALTERS’S ON THE SQUARE Bristol Marriot Royal Hotel; College Green; 01179 255 100; www.waltersbristolroyal.co.uk The perfect rendezvous spot to enjoy tasty West Country tapas, refreshing handcrafted summer cocktails and local flavoured craft beers.

BURGERS MEAT LIQUOR Stokes Croft, Bristol; 0117 402 0000; www.meatliqour.com Burgers and beer; fried chicken and cocktails. Enough said!

INDIAN MINT ROOM DINING 12-16 Clifton Rd, Bristol; 0117 329 1300; www.themintroom.co.uk Creative and classic Indian cuisine in a contemporary setting.

NUTMEG 10 The Mall, Bristol; 0117 360 0288; Inspired by their travels across India, learning about each region's culinary history, with influences including the Mughals, Persians, Portuguese and British, Nutmeg brings you the 29 states of India in one menu.

THALI CAFÉ 1 Regent Street, Bristol; 0117 974 3793; www.thethalicafe.co.uk Award winning Indian restaurants and eco tiffin take-away food, check out their other Bristol venues on their website!

Bristol hangout for brunch, lunch, cake or just a damn fine Brew.

STEAK THE OX 43 Corn Street, Bristol; 0117 922 1001; www.theoxbristol.com Stylish steak restaurant and cocktail bar in a basement bank vault, with a cool, speakeasy vibe.

ROTISSERIE STEAM BRISTOL Whiteladies Gate Clifton Down Station; 07805 360592; www.steambristol.co.uk Brand new opening! Beer Hall & Rotisserie – what’s not to love?

ITALIAN

MIDDLE EASTERN

PASTA LOCO 37A Cotham Hill, Bristol; 0117 973 3000; www.pastaloco.co.uk Opened by cousins Ben and Dominic; freshly made pastas, a range of antipasti and daily specials.

BIBLOS ON THE HILL 225 Gloucester Road, Bristol; 0117 942 5671; www.biblos.co.uk Delicious fast-food fusion of Middle Eastern and Caribbean cuisine.

PIZZAROVA 289 Gloucester Rd, Bristol; 0117 942 7770; www.pizzarova.com Handmade sourdough and glutenfree sourdough pizzas from our Gloucester Road, Bristol shop.

POLPO 50 Whiteladies Road, Bristol; 0117 973 3100; www.polpo.co.uk POLPO is a 'bàcaro' – the Venetian word that describes a humble restaurant serving simple food and good, young Italian wines.

ROSEMARINO 1 York Place, Clifton, Bristol; 0117 973 6677; www.rosemarino.co.uk Rosemarino is a little gem to enjoy anytime, whether it be the full Italian feast or simply for a coffee while reading the papers.

VEENO CO. 1 Glass Wharf, Temple Way, Bristol; 0117 941 4181; www.theveenocompany.com Italian wine café in the UK serving family-produced Sicilian wines and authentic Italian spuntini.

FINE DINING CASAMIA The General, Guinea St, Bristol; 0117 959 2884; www.casamiarestaurant.co.uk Michelin-starred restaurant with a menu that changes with the seasons whilst focusing on using the very best British produce available.

CHINESE ZEN HARBOURSIDE 4B, Harbourside, Explore Ln; 0117 920 9370; www.zenharbourside.co.uk Contemporary and classical Chinese cooking in a sleek dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows.

COFFEE SHOP BAKESMITHS 65 Whiteladies Rd; 07535 607061; www.bakesmiths.co.uk A bakery/cakery, coffee roaster, coffee shop.

BREW COFFEE CO. 45 Whiteladies Rd; 0117 973 2842; www.brewcoffeecompany.co.uk Brew Coffee company is a local

GASTRO PUB ALMA TAVERN 18-20 Alma Vale Rd, Avon, Bristol; 0117 973 5171; www.almatavernandtheatre.co.uk New chef Alert! Massive pub with regular jazz pianists, an intimate theatre upstairs and an art space downstairs.

RACKS BAR & KITCHEN St Paul's Rd, Bristol; 0117 974 1626; www.racks-bristol.co.uk A fantastic party venue, home to the famous Racks Burger and a great space for Private Parties.

THE GLOUCESTER OLD SPOT 138 Kellaway Ave, Bristol; 0117 924 7693; www.theoldspotbristol.co.uk Light-filled gastropub with covered terrace and garden, menu made from locally sourced produce.

BETTER FOOD 94 Whiteladies Rd; 0117 946 6957; www.betterfood.co.uk Better Food believe in good honest products, which is why they strive to make local, organic, ethical and fair trade goods more available to all.

MABEL’S GREEN GROCER 17 Chandos Rd; 0117 336 0046; www.mabelsgreengrocer.co.uk Good, old-fashioned service and fresh, high quality fruit & veg, served with a smile.

MOLESWORTHS OF HENLEAZE 101 Henleaze Rd; 0117 962 1095; www.henleazebutchers.co.uk A wide range of great tasting meat and poultry, produced to the highest standards of animal welfare, sourced as locally as possible and prepared by master butchers to your requirements.

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

Winter offer:

advertisin g feature H e a lt h & B EA U T Y

FEEL YOUR BEST IN 2017 Donna Downey, Saks Beauty Bristol salon owner, has the lowdown on the treatments and products that will have you feeling a million dollars this year

J

oining the gym, starting a new diet – whatever your New Year’s resolutions may be, improvements to your health and wellbeing are almost certainly going to feature in there somewhere.

Yet looking after yourself is about so much more than diet and exercise.

Whether you need a ‘quick fix’, such as a new manicure, or you can’t seem to do anything to get your skin to look as healthy and glowing as you’d like it to, a visit to a salon can have such a big impact on how you feel.

Whatever your beauty priorities are for 2017, there have been some exciting developments in the industry lately and here are my top recommendations for making this a truly beautiful year.

Technology to transform the skin

Skyendor (a pioneer in the field of scientific skin research, which has won a Nobel Prize for its discoveries), has introduced virtual mesotherapy, a gentle, non-invasive alternative to botox. This works by breaking through the resistant barriers in the skin, transporting the active ingredients to an unlocked cell, while providing an amazing lift at the same time, all without a needle in sight.

And it’s not just about line filling. Virtual mesotherapy can be used to tackle a range

of different issues, such as dull and tired skin, rosacea, congestion and sun damage by delivering key ingredients deep into the skin, providing powerful anti-oxidants that enables the renewal process to happen at an optimum level.

When used alongside Skeyndor’s resultsdriven products, this treatment will leave customers with radiant and healthier looking skin after their first session.

Putting your best face forward

A few new tricks and tips from a make-up artist can bring your look right up-to-date, or add a subtle touch that could take years off.

One of my favourite brands at the moment is Delilah, a range by a British team of cosmetics experts including industry legend Rupert Kingston, which offers a touch of understated luxury that can be enjoyed every day. Plus, all products are paraben-free, and no animaltesting was involved in their development.

massage to send you on the way towards a more svelte figure. Using Decléor products, made with essential plant oils known for their firming qualities, a Refine and Firm session will leave you feeling both refreshed, toned and – just as importantly – in a happier state of mind.

Right here in Bristol

All of these treatments and products, and many more, are available at our salon – all within a friendly, welcoming and dazzling setting. And if you’re not sure which treatment to have, come and have a chat to one of our friendly therapists who will ensure you get the right one for you.

At Saks Beauty Bristol, it isn’t just about beauty, it’s a lifestyle choice. We’re committed to ensuring our customers look and feel their very best, and we hope they leave feeling refreshed, energised and ready to take on the world! BL

The power of aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is widely used for promoting psychological and physical wellbeing, and Decléor is world renowned in this field. At the heart of every treatment is a powerful combination of essential oils, with scents to relax the skin, body and mind. At this time of year, there’s nothing better than an invigorating

To book your appointment at Saks Beauty Bristol, call 01179 030 872 or email bristol@saksbeauty.co.uk.

22 Park Street, Bristol, BS1 5JA www.saks.co.uk/bristol

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

NDMCOACHING

CACI facials available now at Simon Lee’s Aesthetic Medical Clinic.

BORED OF THE GYM? ®

TRY KETTLERCISE FOR FREE! • Need a fun, challenging and motivating session?

• Kettlercise® is THE ALL-over body transformation program • Already a proven success • Covers all fitness levels; beginner to advanced • The most ‘bang-for-your-buck’ class out there!

• Feel invigorated and inspired, great for mind and body

Your First Class is FREE! Kettlercise® classes Tues 1200-1250 The Richmond Building, 105 Queens Road, Bristol BS8 1LN Thurs 1800-1850 Cotham Parish Church Hall, Cotham Road BS6 6DR

T PERFEC ecial p s e r fo be events!

More venues coming soon! For prices and more info, visit:

www.kettlercisebristol.co.uk Tel. 07584 082440 E: nick@kettlercisebristol.co.uk

Enjoy our Hydratone Facial for £20 per session Simon Lee, Aesthetic Medical Clinic 3 Whiteladies Gate, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PH Telephone 01173 292027

SPORT

KYLE TRAYNOR Loosehead prop

COME TOGETHER Bristol Rugby have a job to do – so stick with them . . .

W

ith Christmas fast approaching, it’s important to take stock of the season’s progress so far, and look ahead to 2017 and what’s to come in a critical six months for Bristol Rugby. Our return to the Aviva Premiership has been, at times, chastening, but we’re now on the right track and the lads are confident that we can turn the ship around and retain our place in the top flight.

The opening to the season was tough and, although we came close to sides on numerous occasions, we couldn’t find that elusive win. Unfortunately, it resulted in the departure of Andy Robinson, a director of

PHOTO BY JMPUK

Bristol Rugby v Sale Sharks

rugby that I have known and worked with for a long time, dating back to the start of my career with Edinburgh.

That’s the nature of professional sport and, as players, we all have to take a collective responsibility for results. The positive thing is that we have remained a tight-knit group throughout the period and, I believe, we have emerged the other side much stronger for the experience. In the transitional period, Mark Tainton has come in and, alongside the existing coaches, instilled a fresh perspective to our performances. The lads are training well and playing with some freedom – that was underlined in the way we performed against Bath and Leicester during November.

Another positive has been the incredible level of support that we have received as a

THE

POSITIVE WE REMAINED A TIGHTKNIT GROUP THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD

THING IS THAT HAVE

team. To have over 15,000 fans at Ashton Gate for every game – which is one of the highest average attendances in the Premiership – is just absolutely unbelievable and it shows the passion for rugby that we have in this city. It’s such a boost for the boys to run out in front of such a passionate atmosphere and the stadium is one that’s truly to be proud of. It’s our home form that we can build our season around in the second half of the campaign.

The remainder of the Premiership season is something that we can all be excited about.

We are ready to meet the challenge head on.

The games come thick and fast, each one as tough as the last, but it’s these kinds of tests that professional players relish; the chance to come up against some of the best players in Europe. We are playing without fear and expressing ourselves every time we take to the field – we’re enjoying our rugby and focused on turning our fortunes around.

We have a job to do, and that’s to stay in the top flight – to do that, we need to find some winning form and turn encouraging displays into victories. The message to our fans is: stick with us, we are giving everything and if we keep together as a club, we can pull through.

Follow Kyle on Twitter @KyleTraynor

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 81

C H A R I T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Visit us online or text

‘COSY16 £5’ (or any other amount)

to 70070 to donate.

WINTER WARMER APPEAL This winter, show your support for the pets in RSPCA care.

O

ver winter, there is nothing we like to do more than come inside out of the cold and without places like Bristol Dogs and Cats Home, every year thousands of stray animals a nimals would not have this opportunity.

Bristol Dogs and Cats Home is part of the RSPCA Bristol and District Branch. We provide care, shelter and a rehoming service for nearly 2,000 unwanted dogs, cats, rabbits

“WE GIVE THOUSANDS OF LOCAL ANIMALS IN NEED A SECOND CHANCE FOR A HAPPY LIFE” and other small animals every year. Along with the RSPCA Clinic, we give thousands of local animals in need a second chance for a happy life, free from pain or neglect.

As the nights draw in and temperatures plummet, we batten down the hatches and stock up our food stores to ensure we keep all our animals warm and fed during the cold season.

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

Colder weather means that extra food and fuel is needed to keep every animal happy, safe and warm. All our animals appreciate a cosy bed to cuddle up in on a cold winter’s day. This means higher heating bills, and our washers and dryers on a permanent spin to make sure that every animal has the clean and dry bedding needed to keep them snug. Our medical bills also soar, as pets are more vulnerable to illnesses in the colder months, especially those that have been abandoned or are too old, young, or weak to fend for themselves.

All of this means that winter is our most expensive season, and you can help us keep toes toasty and tummies full this winter by supporting our Winter Warmer Appeal. BL

You can visit us online at www.rspca-bristol.org.uk/appeal or text ‘COSY16 £5’ (or any other amount) to 70070.

Adventures in party-going

Xxxxx

SNAPPED!

Andy xxxxxx and Sarah Robertson

AC ROS S B R IS TO L , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

BRISTMAS TIME As traditional as sherry, mince pies and jingle bells, Bristol Life held a Christmas party for friends and colleagues in the city – this year, the annaul shindig took place in the sparkling surroundings of The Square.

Photos by Jon Craig Laura Rawlings, Janey Hellmen and guests

Pete Levy, Felicity Levy, Susie Michelson and Chris Kendall

Grant McCall, Gemma Gallagher, Emma Bourne and Steph Dodd

Rosanna Hood, Andrew Star, Paul Barnes and guests Sam George, Clive Hathaway, James Dean and guest

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

w

SOCIETY

Continued from page 85 Helen Arthur, Sarah Arikan and guest

James Hannam, Tony Anderson and Ciara Barron

Paul Upfold, Leah Fletcher and Maria Kabakova-Upfold

Grant McCall, Yvonne Penn, James Morgan and guest

Georgie Ward, Owen Franklin and Catherine Gillet

Brano Skorec, Steve Hawkins, David Minns and Oliver Brown

Jessica Wood, Lloyd Williams, Nick Cryer and Liz Dunne

86 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

Xxxxx

Peter Martin, Grant McCall, Peter Ellis, Ian Stuart and guest Sarah Bailey and guest Kate Fisher and Janey Hellmen

Dale Gregor, Rosanna Hood, Steve Gregor, Tony Callicott and guest

Nick Moffatt, Andrew Dickey, Lisa Groves and guest Peter Martin, Cathy Wilkin, John Hirst and guest

Pete Levy, Marcelle Fletcher, Leah Fletcher, Rachael Borley and Julia Batham

Emma Stroud, Rachele Bitelli and Yaelle Hartley

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 87

Host Families Needed Hosting international students in your home is a very rewarding experience and provides a valuable extra source of income. The high standards we require are rewarded with good rates of pay, usually £40 per night, per student.

The students we represent (typically 13-18 y/o) require good quality, caring, welcoming, full board, host family accommodation for short periods (from 2 to 21 nights).

We put a lot of time and effort into matching the right students with the right host families and we provide excellent communications and 24/7 support.

If you would like to find out more about hosting students please contact us for further information.

Tel: 01225 423327 Email: mail@crownguardians.co.uk www.crownguardians.co.uk 12a Crescent Lane, Bath, BA1 2PU

4 Whiteladies Road Clifton, BS8 1PD Tel: 01179 292281

“A name you can trust for specialist legal services” • Accident Claims • Attorneyships & Court of Protection • B usiness Sales & Purchases • Commercial Property • Conveyancing • Debt Recovery

• Dispute Resolution • Divorce, Family & Children • E mployment Advice • P robate & Estate Services • W ills, Trusts & Tax Planning

Call free for a no obligation consultation

0800 097 8611 www.johnhodge.co.uk | email: mailbox@johnhodge.co.uk

BRISTOL | CLEVEDON | WEDMORE | WESTON-SUPER-MARE | YATTON

f i n a n c e a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

SELF ASSESSMENT TAX Should you submit a self-assessment tax return before 31 January?

Contact Hollingdale Poole for advice

I

ndividuals with straightforward tax affairs, where their income is subject to tax through payroll, often won’t need to complete a self-assessment tax return.

However, for individuals with more complicated tax affairs you may need to complete a tax return by 31 January 2017.

The most common reasons for completing a tax return include: • If you are self-employed, including a partner in a partnership • If you are a company director • If you have income from a buy-to-let property, including a holiday let • If your annual total income exceeds £100,000 • If you have made chargeable disposals, such as a sale of second home, shareholdings and antiques • If you are a trustee or personal representative of a deceased estate • If you are over 65 or over and receive a reduced age allowance • If your annual total income exceeds £50,000 and you are in receipt of child benefit.

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

What can we do for you?

At Hollingdale Pooley, we offer a comprehensive tax return preparation service.

We will discuss your tax affairs with you, either in person or by telephone/email, and following this initial consultation we will provide you with details of the information we require from you to prepare your return.

We will then prepare your tax return and send it to you for your approval, with an explanation of your tax liability in plain English.

Once you approve your return, we will ensure it is submitted to HM Revenue & Customs on your behalf.

In addition, we will become your authorised tax agents with HM Revenue & Customs, allowing us to deal directly with them should there be any queries and so removing the burden from you.

Our tax team

Alongside the wealth of knowledge and experience our partners bring to our firm, we have a dedicated tax manager, Tom Ogden, a Chartered Tax Advisor, providing a range of compliance and advisory services to personal and business clients. BL

Please contact Tom or one of our partners for a free initial consultation, or email enquiries@hollingdalepooley.co.uk.

Hollingdale Pooley, Bramford House, 23 Westfield Park, Bristol BS6 6LT. Telephone 0117 9733377;

Finlay Gardener Bristol Finlay Gardener is a market leader in Executive Search and Interim Management solutions with a truly global network.

Our focus is to support the growth and transformation of businesses throughout the South West and Wales, by sourcing high calibre talent from and in to the regions.

We adopt a bespoke approach when collaborating with our clients, including: • • •

Programme Analysis with one of our panel of expert FTSE 250 Advisors.

Functional & Programme Team Implementation, with a Shared Risk Approach.

Probationary Integration Coaching.

Finlay Gardener, Park House, 10 Park Street, Bristol, BS1 5HX bristol@finlaygardener.com - 0117 915 4546 - www.finlaygardener.com BRISTOL

|

LONDON

|

AMSTERDAM

|

MUNICH

STOP

It only takes a few seconds.

RELAX

When you relax, you are in control.

When you relax you see things clearly.

CHANGE Positively & for good.

SOLUTION FOCUSED HYPNOTHERAPY HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED AS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY OF ACHIEVING CHANGE. CHANGE IN THE WAY YOU THINK, BEHAVE, REACT, INTERACT AND FEEL Change is always necessary to do away with the symptoms which are causing concern. Its only a problem when it’s a problem¹. That is when it becomes apparent to you ( and others ) when all your normal coping strategies and self deceptions fail and often become problematic in themselves.

Luckily you already possess the most powerful and infinitely adaptable electro-chemical system in existence to help you find the solution you need and which is the right one for you. YOUR BRAIN. There are more possible ways to connect the brain’s neurons (those are your brain cells, and there are 100 billion of them for starters) than there are atoms in the known universe (Prof. John Ratey.) This is the vast resource that we access through trance and relaxation. We call it the sub-conscious but in reality it’s just another level of consciousness that we experience many times a day (maybe when we’re driving, watching television, especially when we’re day dreaming or actually dreaming when asleep.) A visionary psychologist and writer Scott Peck likens this infinite jungle of neurons to inner space. I have equipped myself via study and practice of Law and Psychology with some knowledge of how to navigate this universe, but of course being human, individual and unique, each inner space is different and whilst I can get you to the right area fairly quickly via hypnosis only you know the detailed map and terrain.

Luckily, you also have an imagination which together with your subconscious and memory can conceive , visualize and promote the goals you need to achieve. Positive thought, followed by positive action and most importantly positive interaction WILL achieve positive results . It may sound like a self help platitude or sound bite but we can find a way to make it work for you and that’s the Solution whatever the problem. Any desired physiological effects will follow naturally because balance has been restored.

Tel: 0117 973 7369 | Mob: 07826 403098

SOME OF THE ISSUES DEALT WITH: ADDICTIONS: DRINKING, DRUGS, GAMBLING, FOOD - DEBT, DEPRESSION, INSOMNIA, ANXIETY, EXAM NERVES, WEIGHT MANAGEMENT, IBS, OCD, FEARS, PHOBIAS, PAIN MANAGEMENT BEREAVEMENT, SERIOUS & TERMINAL ILLNESS, PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT (SPORT, MUSIC, PUBLIC SPEAKING ETC) LOW SELF ESTEEM, CONFIDENCE BUILDING

STOP SMOKING IN ONE SESSION (£65) Rick is in Victoria Square, Clifton BS8 Call for an appointment.

Free initial consultation (free relaxation CD/download) Home visits by arrangement where appropriate.

therapist.rick.bush@gmail.com www.therapist-rick-bush.co.uk

LLB, MA, Dip.Psych, MBPsS, GBC, DHP, DSFH, MNCP reg, GQHP, GHR reg

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B R IS TO L G E T S S ER I O US

AWARDS

HERE COME THE JUDGES . . . and they’re an eclectic and impressive bunch The all-important line-up of judges for the 2017 Bristol Life Awards has been revealed.

Nominations and early-bird ticket sales are also now open as momentum builds with four months to go until the glamorous night on 27 April.

The panel of impeccably independent judges will assess the nominations and meet to discuss in detail the possible winners. The line-up looks particularly strong and eclectic: Alison Bracey (Bracey Interiors), Dominic Davis (Burges Salmon), Emma Stenning (Bristol Old Vic), George Cardale (Savills), Graham Brown (Plaster), Josh Eggleton (Pony & Trap), Monika Radclyffe (The Bristol SETsquared Centre), Sarah Mead (Yeo Valley), Sarah Robertson (Colston Hall) and Tim Greene (Clifton College).

“We’re really pleased to welcome our judges to the inaugural Bristol Life Awards,” said Steph Dodd, event manager at MediaClash, which publishes Bristol Life. “Choosing the award-winners will be a tough task – but we’re confident that our judges, drawn from all parts of the Bristol business community, will make excellent decisions.”

Nominations are now open via the Bristol Life awards website, and any company or organisation in the area can enter, free of charge. Entries can be made in more than one category, and cover the year of 2016.

“We are absolutely delighted to have these judges on board for our first year of the Awards, and we’ve been overwhelmed by the number of companies coming forward to nominate themselves. It promises to be an exciting evening,” said Steph.

Tickets are also now on sale, with a strictly limited number of early-birds available covering individual tickets and associate tables. Category and feature sponsorships are also available.

The Bristol Life Awards will take place on 27 April in a huge marquee in Lloyds Amphitheatre.

First sponsors include The Alternative Board,

The Awards marquee: it’s going to look a lot like this ...

Veale Wasbrough Vizards, SDS, Burston Cook, SAM FM, Enlightened Lighting and Clifton Marquee Company.

For sponsorship enquiries, please contact steve. grigg@mediaclash.co.uk. To be involved on the big night, the best contact is: stephanie.dodd@ mediaclash.co.uk.

Full details are on the site www.bristollifeawards. co.uk with updates on Twitter @BristolLifeAwds

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING BRISTOL BUSINESSES WHO OPENED IN 2016: Rybrook – new opening SAKS Beauty – new branch EF Medispa – new opening Finlay Gardener – new opening Sofa Magic – new showroom Handelsbanken – Portishead branch www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 95

BUSINESS INSIDER

B2B

BUSINESS DECISIONS Joby Mussell is the global VP of product operations at project intelligence organisation GDS, with branches in Bristol, New York and Miami. So what does the job entail?

T

hrough outcome-focused B2B events, world-class research and cutting-edge intelligence solutions, GDS is dedicated to helping businesses meet the challenges posed by a fast-moving, disruptive business environment. Let Global VP Joby Mussell tell you more.

What kind of B2B events are we talking here?

Our world-leading B2B events provide the ability to network and learn from industry peers and solution-providers about how they are approaching common challenges and opportunities. Meet the Boss events and round tables are designed to give executives an opportunity to have meaningful conversations about best practices, challenges and common experiences, providing opportunities to meet, talk and find solutions. GDS Digital delivers secure, super-fast broadband to remote, vulnerable and low-income locations, offering people the opportunity to transform the way they engage and interact with local authorities.

What is your role in the company?

I’m Global VP of Product Operations, responsible for the delivery of world-class events in both live and digital environments. I am also directly responsible for operations across the business, making sure we are a fully cohesive, collaborative team, structured for success and growth.

What were you doing before GDS? I was a senior director at TripAdvisor for three years, responsible for all EMEA sales and marketing operations for vacation rentals business.

Miami, New York and Bristol – that’s quite a trio to conjure with!

Indeed it is! Our journey started in Bristol back in 1993, when GDS Group Chairman Spencer Green opened the doors of what was then known as GDS Publishing to specialise in B2B publications for a range of different industry verticals.

What are the advantages of having the three branches?

The main benefit is that it improves our ability to understand the markets in which we operate – local offices mean we can be on the pulse with hot topics and trends in those local markets, and we can tailor our content and offerings to keep us ahead of the curve and ensure our events are the go-to place for senior-level executives looking for help with their business projects. Added to this, all three cities are brilliant, vibrant locations with a wealth of talent that we can tap into, so there are significant benefits from a recruitment perspective, too.

Your website tells us that you put a high premium on having fun and team bonding – is that right?

It certainly is! You spend a lot of time at work, and a happy workforce is key to great business performance. This Christmas we put together a team to run the Great Bristol Santa race as part of Children’s Hospice Southwest’s annual fundraiser (left).

DIGITAL DISRUPTION IS EVERYWHERE AND ANY BUSINESS HAS TO MOVE WITH THE TIMES

So how did the business grow?

From there, we expanded into live events, which opened our eyes to the power of B2B networking, and became the catalyst for a decade-anda-half of rapid growth and a portfolio of hugely-successful products.

During this period, we moved out of the print publishing business, but also launched our virtual meeting and content hub, Meet the Boss, which further expanded our reach and product offerings into the online space. The New York and Miami offices both opened during this time.

Earlier this year, in order to reflect the increasingly diverse nature of our business, we underwent a further re-brand to become GDS Group.

But while the name has changed, our core aim remains the same as it did all those years ago: to provide our clients with the intelligence they 96 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

need to make better business decisions. It’s been a fantastic journey, but the best is still to come.

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

Digital disruption is everywhere and any business has to move with the times. We’re always looking at new technologies to drive us forward and embrace change in the workplace.

We have invested considerably over the last 18 months in truly world-class systems to improve our internal infrastructure, create better business efficiencies, as well as equipping our employees with the tools to enable them to do their jobs to the best of their ability.

How much time do you spend on marketing in comparison to practical?

At the moment I’d say we sway a little more towards practical, but we’ve recently hired a new marketing director so you can expect to see the marketing activity in the business ramping up going into 2017. Our brand new website www.gdsgroup.com has just launched. It’s full of great content, and we’re rolling out new summit sites over the coming months, too.

What advice would you give to other businesses who want to reach the same level of success?

Don’t be afraid to think big and take (calculated) risks! Hire the right talent and build a strong team of experts around you to support you on your vision.

For more www.gdsgroup.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

BANKING

MONEY TALKS Adrian Connock manages Handelsbanken’s new branch in Portishead, providing tailored banking services to both individual and corporate customers

A

drian’s banking career spans 35 years, mostly in corporate banking in and around Bristol. He joined Handelsbanken in 2013, originally at the Regional Head Office in Bristol, until being asked to open the new branch in Portishead in July 2016.

Why was a dedicated Portishead branch opened?

It was a natural expansion to our Bristol and Weston Super Mare branches. We specialise in providing tailored banking services to both corporate and individual customers wanting a long-term relationship with their bank and this approach has been very successful.

Is Portishead thriving?

Yes, most definitely. The completed marina and retail developments and continuing buoyant residential property market are testament to this. Commercial property demand increased significantly during the period when we were setting the branch up. The proposed rail link to Bristol should also be a great boost to local business.

customers. Fundamentally, we believe that this is the route to running a profitable and successful bank. This focus, together with a keen eye on our costs across the bank, is what has led to Handelsbanken meeting its corporate goal: to be more profitable than the average our competitors, for the last 44 years in a row.

What’s the attitude to corporate social responsibility?

The business opportunities and success of Handelsbanken on the market depend on securing the confidence of customers, the general public, and public authorities.

Sustainability and corporate social responsibility are part of Handelsbanken’s culture and method of working. For example, Handelsbanken in the Community means the bank is available as the customer wishes: by visiting the branch, by phone or online. The way Handelsbanken works and deals with customers is characterised by a long-term approach, stability, respect, personal consideration and a local presence.

OUR UNWAVERING FOCUS IS ON ENSURING WE HAVE THE MOST SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

How would you sum up the Handelsbanken corporate philosophy?

Customers are at the heart of everything we do, and this philosophy influences everything in the bank. Firstly, we operate a devolved leadership model, which means that branches like mine in Portishead are given the autonomy and responsibility to make local decisions for our customers. This is because we believe that those closest to the customers – branch teams – make the best decisions. And because we want to have the most satisfied customers, we also operate without sales or volumes targets, or the bonuses that often go with them, because we believe these can distort behaviour.

What are the bank’s chief goals?

Our unwavering focus is on ensuring that we have the most satisfied

What Brexit fallout have you seen?

It has been business as usual for us in Portishead. What we can really see, is that whether or not we’re a member of the EU does not affect people’s desire for local relationship banking and high levels of personalised service.

What’s the most satisfying part of the job?

Working for a successful and financially stable organisation that reflects my own values and ideas about how banking services should be provided means a great deal to me. We are traditional in our approach but very modern in what is actually delivered, which is a proposition I can genuinely enthuse about with any prospective customer.

www.handelsbanken.co.uk/portishead

AMD are an award winning firm Visit our website for details at www.amdsolicitors.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

HOW TO WIN A BRISTOL LIFE AWARD SPECIAL

AND THEY’RE OFF…!

W

inning a Bristol Life Award can transform your business, put it on the map and confirm its successful status – and nominations are happening right now, via the Bristol Life Awards website.

Any local company or organisation can enter the awards. The categories are: Arts, Business Services, Café/Coffee Shop, Charity, Cocktail/Bar, Creative, Education, Event; Food/Drink Producer; Gastropub, Hair & Beauty, Health, Interiors, Legal & Financial, Leisure & Tourism, New Business, Property, Restaurant, Retailer and Tech & Innovation, plus a Platinum Award for the single best category winner on the night.

Here are our top 12 insider tips to a successful nomination...

1

Take your time Don’t sell your company short by leaving it to the last day. There’s ample time until the closing date to marshal your most effective case. Use that lead-in time to gather your thoughts and position your company’s success in 2016 persuasively. What truly marks out 2016 for you? What have you done or achieved that is so much better than you’d expected, or had done last year, or is better than your competitors?

2

Give measures of success Saying, ‘We’ve had a great year’ really isn’t enough. Everyone says that. The judges will want to know more precisely what has been great. For example, are sales up? Have you taken on more people? Or entered a new business area, launched a new product or opened up another outlet? Or increased marketing successfully? Or acquired a company? Or won an award? Anything that makes it clear that your success is based on something tangible.

3

Awards are open to all The awards are free to enter and can be won by any company: first timers, advertisers, non-advertisers. If you’re in the area and 98 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY FERLA PAOLO

The Bristol Life Awards have properly begun!

Nominations are now open and don’t close until the end of February. Plenty of time, then, to study our insider tips for making your nomination really count . . . have had a strong performance in one of our categories, then you can win. Please note: for the new business category, companies need to have begun no earlier than 1 July 2015. Please give your starting date.

4

Make sure you qualify Winners need to be based in the Bristol area. There’s not a precise geographical definition (no tape measures here). But if you’re close enough and much of your business is here, then you’ll be in. If in doubt, just ask us.

You can enter any category into which your business fits. So you might be both a new business and a best restaurant. Or creative and event. You decide: it’s free.

5

9

Put yourself in the shoes of the judges The awards are decided by our independent judges. They’ll look at your nomination, visit your website and maybe even visit your business. And then they – and they alone – will decide. The judges will be faced with a number of finalists in each category.

Imagine what it’d be like wading through a big pack of info; make it easy for them. Write clearly with key points. Please don’t let it be a bit of a ramble about your life in business. Try to create some empathy with those judging you. Emotion is fine. If it really would mean the world to you to win this award, then say so.

SAYING ‘WE’VE HAD A GREAT YEAR’ REALLY ISN’T ENOUGH

Avoid empty claims Saying, ‘We’re the best in Bristol’ lacks context. So say why you’re the best. What marks you out?

What are the key strengths of your company?

6

Make sure your website is in order The judges will look carefully at your nomination, of course. But we encourage them to visit the finalists where possible and in all cases to look at your websites. So make sure yours is in good shape. For example, if your last entry ‘news’ entry was in August, it doesn’t suggest you’re particularly active in marketing yourself. Similarly, broken links or typos or fuzzy pics or anything that you know isn’t good enough will undermine your pitch. Polish it up; there’s time (and MediaClash’s web team can help, by the way).

7

If you’re using social media, then be active Imagine a pitch that says, ‘We’ve successfully used social media to build our customer base’ – and then the reality that you’ve tweeted only twice since the summer. Again, judges will be looking at any and all aspects of your business.

8

And please make sure all testimonials are from 2016. Don’t just say, ‘Check out TripAdvisor (or similar). Do the legwork yourself and include or quote the best examples in your submission. (Besides, there are usually some ropey critiques on TripAdvisor, even on the best regarded places).

Testimonials: gather as many as you can from customers It’s one thing for you to say you’re great. But it’s often more persuasive if customers say that.

Give examples. The more specific the better.

10

Use Twitter to build support for your bid If you know you’ll be entering for the Awards, then stick it out there on Twitter, making sure you tag @BristolLifeAwards. You’re likely to gain some comments you can use in your nomination. But please don’t lobby the judges, either on Twitter or elsewhere: it’ll be counter-productive.

11

Enjoy the nomination process This is one of the very few opportunities in professional life to tell people about just how and why your business or organisation is exceptional. We all work so hard, all believe so hard in what we do. So enjoy the chance to assemble your arguments and to say EXACTLY why you are great.

12

Keep 27 April clear…

Just imagine how great it would feel to win a Bristol Life Award . . .

For more: www.bristollifeawards.co.uk; Twitter @BristolLifeAwards

a d v e r tisi n g f e at u r e L E G A L

Who is the Operator?

There may be times when working with other contractors, suppliers or agencies means there is a blurring of who is responsible for the actual work. Unless you are very careful this could get you in trouble with the Traffic Commissioner. LIZ HIGHAMS of AMD Solicitors explains....

T

here is no absolute definition of ‘an operator’ but the Traffic Commissioner will be looking at who owns the vehicles, who insures, maintains and services the vehicles (either in-house or by an external maintenance provider), who employs

the drivers and whose operator’s disc is displayed in the vehicles.

The Traffic Commissioner is only concerned with road safety and competitive advantage and will be concerned if your business arrangements suggest that you are ‘lending’ your operator’s licence to another business where they don’t have one or where they are trying to increase their business.

It is always a sensible idea to ensure that all your business arrangements are put into a contract to ensure that there is no ambiguity over who is the actual operator. If you have the operator’s licence then you should be insuring, maintaining and servicing the vehicles that are being used. If you are hiring those vehicles from another business then the contract should include confirmation that you take on that responsibility. If you are not employing your own drivers then you should have a contract with the business that is employing them to make it clear that you are effectively using agency drivers.

To avoid getting caught out by the Traffic Commissioner, ensure that you have contracts with all your suppliers, contractors and agencies that spell out exactly who is responsible for what.

Liz Highams has recently strengthened the AMD Solicitors transport portfolio from her background as an advocate in the criminal courts.

We can help you with advice and assistance in all areas of operator licensing and representation at Public Inquiry if required. BL

MEET THE TEAM

Philip Brown brings a wealth of experience to the team having 25 years’ experience in operator licensing, since his appointment as a Deputy Traffic Commissioner in 1990 and subsequently serving as fulltime Traffic Commissioner in Bristol and in London and South East England from 2000 until 2011. He was Senior Traffic Commissioner for Great Britain from 2003 until 2011.

For advice on Road Transport issues please contact Liz Highams or another member of our team on 0117 923 5562, email lizhighams@amdsolicitors.com or call into one of our four Bristol offices.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 101

a d v ertisi n g fe at u re L AW

Meet the Family Lawyer Bristol has hundreds of law firms, all offering conflicting statements and slightly different services.

Our guide helps you to find the right firm for your family’s legal needs

Kerry Graham

QualitySolicitors Burroughs Day Tel 0117 930 7553 www.qsbdlaw.com Why do you love being a family lawyer?

I like seeing clients walk away from a case happy, knowing that I did the best job possible for them and their family. I often see clients who are upset and going through a difficult time; if I can play any part in making the process that bit easier, it means a lot.

What advice would you give someone coming to see a family lawyer?

Bring as much information as you can, and try not to be nervous – I don’t bite! I am here to help and guide you through your options. We offer free advice sessions at our Bristol office (Queen Square) – the next one is 25 January 12-2pm and 5pm7pm – and we offer free first telephone advice for new clients.

Tell us about yourself and why people should contact you Clients tell me I get them a great result with the minimum legal costs. I think this is a pretty good start!

Ashley Palminteri

Kirsten Hale

JOHN PRATLEY

Director, The Family Law Practice Tel 0117 925 9539 www.thefamilylawpractice.co.uk

Senior Associate solicitor Barcan+Kirby, Queen Square Tel 0117 325 2929 www.barcankirby.co.uk

How did you come to specialise in family law?

It was a combination of loving the work from day one and the challenge of helping someone at a very difficult time in their lives. There is nothing more rewarding than reflecting at the end of the case that you have made a positive contribution.

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

That everyone thinks a divorce is going to incur massive legal bills. It’s not cheap but with the right legal representation it need not break the bank. We always try to tailor our fees to our client’s needs and try to give clear cost estimates or, where possible, fixed fees.

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

That the answer is simple. It is not, everyone’s situation is different and needs proper understanding and expert advice.

What is your proudest most recent accomplishment?

Probably our recent win at the Bristol Law Society Annual Awards when we won Law Firm of the Year.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

With approximately 3.2 million cohabiting couples in the UK in 2015, it’s apparent that more and more couples aren’t going to get married, Instead they‘re choosing to cohabit and they need legal protection if they break up.

What advice would you give someone coming to see a family lawyer?

Coming to see a solicitor is a big event, not to be understated. Choose someone who has been recommended, and try to visit a couple of solicitors before you proceed – so as to be sure that you have the right solicitor for you.

What are your biggest frustrations?

Dealing with poor legal advisors on the other side, who don’t see the bigger picture and fail to recognise what the parties really need.

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

Being trusted by clients to help them at what is a very difficult time in their lives.

What is your proudest most recent accomplishment?

I looked after a friend’s kitten for a week and he’s still alive!

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

I’m a friendly, experienced and approachable solicitor. And I’m very good with kittens.

Simpson Millar incorporating Foster and Partners Tel 0345 357 9600 www.simpsonmillar.co.uk

What changes have you seen in family law?

Family lawyers have become much more specialised, right from the first days of their legal career, and people’s problems are not simple so to help them properly you also need to bring a good understanding of other areas of law like property law, tax and business.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

A law which allows pensions and property to be transferred between cohabiting couples at the end of a relationship, when it is fair to do so. People choose to live together in committed unmarried relationships and we respect their choice, but if they separate the law for them is very complicated and is not really about treating them fairly.

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

I enjoy meeting people, understanding their problems and helping them to solve them.

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L aw a d v ertisi n g fe at u re

Sarah Hoskinson

Gareth Schofield

How did you come to specialise in family law?

I tried family law for four months as a Trainee Solicitor at Burges Salmon. I was drawn to the human element, helping people through an incredibly difficult time. No two cases are the same and that’s the challenge, finding a solution that works for each client or family.

How did you come to specialise in family law?

By accident, training at what I discovered to be the top divorce firm in London.

Partner, Burges Salmon LLP Tel 0117 902 7743 www.burges-salmon.com

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

That it has to be horrendous!

Most family lawyers are truly committed to resolving things cooperatively and amicably.

Even when courts are used, it can be done in a dignified way.

People also think there is bound to be an answer, whereas the truth is rather greyer as the courts have very wide discretion, which enables different solutions for different families.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

No-fault divorce; couples should be given the autonomy to decide that their marriage has not worked and be able to move forward without blame.

What advice would you give someone coming to see a family lawyer?

Be honest, open-minded and find a lawyer who you feel you can communicate with well.

Best bit of your job?

The people I work with, both clients and colleagues. We have a fantastic team and some great new additions.

Clarke Willmott Tel 0345 209 1125 www.clarkewillmott.com

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

It has to be a brutal experience.

What changes have you seen in family law?

Clients are much better informed.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

Some form of cohabitation law (like Scotland).

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

Meeting and helping interesting clients in difficult situations.

What advice would you give someone coming to see a family lawyer?

Prepare. Email your questions and a background briefing note. With a lawyer time is money – your money.

What is your proudest most recent accomplishment?

I made 50! (just…)

Best bit of your job?

No day is ever the same.

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

I’ve been guiding clients through relationship breakdowns for 25 years.

I can help you.

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Katy Zikking

Founder/Director - Harbour Family Law. Tel 01179 055141. www.harbourfamilylaw.co.uk.

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

That clients come to a family solicitor with the attitude “Take him/or her for everything”. The reality is that divorcing clients are experiencing deep sadness about the end of a relationship and anxiety about their new life.

What changes have you seen in family law?

The introduction of collaborative practice to resolve family disputes. This is a hugely positive step forward and encompasses other disciplines such as family therapy and counselling to support divorcing couples.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

Without doubt a ‘no-fault’ divorce. The current system, which forces you into alleging unreasonable behaviour or adultery, is entirely unnecessary, upsets people needlessly and causes conflict.

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

Meeting clients, helping them through from the beginning of a separation to their new life & seeing them come through to the other side.

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

I believe in love! I want to help clients deal with the breakdown of a relationship constructively, in a dignified way, so that they can preserve relationships with their ex-spouse and move on to new and fulfilling experiences.

Samantha Hickman

Partner, Veale Wasbrough Vizards Tel 0117 314 5435 www.vwv.co.uk What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

Meeting my clients is what makes the job such a privilege.

I need to tailor my approach and advice to each client in order to achieve the best possible outcome for them.

If you weren’t working in law, what would you do?

An A&E trauma consultant. I’m not one for monotony and like the fact that my role involves a fair degree of stress.

What advice would you give someone coming to see a family lawyer?

Come prepared and armed with facts. If you are seeking advice on financial matters, bring some basic details in relation to income, assets and debts.

What is your proudest most recent accomplishment?

Becoming a Partner at Veale Wasbrough Vizards. The firm’s core values of teamwork and collaboration, putting clients at the centre of the firm and taking a commercial approach ‘mirror’ my own work ethos.

Tell us something about yourself and why people should contact you I have been described as a ‘tough negotiator and fearsome advocate’, but most of all I adopt a commercial approach to cases. A lawyer should add value, not take it away.

ad v ertisi n g feature L AW

Jo Morris

Family Solicitor AMD Solicitors Henleaze Tel 0117 9621205 www.amdsolicitors.com How did you come to specialise in family law?

A significant amount of my training contract was spent doing family law. I knew immediately that it was the right area for me. I love the intensity and variety of the work.

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

Many people still believe in the myth of the common law husband/wife. This can leave people in a really vulnerable position with no knowledge of their rights, or rather lack of rights.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

The ‘no-fault’ divorce. The current system requires people to be separated for at least two years unless they can blame the other’s adultery or unreasonable behaviour. This can cause significant conflict and distress at a time which is already incredibly difficult for families.

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

I really enjoy working with clients, being able to make a difference.

If you weren’t working in law, what would you do?

I daydream about running a small holiday lettings business, a cluster of farm cottages. I’d bake cakes (or mince pies at Christmas!) and make the cottages really welcoming. I’m sure the reality wouldn’t be anywhere near as idyllic!

Sharon Giles Sharp Family Law Tel 0117 905 8805 www.sharpfamilylaw.com

How did you come to specialise in family law?

It’s a dynamic and everdeveloping area of law that has always fascinated me and one where sensible lawyer input can make a real difference to people’s lives.

What changes have you seen?

In recent years there has been a massive shift towards non-court-dispute resolution methods, which empower separating couples to have a much stronger influence over what their future holds.

What misconceptions do people have about family law?

When conflict arises most people expect a bitter battle ahead, but actually best outcomes are achieved by those who work constructively together. Going to court is certainly not the norm.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

Definitely no-fault divorce.

At present we are stuck with a requirement for one party to lay the finger of blame upon the other if they want to prove divorce within the first two years. This makes constructive discussions difficult from the outset.

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

For me, it’s the point when couples reach an agreement that is the most rewarding.

I can literally feel the stress and anxiety levels fall away at that pivotal moment.

Judi Evans

Head of St John’s Chambers’ Family Practice Group Tel 0117 923 4770 www.stjohnschambers.co.uk What misconceptions do people have about family law?

That it’s a soft option. It’s not. It’s emotionally and intellectually very demanding.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

Only one?

(1) As lawyers, through reading social work, Cafcass and psychological reports we learn such a lot about what good parenting means, the impact of a bad separation on children, and why healthy relationships matter. This information should be available earlier, not at the point of crisis. We should be delivering this information in age appropriate ways in schools as part of life skills work.

(2) Early intervention: We cannot keep removing babies from the same woman time and time again, without trying to deal with the underlying issues. The work done by PAUSE, which focuses on rehabilitation while taking contraception, is a good example of how to deal with the issue, and should be more widely available.

What is your proudest most recent accomplishment?

I’m an advocate of early intervention. I’ve spoken about the subject at conferences, been interviewed by a newspaper and hosted a debate at the Bristol Civil Justice Centre on the topic.

PAUSE is coming to Bristol; I don’t claim credit for that, but I hope I have played a very small part, along with many others in raising public awareness.

Simon Thomas Partner and Head of the Family Team, Michelmores Tel 01392 687630 www.michelmores.com/ourpeople/profiles/simon-thomas

How did you come to specialise in family law?

I was motivated by a genuinely inspiring solicitor who ran the Family Team in the firm in Gray’s Inn where I took my articles.

What law would you most like to see introduced?

A no-fault basis for divorce, as I believe it would begin to help reduce acrimony and conflict between couples from the outset.

If you weren’t working in law, what would you do?

I would definitely be a sommelier or an oenologist – or both!

What advice would you give someone coming to see a family Lawyer?

Prepare – think about what you want to achieve from the meeting, what are your questions, concerns and objectives? If you can then bring relevant documents and/or a summary of your situation so you can be as focused as possible. My aim is that people go away much better informed than when they came in and hopefully reassured.

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

I have acquired a huge breadth of experience in dealing with all aspects of Family Law over the last 25 years and have a very measured, pragmatic and supportive personality, which I like to think puts my clients at ease during an often difficult time in their lives.

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

TAKE ME TO

106 112 II BRISTOL CLIFTON LIFE LIFE II www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

THE RIVER

You know the song, right? The one that goes: ‘We all have friends who have friends by a river’?

Now you can be one of those friends – with the instant popularity a waterside home bestows . . .

By L I SA WA R R E N

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON BRISTOL LIFE LIFE II 107 www.mediaclash.co.uk 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

T

he new Finzel’s Reach bridge made headlines last month – it’s not every day that Bristol gets a new bridge, after all.

In fact, it’s only the second in 15 years – and possibly the first time that it’s taken less than a week to put a bridge in situ.

And while it wasn’t really too much of a schlepp, for the residents living in the new Redcliffe developments nestled between Victoria Street and the river, to use Bristol Bridge, there’s no doubt that the new pedestrian route is wildly convenient; besides, it’s rather attractive, with curves in all the right places.

Brewhouse in George’s Square is one of the many new homes available in this increasingly popular quarter.

Having retained plenty of its original industrial dockside heritage, it makes the perfect choice for those who find box-band new developments a bit soulless.

The beautifully appointed loft apartment has an open-plan layout, and tall windows guaranteeing lightness and brightness all year round, while during the warmer months we can see you making full use of the balcony that gazes across the waterside to Castle Park. Presumably, we don’t need to explain exactly how convenient its location is; suffice to say that everythingbut-everything in the city centre is a walk away, while the waterside frontage offers a soothingly retreat.

The apartment has been designed with contemporary urban living in mind, with a modern décor and fittings, 108 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The balcony is recessed, sheltered and private; only those with high-grade binoculars in Castle Park will have a clue what you’re up to

HOUSE NUMBERS

3

bedrooms

£565K guide price

25ft

open-plan living room

1

sheltered balcony overlooking the river

bespoke lighting and plenty of space. The main living area is a whopping (not to be confused with Wapping) 25ft wide, with panoramic windows overlooking the river; original industrial steel has been retained inside and out.

Beyond the dining area the recessed West-facing balcony is nicely sheltered from the wind, so you could easily rug up during the winter months, something hot and mulled in hand and watch the river craft below.

The kitchen is on a split level. It has been ergonomically designed with bespoke wall and base units and a preparation peninsular with a stainless-steel surface, and numerous integrated kitchen appliances that include an American-style fridge freezer and wine chiller.

The master bedroom has a cool and collected en-suite shower room fitted with black granite; the adjacent guest bedroom is currently used as a dressing room and fitted with a Carrie Bradshaw-standard number of wardrobes.

Both rooms share the family bathroom and a mezzanine houses a bedroom/study.

The Brewhouse shares a central atrium with other flats in this new development, and there’s a passenger lift to all floors; there’s also secure underground car parking with a pair of tandem spaces.

In reality, though, given that handy new bridge you could probably ditch the gas-guzzler altogether.

Savills Clifton, 20 The Mall, Bristol BS8 4DR 0117 933 5800; www.savills.co.uk

We assist private and corporate clients with their property sourcing and acquisition requirements

Can we help with yours?

To discuss your property requirements please contact Dominic Short via: Phone: 0117 905 5070 Email: ds@clearriver.co.uk

a d vertising feat u re P R O P E R T Y

perfect paintworks Unique apartments available now at CREST NICHOLSON’S Paintworks through Help to Buy

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re you searching for a unique new home in the heart of Bristol’s creative quarter?

Launched earlier this year, Crest Nicholson’s Paintworks development could offer the perfect home for you.

Comprising an eclectic mix of one and two bedroom apartments plus three and four bedroom houses, Paintworks is unlike anything that’s been seen in Bristol before.

The latest apartments released for sale at Paintworks are a collection of one- and twobedroom apartments, designed for modern living and to maximise space. Each of these homes centres around an open-plan cooking, eating and living space. The master bedroom features an en-suite, while others have a generous second bedroom plus separate bathroom.

Prices start from £269,000, or just £215,200 using the Government’s Help to Buy scheme.

The initiative enables home buyers to purchase a new home with just a five per cent deposit, and entitles them to a 20 per cent equity Government loan, interest-free for five years. The remaining 75 per cent is covered with a mortgage.

Situated in the Arnos Vale area of Bristol, Paintworks is a one-of-a kind development that celebrates the creative efforts and atmosphere of its surroundings.

Blending seamlessly into the established community known locally as The Paintworks, since its launch this development has attracted a range of residents from young artistic professionals to families. With a wide array of art galleries, restaurant and pubs in and around Paintworks plus regular pop up events for families and creatives, it’s not surprising that homes at Paintworks have become highly sought-after for potential homebuyers.

Paintworks is perfectly located just half a

mile from Temple Meads train station, with its fast links to London and the South West. BL

Prices start from £269,000, or just £215,200 through the Help to Buy scheme. For more information, why not visit our sales and marketing suite open daily between 10am and 5pm to speak to one of sales advisor.

You can also call us on 0117 2444070 or visit us online at www.crestnicholson. com/developments/paintworks/.

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NEWS

PROPERTY

RICHARD BROOKS Keepi ng you up to date w it h issues t hat a f fect t he loca l proper t y ma rket

TO MARKET, TO MARKET There’s no hard and fast rule about when to sell your home, says RICHARD BROOKS

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ver the last couple of weeks, we have heard one question over and again: When should we put our house on the market?

I wish there was one hard and fast rule, but it’s not so simple.

People buy and sell property for a number of reasons; a new start, a change in circumstance, an investment, a relocation.

It is the reason for the move that often forms the basis for how and when we go to market.

For some vendors we would advise launching immediately, whether it is discreetly to our known buyers to establish whether a premium price can be achieved, or through a full outward-facing marketing campaign. Testing the water during the socalled quieter months is a strategy that has proven effective for many.

To other buyers, our advice has been to hold your nerve, to get decoration and

PEOPLE BUY AND SELL PROPERTY FOR A NUMBER OF REASONS

Woodfield Road

preparation in order in time for a spring launch. With good natural light and blooming gardens, many homes look at their best in the warmer months and good presentation can make all the difference in a competitive market.

Whether you go for a winter or spring launch, be wary of advertising a property online for an extended period of time – this gives the impression that it has not been popular or that it is priced incorrectly. It may be that the property can be removed from online portals and launched again when the market is more favourable.

Timing is crucial. It should form part of the wider selling strategy and take into consideration a number of factors. As a seller, ensure you have this conversation with your agent and consider the justification given. It’s in the interest of agents to have you on their books sooner rather than later. But it may not always be in the interest of achieving the best price for your house.

For more information or to arrange a market appraisal of your property please call Savills in Clifton on 0117 933 5800.

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BRISTOL LIVES

Q&A

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© LEMON DROP BOOKS

eing named ‘Mark Lemon’ seems an unfair advantage for a children’s writer, but this is indeed Mark’s real name (we checked). With an original background in retail, Mark decided to create the Otis stories after finding that he enjoyed reading to children during school assemblies – that, and discovering that there was a dearth of books featuring characters that resembled his own mixed-race son and daughter.

And so Lemon Drop Books was born.

What’s the secret of writing for kids?

A good children’s story needs to have a great storyline, with fun characters for the children to relate to. The illustrations are very important, as it’s the visual impact that keeps the children interested and engaged at an early age.

Who are your favourite authors?

Roald Dahl; I have tried to bring some Dahl magic into all of my stories. I also love brilliant Julia Donaldson, Judith Kerr and Sue Hendra.

You self-publish Lemon Drop Books, right?

Yes, at Doveton Press Printers in Bedminster.

Owners Gavin and Mark Savage are absolutely brilliant to work with. It’s great to keep everything Bristol-based; it’s actually very important to us as a local business.

How did you find your illustrator?

I was extremely lucky to find Maia Walczak through an old school friend. It started by sending over a couple of stories to Maia and some images of ideas for how I wanted the characters to look. We clicked from the off. Her style is different to anything else out there.

Believe it or not, we have never met face to face; we have always communicated via email.

What’s your manor, and what are the best and worst things about it?

We live on the east side of town with great parks in St George’s and Eastville, which we use regularly. We’re lucky enough to have some lovely places to eat nearby; Este Kitchen, No 12, Greenbank and The Lock Up on Church Road.

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PHOTO BY SAW MILL FILMS

Do you try your ideas out on Otis and Thea?

I used to write a story a day during my commute to Cardiff. Once I got home, I would put Otis to bed and read him the stories. Not only was he amazed that he was flying on a magical scooter, but he loved the characters; this was a sign that we might have something special.

MARK LEMON Ever considered chucking in the day job for a career as a children’s book author? Mark did just that to much success and he’s also become the books’ publisher Favourite place for a special meal?

We recently had an evening at new restaurant, Pasta Loco, on Cotham Hill, and highly recommend a visit.

Apart from writing and publishing books, what else are you good at?

I personally think gardening, but the wife doesn’t necessarily agree.

What’s your most regrettable habit?

I guess I’m a bit of a perfectionist.

Surprise us…

Mariah Carey once said, ‘Good evening’ to me when I was working as a waiter at London’s Claridge’s Hotel. I was taking dirty plates and cutlery down to the basement.

Finest hour?

The first book I wrote, Otis Lemon and the Spectacular Submarine, was recently awarded the Platinum Junior Design Award 2016 by Junior Magazine – an amazing achievement for us.

When I came home with the first printed copy of the book, Otis turned around to me after reading the book and said, ‘Daddy, now everyone is going to know me’.

Find Lemon Drop Books at a number of local retailers including Arnolfini Bookshop, Foyles, Waterstones, Mon Pote and Bristol Tourist Information; www.lemondropbooks.co.uk

NEW SHOWROOM

Our new dedicated wardrobe and carpet showroom is now open in the old Maskreys building next door to our existing store at 56-64 Whiteladies Road.

We are also showing new sofa styles and an increased range of painted and solid oak cabinet furniture Promotional offers are available and remaining Clearance ex-display pieces are 50-75% off!

Curtains and Blinds
 Sofas and Fabrics
 Bespoke Cabinet Furniture and Wardrobes

FABRICS Terms and conditions apply

We are just past Clifton Down Shopping Centre 56/60, Whiteladies Rd, BS8 2PY Mon-Sat 9.30 - 5.30/Sun 12 - 5

TEL: 01173 292746

All types of reupholstery Traditional to contemporary styles Antique and Vintage pieces