Bristol Life - Issue 226

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 226 / SPRING 2017 / £3

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

INCOGNITO DOWN AT THE LIDO ISSUE 226 / SPRING 2017 / FLIGHTS OF FANCY

HAPPY GLAMPERS: LOOK WHAT’S OCCURRING AT THE CRANES!

TAKE ME TO CHURCHILL: ESCAPED ALONE AT BRISTOL OLD VIC

WINGS OF DESIRE FANCY A FLUTTER? THE HOTTEST SS17 INTERIORS

HOT DIGGERTY DOGS: PDH ARE BACK IN TOWN

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 226 / SPRING 2017

20

SANCTUARY Make your home a soothing refuge that reflects your individuality (while obviously following our guide to the latest interiors trends to the letter)

Fly by We love our spring interiors issues, we do, and we’re loving this year’s more than most. Partly because of the sheer sense of boldness and brio (and butterflies) shown in the new collections; and partly because, most unusually, all our experts seem to be on the same page as us; we’re all bored with grey, sheepishly dispatching our ceramic pineapples to Oxfam, and kicking ourselves for falling for that ‘macramé is back!’ prediction last year. Anyone want a few balls of tangled string?

If you want to see what’s taking their place, turn to page 20; we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Except for the ‘plywood is hot’ thing. You don’t catch us out twice. Oh no.

Maybe you’re completely happy with your home the way it is (and hey, it looks great from where we’re standing). In that case you may be more about going out than staying in; we have all the best arts and events covered in this issue, too.

Finally, huge congratulations to all the finalists in our first Bristol Life Awards; we’re beyond excited about the way this event is shaping up; more details very soon.

Deri Robins, editor Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram:@bristollifemag

REGULARS / ISSUE 226 / SPRING 2017

68

THE ARTS 39 Arts intro Will someone please lend Mimi a pair of gloves?

40 What’s On The usual smörgåsbord of local cultural greatness

44 Theatre Is Caryl Churchill our greatest living playwright? Don’t you hate rhetorical questions?

46 Arts You wait months for a Luke Jerram feature to come along, then you find him in two issues in a row Hot diggerty dogs: Tim Dowling and his PDH crew are heading back to town Bard times, TV reality shows and crazy mixed-up kids

Bristol Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

SHOPPING 59 Jewellery

© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

Seriously hot rocks and other bling for spring

EATING BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

77 Pro services

7 Spotlight 73 Snapped 106 Bristol Lives

Hey, you, the white-collar crew

68 Food & Drink

91 Business Insider

Pies! Cocktails! Beer! If you had to throw a party in any of our pages, these would be the ones

Our Awards, and other people’s success stories

SPORT 71 Kyle Traynor Why watching’s tougher than playing

Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Kyle Traynor, Morgan Matthews 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

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

52 The Verdict

Incognito (or as incognito as you can be in Bristol, ie not very) down at The Lido

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

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

50 Music

66 Restaurants

M EET T H E T EAM

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

PROPERT Y 96 Property Showcase We felt it was time to answer the question “yes – but what exactly is Paintworks?”

24 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4DS

Telephone; 0117 973 9040

On the cover Christian Lacroix wallpaper for Designer’s Guild, available from Bracey Interiors

www.thepodcompany.co.uk

TOURISM AND LEISURE

HIGHER PERCHES “You’re not allowed to tell anyone,” said the very nice PRs working for Canopy & Stars.

So we didn’t, not even our mums – at least, not until the official launch took place on 7 March.

But we can talk about it now – and how cool is this? From mid-May, there’ll be a brand new quirky and curious address in the city – Canopy & Stars at Crane 29 – a one-bedroom treehouse that somehow has gained permission to be built on one of Harbourside’s industrial cargo cranes in front of the M Shed.

“Over the past three years, we’ve been secretly tending to a rather surprising seed of an idea and it’s just about ready to blossom” say the Canopy & Stars team.

“We’re taking all the goodness of the outdoors and putting it into a cosy cocoon of calm in the heart of the city, to create a surprising, sensory experience and a true natural high. The best bit? You can actually stay in it . . .

“Although we’ve spent years collating our collection of the most unusual places to stay in the outdoors, this will be our first

treehouse in a crane and, indeed, it’ll also be the first time you’ll be able to fully experience a Canopy & Stars holiday in an urban environment.”

The low-impact build will be completely carbon neutral and will use sustainable materials. The treehouse will grace Bristol’s skyline for just four months; as the first leaves drop from the trees in late September

it will disappear, but not before leaving the world a little greener. Oh, and Canopy & Stars will be donating all profits from the treehouse to Friends of the Earth.

We have only one complaint. Chaps, could you not have launched it in time for the Bristol Life Awards just across the water on 27 April?

For more: www.canopyandstars.co.uk/crane29

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SPOTLIGHT

TOURISM

Aardman’s Nick Park with Carys Tait’s Grrrrromit! in 2013

AARD TIMES If all goes to plan, we’ll have Luke Jerram’s street pianos to entertain us this summer (page 46). But if you find yourself missing the sight of giant painted dogs and sheep dotted about the city, be of good cheer, because Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal and Aardman have announced a new public arts trail for next year.

Both the Gromits and the Shauns have proved incredibly popular, raising over £6 million for the charity and attracting over 1.2 million people to Bristol. 2018 will mark five years since Gromit Unleashed, and the new trail promises to take the whole shebang to a new level, with innovative designs and community events as well as fundraising initiatives.

But what will the 2018 creature be? If we told you, we’d have to kill you. Oh, OK; we admit it. We haven’t a clue either.

For more: www.grandappeal.org.uk

ARTS

SEASONS CHANGE Those who hate change in any shape or form, look away now. Others may be interested to hear of a significant tweak to Bristol’s cultural calendar: after 18 years of producing in the spring, Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory looks forward to a seasonal shift next year, when it moves to a new autumn slot.

As one of the UK’s most admired ensemble theatre companies, stf’s Bristol productions regularly attract capacity audiences of over 20,000 people annually; its UK and international touring programme attracts thousands more.

Against a backdrop of uncertainty in the arts, stf proudly remains an independent

charity. Operating within limited resources, its acclaimed Shakespeare productions rely on the patronage and support of local, national and international audiences.

The season is invariably a magnet for the UK’s top drama critics; initially lured down by artistic director Andrew Hilton’s sparse, clear, classic direction, and more recently by a slew of noted guest directors.

Described as “the Shakespearean powerhouse . . . no bussed-in stars, just firstclass acting and direction,” by The Observer; and “legendary” by The Stage, the season’s a local treasure; we’ll bring you details of the 2018 programme as soon as we know them.

For more: www.stf-theatre.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT

COMEDY

W IS FOR WATSON . . . and it’s also for The Wardrobe – which is why Bristol has the pleasure of enjoying an unusually intimate show from one of its funniest sons this autumn.

After performing 111 shows during his previous tour, Mark Watson was amazed to discover that there were still some areas across the country he’d never visited at all. And so he’s embarking on his new MW tour, performing in places across the UK that begin with either M or W. Venues range from an amphitheatre to a train between Marylebone to High Wycombe, the Ferry across The Mersey and the Museum for Army Flying in Middle Wallop. And oh, yeah, the Wardrobe Theatre, on 9 September.

Tickets are on sale now; if you’ve ever been to The Wardrobe, you’ll know it’s not exactly huge, so this is an important heads-up. You’re W for Welcome.

For more: www.thewardrobe.co.uk www.markwatsonthecomedian.co M for Mark

SEVEN DEADLY SINS GLUTTONY: What single thing could you happily eat or drink all day long?

Irn-Bru, and some days I do.

SLOTH: What should you really be putting your back into right now?

Again, if I don’t say my boyfriend, then . . .

Nah, I should probably be making more of an effort with this interview, really.

LARRY DEAN Give a big Bristol ‘hellomyluvver’ to Larry, who brings his Farcissist to town this month. The show won an Amused Moose Comedy Award at the Edinburgh Fringe, and Larry was also nominated for the Fosters Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer. He’s a rising star, with an accent (Glaswegian) and smile (cheeky) that would melt glass LUST: What or who do you find yourself lusting after today?

Well, if I don’t say ‘my boyfriend’ at this point, I’m going to get into trouble. So I’ll have to say him. Only him. Not Bieber.

GREED: What should you really be cutting down on?

My e-cigs. I’ve got apple-and-custard flavoured steam coming out of every orifice at the moment. I’m thinking of quitting fully, but then I’d be getting none of my fruit or veg.

WRATH: Who or what makes you angry?

People who stand on escalators. Having a lack of nicotine or caffeine in my body. People taking their bike on the train, as in I think “you made your choice”. People who walk up escalators. Hypocrisy. Escalators.

ENVY: Who are you jealous of?

Those who experience unconditional love, in either direction. So dogs and dog owners, in that order.

PRIDE: Proudest achievement?

I once got through a whole radio interview without swearing. Not verbally anyway. I scribbled all the swearwords on the back of my hand. When I got to my new material gig afterwards, having only the scrawl on my hand to prompt me, I delivered such a filthy, swear-filled set that the compère had to end the gig, the organiser had to pay for a group therapy session and the venue was later demolished. Sorry. That’s all lies. I could never do an interview without swearing.

Catch Larry at The White Bear on 17 March www.larrydeancomedy.com

CURTAIN TRACKS | BLINDS | CURTAIN POLES DESIGNED | SUPPLIED | INSTALLED Manual, motorised and wireless motorised systems since 1990

07711027515 info@curtaintrackspecialists.co.uk curtaintrackspecialists.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT Last month, the intrepid @igersbristol crew sallied forth to capture Gloucester Road and its environs.

Here are the results (with a few extras thrown in)

Moody tones and dramatic angles from the always outstanding @josh.perrett

Ooh, this is almost like an oil painting, @timmah666!

You can’t go wrong with a few spokes for foreground interest, huh @richimal_bristol?

Montpelier railway station. And a ladybird. @neiljamesb

Nice early evening capture from @phoebe_flint

What we said earlier, @timmah666

Curves are always a winner, @richimal_bristol

Well, we did say ‘and the environs’. Alex Lucas’s fab mural, shot by @helenisbell

This shot won @gidsey a Glo Ro mug, a prize offered in the photo campaign by Room 212

Serene skyline by @macbeth89

Liking this low shot, @macbeth89

There’s our girl @porthjess, captured by @faygate

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Open Tues - Sat 10am - 6pm and Sunday 11am - 4pm

Village Green is a boutique where ladies can buy beautiful pre-loved designer labels at affordable prices.

From Prada, Gucci and Joseph to Reiss, Hobbs and LK Bennett.

5 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DP Tel:0117 970 6776

www.villagegreenboutique.co.uk t Villagegreen5 f villagegreenboutique

Timber Windows of Clifton install the award-winning range of hand-made, hand painted and stained timber casement windows, sash windows and doors throughout Somerset, Bristol and Bath.

Whether your home is a country cottage, a Victorian semi, a modern townhouse or a converted barn, we have a range of traditional and contemporary timber windows and doors that will fit perfectly.

Our products do not stick, warp or twist, require very little maintenance, offer modern standards of security and significant energy savings. Our showroom in Clifton provides the perfect environment to see and experience the beautiful products on display and to talk to us about your home.

enquiries@timberwindowsclifton.com www.timberwindowsclifton.com Timber Windows of Clifton, 29 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4JG

FOR THE BEST IN INTERIOR DESIGN VISIT BRACEY INTERIORS

DID YOU KNOW – WE DO MORE THAN JUST FABRICS, WALLPAPERS, PAINTS ACCESSORIES & FURNITURE. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR AN INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE – TALK TO US BRACEY INTERIORS 15 Waterloo Street, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4BT. Tel: 0117 9734664. Email: mail@braceyinteriors.co.uk www.braceyinteriors.co.uk

SPRING INTERIORS

GIMME SHELTER If we had to use just one word to sum up the latest trends in interiors, it would be ‘sanctuary’ . . .

By DE R I ROBI NS

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

SPRING INTERIORS

SCANDI’S

STILL COOL, BUT WE’RE

TURNING UP THE THERMOSTAT A NOTCH

W

hen it feels as if the whole world is spiralling out of control, it’s more important than ever for our homes to feel like a refuge. A sanctuary, in which we can close the door against all the madness.

It’s all about individuality. Fill your home with not merely beautiful things, but stuff that has meaning to you – and no interior designer can tell you what that is, or should be. That said, strong, clear signals have been transmitted about this year’s colours and patterns. A sense of bravery is emerging; be bold, we’re told; choose warmth, texture, and opulent materials over cold neutrals.

Scandi’s still cool – we’re still all over those clean lines and serenity – but we’re turning up the

thermostat a notch; whites and greys are yielding to richer, warmer colours. Jewel tones go hand-inhand with the soft pastels of a make-up palette; vibrant greens, purples and ruby-reds mix with powdery pinks, terracotta, sand, ochre, cinnamon, rust and olive green.

Green should most definitely be seen; Pantone’s colour of the year – that annual pronouncement that wipes the slate clean, and forecasts what shade will refresh the design world – is the zesty ‘Greenery’. Complementing this, interiors (as ever) have stolen the best ideas from the runways, and are currently in love with all things tropical.

The natural world is creeping ever closer indoors.

Butterflies are all over the place; Christian Lacroix’s wallpaper uses 3-D shadows to make them look as if they’re flying off the walls. Not a good look for lepidopterophobes, we guess. w

Interiors are becoming more playful, and not just in the kids’ rooms. Make like a Moomin with this Rebel Walls paper from Bracey Interiors

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SPRING INTERIORS As ever, we tapped up the local experts for their take on interior affairs. Just don’t expect them all to say the same thing.

ALISON of BRACEY INTERIORS is loving…

. . . the depth and range of patterns and colours that are in the spring collections. Use some of the new fabrics for cushions, chairs or footstools – the ideal way to allow you to change/introduce new colours into your rooms for a relatively small outlay.

Can you recommend just one killer accessory?

Amazing cushions – just look at Kit Miles, Timorous Beasties, Christian Lacroix and Designers Guild to see why.

What trends are you really fed up of seeing now?

The greys! While they will always have a place for those wanting structured and tonal interiors, it’s exciting to see colour and random designs and styles emerging, which helps to create a more eclectic interior.

RYAN & PETE of WHITTAKER WELLS sense that….

. . . a change is afoot. When you look at the cultural references that influence interiors, such as movies, music and cars, we are seeing much more glamour and luxury. It’s like Dubai has arrived in the UK, but it’s being reinterpreted to be funky and cool rather than gaudy and decadent.

A hint of Greenery, jewel hues and a touch of the tropical from Bracey Interiors 22 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

IT’S LIKE DUBAI HAS

ARRIVED IN THE UK, BUT IT’S FUNKY AND COOL RATHER THAN GAUDY AND

DECADENT

SPRING INTERIORS Tom Faulkner is producing new furniture designs that echo the exaggerated geometry of the ’50s and ’60s, adding metallics, mirror, marble and glass; we’re combining them with opulent velvets and rich, sleek textiles.

Our customers are really pushing us to embrace the local scene, and we are working with a great group of makers here in Bristol that are feeding off this same vibe, focused on quality and luxury rather than the industrial or crafts feel that we have seen over the last decade.

What are the most exciting new colours and patterns?

Intensity of colour and layering of patterns is all the rage – it’s about creating depth in everything.

We are seeing less flat colour on its own and more textures added.

The strong colours are greens, with teals and rust sitting on top of them. Osborne and Little are bang on trend with this, as are Black Edition and Cole and Son’s new Ardmore collection.

With greens to the fore, foliage and the natural world references are obviously strong. Osborne and Little with their Aviary, and Timorous Beasties’ new Winchester wallpaper panels are proving hits.

The last six months have seen a massive growth in sales of wallpaper for us. After years of painting absolutely everything, people are loving the sense of excitement that a wall covering can add. We say ‘wall covering’ deliberately

and not ‘wallpaper’; we have three-dimensional foams, corks, sea grasses, leather and textured geometrics that are nothing like wallpapers.

If we were to make just one tweak to our homes, what would it be?

Here at the shop we have used dark colours on our skirting boards and door frames to help bring disparate spaces together. It frames views from one place into another. They are a design feature in your home that are almost always overlooked, with white being used by default.

What one killer accessory would you recommend?

The national magazines all talk about these go-to designs like pineapples or Eames chairs, but we disagree. We are always asked this by our clients, and our answer is to embrace what you love, and go for it 100%. If you love a motorbike, put it in the dining room on a stand. Your grandfather’s armchair updated in one of one of our graffiti inspired velvets, or your kid’s doodles framed in a gilt Baroque frame. Break the rules – we are Bristol after all.

What looks/styles are you fed up with now?

We realise we are in dangerous waters here, but oh my, we are getting bored of grey. It’s a terrific colour to use as a background, and nobody wants to see us lurch back to magnolia, but if you are going to use it then be wary of looking like every w

BREAK THE RULES; WE’RE BRISTOL, AFTER ALL

Feeling fearless? Whittaker Wells will sort you out with this glorious Winchester wall panel

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SPRING INTERIORS

other redecorated house, and add your own layers on top. If it’s a starting point then great, but too much on its own is so 2016.

Total luxe: this chaise by Sofa Magic heaps colour on colour

. . . blues! I love the darker shades – Mylands Bond Street is designed to captivate attention, but if you want a bit more energy then Pantone Lapis Blue is an emerging fun colour. Green is also a strong contender this summer; I am a big fan of the rich olive hues, especially on furniture.

There are also a lot of fabric designers who are now experimenting with tone and pattern combinations. House of Hackney and Christian Lacroix are favourites of mine, for their inventive, eye-catching prints: a kaleidoscope of colour and creativity. Both base a lot of their designs on plants and animals.

CLAIRE of SOFA MAGIC knows that… . . . velvet is back – and there so many versatile, colourful and textured options available. The lovely thing about velvet is that it brings a space to life, changing colour from every angle; the pile of the fabric somehow allowing it to glow. Perfect for the increasingly dark and punchy interiors more and more of us seem to enjoy.

What one killer piece of furniture would you recommend?

As one of 2017’s key trends is set to be gem– inspired luxurious fabrics, what better way to showcase them than a beautiful chaise longue?

Not sure you can pull off the full trend? You can create a contemporary twist on this classic with neutral tones, adorned with bejewelled cushions and a throw. But we say go for it! Double up with decadent colourways and fabrics in your upholstery as well as accessories – then relax with a good book for some ‘you’ time.

What looks/styles are you fed up with?

Grey metallic fabrics that try too hard to look expensive. Spring is in the air, and there are so many contemporary styles – mix up your greys with florals or stripes for a new look.

ROBYN of FAWN INTERIORS is still excited by…

NOBODY WANTS TO SEE US LURCH BACK TO MAGNOLIA . . .

If we were to make just one tweak to our homes, what would you recommend?

Replacing the doors is a great option for refreshing a kitchen, or creating a change in style.

For example, if you are looking for an industrial vibe, doors can be clad using micro-concrete. A copper fascia can be applied to the front of a door for something more glamorous. A more affordable and effective alternative to the doors would be to add an antique mirror behind the hob.

And one killer piece of furniture?

A bar! Or even a snazzy sideboard that doubles up as a drinks cabinet. It brings a shot of fun and a talking point to any party – staying in is the new going out. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 25

SPRING INTERIORS

ALEX of RAFT is most excited about….

. . . the growing trend towards handcrafted furniture and accessories. It’s really inspiring to see customers taking more interest in where and how products are made.

Raft has seen a rise in enthusiasm for handcrafted furniture. We can’t help feeling we’d sleep better in this fourposter bed . . .

What are the most exciting new trends?

Natural patterns including plants and leaves, along with layering raw natural textures such as reclaimed wood with cottons and linens. Green has been earmarked to be an exciting colour this season; with such a wide range of intriguing hues to choose from, this colour can be used in any room, either as a base or an accent colour, and complements natural textures beautifully.

What looks are you a bit fed up of seeing?

Considering the continued popularity of Scandinavian inspired interiors, I think we will see trends move towards more natural patterns and colour palettes and a reduction in big bright geometric prints this year.

ROB of WREN KITCHENS knows that…

. . . one of the hottest trends for 2017 is marble – even a slice in the form of a marble pastry slab will add a luxurious touch to any kitchen. Choose a marble-effect luxury laminate worktop, or splash out on naturally gorgeous granite. Metallics remain popular, particularly warm tones such as copper and gold. Retro remains a key trend. If this is your style, look out for metal-frame units with smoked glass and chrome.

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

MIX IT UP, AND MAKE IT YOUR OWN

What are the most exciting new colour and pattern trends?

Amazingly vibrant signature colours for a bold look, or to use as accents to break up runs of modular units; from pinks and yellows to deep greens, bright blues and classic black.

If we were to make one tweak to our homes, what would it be?

Mixing and matching different fronts, colours and textures in one kitchen as well as breaking up runs of units with feature pieces that look more like living room furniture than kitchen units.

That goes for worktops, too – why stick to one colour, thickness or material when you could have granite, laminate and timber – all in one space – from super-chunky breakfast bars to ultra-slim island worktops? Mix it up, and make it your own.

MICHEL of RIPPLES has two priorities…

There are two trends high on my agenda this season. Natural: bring the outdoors in. Wood should be high on everyone’s interiors agenda; 2016 was a huge year for Scandi styling, and it’s set to continue; the use of wood in a bathroom is exactly what makes a Scandinavian space.

Urban: concrete is having a real moment. It might be an unexpected interiors trend, but it’s set to be one of the top ones for 2017. It’s never looked cooler than in the bathroom; team a concrete basin with a touch of black and very cool patterned tiles for a cloakroom with an industrial twist.

SPRING INTERIORS What are the most exciting new trends?

This year we are going green. Pantone have recently announced that their colour of the year is Greenery, an uplifting shade that works perfectly throughout the whole house. We’re teaming it with a darker colour palette; to bring out the sophisticated and timeless side of this colour, look to add a touch of metallic and champagne hues.

The trend for copper is here to stay; it adds warmth and elegance to any setting.

Invest in statement pieces including a copper radiator, or beautiful copper brassware, and complement with other materials. Consider using slate grey, as this will really make the copper in your bathroom pop.

SARAH of SJP INTERIORS is loving…

. . . the use of dark blues, teamed with off-whites and yellows. Other big-hitters for 2017 are marble-effect wallpapers and acrylic furniture – which may sound odd, but it’s stunning in the flesh and the right environment.

What are the most exciting trends?

You can’t go wrong with 50 shades of blue right now. Clients seem to be a little more adventurous with colour, and we are all for it. We are not only seeing an injection of excitement with bold colours, but a mix of geometric prints and different textured fabrics and wallpapers are giving us lots of exciting, sophisticated options to present to clients.

If we were to make one tweak to our homes, what would it be?

Changing lighting is an instant way of updating the look of a room; even if it’s as simple as changing a shade, or simply adding in more ambient lighting

CASSIE of DIG HAÜSHIZZLE is really loving…

. . . the revival of wicker and cane furniture; older pieces with worn areas of varnish.

If we were to make one tweak to our homes, what would it be?

Tweak your buying habits. Don’t buy the first thing you see that fits the gap. Take your time, research the styles you like that will suit that particular room. Interior plants, even the smallest plant, can lift the spirit of a room.

What one killer accessory would you recommend?

Always mirrors. We love foxed and really beaten-up mirrors, so you get the twinkle but not always a full reflection.

KATHERINE of BS9 INTERIORS is embracing…

. . . green. Pantone’s colour of the year, a fresh and zesty yellow green, might be a bit difficult to work into an interiors scheme via furniture or paintwork, but you can still incorporate it with the growing trend for indoor house plants – aloe vera is posed as the next ‘it’ plant.

Although ‘Greenery’ might not be for you, there are so many shades of green to choose from that there’s bound to be a shade for everyone. Green also goes beautifully with the other big trend of 2017: texture: think natural materials such as wood, seagrass, bamboo and cork.

We will also be seeing a lot of bright geometrics, large repeat patterns and exotic prints; we’re talking crocodiles, monkeys, big cats and large fronded ferns. I think it has something to do with escapism – although I can’t imagine how that relates to today’s world… w

What one killer accessory would you recommend?

Mirror, mirror on the wall! Even the most generously-proportioned of rooms can benefit from extra light being bounced around.

What looks/styles are you a bit fed up of seeing now?

While we still love grey, it has almost become the victim of its own versatility in that it has become rather ubiquitous. We are really excited about using it in tandem with other interesting colours and textured wallpapers in 2017.

Michel of Ripples would chose this All Saints mirror as his killer accessory (preferably in copper)

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SPRING INTERIORS If we were to make one tweak to our homes, what would it be?

Although we’ll be seeing lots of pastels and even neons around, dark colours are the neutrals of choice this year. Personally, I wouldn’t advocate painting your whole house dark, but there are places where dark colours really work. I’ve recently painted my bedroom in Smoke by Neptune, and I love the cosy, cocooning feel it gives.

Just go for it – it’s only a tin of paint, and if you hate it you can change it back. I’m interested in experimenting with dark green shades, such as Top Hat or Green Smoke from Farrow and Ball, but any rich jewel colour will update your home in a flash. Then head to the garden centre, and voila: two trends conquered in an afternoon.

What one killer accessory would you recommend?

I would always recommend one of the following three accessories: lighting (my favourite wall light is a new or vintage Jielde) a vintage chair (for me it’s a Falcon chair) and artwork. They will last a lifetime, and are like the watches and shoes of your wardrobe. No one cares where your budget T-shirt came from when they’re busy looking at your cool watch. Same rules for your home.

What are you really fed up of seeing now?

Gold pineapples.

ABI of blog THESE FOUR WALLS (www.thesefourwallsblog.com) is fully on board with our sanctuary theory…

With such turmoil in the wider world, there’s a move towards creating interiors that act as cosseting sanctuaries, with lots of tactile surfaces

IN Brown is back! We’re thinking ’70s-style walnut, smoked oak and soft chocolate Fearless colour and pattern. Be bold – even if it’s only a scatter cushion Plywood (no, us neither...)

Acrylic furniture Fakery – plaster ‘ceiling beams’, quartz marble, fake leather Indoor plants Dark green and navy – the new black

STILL HOT Rough-luxe Velvet and opulent textures Wallpaper – and it’s more imaginative, dramatic and exciting than ever Nordic design, but with a richer palette Copper – we’re just calling it rose gold

OUT Hygge. Never use that word in our presence again Macramé – we’re embarrassed that we even thought this might be a thing.

Edison bulbs. Massively overdone.

Grey Pineapples

and an air of understated luxury. With that in mind, deep, muted hues such as forest green and teal will become increasingly popular, along with lustrous materials like marble, brass and velvet.

What are the most exciting new trends?

I’m always drawn to simple, Scandinavian-style interiors, so I’m particularly excited about the rising popularity of earthy hues such as blush pink, ochre and rust red. They work brilliantly in minimalist homes where brighter shades might jar, and they look wonderful offset against neutrals such as grey, white and taupe. There’s also a trend for washed, watercolour-like finishes on walls, ceramics and fabrics, which are ideal for spring and summer.

If we were to make one tweak to our homes, what would it be?

Invest in a statement chair in one of this season’s key colours – perhaps an armchair in blue or blush-pink velvet. If that sounds too much, ceramics are a great way to introduce colour trends without going overboard.

What one killer accessory would you recommend?

A touch of marble – perhaps a vase, a marblebased lamp, a tray or marble bathroom accessories.

What looks/styles are you a bit fed up of seeing now?

Copper – it can look fantastic, but use in moderation. Spaces with matching copper accessories in every corner will quickly begin to look dated, particularly as brass and gold finishes are beginning to take over.

Tiling’s becoming increasingly interesting with intricate patterns for walls and floors; mix and match as with this Fired Earth selection 28 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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SPRING INTERIORS

THE LIST

Your home deserves the best – and here’s where to source it BATHROOMS

Ripples www.ripplesbathrooms.com Core and Ore www.coreandore.co.uk

DECORATORS

Clifton Bristol Decorators www.cliftonbristoldecorators. co.uk Jaks Painting & Decorating www.jaksdecorationanddesign. co.uk

Designs for Living www.clairebeckhaus.com

Clarks Village www.clarksvillage.co.uk

Beaufort Kitchens www.beaufortkitchens.co.uk

TILES & FLOORING

Dig Haushizzle www.dig-haushizzle.co.uk

Ben Argent Design www.benargentdesign.com

Gardiner Haskins www.gardinerhaskins.co.uk

Detail Kitchens www.detailkitchensandjoinery. co.uk

Avondale Tiles www.avondaletiles.co.uk

Bishopston Tiles www.bishopston-tiles.co.uk Ceramic Tiles www.ctdtiles.co.uk Design Flooring www.designflooringltd.co.uk

Kents Building Plastics www.kentsdirect.com

Fired Earth www.firedearth.com

FIREPLACES

Marble Supreme www.marblesupreme.com

Clifton Fireplaces www.cliftonfireplaces.co.uk Kindle Stoves www.kindlestoves.co.uk

INTERIOR DESIGN Bracey Interiors www.braceyinteriors.co.uk Fawn Interiors www.fawninteriors.com SJP Interior Design www.sjpinteriordesign.co.uk

Oriental Rugs Bath www.orientalrugsofbath.com Simply Carpets www.simplycarpets.co.uk

FURNITURE & HOMEWARE

Graham and Green www.grahamandgreen.co.uk Hobsons Choice www.hobsonschoice.uk.com Mon Pote www.monpote.co.uk Oskar Furniture www.oskarfurniture.co.uk Park Furnishers www.parkfurnishers.co.uk Raft Furniture www.raftfurniture.co.uk Sofa Library www.thesofalibrary.co.uk

Atlas Interiors www.atlas-interiors.co.uk

Sofa Magic www.sofamagic.co.uk

Greenfinch www.greenfinchkandi.co.uk

Stephen Graver www.stephengraver.com The Pod Company www.thepodcompany.co.uk

KutchenHaus www.kutchenhaus.co.uk Kitchens Cookshop www.kitchenscookshop.co.uk Neptune www.neptune.com The Kitchen Man www.thekitchenman.co.uk Wren Kitchens www.wrenkitchens.com

UPHOLSTERY

Southwest Upholstery www.swupholstery.co.uk Whittaker Wells www.whittakerwells.com

WINDOWS, BLINDS & SHUTTERS

Wesley Barrell www.wesley-barrell.co.uk

Bespoke Frameless Glass www.bespokeframelessglass. com

Tailored Flooring www.tailoredflooring.co.uk

Panoramic Windows www.panoramicwindows.co.uk

LIGHTING

Shutter Craft Bristol www.shuttercraft-bristol.co.uk

Ablectrics www.electricsandlighting.co.uk Parkway Lighting www.parkwaylighting.co.uk The Lighting Studio www.thelightingstudiobristol. co.uk

KITCHENS

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

Harvey Jones Kitchens www.harveyjones.com

Timber Windows of Clifton www.timberwindowsclifton. com

GARDENS

Greener Designs www.greenerdesigns.co.uk

Interior Design

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T R AV E l a d v ertisi n g fe at u re

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

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Choose Sardinia – a jewel of an island in the Mediterranean, with direct flights from Bristol

S

ardinia has the diversity of landscapes, culture and cuisine of countries ten times its size.

The second largest in the Mediterranean, this beautiful island is brushed by sea breezes and herb-scented mountains, while the unhurried Sardinians are always ready to show their generous and warm hospitality to new visitors.

Sardinia’s rich history is brought to life in its countless archaeological sites, the most well-known of which are the 7000 prehistoric Nuraghi, massive stone structures built entirely without mortar. Equally fascinating are the many Roman and Phoenician remains and the enchanting Romanesque churches found throughout the island’s interior. For a unique experience, visit one of the many eccentric festivals that takes place throughout the year, from the Barbagia’s carnival parade of ghoulish Mamuthones, which is said to banish winter demons, to the death-defying S’Ardia horse race in Sedilo.

And then there’s the Sardinian cuisine, an exquisite melting pot of Italian, Spanish and Arab influences. If you visit Sardinia this summer try the su porcheddu, the spit-roasted suckling pig, the island’s speciality.

For golf-lovers, Sardinia has a dozen courses to choose from. Three of the bestknown are the Pevero Golf Course in Costa Smeralda, Is Arenas Golf Course in Oristano (central) and the Is Molas Golf Course in the south; one of the most famous in Italy.

What makes Sardinia especially appealing is its 2,000 km of magnificent coastline, dotted

with dreamy beaches untouched by mass tourism. In the northern part of the island, you’ll find the ultra-chic Costa Smeralda, the playground for the rich and famous. The beaches here are mostly secluded rocky coves and inlets surrounded by towering white cliffs: ideal for couples looking for an active holiday with some privacy. In the south, the beaches are also superb with long stretches of dazzling white sand, particularly in the southern areas of Chia, Costa Rei, Oristano and Villasimius.

Sardinia is also well suited for families. A large chunk of southern Sardinia is home to some of the best family resorts and hotels in Italy. You can choose from the well-known Forte Village Resort, rated by Forbes Magazine as the best family resort in the world. This resort sits in a private estate of 55 acres dotted with pine trees and exotic gardens. It is located on one of Sardinia’s most amazing pristine white sand beaches and sheltered by a range of rugged hills.

The village has impressive sports and leisure facilities, including the Chelsea Football Academy, the Rugby Academy and more. It also has an excellent spa, swimming pools, and a huge array of bars and restaurants (including a Gordon Ramsay).

Another great resort is the Chia Laguna, ideal for families looking for a holiday within easy reach to some of the best beaches in Sardinia. The sublime, extra-fine white sandy beach of Dune Di Campana is only 700 metres away from the resort. Other equally beautiful beaches are also within easy reach from the resort. The Resort caters for children

Book a seven night package holiday to Sardinia with Sardatur Holidays by 31st March and receive an exclusive Bristol Life reader offer of £100 off per booking. Quote BLOFFER.

of all ages including a mini-club for younger children as well as a teens club.

However, if you prefer to stay in a hotel, the Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna is ideal for families looking for a hotel with excellent children facilities right on the beach; Children’s Clubs include Babboo Club, catering for ages 4-12 years, and the Teen Club, for ages 13-17 years.

Another favourite for families is the Falkenstainer Resort Capo Boi, nestled between lush gardens and granite rocks. This charming hotel comes with its own sandy private bay. All these resorts are within easy reach from Cagliari’s airport, Sardinia’s capital.

With less than three hours to Cagliari, getting to Sardinia from Bristol has never been easier. Sardatur Holidays, the Italian Holiday Specialist since 1987, has weekly direct flights from 8 July-9 September, flying with BMI regional from Bristol to Cagliari, Southern Sardinia. With 30 years of experience in organizing holiday to Italy, each member of their specialist team has first-hand knowledge of each of the hotels and resorts featured in their website. BL

A seven-night package holiday to Sardinia with Sardatur Holidays costs £830 per person including flights from Bristol, full board (excluding drinks) and transfers.

For more information call Sardatur’s specialist team on 0208 940 8399 or visit sardatur-holidays.co.uk

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

Music/theatre/film/more

GARRET FASHION

Can someone please get Mimi a pair of warm gloves? Her tiny hands have been frozen since 1895. Though at least Saga Noren now seems to have loaned her a coat . . . Oh, and ask Musetta and Marcello to keep the noise down, would you? We can hardly hear ourselves cough.

Yes, it’s Puccini’s La Bohème, it’s part of Welsh National Opera’s 2017 season and it’s coming to Bristol Hippodrome next month. If you’re unfamiliar with the tale, it concerns the (mis)fortunes of a bunch of impecunious, turn-of-the-century Parisian boho types, burning their manuscripts to keep warm, falling in and out of love, and busking as best they can to pay the rent.

This being WNO, you’re assured of a vivid, fresh new take on the story, complete with atmospheric projections and sensitive insights into one of the most swooningly romantic tales in the operatic canon. And if you’re a complete fool for love, please note that Madame Butterfly and new work Le Vin Herbé are also part of the season.

La Bohème plays at Bristol Hippodrome 29-30 March; www.wno.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 39

17 March – 17 April 2017

J U ST A F EW S U GGES TI ON S FOR YOU R MON TH

Tristan wishes he was back in Poldark – Messiah at BOV: don’t try this at home – BANFF at Victoria Rooms; forget La La Land, choose The Red Shoes

Exhibitions

meet, to share and negotiate their roles. At Arnolfini; arnolfini.org.uk

UNTIL 19 MARCH

UNTIL 23 APRIL

STRANGE WORLDS Chagall, Rego and Pacheco evoke the magic of Angela Carter in an explosive new exhibition; at RWA; rwa.org.uk

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 26 MARCH

LUBAINA HIMID; NAVIGATION CHARTS The first major survey of British artist Lubaina Himid, a pioneer of the Black Arts Movement in Britain in the 1980s; at Spike Island; spikeisland.org.uk THE STAGE An exploration of the idea of a stage as a meeting space or forum: a space where performers and audiences might

UNTIL 30 MARCH

BEYOND THE FATIGUED EYE An exploration of the Arnolfini as a space of creation as well as for presentation; live and performance art; arnolfini.org.uk SQUARE EYES Some rather lovely Polaroid-style captures from this excellent photographer; at Southville Centre; southvillecentre.org.uk

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

UNTIL 4 SEPTEMBER

GLASS MICROBIOLOGY Luke Jerram’s extraordinary glass sculptures of eight deadly viruses; at The Box; at-bristol. org.uk

THEY BOW. CURTAIN. NO APPLAUSE Giles Round’s multi-disciplinary show addresses the relationship between art, design and functionality; spikeisland. org.uk

21 MARCH-29 APRIL

14 APRIL-18 JUNE

8 APRIL-18 JUNE

Plays/Shows

SPRING QUARTET From Carl Melegari’s oils to Lynn Golden’s acrylic florals, Sarah Brown’s pastels and Christine Feiler’s ceramics: an exhibition that celebrates diversity. cliftoncontemporaryart.co.uk COMMON GROUND Andrea Luka Zimmerman explores the impact of globalisation, militarism and denied histories, mostly through film; spikeisland.org.uk

THE STARS WERE ALIGNED FOR A CENTURY OF NEW BEGINNINGS Arnolfini present a major solo exhibition by Egyptian artist Basim Magdy – part of Deutsche Bank’s Artist of the Year programme; arnolfini.org.uk.

UNTIL 18 MARCH

JUNKYARD Inspired by the true story of The Vench; review page 52. bristololdvic.org.uk

THE WEDDING SINGER When New Jersey’s favourite wedding singer is dumped at the altar he vows to make every wedding as disastrous as his own. . . at The Hippodrome; atgtickets. com UNTIL 19 MARCH

ORPHEUS & EURYDICE Insane Root’s take on the classic Greek tale, staged in the subterranean vaults of the Suspension Bridge. Note: only 12 audience members admitted at one time; insaneroot.co.uk

pithy commentary on the funeral industry; at Arnos Vale (where else?); arnosvale.org.uk 31 MARCH-3 APRIL

SCI-FI? Accompanied by an inter-cosmic live score, Sleeping Trees invites you along on a journey into the deep and infinite unknown; thewardrobetheatre.com 1-2 APRIL

UNTIL 1 APRIL

OTHELLO Richard Twyman tackles the Moor in the first part of this year’s stf; tobaccofactorytheatres.com

BALLET BOYZ: LIFE The all-male company dance to a mesmerising musical score; an elegant, powerful and provocative look at life and death presented in the inimitable BalletBoyz style. Sadler’s Wells in association with artsdepot; bristololdvic.org.uk

21-25 MARCH

4-8 APRIL

FUNNY GIRL Who could ever replace Babs Streisand as Fanny Brice? Sheridan Smith, that’s who. C’mon now: “ People who need peeeople....” At The Hippodrome; atgtickets.com LETTERS TO WINDSOR HOUSE Sh!t Theatre’s Fringe First-awardwinning punky mixture of songs, politics, dodgy landlords and detective work: a poignant show for Generation Rent; at The Wardrobe; tobaccofactorytheatres.com 22-26 MARCH

ESCAPED ALONE Caryl Churchill’s 2016 play comes to Bristol Old Vic (see feature p 44); bristololdvic.org.uk

MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE RED SHOES Bourne meets The Archers. No, not the Brummy radio thing; this is the master choreographer’s take on the classic Powell and Pressburger movie; it’s a world première, set to a new score by Terry Davies; at The Hippodrome, atgtickets.com 6 APRIL-6 MAY

TARTUFFE Molière’s con man is alive and well, and on the make in modern London. . . the second half of this year’s stf is classic comedy directed by Andrew Hilton; tobaccofactorytheatres.com 7-8 APRIL

28-30 MARCH

LOVE SICK What on Earth is love? Two alien ambassadors need to find out quickly to save their dying planet.

All In Theatre, at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com 28 MARCH-1 APRIL

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA The regular highlight in the Bristol opera-lover’s calendar comes to Hippodrome; this year’s season takes in classics La Bohème and Madame Butterfly, along with brand-new work Le Vin Herbé; atgtickets.com 30 MARCH

OUTSIDE THE BOX Liz Rothschild asks her audience to embrace the topic of mortality and look on the bright side of life, with a hint of history and some

OFFSIDE Real, untold stories from the world of women’s football – presented by Futures Theatre; thewardrobetheatre.com

Top: dammit, we knew it! Basim Magdy at Arnolfini; born to play Gelsomina – Audrey in La Strada at Bristol Old Vic

take on Fellini, with a new score by Benji Bower; is it even possible to tick any more boxes? bristololdvic.org.uk

10-22 APRIL

BLOOD BROTHERS Willy Russell’s tale of twins separated at birth who grow up on opposite sides of the tracks. At the Hippodrome; atgtickets.com 11-14 APRIL

POSTHUMOUS WORKS A meditation on life, death, and the unknown, from Danish company Out of Balanz; tobaccofactorytheatres.com 11-22 APRIL

LA STRADA Director Sally Cookson and gamine actress Audrey Brisson

12-15 APRIL

MADE IN DAGENHAM It’s 1968 in Essex and the famous Ford sewing machinists’ strike is in full swing. . . an uplifting musical comedy about strength, friendship and love.

19 MARCH

MACY GRAY The multi-award winning, multiplatinum selling singer, songwriter lights up the last day of the Jazz and Blues fest ; colstonhall.org 20 MARCH

Music

SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX The YouTube sensations bring their vintage re-imaginings of current hits, rendered as if they were written 70 years ago, to Colston Hall; colstonhall.org

UNTIL 19 MARCH

1 APRIL

BRISTOL JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL The annual showcase of jazz and blues returns to Colston Hall; bristoljazzandbluesfest.com

PAUL WELLER The Modfather’s on tour for the first time in two years, and he’s coming to Colston Hall; colstonhall.org w

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

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

poetry collection: wry, violent, contemplative, political, intimate and raucous advice for living in a world gone awry.

At Arnolfini; arnolfini.org.uk

31 MARCH

JOHN WILLIAMS, JOHN ETHERIDGE & GARY RYAN Legendary guitarists John Williams and John Etheridge are joined by Gary Ryan for an evening of solo, duo and trio pieces at St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

7-9 APRIL

BESPOKED The UK Handmade Bicycle Show: a showcase for independent makers and designers of everything bicycle. At Brunel’s Old Station; bespoked.cc

6 APRIL

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Bristol Proms are taking a break this year, but they’re bringing back their Handel’s Messiah, which took audiences by storm on the last night of Bristol Proms 2013. At Bristol Old Vic; bristololdvic.org.uk

Sport 18 MARCH

BRISTOL ROVERS V CHESTERFIELD At The Memorial Stadium; kick-off at 7.45pm; bristolrovers.co.uk

ROCOCO AND REVOLUTION Tchaikovsky harks back to Mozart; Schubert glimpses the future, while Mendelssohn radiates Lutheran anniversary zeal: Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at Colston Hall; colstonhall.org

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

10 APRIL

RICK ASTLEY Rick’s just made his first album in over a decade; if you thought he was just a (big soul) voice, you should know that he played every instrument heard on this album. At Colston Hall; colstonhall.org

Comedy 19 MARCH

SARAH PASCOE: ANIMAL A show about sexuality, empathy, art, God, selfies and glow worms, among other things. At Comedy Box; thecomedybox.co.uk 20 MARCH; 3, 17 APRIL

CLOSER EACH DAY The world’s longest improvised soap opera; at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com 23 MARCH

SEAN LOCK: KEEP IT LIGHT Sean’s first stand-up show since 2013’s Purple Van Man comes to Colston Hall; colstonhall.org 24-25 MARCH

BRISTOL IMPROV MARATHON 2017: CHECKOUT TIME AT THE GRAND HOTEL 26 hours non-stop! Over 30 performers! One

26 MARCH Rococo and Revolution, or The Modfather? Both at Colston Hall

epic live improvised play! The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com 7 APRIL

JIMMY CARR The face that only a mother wouldn’t want to slap returns to Colston; colstonhall.org 8 APRIL

LEE HURST It’s Lee’s ninth full-length comedy show. With impeccable logic and a total lack of imagination, it’s called Comedy Show No. 9. Fair dos. at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com

Other

Boycott, Lois Pryce, Keggie Carew, Anna Colquhoun and John-Paul Flintoff lined up to inspire and divert you; at TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com 30 MARCH

JAY RAYNER The award-winning critic takes you on an audio-visual romp through the world of food; at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com 31 MARCH

WE CAN BE HEROES Bowie. Prince. George; Milk Thistle puts up two fingers to the Grim Reaper with this celebratory party of musical heroes; milkthistlebristol.com BANFF Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour comes to Victoria Rooms; unleash your wild side with an evening of mindblowing journeys, high-altitude action and ocean-crossing epics. banff-uk.com

26 MARCH

6 APRIL

5X15 The brilliant eclectic series of talks returns with Rosie

1 APRIL

BRISTOL ROVERS V SHREWSBURY TOWN At Memorial Stadium; kick-off at 3pm; bristolrovers.co.uk 8 APRIL

BRISTOL CITY FC V WOLVERHAMPTON At Ashton Gate; kick-off at 3pm; bcfc.co.uk 15 APRIL

BRISTOL CITY FC V QUEENS PARK RANGERS At Ashton Gate; kick-off at 7.45pm; bcfc.co.uk

5-8 APRIL

THIS IS HOW WE DEW Tullamore Dew is throwing a St Paddy’s Day party at Steam Bristol. Dress in 1920s clobber and have your hipster beards styled by the in-house barber; foozie.co.uk

18 MARCH

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

THE GUIDE TO BEING BEAR AWARE The launch of SJ Fowler’s latest

16 APRIL

BRISTOL RUGBY V WASPS At Ashton Gate Stadium; kick-off at 3pm; bristolrugby. co.uk 17 APRIL

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

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

ARTS

T H E AT R E

GOSSIP

GIRLS Four women sit out in a sunny garden, chatting about life, the universe and the neighbours. But this isn’t Alan Ayckbourn. It’s not even Alan Bennett. It’s Escaped Alone by Caryl Churchill – so expect a few storm clouds among the chit chat

By DE R I ROBI NS

D

ial the box office: a new Caryl Churchill play is heading to Bristol this month. And while it’s only 50 minutes long, Associate Director Stella Powell-Jones promises it’s an hour of your life you’ll never forget.

“When I saw the original production of Escaped Alone at the Royal Court last year, it took such a root in me,” Stella says. “I couldn’t stop thinking about the play, and so I was thrilled when James [Macdonald, Caryl Churchill’s most trusted director] asked me if I would come aboard for this year’s production, as he was already booked to direct something else. It’s wonderful to get to focus on a play that you know already ‘works’, because you can explore paths not taken the first time; you can play more.”

We know that Caryl has a reputation for dramatic innovation; overlapping dialogue, and so on. Is this true of Escaped Alone?

Every time I’ve seen a new play of hers, the form is new. Something I love about Escaped Alone is that she quite often doesn’t give you the full line – you get a fragment or a snapshot of the line. But the audience still understands the full line – in fact, it’s more sensory than that; they really ‘hear’ the unspoken words. It’s very exciting to realise how spare you can be with words.

Escaped Alone is about four women chatting in a garden.

But we’re not exactly in Alan Bennett territory, are we…?

Ha! No I suppose we’re not! The play takes place over tea in a garden in summer time; we watch these four women chatting about what’s going on in their lives. But we also get let in on their thoughts, specifically the horrors that haunt them. And Mrs Jarrett describes catastrophe on a global scale. So, it’s both domestic and epic, in the way that life is.

Will younger theatregoers be able to relate to the women?

Absolutely; what’s more fundamental than having a cup of tea and a chat? And the thoughts that these women have, their private struggles, will be known to theatregoers whatever their age.

It’s very much a play for our time – can you tell us about some of the themes that have special resonance?

Lots of people don’t feel safe at the moment. And lots of people aren’t safe at the moment. And it seems to me that we’re realising that the things that we thought would always be there are, in fact, very fragile – our physical environment, political institutions, technology. The play talks about those things, but it also goes right back to our earliest, simplest human needs – gathering together.

LINDA BASSETT PLAYS MRS JARRETT IN ESCAPED ALONE

coming next is part of the reason that the play chimes with people.”

“Caryl always writes about the time she’s living in, and she’s usually a few steps ahead of other people. She has a political and poetic sense of current events.”

“Many of the horrors Caryl describes are not visions of the future, they’re actually visions of the past. They are reminders of what happens whenever greed takes what it wants and lets people die. These are not natural disasters; they’re all created by humans.”

“Dystopian ideas suddenly feel quite contemporary. And I think the uncertainty of what’s

IT’S VERY

EXCITING TO REALISE HOW SPARE

YOU CAN BE WITH

WORDS

Linda Bassett likens the four-hander to “a music quartet, with each player being both good at their own part, and very admiring of the others”

What are the challenges of staging such a short play?

Because you’re quite often not getting the full line, but rather a distilled fragment, the challenge is to work out what’s not getting said, or put another way, what the full line would have been. James once said something to the effect that it may be only 50 minutes long, but there’s a much longer play’s amount of material in there.

The play alternates between the women’s chat and their separate monologues. Was that a hard balance to achieve?

By the time I came along they’d already found the balance. But it’s something we play with. I think it’s a lot about being brave enough to trust that the words are enough – that the audience will hear those rhythmic and tonal differences in conversation with others and your own thoughts – conversation with yourself, you could say. We talked in musical terms quite a lot – it was helpful for rhythm and also for those transitions, it’s a bit like a new instrument coming in.

How involved was Caryl with the production process?

What’s she like to work with?

Caryl was around for most days of our rehearsal, which was wonderful. She’s all the things you would want her to be – truthful, incredibly generous, real.

For those who have read that her work can be ‘difficult’, what encouragement would you give to come along?

I’d tell people that the play will do the work – you don’t have to do anything more than just listen to the words. What’s being described are human experiences – it’ll hit you on a gut level. And there are some very good jokes!

Escaped Alone plays Bristol Old Vic 22-26 March Tickets £10-£25 plus booking fee www.bristololdvic.org.uk

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Pedal power If all goes to plan, Luke Jerram’s Play Me, I’m Yours pianos will return to Bristol this summer. We’ve uncrossed our fingers long enough to bring you some fascinating facts about a local music trail that went viral worldwide...

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pearheaded in Bristol by Luke Jerram (yes, him again), the concept of Play Me, I’m Yours – a musical trail that saw pianos installed in public spaces across the city for everyone to play and enjoy – has since been copied all over the world.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the project, Luke wants to bring the piano trail back home and he’s calling on Bristol businesses, organisations and individuals to help him fill the city with music this summer. Around 20 pianos, decorated by local artists and community groups, are set to appear during August, if the project gets the go-ahead.

Unsurprisingly, Destination Bristol, who reported a big rise in tourism figures during the Gromit and Shaun trail years are massively on board with the idea.

“Trails are hugely popular in our city and they are a brilliant way of encouraging Bristolians to explore some of the city’s attractions, as well as bringing new visitors from the UK and overseas,” says Kathryn Davis, head of tourism. “Play Me, I’m Yours is different because it actively invites the local community to participate and showcase their talent.”

You may well have seen (or played on) one of the pianos when the first trail launched in 2009.

But we bet you didn’t know that . . .

The pianos have been played all over the world, from Bristol (left) Canterbury and New York (above)

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Over 1,500 street pianos have already been installed in more than 50 countries globally since it launched in 2008; over 10 million people have interacted with the project.

In 2012, 11-year-old George Harliono was filmed playing a street piano in Cambridge by a member of the public. The YouTube film quickly went viral with over 200,000 views.

George was described by the alliteration-loving Sun as ‘a ‘pint-sized piano prodigy’.

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Play Me, I’m Yours inspired the purple pianos in an episode of the US TV series Glee and the storyline in the popular British TV series Nurse Jackie. One of the street pianos also features in Banksy’s film Exit through the Gift Shop.

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A YouTube video of a homeless man playing one of the street pianos in Santiago, Chile went viral and received over a million views within weeks of being posted.

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Jamie Cullen performed a free concert on one of the street pianos in Paris in 2013. “It’s such a simple concept that brings out the best in people,” he said. “It reminds us of the strange and beautiful things that can happen in everyday life.

I had one of the most memorable experiences of my life playing beneath the Sacré Cœur, Paris on an old upright piano for a few hundred people.”

Elton John donated a new piano to St Pancras station in London after a surprise, free pop-up concert back in February 2016.

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Several people have become engaged and married after meeting at the street pianos.

Two journalists were independently sent out to cover the story of the Play Me, I’m Yours in Sydney in 2009; meeting for the first time at one of the pianos they went on to marry and Luke was invited to their wedding. Another couple first met at a street piano in Liverpool Street Station, London. They had the street piano at their wedding one year later.

Police in Grand Rapids, USA found a man wanted for burglary right in front of their HQ. After playing one note repeatedly for several hours, a sergeant was about to arrest the man for creating a disturbance when another officer reporting for his night shift recognised the piano player. After some quick checking the officer confirmed the warrant, put on his uniform and arrested the pianist.

The biggest Play Me, I’m Yours presentation to date took place in Tilburg in The Netherlands with 100 street pianos installed across the city.

In April 2013 Luke met Italian pianist, Samuele Rossini, who had arrived in London broke, homeless and looking for work.

Samuele explained how when he first arrived in London by train, there was a piano just waiting for him at St Pancras International Station.

Playing each day at the station, he was spotted by a producer who commissioned his first album.

Any organisation interested in sponsoring a piano and helping to fill Bristol’s streets with music this summer should contact Sally Reay at admin@streetpianos.com.

Join the conversation on Twitter #streetpianosbristol @streetpianos

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 47

Hogan’s run Unruly bluegrass, lonesome travelling and fateful meditations on backyard barbecues; expect this and more when Police Dog Hogan roll back into town next month

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n-the-ball Bristol Life readers will recall that we interviewed Tim Dowling – Guardian funnyman, banjo player and Police Dog Hogan’s resident yank – when his bluegrass band played at St George’s Bristol back in 2014.

The hot diggerty-dogs are back in town next month, playing The Lantern – though frankly, given the appalling stereotyping to be found in their song West Country Boy, we’re surprised we’ve let them back in.

Great to see the Dogs back in town – is that what you call yourselves for short?

We say PDH between ourselves, but we’ll take any nickname we can get, frankly.

What have been the highlights and lowlights since we last spoke?

Glastonbury was the highlight of last year.

The lowlight was the day after when we realised our van was stuck in the mud. I fell on my face pushing it free. We got about 50 yards before a stuck lorry blocked our exit –it turned out the driver had been waiting 12 hours for a tractor to come and pull him out. He had all The Feeling’s equipment in the back. It was a brief low point, however: with all eight of us pushing, we eventually managed to get The Feeling’s driver unstuck. We filled his little world right up.

You seem to be constantly on the road, with a couple of CDs under your belt – are you getting more ambitious?

It’s certainly true that any kind of progress creates new expectations and risks. Our primary goal is to get better at everything – writing, playing, entertaining audiences – so I think we just want to maintain forward

momentum and see where it takes us. But we haven’t ruled out world domination.

We trust that having actual CDs to sell during the interval doesn’t mean that you’ve stopped hawking the tea towels?

No, there will be tea towels – with a new design in the offing.

For those who’ve never heard PDH, please sum up the sound in five words Pop, with the wrong instruments.

You’re self-deprecatory about your banjo playing, but we thought you were jolly good. Discuss . . .

Thank you, I do feel I’ve come a long way with it. The first time I rehearsed with the

MY WIFE IS VERY UNDERSTANDING. I’M ALLOWED TO BE IN A BAND, AS LONG AS I NEVER TALK ABOUT BEING IN A BAND

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band, the banjo part I played was just a collection of all the mistakes I knew at the time. Since then I’ve learned many, many more mistakes.

Do all the band members have roughly the same musical tastes?

There’s a broad scope of tastes, but for covers we tend to go for songs that appeal to all or most of us. My suggestion that we cover Rock the Boat by the Hues Corporation did not gain the support I’d hoped for. I haven’t given up.

Who is responsible for the new tunes?

James Studholme, our singer, is far and away the most prolific songwriter, but we also collaborate in teams of two and three.

Arranging is a group affair – it’s complicated with so many instruments, but over the years we’ve learned to be disciplined about leaving stuff out.

How do you balance an increasing amount of time spent on the road with writing and family life?

It’s a messy mix. I often end up bringing work with me, but I don’t mind writing in a Costa on the M6. And my wife is very understanding – I’m allowed to be in a band, as long as I never talk about being in a band.

Do your kids think you’re cool?

I think they’re mildly mortified, which is how it should be.

We couldn’t help noticing that you were swamped by female admirers during the interval at St George’s If the demographic skews toward the female, I’m certainly not going to complain, but mostly I think they’re hoping to meet my wife. And every member of the band has his or her own club of admirers. Taken together we represent a wide range of niche attractions. Like a circus.

What’s the best thing anyone’s ever said about you?

I once wrote a novel in which a character fixes his dishwasher, and I got a letter from a reader who said he followed the repair procedure as I’d described it and that I’d saved him £250. It’s still the best review I’ve ever had.

What is your most regrettable habit?

I’m a terrible procrastinator. The only time I ever get round to doing anything is when I’m actually supposed to be doing something else. BL Police Dog Hogan play The Lantern on 28 April; tickets £16.50 www.colstonhall.org/shows/police-dog-hogan

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REVIEWS

The VERDICT The insidiousness of reality TV, a bunch of dysfunctional kids, a doomed soul band and even doomier lovers: just another month in the Bristol cultural calendar THE EPISODE The Wardrobe, 16-18 February The latest play from award-winning director, performer and writer Tom Brenna focuses on the final season of a televised modelling competition, exploring image, power and responsibility in a world of constructed reality.

The play moves at a brisk pace, with the strong script using rapid switches between performers to reveal the story. Harsh, sudden changes of lighting and excerpts of booming trash-pop divide the scenes and have a decidedly reality TV show feel. By giving a voice to the thoughts and feelings of the programme makers (rather than the contestants) The Episode raises questions about the morality behind creating these shows and the insidious effect they have; it asks us to think about what we’re actually watching, and perhaps question why.

By Morgan Matthews THE COMMITMENTS Bristol Hippodrome, 21-15 February One of the most unexpected hits of the early ’90s, Alan Parker’s exuberant adaptation of Roddy Doyle’s novel chronicled the brief rise and fall of The Commitments – ‘the hardest-working band in the world’. To be honest, even in the movie, the acting was no great shakes (cue a ‘where are they now?’ feature?), but it was brimful with Northside Dublin charm, and to use the band’s favourite adjective, the soul music was deadly (that’s ‘very good’, by the way).

And now we have Doyle’s stage version of the film of his book. OK, so the delivery of the dialogue sometimes feels a bit awkward, the characterisation paper-thin and the underlying feeling of quiet desperation having been lost – but the musical routines are totally spot on, the cast being far better at singing than acting, and we loved every song. One question: Bristol, why weren’t you on your feet for the encore numbers?

My daughter had to force me to sit back down.

OTHELLO Tobacco Factory, until 1 April “It’s not classic ‘Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory’ territory,” we heard someone grumble during the interval. We’d disagree.

Sure, guest director Richard Twyman has taken a slightly more stylised approach than we may be used to from stf’s creator, Andrew Hilton, 52 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

an absolute ninja of the no-frills approach – but for all this production’s modern bits and bobs (a MC’s mic drops from the ceiling; there’s rock music, and gas masks), in every important sense it cleaves to the sparse, clear, incisive storytelling philosophy that has always characterised this festival. Anyway, what’s wrong with change?

Without change we’d still have blacked-up white actors playing Othello, fruitily declaiming away like Henry Irving. Nobody wants that.

Unsurprisingly, given the year that’s in it, Richard Twyman’s interpretation ensures that the theme of religious identity and fear of ‘the other’ is subtly but clearly underlined: Othello is a Muslim in a Christian country.

Ultimately, what we enjoyed most about this production was the sheer youth and vigour of the central roles. Othello is so often played by a much older actor, but like Norah Lopez Holden as Desdemona, Abraham Popoola has barely left RADA; which makes the tragedy of their doomed love story as poignant as that of R&J’s.

JUNKYARD Bristol Old Vic, until 18 March Writer Jack Thorne has impressive previous when it comes to chronicling the lives of troubled Bristol teens; he’s a veteran of Skins, after all.

And as it happens, Jack’s dad Mick was the very play leader who created The Vench back in the 1970s, roping in a bunch of reluctant Lockleaze kids to make a playground built from junk.

Now, with direction from Jeremy Herring and a hummable score from Stephen Warbeck, the story of The Vench – or at least, a fictionalised version of it – has come to Bristol Old Vic stage as Junkyard.

It’s a musical, but not the kind in which the action’s tediously suspended for five minutes while someone sings a song; mostly, it’s snatches and verses that grow naturally out of the dialogue.

Which, incidentally, is a delight – the wittiest script we’ve heard in an age, and one that’s done full justice to by the entire cast; there isn’t a weak performance, but there’s a standout, sparkling one from Erin Doherty as irrepressible tomboy Fiz. Her smile’s contagious, and it stayed on our faces from start to finish.

Come along, by all means, if it’s a bit of local history or social comment you’re after; but come mostly for one of the most purely enjoyable nights in the theatre you’ll have this year.

By Lisa Warren

Schemin’: Mark Lockyer as Iago in Othello Dreamin’: the Junkyard crew in front of their spider/ship/ dip-the-dip thing

THE THEME OF RELIGIOUS

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SHOPPING

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Glass pendant, £45 “What a statement piece!” says Sharon. “The colours make me thing of spring: yellow for daffodils; purple for delicate crocuses; a tiny hint of green for dewy grass and a splash of bright blue for bluebells. It makes me smile” From www.bristol-glass. co.uk

Salt & Pepper diamond ring, £807 “Our stone of SS17 is the new salt & pepper rose-cut diamond,” says Ashleigh of Diana Porter. “These mesmerising stones are slightly grey in tone, yet they’re also super-sparkly!

They’re available in a wide selection of styles, such as this tiny triple cluster ring” From www.dianaporter. co.uk

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Snowflake ring, £62 18ct rose, yellow or white gold, with a large blue teardrop diamond and small white and blue diamonds. “It’s a labour of love to make, due to the difficult soldering of tiny pieces of gold,” says Julie; it’s part of her Seasons range of jewellery, and each piece is unique From www julieanne palmer.com

Angel Ball, £57-£100 “This beautiful silver Angel Ball hangs on an exquisite silver hammered chain – we can also string them on a length of suede or a selection of other lovely chains,” says Catherine Amesbury, who runs Artemis on the Gloucester Road with daughter Carrie From www.artemisbristol. co.uk

Wedding rings, prices vary “These were handcrafted in my studio by the couple who will be wearing them on their wedding day,” says Lucy. “There’s nothing more personal then handcrafting the rings that will symbolise your love and commitment to each other From www.lucylyon.co.uk

Ravallo earrings, £95 “For those wanting to make an impact, these 18ct gold vermeil Ravallo cascaded gemstone earrings from Rodgers & Rodgers are truly stunning.

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R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Lido “We’re incognito, down the Lido”, Bryan Ferry once crooned, aspirationally. Bryan, being a dude with a taste for the good life, would adore Bristol’s only poolside restaurant, we feel . . .

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he Lido is undoubtedly Bristol’s worstkept secret. It’s intriguingly tucked away behind a modest frontage in a quiet Clifton back street, though most people with a BS postcode will be aware of its existence – and possibly also the fact that eight years ago, this splendid, latterly neglected Victorian baths was snatched from the jaws of the demolition bulldozers, slapped with a Grade-II listing and renovated by the guys who run The Glassboat.

In doing so, they transformed a bonafide historic treasure into one of the most attractive leisure destinations in the city, balancing buckets of period charm with a sleek contemporary offering.

When it came to the food, the team did a very clever thing. It would have been so easy, with a ready-made USP in the form of a city-central, heated outdoor pool and spa, to have merely tacked on a pleasant café. But The Lido kitchen, headed up by Freddy Bird, is as superior as any in the city, and has awards to prove it. Freddy is also the latest in a line of Bristol cooks to have made it on to the TV; most recently, on Michel Roux Jr’s Hidden Kitchens.

Freddy’s Bristol born and bred, but has a CV that includes a stint at Moro, where he gained a love of Moorish and Mediterranean food; it also left him with an almost schoolboyish passion for cooking over fire; the roaring wood-burning Valoriani oven at the end of the first-floor dining room is the first thing that catches your eye when you crest the top of the stairs.

However, you soon tear your eyes away from the kitchen; it’s the pool on the other side of the huge glass windows that’s the real scene-stealer here. Yes, we could have joined the swimmers for a spot of pre-prandial, but no, we didn’t. After the brisk workout of walking upstairs to our table, we relaxed with a glass of white rioja apiece;

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it tasted very much like we weren’t going back to work that afternoon. Meanwhile, we Shazamed the hell out of the on-point music track (Erykah Badu, Eddie Floyd and the Delfonics, since you ask).

First out of the slips were a trio of starters betraying an Andaluz influence. Crispy croquetas saw salty ham bound in silky béchamel, the punchy flavours being nicely offset by juicy Jerusalem artichokes with slivers of cabacero de lomo. Gently caramelised wood-roast scallops were served in their shells, doused in a sweetly herby and garlicky butter; we’ve never had better ones.

Next up was a dish of softly pulled burrata, which shared its almost molten creaminess with wood-roast beetroot straight outta Valoriani; tardivo (a less bitter cousin of chicory), and sweet blood oranges slices. “Refreshing, terrific” read my dribbled-on notes.

Our first main course was slow-braised cuttlefish in Asturian cider. Cuttlefish, an underused cousin of squid, has a meatier, softer texture, especially given this kind of treatment, and this exquisite dish, not unlike a Spanish caldo, saw us scraping the bowl clean with fabulously spongy fresh sourdough bread.

All that stair-climbing had taken it out of us, so we rebuilt our strength with a second mains of Iberico secreto.

Secreto, apparently, because this way of serving pork is one of Spain’s best kept secrets; it’s generally served in slivers, rather than the big chunky generous slices served pinkily here for our delectation, with charcoal-grilled calcots, in a bright and beautiful romesco sauce made from red pepper, chilli and hazelnuts. If we’re served a more flavoursome dish in a Bristol restaurant this year, we’ll be astonished.

Dessert made us wonder if the Bird was testing us. Half a dozen full-sized portions of ice cream included chocolate & Estrella ‘Black Coupage’, pistachio, Pedro Ximenez & raisin, salted butter caramel. . . you probably get the picture. We passed the test.

Just like the Iberico secreto, this singular place was at one time Lido secreto. Now it probably qualifies as one of Bristol’s very best food and leisure destinations; it took us a long time to sample it first-hand, but now we have they’ll be beating us off.

DINING DETAILS Lido, Oakfield Place, Bristol, BS8 2BJ; 0117 933 9530; www.lidobristol.com Opening hours 8am-10pm every day Prices starters £7.50-£11.50; mains £16.50-£22.50 or three-course set menu £30. The spa package deals are ideal for Mother’s Day: in March, a full Spa Day is just £65, with Swim & Lunch for £40 Vegetarian choice on a short menu, there are a handful of vegetarian dishes Drinks extensive, artisan wine list, from Paso a Paso Blanco, £18.50 to a Chateau Musar red, £220 Service smooth, relaxed, enthusiastic – in fact, just right Atmosphere sophisticated yet unpretentious Children welcome, during certain hours Disabled access fully accessible

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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

Jon (right) and fellow Pieman Tristan Hogg contemplate The Hopper

Hi. We have just arrived from Mars. Tell us what makes your pies special Amazing fillings in a top-notch pastry; it’s really that simple. We go for big, bold recipes, seasoned to perfection and encased in two types of pastry (an allbutter shortcrust for the base and a suet for the lid). Our ingredients are pretty special, too – we only ever use free-range British chicken and pork, for example.

What’s the latest in pie world?

We recently launched some gluten-free pies, which have been going down a storm. They’ve already gathered a heap of awards, and everyone agrees that our gluten-free pastry tastes as good as our classic recipe. We’re also now serving weekend brunches in our restaurants (yes, pie for breakfast!). We’ve had great reviews, and we think it’s a bargain at £5 a pop.

Tell us about some new innovations We developed a range of ice-cream pies that we serve as puddings in the restaurants. The Glastonbury Mud, Toffee Apple and Lemon Meringue – all are superindulgent and taste amazing...

OK. Tell us about The Hopper That’s our cricket pie for Pie Week. Why 68 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

We spend five minutes every issue with one of Bristol’s foodie heroes (they’re busy people). This month, it’s Jon Simon of Pieminister

insects? We think it’s important to look ahead and explore how we can keep on creating great pies in a sustainable and responsible way, and insects are considered a sustainable source of protein. Pie Week seemed a good time to experiment with this future-food and put Britain’s pie-loving tastebuds to the test.

Which pie is the most popular?

Well it certainly wasn’t the beansprout and peanut pie we trialled once . . . Our newest meat-free Saag Pie-neer (paneer cheese and spinach) has now become our bestselling veggie pie, and the Moodog (British beefsteak, free-range British bacon and Brewdog 5am Saint ale) has overtaken our traditional Moo Pie (Steak and Bristol Beer Factory Ale) as the best-seller.

And your own favourite pie?

I’m quite partial to a Funghi Chicken (our free-range British chicken and mushroom).

What are #LittleActsofPieness?

We started this last spring, inviting people to apply for free pies to share at community events and charity fundraisers.

We ended up giving away over 20,000 pies and we hope to open up the application page again soon. This is all about ensuring

that every single pie we make is put to good use, one way or another, while giving worthwhile causes a helping hand.

Best comment you’ve ever had?

“Eating a Pieminister pie is like riding a unicorn through a rainbow in space”.

People do get very passionate about our pies.

Tell us about some famous customers We supplied pies for HM The Queen’s Christmas party at Windsor Castle in 2005. We’ve also supplied pies for the Brit Awards, various music tours (Robbie Williams, Pet Shop Boys) Eddie Izzard, Joan Rivers . . . the list of random pielovers goes on. The biggest surprise was when Paris Hilton came into our store in Amsterdam and ate two Heidis in one go.

Finally, tell us something surprising There is a Pieminister x Temwa forest in Northern Malawi and 30 Pieminister x Send A Cow Sustainable farms in Western Kenya – built with funds raised with the help of all our amazing pie-eating customers. And we have a pie-scream van called Kenneth.

For more www.pieminister.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

OTHER TASTY BITES Freddy Bird, who spoiled us rotten at his restaurant The Lido this month (page 66), is the latest top Bristol chef to appear on the telly. Freddy’s no novice when it comes to the small screen, having appeared on The Hairy Bikers Comfort Food on BBC One in January; this month, he has a weekly slot on Michel Roux Jr’s new Channel 4 show Hidden Restaurants, which is devoted to unearthing remote and secretive eateries across the UK.

DEATH BY COCKTAIL

www.channel4.com

After ‘rigorous preparation’, which sounds entirely enjoyable, Indian restaurant Nutmeg have launched their ‘Nutmeg Nights’, with each event celebrating a different region of India in a fourcourse tasting menu, with locally-inspired drink pairings. Keep an eye on the Foozie site for details.

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into Hyde & Co . . . . . . they hit you with The Last Carnival, a menu filled with mystery, moonshine and murder, set in the dark heart of New Orleans. Through the medium of cocktails, the story of a troubled private investigator in the throes of a new case unfolds as he encounters mob activity, the new Jazz Age and a grisly death . . .

Bar manager Oz confesses to being a big fan of detective writer and noirmaster Raymond Chandler, though the story was a collaboration by bartenders from across the group.

“Our previous menu had a timeline of a day of drinking, rather than the standard section-style menu that people are used to,” says Oz. “This was to encourage people not to pigeonhole themselves into one style of drink every time they order.

Fred the bread (as no-one ever calls him)

We liked this style of ordering so we stuck with it. Next we thought, ‘What has a simple timeline but is also really interesting and fun? A comic book . . .’ Once we’d decided on the format we looked at other aspects that might help fill out the idea. As New Orleans is one of the historical landmarks of cocktails and drinks history it was the perfect fit.”

Oh, and the actual drinks? “We all like the phrase “feed the eyes and the mouth shall follow”, so with that in mind every drink has to look beautiful,” says Oz. And don’t they just. Ours is a Hell and High Water (below left), followed by a Winds of Change (top).

Then maybe a Farewell to Arms. Oh, OK, and an Angel of Liberty. Twice.

www.foozie.co.uk

www.hydeand.co

Mmm, beer . . . bringing together the best of Bristol’s breweries with the most creative ones from the rest of the UK and around the world, Bristol Craft Beer Festival will return for a second year on 15-17 September for a truly independent beer celebration.

Tickets are now on sale following the release of the first brewery line-up, with more than 200 beers from over 30 breweries around the world creating a true celebration of independent craft beers and breweries. Your £38 ticket includes entry to the event, unlimited pours of whatever beer takes your fancy, access to the brewers, a free beer-tasting glass and a programme.

It’s time to all hail to the ale. www.bristolcraftbeerfestival.co.uk . . . breaking news . . . The Old Butcher’s, a beer bar collaboration between The Old Bookshop and Wiper & True, will open on North Street on Saturday 1 April – more in our next issue . . .

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SPORT

KYLE TRAYNOR

I CAN

Loosehead prop

BATH TIME Kyle’s nails are slowly growing back after being bitten down to the quick during ‘that’ match against Bristol’s old rival

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sk any Bristol rugby supporter the fixture they look forward to most and you’re likely to get the same response.

Every supporter – either casual or die-hard – will tell you that the West Country derby versus Bath is the fixture they scan for down the schedule at the beginning of the season. In rugby terms, it’s a rivalry that dates back many years and one that gets both cities talking.

Throughout my career, I’ve been involved in big derby clashes, having spent eight seasons at Edinburgh Rugby where our biggest rivals were Glasgow Warriors. The games were huge occasions played over the festive period, where there were often 20,000 supporters and plenty of bragging rights on offer.

I can honestly say that my first experience of the Bristol-Bath derby back in October blew my expectations out of the water.

PHOTO BY JMPUK

Bristol Rugby v Bath

The build-up in the week intensified and people throughout the city were talking about the game and how we must beat the lads from down the road. This game was played at Bath’s home, the Rec. On this occasion, the home advantage took its toll and we were beaten in a tightly-run game with a brutal physicality about it. A starting point for us as players to see what these games were about and a chance to give our loyal supporters the chance to watch their most savoured fixture, which – of course – they have been waiting to see for seven years.

Unfortunately, I have been out injured for the last few weeks and while this is a part of the game, I am working hard to make sure that when I get the chance to pull on the blue and white hoops for Bristol Rugby next, I am in a better physical position than I was before I got hurt. Having featured in most of the games this season, it meant that I no longer have a part to play in match day from a playing perspective.

The upside of this is that I am able to sit in

HONESTLY SAY THAT IT’S A LOT HARDER TO BE WATCHING

THAN PLAYING . . .

the stands alongside our loyal, vocal support.

I can honestly say that it’s a lot harder to be watching rather than playing. It gave me a real sense of how the supporters must feel most weekends watching us play.

So, the final derby match of the Premiership season is upon us and Bath have won three out of the four games to date. This one, however, is bigger than any of the others we have contested during the campaign. We are fighting for survival in the top flight and being six points behind Worcester, it was a must-win game. Form was against us and people outside the club and supporters had started to write off our chances. Win, and we have a lifeline. Lose, and it didn’t bear thinking about.

The match did not disappoint, and the 17,000 people at Ashton Gate were not left dissatisfied. It was a hugely physical spectacle with momentum swings either way and two teams battling it out for every inch. The noise the crowd generated was epic and for the last five minutes of the game the ‘Bristol’ chant reverberated around the whole stadium.

To win the game by a point and to be sat in the stands with so many happy supporters was great. To see what it meant to everyone involved was truly euphoric and the players owe the support huge credit for the atmosphere they created on that memorable Sunday in February.

12-11 win to Bristol, the first win for 11 years.

This match has made me even more eager to work back to full fitness and get back on the pitch as wins like the Bath game are the ones you remember most when you look back on your career.

Follow Kyle on Twitter @KyleTraynor

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

Want to become a better leader?

Part-time MSc Strategy, Change and Leadership Scholarships now available* Come along to our Open Evening on Weds 22 March, 6-8pm

Designed for busy managers to fit around a demanding management role, this part-time programme will help you to: • enhance your impact as a leader • understand organisational complexity and issues affecting success • improve your ability to manage change and uncertainty • make better choices about growth and strategic direction Email Cheralyn Dark at efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk or Tel: 0117 954 6694 for details www.bristol.ac.uk/efm/courses/postgraduate/programmes/strat-change-leadership.html

Come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 22 March 2017 between 6-8pm. To register, please email Cheralyn at efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk

*Selection criteria will apply.

Contact Cheralyn for details.

Adventures in party-going

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

WINE AND DINE The West of England Wine Appreciation society made use of the beautiful facilities of the recently-opened Harbour Hotel on Corn Street for a recent dinner and wine-tasting Photos by Jon Craig

JAZZ TRIO Jointly sponsored by accountancy firm Smith & Williamson and legal services provider Ashfords, the Bristol Jazz and Blues Festival held a press launch in February; the opening party will be held on 17 March at Colston Hall

Jazz and Blues Festival’s AD Denny Ilett, Festival Executive Producer Colin Gorrie, Chris Dyson of Ashfords and Mike Lea of Smith & Williamson

GLASS ACT Artist Luke Jerram launched his latest exhibition Glass Microbiology at The Box @Bristol Photos by Simon Galloway

Artist Luke Jerram, inspects a glass sculpture of the malaria virus

Tamsin Huggins with a glass sculpture of the Zika virus

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ad v erti s i n g feat u re f i n a n c e

Firms prepare for Making Tax Digital PHILIP BARRY, partner at Hollingdale Pooley Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors based in Redland, provides an overview of the latest developments:

B

usinesses will be given at least 12 months to prepare for the transition to Digital Accounts.

Businesses, self-employed people and landlords will need to submit quarterly updates to HMRC and keep their records digitally by 2020, but this will be phased in. The current plan is to start quarterly reporting from April 2018 for landlords and the self-employed, with micro-business next to come online.

After the publication of draft legislation, the following details have been confirmed:

irms will be able to use spreadsheets to l F record their receipts and expenditure l Q uarterly updates will not apply to charities l T hose with turnover of under £10,000 a year will be exempt from the process ccounting for income and expenditure on l A a ‘cash in, cash out basis’ will be extended

There will be a 12-month period before late submission penalties will be applied. This will allow businesses to get used to the new system and allow for feedback.

Jim Harra, director general customer strategy and tax design at HMRC, said: “The appetite for digital services is growing and traditional paper-based processes make no sense in the 21st century where the vast majority use digital services.”

Preparing for the changes

One of the most noticeable changes for businesses is the need for digital software to keep both company and individual records up to date.

A March 2016 business survey by the ICAEW found that 75% of respondents were not using software to maintain their accounts.

Businesses will be able to use spreadsheets to collate records but must ensure that the documents are compatible with the software available. It is the business’ responsibility to

choose software that both suits their needs and is compatible with the HMRC digital tax account system. BL

At Hollingdale Pooley we are in the process of helping our clients adapt to the digital age and ensuring software solutions are appropriately tailored to each client. Talk to us about managing these changes.

If you would like further advice or assistance in this area, please call us on 0117 973 3377 or visit www. hollingdalepooley.co.uk.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

LAND PHOTO KAMILA JARCZAK

of the

CLIENTS

The past year has been a dynamic one for Bristol’s growing body of professional services – it’s hard to keep a handle on them all. So we asked a cross-section of the best in Bristol to tell us what’s happening in the white-collar corners of the city w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 77

I

t’s unavoidable: at some point in your life – perhaps quite regularly, if you’re in business – you’re going to need a solicitor, and more often than that you’re going to need someone to help with your financial affairs. And good premises – well, they rarely find themselves. To that end, then, we’ve been talking to the leading lights of Bath’s professional services community, to help you find the right legal firm, financial adviser, accountant and chartered surveyor for you, and for what you need. We’re here to take the mystery out of locating high-quality help and advice to protect you, your family, your business, your income and all your other assets.

Law Firms

For all your litigating, contract negotiating, buyingand-selling and other legal needs…

Veale Wasbrough Vizards Narrow Quay House, Bristol BS1 4QA www.vwv.co.uk

Who the devil are you?

We are a leading full service law firm based at Narrow Quay House on the floating harbour with expert lawyers looking after both businesses and individuals.

What’s special about the way you work?

It’s all about our people. We are based in the centre of Bristol and our staff are approachable, down-toearth and practical people, who work well together to deliver an excellent service for our clients.

What exciting things have happened over the last year?

Working in our new office location at Narrow Quay House. The building was completely renovated and now provides a bright and modern workspace for our people and our clients. We’ve had a busy and fascinating year welcoming clients, hosting over 100 events, getting to know our neighbours on the waterfront and supporting local charities and organisations by providing meeting rooms and resources.

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

We have had a great start to 2017, with healthcare specialists Lockharts Solicitors joining our London office in January. We are looking forward to continuing our strategy of growth in Bristol and across our other offices in London, Watford and Birmingham.

What might we be surprised to learn?

We can trace our roots back to the 17th century and Sir George White was an articled clerk at the firm, before he went on to found the Bristol Aeroplane Company, which was the first company to produce a commercial plane for sale, and subsequently became part of British Aerospace.

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

ACCOUNTANTS

Offering expert advice to help you grow your business

Smith & Williamson

Portwall Place, Portwall Lane, Bristol smithandwilliamson.com

Who the devil are you?

Smith & Williamson provides the full range of accountancy, tax, investment management and financial advisory services under one roof. The firm has a large office in central Bristol with around 200 staff and partners under the leadership of managing partner Mike Lea. What’s special about the way you work?

The teams at Smith & Williamson are focused on building long-term relationships with private individuals, families and businesses, putting their clients’ needs first and drawing on a rich seam of expertise from across the firm’s network of 12 offices in the UK, Ireland and Jersey, to deliver the best and most practical solutions.

What might we be surprised to learn?

Smith & Williamson is the eighth largest firm of accountants in the UK and its investment management business has over £18 billion of funds under management and advice as of 31 December 2016.

The Bristol office is rooted in the local communities it serves, supporting a wide range of charities as well as art, music and film projects, including Bristol Jazz & Blues Festival and Bristol Film Festival which both launch in March. The firm also runs a busy programme of social activities, providing interesting and varied networking opportunities.

Top: The VWV offices Above Mike Lea, managing partner at Smith & Williamson

We firmly believe that Bristol businesses will always find ways of working constructively together for mutual benefit

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

MILSTED LANGDON 1 Redcliff Street, Bristol www.milsted-langdon.co.uk

Who the devil are you?

We’re one of the pre-eminent independent firms of chartered accountants and tax advisers in Bristol.

Roger Isaacs of Milsted Langdon Below: Handelsbanken’s enviable position on Queen Square

WE MAY BE ACCOUNTANTS BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN WE CAN’T BE PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO

What’s special about the way you work?

We care about our client’s businesses as much as our own and work in partnership with our clients to help them achieve their financial and business ambitions. What’s more, we put technology at the heart of all we do, making sure that our clients get the key data they need about how their businesses are trading, efficiently, in real time and in the format they need it.

What exciting things have happened at the company over the last year?

We have managed to attract some great new talent that gives us one of the most comprehensive teams of financial specialists in the region. Regardless of the size or sector or state of health of a business, we can field a friendly expert with relevant expertise to help clients navigate through an increasingly complex and regulated world.

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

Being there for our clients as they face the uncertainties, threats and opportunities presented

by Brexit and a politically and economically volatile climate. We firmly believe that Bristol businesses will always find ways of working constructively together for mutual benefit regardless of the barriers that may be erected by politicians. In fact we’re already helping them to do business both

regionally and internationally, proving that Bristol remains the vibrant commercial centre it’s always been; and when we’re not working with our clients, the city’s a great place to socialise with them too.

What might we be surprised to learn?

We may be accountants but that doesn’t mean we can’t be passionate about what we do and what our clients do. What’s more, we are able to talk to our clients about complex tax and accounting issues without resorting to jargon. Getting advice from one of Milsted Langdon’s specialists needn’t be daunting, and it could be the best investment you’ve made all year.

FINANCIAL SERVICES Helping you achieve financial independence

HANDELSBANKEN 66 Queen Square, Bristol www.handelsbanken.co.uk

Who the devil are you?

Handelsbanken is a local relationship bank, and since opening its first Bristol branch in 2002, has steadily made a name for itself among local customers looking for a more personal relationship with their bank. Our distinctive approach is based on the belief that experienced local bankers are best placed to understand the customers that live, work and trade in their community, and we offer a full range of banking and wealth management products for both individual and corporate customers.

What’s special about the way you work?

At Handelsbanken, relationship banking still lives up to its name. You only ever deal with people you know by name, and all the decisions that matter are made locally by us at the branch. Without sales targets or bonuses, our full focus is always on simply delivering the best possible service to our customers.

What exciting things have happened at the company over the last year?

Lots! For the eighth year running we have been rated top for customer satisfaction and loyalty in an independent survey of British banks, which we are very proud of. We moved into our new premises at 66 Queen Square, where we have been delighted to welcome customers and professionals to a range of events, and in addition to this opened five more new branches in the South West, including Handelsbanken Portishead. In January, and for the second year running, we were rated top provider of current accounts for all sizes of SME by the government-backed Business Banking Insight (BBI) survey – a great start to this year.

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

Continuing to support local individuals and companies to achieve their aims and ambitions.

This might include enabling a personal customer to buy their dream home or a business customer w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 79

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES to invest in new equipment or expand their trade to new markets. At Handelsbanken we are most interested in learning about what is important to our customers and working with them to achieve their aspirations.

What might we be surprised to learn?

We now have 207 branches across the UK, and four of those are in the Bristol area – Bristol Queen Square, Portishead, Clifton and Bristol Parkway.

HARGREAVES LANSDOWN

One College Square South, Anchor Road, Bristol www.hargreaveslansdownjobs.co.uk

Who the devil are you?

Hargreaves Lansdown is the biggest financial services company, founded and based in Bristol and a true local success story that Bristolians can be proud of. We are a FTSE 100 company on your doorstep, and our market-leading service is trusted by 876,000 people with more than £70 billion of their ISAs, pensions and life savings.

Our aim is to simplify your financial life and help you to make the most of your money. People like our services, as we make the complex simple. We help by making managing investments and pensions easier and cheaper, with expert information to help along the way. Our comprehensive website, and new apps for smartphones and tablets, give access to your investments anytime, and our helpdesk is on hand should you have any questions.

Where extra help is required for those big decisions, you can call in one of our team of financial advisers, who are among the most highly qualified in the UK. There are over 50 advisers based in your local area.

What’s special about the way you work?

Clients and their needs are always our prime focus. The service is unique as we are able to help at whichever level is required. From supporting setting up an ISA for the first time and providing investment ideas, to personal financial advice, we can help save tax, with portfolio management and everything in between.

Most people use our tools and research to make decisions without personal advice and then ask for advice as and when they need that extra help. This means our clients only pay for the advice they need.

Our financial strength means we are able to offer access to a wide range of investments, alongside highly qualified and experienced advisers, all at industry-leading costs.

What exciting things have happened at the company over the last year?

The Hargreaves Lansdown business continues to grow market share as tens of thousands of people join our services each year. We are the UK’s number one choice for ISA and pension savers.

In the last 12 months we have been recognised for our exceptional people-focused service, by 80 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

winning over 20 awards including: Gold Trusted Merchant (based on client feedback) – FEEFO; Pension Provider of the Year – Pensions Age; Best Investment Platform - Online Personal Wealth Awards.

We have also launched two new Hargreaves Lansdown funds – the two biggest ever Hargreaves Lansdown fund launches. These are the Hargreaves Lansdown Select UK Shares fund and the Hargreaves Lansdown Select UK Income Shares fund, managing nearly £500 million in total. The Hargreaves Lansdown Select range of funds offers an exceptional level of transparency and insight giving investors an unrivalled level of communication.

In February this year we launched our new and improved apps for smartphones and tablets which provide an enhanced experience and level of service.

Hargreaves Lansdown effortlessly rocking this year’s ‘Greenery’ colour trend . . .

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

We will be the only company to launch the new Lifetime ISA (a new account available to the under-40s) on 6 April 2017, which allows you to manage shares and funds, either online, on mobile or by phone.

What might we be surprised to learn?

In the last 12 months our helpdesks have received over one million calls. Our clients don’t have to negotiate any telephone menus when they call us, the phone is answered quickly and politely by an expert.

All our financial advisers are either chartered or working toward that status, one of the highest accolades an adviser can achieve.

Last year we established and launched the Hargreaves Lansdown Foundation, designed to be the focus of the charitable work we do as a business, building on the previous work we have done for charities and good causes.

WE OPERATE FOR OUR CLIENTS AND ARE NOT DRIVEN BY SALES TARGETS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

LGT VESTRA

One Temple Quay, Temple Back East, Bristol www.lgtvestra.com

Who the devil are you?

We are a privately owned wealth management firm set up by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. We are a UK-based partnership with LGT, the world’s largest single family-owned private bank, and the executive partners of LGT Vestra.

Top: the smiling face of Greenhouse PR (next page) Above: Andrew Davies, LGT Vestra

What’s special about the way you work?

There are a number of areas where we feel we offer something very different to other investment managers and wealth managers. Firstly we have nothing to sell other than our advice. We operate for our clients and are not driven by sales targets, therefore our advice is impartial and based on what is best for our each of our clients from across the whole industry. We spend time getting to understand a client’s emotional values such as their motivations, aspirations and fears and then use this to build a plan to help them to achieve these financially.

What exciting things have happened at the company over the last year?

We launched in the South West last year. At the

beginning of 2016 we had no office, limited brand recognition and no clients. The year has been exciting and challenging but hugely rewarding and we have been incredibly humbled by the client response. During the year we have sponsored headline events such as The Prince’s Trust Red Dinner at Ashton Gate. We seem to have done well in gaining brand awareness.

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

Personally, continuing to build the business and adding new people to the team. Professionally, I hope we start to get a little more political stability with emerging clarity on Brexit and an understanding of the political direction of Europe post the various elections. This will then allow the markets to focus on fundamental factors rather than political risk.

What might we be surprised to learn?

We have just partnered with the Royal West of England Academy to sponsor their Permanent Collection. Art plays a key role in our firm’s history, as one of the most important private collections in the world, The Princely Collections, has been built over the last 400 years by LGT’s owner, The Princely Family of Liechtenstein. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 81

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES in social and responsible investment funds for Triodos, to the launch of a campaign to support the growth of the organic market for the Organic Trade Board.

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

We have just become certified as B Corporation – we are excited about engaging with the inspiring community of over 2,000 other B Corp companies with shared values committed to putting purpose before profit, and encouraging other companies to join the movement.

What might we be surprised to learn?

Greenhouse PR has its headquarters in Bristol, as we recognise Bristol as an inspiring hub for driving positive change. We employ 10 people in the Bristol office who are passionate about supporting local pioneers and change-makers.

Team Burston Cook, based at Narrow Lewins Mead

BUSINESS SERVICES

The crucial extra support your business needs

GREENHOUSE PR

Buchanans Wharf North, Ferry Street, Bristol www. greenhousepr.co.uk

Who the devil are you?

Greenhouse PR is a specialist communications agency with a mission to accelerate change towards a more sustainable lifestyle and economy. We believe that business can be a force for good and we support purpose-driven brands and projects that are committed to accelerate positive social and environmental change.

What’s special about the way you work?

We work exclusively with organisations who have a mission to drive positive social and environmental change. We are a small agency with a highlycommitted team completely driven by its purpose.

We build brands, develop communications strategies, and promote ideas, technologies, products and services, not just for profit but with the purpose of offering solutions to the biggest challenges we face.

WE RECOGNISE BRISTOL AS AN INSPIRING HUB FOR DRIVING POSITIVE CHANGE

What exciting things have happened at the company over the last year?

Over the past year, Greenhouse PR won Green PR Agency of the year at the Business Green Awards in recognition of the impact we have achieved on behalf of our clients. Our clients have included campaigning NGOs, entrepreneurs and progressive businesses tackling sustainability issues in areas such as energy, transport, palm oil, air quality, food and recycling.

We have launched a diverse range of campaigns – from launching Europe’s first ever renewable biomethane fuel for HGV’s for CNG Fuels, to establishing smart battery technology to enhance the UK energy grid for Moixa, to driving investment

CHARTERED SURVEYORS The commercial property experts

BURSTON COOK

Lewins House, Narrow Lewins Mead, Bristol www.burstoncook.co.uk Who the devil are you?

We are chartered surveyors specialising in offering professional commercial property advice throughout Bristol, from small local businesses to major national companies.

What’s special about the way you work?

We are an independent, privately owned practice and not part of a large national/international organisation like many of our competitors. We therefore recognise the need to serve the smaller local business occupiers in Bristol, as well as major clients, and all client work is treated with the same level of enthusiasm, professionalism and energy.

What exciting things have happened at the company in the last year?

In terms of the number of office transactions completed in central Bristol and Clifton in 2016, Burston Cook handled some 25% which is more than any other commercial agent. Our business grew by over 25%. One of our surveyors won the EGi award as most active agent in Bristol.

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

We are looking forward to maintaining and hopefully building upon our success in 2016 and continue to work closely with a number of our chosen local charities to ensure we not only help Bristol’s business people, but the wider Bristol community.

What might we be surprised to learn?

Not all property professionals are the same – we are human after all! www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 83

L E G A L a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

estate of affairs Brenda Smyth of AMD Solicitors considers the tax implications when dealing with the administration of an estate

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hen applying for a grant of probate, the personal representatives of an estate must complete and submit an inheritance tax form giving details of all assets and liabilities of an estate.

“failure to obtain the necessary information may result in tax penalties�

This may need to include details of lifetime gifts made by the deceased or any interests in trusts which the deceased may have had. Personal representatives have a duty to make full enquiries to obtain the necessary information to complete the form correctly and failure to do so may result in interest having to be paid on tax paid late or even in tax penalties.

Even when the personal representatives correctly ascertain and disclose assets and liabilities in the estate, mistakes can still be made, such as not claiming all allowances and reliefs available to reduce the value of the estate for inheritance tax purposes.

Consideration of the inheritance tax liability does not end once the grant of probate has been issued. If further assets or liabilities come to light or there is any other change in the value of the estate for inheritance tax purposes, these may need to be disclosed to HM Revenue and Customs. There may also be additional reliefs to consider.

Inheritance tax is not the only tax to consider when administering an estate. If an asset is sold during the course of the administration of an estate, there may be a capital gains tax liability on the personal representatives. With careful planning and depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to mitigate or even eliminate this liability.

Any income received by the personal representatives in the course of the administration is subject to income tax and must be disclosed to HM Revenue and Customs by the personal representatives.

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Sometimes beneficiaries may decide to vary the terms of the distribution of the estate and the tax implications of this need to be considered. In some circumstances, this may result in a tax saving or may avoid adverse tax consequences for the person giving up his or her right to benefit from the estate. BL

For further advice on the administration of estates, Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and other private client matters, contact Brenda Smyth or one of her colleagues at AMD Solicitors 100 Henleaze Road, Bristol BS9 4JZ Phone 0117 962 1205, email info@ amdsolciitors.com or visit our website www. amdsolicitors.com Our series of probate talks returns on 26 April 2017 at Tyndale Baptist Church and 3 May 2017 at Trinity Henleaze. Contact info@ amdsolicitors.com to book your place!

L E G A L a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

What is Private: What is not Private

By Tony Forster at Metcalfes Solicitors

E

ach of us has a legal right to respect for our private and family life. This extends to the employer/ employee relationship in the workplace. However, with the advancement of Facebook, Twitter and the like, coupled with their ease of use, difficulties and dangers could arise.

How much social media use, for instance, should be allowed in the workplace? Employers should be entitled to expect and get their employees to concentrate on their job while in the workplace. So questions do arise, for instance; is all email traffic on work PCs available for, or likely to be monitored? It is a fine balance that has to be achieved.

So what should employers do? Well, first they must always err on the side of caution. Laws such as the Data Protection Act 1998 say any act involving private data, such as monitoring of communications of staff, must be proportionate.

We do not yet live in a Big Brother society.

Next, there must be legal, known and understood guidelines established – clear rules of which all staff are aware. The principal one must be that the amount of any monitoring 86 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

to be carried out must be explained to staff.

Taking steps to establish the level of social media usage in the workplace is a delicate operation.

All staff must be made aware of what they can and cannot use their work PC and smartphones for. For instance, can they be used for private usage during lunch or other work breaks? If a family email or text is received can it be looked at quickly and speedily dealt with? Or should all personal devices be switched off during working hours?

Also the penalties for breaking the policy rules must be clearly communicated to all employees. These are basic; they are the starting point to ensure everyone knows what can be done in the workplace and what can be looked at in the workplace.

The above will help all employers and employees establish what is and what isn’t private. Before setting in motion any policy though, I would say that it is often good to stand back and look at why you are monitoring; what effect it will have and whether it is all worth it. Most employees probably will not abuse trust that employers put in them.

As I said at the start, it is a fine balance.

Keep looking at how the rules are working; amend or modify them if the balance is proving inappropriate. If you want to put policies in place though, I hope this article has given you an idea as to what is fair and reasonable. BL

For more information or advice, please contact Tony Forster, Consultant, Metcalfes Solicitors. tforster@metcalfes.co.uk 0117 945 3040

Tel 01179 850383 visit www.westcomltd.co.uk

Available in Store Now at Westcom, 33 Regent Street, Clifton Village BS8 4HR

BUSINESS INSIDER

BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS

AWARDS SET FOR MASSIVE SUCCESS!

T

he all-important finalists for the Bristol Life Awards are unveiled on pages 54-55, as excitement mounts for Bristol’s biggest-ever business awards.

A massive – and late! – surge took the nominations above 400, which is a huge endorsement of the Awards, far above expectations. The finalists reflect the full diversity of Bristol, from the coolest of the indies to the very largest of the corporates. The Awards encompass all.

Ticket sales have rocketed to 450, which means that we have had to create a yet larger marquee – but still won’t be able to house all who wish to go. Table sales have been suspended, though there are still a few associates packages remaining.

Awards planning continues apace, with the organisers promising some stunning surprises on the night of 27 April. All finalists and sponsors are invited to an Awards reception event at Racks on 20 April.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the level of support we’re having for the Bristol Life Awards,” said Steph Dodd, event manager of Bristol Life’s publisher MediaClash. “The businesses, charities and organisations of Bristol have astonished us with their nominations.

We have never had so many in any other Awards we’ve run. And just take a look at the list of finalists: what tough choices our judges will have to make.

“The great thing is that it prompts us to raise our game, to rise to the ambition expressed by so many companies. Between us all, we’re making a night that Bristol will be proud of. We just can’t wait for

Awards night! Nothing beats being there.”

The uberglam Bristol Life Awards will be held in Bristol’s biggestever marquee, outside Lloyds Amphitheatre, and will be followed by a memorable aftershow party.

In addition to the headline sponsors Bristol Airport, sponsors include: Dribuild, Guy Salmon Jaguar/Land Rover, Veale Wasbrough Vizards, The Alternative Board, SDS, Clear River, Burston Cook, Clifton Marquee Company, Park Furnishers, Juice Recruitment, Fleurets, Clear River, Triangle Network, SAM FM and Enlightened Lighting. Associates are HGEM, RBS, Nicholas Wylde Jewellers, Irwin Mitchell and Quarter. Partners are Fine Wines Direct, CityFibre and Bonomini.

They are independently judged by a stellar panel of Bristol luminaries: 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).

For remaining sponsorship enquiries, please contact steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Or to be involved on the night, it’s stephanie.dodd@mediaclash.co.uk.

TICKET SALES HAVE ROCKETED TO 450, WHICH MEANS THAT WE HAVE HAD TO CREATE A YET LARGER MARQUEE

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

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

RACING AND SPONSORSHIP

CHEERS, DRIVE Looking for a glamorous figurehead for your business sponsorship? Meet Clifton’s RYAN CULLEN, a rising star on the international racing scene

R

yan, as you might guess from his name, is half-Irish; the other half being Cypriot. He’s 25 years old and a professional racing driver, competing internationally against some of the best drivers in the world. He currently lives in Clifton and Wedmore, and has spent most of his life in the wild South West.

When did you know that you wanted to be a racing driver?

I decided from a young age, when I did a year of karting, but in 2012, after a long break – probably around 10 years – I knew I wanted to race again. I felt I was good, but I didn’t know how good.

We’re not experts, but finishing 6th overall and achieving three podium posts as a novice in your first race – that’s pretty impressive, no? Did you get really noticed after this?

Yes, I think it’s an achievement, having had no real experience before getting into racing again. I was pretty happy. The years I missed not racing didn’t really affect my ability; it was more about going up against drivers with 10 times the experience I had.

Were your family terrified or excited about your career choice?

More excited, to the point where it’s a journey for them as well. I wouldn’t be able to go through what I have done if it wasn’t for their support.

and representation. You have to believe in yourself and show that the support they are giving you is going to be turned into success.

What car do you drive, and why?

I drive a Porsche Macan S, through Porsche Centre Bristol – it’s comfortable and handles like a sports car. I like the brand, and I like being part of Porsche’s élite racing drivers in the Porsche Supercup.

What would be your all-time dream car to drive?

An Aston Martin DB5 or a Porsche 918 Spider.

Who are your racing heroes?

Ayrton Senna and James Hunt.

YOU HAVE TO SHOW SPONSORS THAT THE SUPPORT THEY ARE GIVING YOU IS GOING TO BE TURNED INTO SUCCESS

What have been your career highlights?

Doing GP3 because I learned a lot, but my whole career is a highlight because I enjoy every second, from the moment I get into the race car.

What’s the next prize you have your eyes on?

Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup champion of 2017.

How’s the sponsorship side of things going?

It’s going well at the moment. I meet new people every few days in motorsport, so networking is important.

How do you pitch businesses for sponsorship?

You pitch yourself as an investment and explain what you can bring to them – TV coverage, branding, introductions to potential clients

What are the biggest misapprehensions people have about what you do for a living?

Everyone thinks it’s all glamour. Girls, parties and a great lifestyle – but as a competitor, when you don’t win, none of this matters, and it’s only one person who gets to win, so you need to be first all the time. Most people also think it’s like driving a car on the road – but is playing table tennis at home the same as playing tennis at Wimbledon?

How do you get into training for a race?

Long cardio sessions, because you can do a stint in a race car for up to two hours in very hot conditions. Physically, I have never had a problem, but I do high reps to avoid putting on weight, because racing drivers have to be nimble and light.

Do you have a career plan for the day when you finally hang up your racing helmet?

I have a few ideas; I might set up a gym. I don’t really think about it too much now.

Do you use social media much, and which platform do you find to be the most useful?

My Facebook page was my first platform but since then Twitter has become a big thing. Now it seems Instagram is what everyone is using, but I was a bit late to set it up, so at the moment it’s Twitter.

Find Ryan on Twitter @ryancullenrace

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BUSINESS INSIDER

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

DR ROBERTS The impeccable smile shown opposite belongs to DR CAROL SUMMERVILLE ROBERTS, BDS MFDS RCS, founder of Evolve Dentistry. With a growing practice in Portishead, Carol has a lot to smile about . . .

C

arol founded Evolve Dentistry eight years ago. “My colleagues tell me this was courageous as it was right at the start of a recession,” she says. Today, five clinicians are employed at Evolve, all of whom have their own special range of experience and expertise.

Obviously, dentistry is at the heart of what you do. What makes you special?

We are passionate about ensuring that patients leave us with healthy teeth and gums; our regular patients always see one of our hygienists, to keep their gums in tip-top condition.

But it’s not just about teeth, is it?

Correct! I have a large and loyal following for our very busy wrinkle clinic. Facial aesthetics is a lovely way to finish off a smile transformation case; some patients come to us just for that service and remain with their current dentist. We also find this can be the case for our TMJ clinics – this is wonderful news for people who are suffering with jaw and neck pain or long-term headaches. My colleague Dr Jon Sproson has brought this to Evolve along with hypno-relaxation, which is perfect for nervous patients.

How do you keep up to date with all the latest treatments?

I am a full member of the British Academy

of Cosmetic Dentistry, which means I have had to prove myself to the Academy in many areas of smile design, as well as keeping up with continuous professional developments.

We are lucky in that because we are a purely private practice, we are not restricted by any system in offering the latest techniques and treatments, so our experience and expertise develops as we get plenty of practice!

How important is social media to you?

Social media is important to any forwardthinking business. Facebook is our most

PORTISHEAD PEOPLE ARE SO POLITE AND FRIENDLY . . . favoured platform, but we are starting with Instagram. We do find, however, that good old-fashioned ‘word of mouth’ works best for us. We are very grateful that our patients are very vocal about recommending us.

What are the pros and cons of your Portishead location?

I put a lot of research into the location when I founded Evolve and it has paid off. We are easy to access from the Clifton area of Bristol and other towns along the M5. The

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

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free adjacent parking means it is convenient if you want to make your dental visit the only reason to visit the town, but lots of people like to do their shopping here. And Portishead people are so polite and friendly.

Any exciting plans for 2017?

Having a specialist orthodontist in the practice is a great benefit to patients.

Increasingly more and more adults are seeking to get straighter teeth; with all the dentists offering different orthodontics systems (braces), we have something for pretty much everyone. Being able to offer easy payment options including interest free credit is also something we need to shout about more.

Finally, why should we choose Evolve?

Choose Evolve if being confident in your smile is important to you. Choose Evolve if you want a practice with beautiful surroundings with attention to detail at every point of your experience with us. Choose Evolve if you want a dentist who takes time to listen to your concerns. Choose Evolve if you want to know the team really do care about you and love what they do.

Carol would like to offer Bristol Life readers a new patient consultation at 50% off. Please call Julie on 01275 842500 /email hello@evolve-dentistry.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

PROPERTY

NUMBER ONE

I

. . . that’s the auspicious-sounding address – and according to STUART GAIGER, MD of the PG Group who developed Number One Bristol, it’s one that lives up to its name

n a city bristling with new residential developments, Number One Bristol is a standout collection of 148 units, with a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and duplex penthouses. So how does it differ from other new developments in the centre, such as Electricity House, say?

“Aside from having one of the most prestigious addresses in the city, Number One Bristol has several features that set it apart,” says Stuart Gaiger of the PG Group.“Residents will have access to an on-site gym, a rooftop garden and an eco-friendly residents’ lounge. The residents’ atrium has a living green wall and concierge service, and the vast majority of apartments have full-height windows – the views from higher up over the city are fantastic, facing both east and west.”

How does Number One compare to other developments you’ve worked on?

Focusing on challenging, place-making projects that enhance the urban environment is not new to the PG Group. However, this is by far our largest and most challenging development to date. The 148unit regeneration project will see a disused office building transformed into one of Bristol’s premier developments, creating a prestigious gateway to the Broadmead and Cabot Circus shopping destinations.

So has the development been a success?

The figures speak for themselves: Savills have confirmed this is Bristol’s best-selling development of 2016; 85% of the apartments have been sold and completion is still some way away in summer 2017.

We have also been able to offer the Government’s Help to Buy Scheme to assist first-time buyers in getting onto the housing ladder. This has been quite popular and we are delighted to be able to assist the next generation of home-owners in buying their first property.

FOCUSING ON CHALLENGING, PLACEMAKING PROJECTS THAT ENHANCE THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT IS NOT NEW TO THE PG GROUP

Kindly bring us up to date on building progress . . .

It’s progressing well; the scaffolding

is slowly being removed from the building, revealing the new cladding on the upper floors and the new full-height windows, which are soon to be adorned with balconies. Inside, the transformation is equally noticeable, as once unused office space is being turned into light, bright and spacious apartments. Completion is due this summer.

Who has been buying the apartments so far?

With a range of residents’ facilities and a good mix of apartment types, it’s unsurprising that buyers here cover the whole spectrum, from first-time buyers using Help to Buy, to down-sizers.

Would the development be suitable as an investment?

Investors have certainly found the scheme attractive with returns projected to be in the order of up to 7% on some apartments. The additional attractions of a gym and rooftop garden as well as a concièrge to take deliveries for residents will certainly help achieve good rents that still provide great value for money to prospective tenants.

How many of the units remain available?

There are now fewer than 20% of the units left, including a number of two-bedroom apartments and two spectacular penthouses.

Property in Bristol has risen upwards of 10% in 2016 alone; do you see this trend continuing?

It’s difficult to predict what will happen, but the fact is that demand still outstrips supply, meaning we need more homes. Most commentators agree that we are likely to see some rises over the next few years.

Since the development began have you had to amend the apartment prices due to increased market valuations?

We have benefitted from an incredibly strong sales rate so the vast majority of our properties sell as soon as we release them without needed to change prices.

For more www.numberonebristol.co.uk Contact Heather in the marketing suite on 0117 926 5328 to make an appointment to view the show apartment

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

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SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

PAINTWORKS Admit it – you’ve always wanted to look inside Bristol’s coolest residential community

Y

By L I SA WA R R E N

es – but what is Paintworks, exactly?” is a question we’re frequently asked.

How long have you got?

Paintworks describes itself as a ‘creative quarter that offers a fresh, exciting, collaborative way of living.’ It houses dozens of small businesses, working across the media, commercial and retail sectors; filmmakers, design agencies, photographers and artists love the creative vibe here. It has an outstanding bar/café/restaurant in Bocabar, with the Airstream Tube Diner for pizzas.

And it’s a residential community; there are brand new one- and two-bedroom apartments, two-, three- and fourbedroom houses as well as a number of live/work spaces, all with an urban, loft-style feel to them. Some face directly onto the River Avon; you can wheel your bike straight out onto the Riverside Cycle Path.

The original site was built in 1850 in the Arnos Vale area of the city, and used as a Victorian paint and varnish factory. It’s undergone a huge reinvention during the last decade and is now one of the most inspiring living spaces in Bristol, occupying a site equivalent to 192 tennis courts, Regeneration first began in 2006, but the latest phase of homes have only recently gone on sale.

NUMBER CRUNCHING

1

mile from Temple Meads

1/2

a mile from the city centre

£238K£420K price range

1-4

bedrooms

1850

When the site was built, as a paint factory (which operated for a century)

2006

When regeneration began

“The space already had an established, distinctive brand and a certain character to it, which we wanted to build upon,” says Stride Treglown’s chief architect, Gary Milliner. “This phase has been about creating more residential spaces, building more cafés and sociable spaces and building bigger commercial units for businesses to grow into. We have built a number of new establishments that have their own identity, including a triangular unit and an Art Deco building.”

A standout feature has been the development of a pedestrianised deck. Gary says this allows residents to live predominantly car-free, and makes utilising the outdoor space more enjoyable.

“There are no dead spaces here. We have tried to encourage people to use the scheme and move through it, not just walk to the car park and drive away. You can pass through alleyways, stroll by a diverse range of buildings, visit a café or spend time outside in the plaza – there’s something different on every corner.

A programme of creative gatherings and exhibitions are constantly happening on-site, from live music and food festivals to art shows and movie screenings; with so much going on, there’s a tangible buzz in the air.

The latest release offers one- and two-bedroom apartments in Block F, which are now available for reservation with build completion estimated for April.

The two-bedroom apartments are dual-aspect, with views over Bristol, the river Avon and the Central Plaza. www.crestnicholson.com/paintworks

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la re st m TH ai R ni EE ng

These 3 bedroom penthouses benefit from secure private parking and have been restored to the highest specification.

Book your viewing today with dedicated parking available.

3 bedroom penthouse apartments available from ÂŁ599,950

Call now to arrange your appointment to view

01179 102351

MANAG E ME NT • SALE S • LE TTI N G • CONS U LTA NCY

CLIFTON £1,275,000 A picturesque Georgian Grade II listed townhouse in this most enchanting terrace tucked away in a quiet & sought after Clifton location, with a very pretty, private communal garden to the front. The flexible accommodation is currently arranged as a reception room, kitchen, and bathroom on the lower ground floor, with access to the rear garden and the private garage in North Green Street.

The kitchen & dining room are situated on the ground floor, which has access to the front garden through the main front door of the house. The most charming reception room which spans the width of the house and with floor to ceiling sash windows and a balcony is situated on the first floor together with a study room. The second floor has a large bedroom, again spanning the width of the house and a smaller second bedroom, with two further bedrooms and a bathroom on the top floor. There is also the added benefit of an extension to the lower ground, ground and first floor, which house utility rooms & a bathroom consecutively. There are an abundance of period features throughout, together with the most stunning and far reaching views which only get better the higher you climb. This wonderful family home is ideally situated between Clifton village with its plethora of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, and the vibrant harbourside with pleasure boats and ferries to the city and Temple Meads train station. This property is coming to the market for the first time in 38 years and viewing is highly recommended.

21 Princess Victoria Street

Tel 0117 970 6119

enquiries@propertyconcept.co.uk

Clifton, Bristol BS8 4BX

Fax 0117 970 6109

www.propertyconcept.co.uk

Bristol & Clifton's premier Commercial Property Agents Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk FANTASTIC STUDIO OFFICES

(0117) 934 9977 PRIME CLIFTON OFFICE

❖ College Green vicinity

❖ Open plan suite

❖2 ,200 sq ft + 4 car spaces

❖ C 1,000 sq ft

pen plan and ideal for ❖O trendy office space

❖ New lease

❖ 3 car spaces

ew lease – rent on ❖N application HOTWELL ROAD – BS8

OLD POLICE STATION

❖ Takeaway use

❖ Bedminster Parade

❖ Suit shop / office uses

❖ Fantastic offices

❖ Prominent pitch

❖ Superb fit out

❖ New lease O/A

❖ 1,925 sq ft

PRIME CLIFTON SHOP

PROMINENT RETAIL UNIT

❖Q ueens Road – Close to the University

❖ Large prominent shop

❖ 586 sq ft

❖B usy neighbourhood area of bs6

❖ Excellent trading site

❖ 1,841 sq ft (inc store)

❖ New lease

❖ Rent on application

CLIFTON VILLAGE ❖ D1 Medical use ❖F ully fitted out to a high standard ❖ New lease - £14,500 pax ❖ Also suit shop use

BEDMINSTER WORKSHOP TO LET ❖ Full B2 industrial use ❖ 3,061 sq ft ❖ Suit other commercial use ❖ New flexible lease

TRIANGLE WEST

BERKELEY SQ CLIFTON

*Due to Relocation*

❖ Stunning period property

❖O ne of the best ‘agency’ locations in BS8

❖3 ,266 sq ft + 7 car spaces

❖ 975 sq ft A2 office to let

❖ D1 use ❖T o let – terms on application

Julian Cook FRICS

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

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BRISTOL LIVES

Q&A

JIM’LL PAINT IT He doesn’t want us to use his full name. He won’t let us show you his photo. But he’ll paint anything you want, for free, if he likes the brief enough. Meet the enigmatic Jim . . .

Y

ou probably know Jim from social media. He has a following of over 650,000 on Facebook, thanks to his knack for creating surreal digital montages to order. This might be ‘Ross Kemp on toast’; or ‘a children’s birthday party set in an alternate universe where donkeys evolved to be the dominant species’.

Or perhaps the festive ‘Kevin McCallister, George Bailey, Bob Cratchit (Kermit version), Buddy the Elf and The Snowman having a lovely Christmas dinner together while a shivering John McClane watches from outside the dining room window’.

What a lot of people don’t know is that Jim is from Bristol and works from his home on the Gloucester Road.

What’s the best thing about living/working in this area – and any drawbacks?

I love working here. There’s a real liveliness, which I hope comes across in the pictures I make, and my office window is perfect for people-watching.

Living here is great, too – so many independent shops and places to eat on my doorstep. You do need earplugs to sleep though.

Sum up what Jim’ll Paint It is all about...

People send me requests for things they’d like me to paint, and I do my best to do so with Microsoft Paint. It started four years ago as a way to kill time during my lunch breaks, for my friends on Facebook. Then I shared a few on Tumblr, and before I knew it I had hundreds of requests from complete strangers.

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

Can you tell us, in simple layman’s terms, how you create them?

I use the Microsoft XP version of Paint. I start off sketching the basic shapes using photos from Google as a reference. Often I’ll have to pose myself in my webcam to get some of the more unusual body or hand shapes right. I don’t use a track pad or tablet; just a mouse, the curved line tool, and a lot of patience. Once I’ve added shading I draw the background in a separate document and paste the characters on top.

We know you do the pics for free if they catch your imagination. So – how do we catch your imagination?

In the early days it was more about challenging the limits of Paint by fulfilling ever more outlandish and detailed requests. Now I tend to go for simpler ideas that work as a joke or at least provide the basis for a punchy, surreal image. The requests I like best are ones where the joke isn’t spelled out. Such as Neo from The Matrix agonising over Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.

What else do you do for a living?

This is my job at the moment and has been since I opened a shop selling prints and T-shirts of my work. It’s not quite enough to rely on completely, so I’m always on the look out for commissions. I’ve done Paint-based work for the BBC and National Geographic, among others.

Can you tell us a bit about your current project to create Bristol in pixel form?

I’m always looking for subjects for pixel art.

I’ve already done famous movie cars, album covers, Star Wars characters and so on. Then

one day I was walking through Stokes Croft and noticed how colourful and instantly recognisable everything was – ideal subjects for pixel art.

Why did this style of art appeal to you?

A lot of people of my generation have fond memories of exploring the beautifully rendered pixel landscapes of their childhood video games.

I thought it would be interesting to apply a style associated with fantasy architecture to something as familiar and ramshackle as Stokes Croft. Pixel art is a great way of appeasing my slightly obsessive nature; creating grid-like order from chaos.

How big an area do you plan to cover?

I’d like to eventually cover everything from City Road to Ashley Road. Then perhaps I’ll look for other colourful areas to visit. For now I’m thoroughly committed to pixellating as many of Bristol’s pubs as possible. So far I’ve done 12.

What’s your favourite aspect of the city?

I actually moved to Bristol because of the music scene. I love gabber and drum’n’bass and I have spent many nights (and mornings) at Lakota and The Black Swan. I’m a bit older now though so I tend to stick to pubs.

Favourite restaurant, café, bar and shop?

Restaurant: Chomp in St Nick’s. Their house classic burger is unbelievably good – and so much bourbon! Cafe: Ronak’s – great coffee and super-friendly people. Bar: probably The Cat and Wheel. No-frills, drinks-wise, but it has a jukebox, pool, plenty of live bands and absolutely no interest in being trendy. Best of all, the sign is written in Comic Sans. Shop: 20th-Century Flicks mainly for the Twin Peaks-themed cinema room.

Finest hour so far?

Maybe getting a legal threat from The Ultimate Warrior. I was also really touched by Graham Linehan’s response to my Frank Kelly Tribute.

Finally, tell us something surprising!

I’m pretty rubbish at drawing with a pencil.

For more: www.jimll.co.uk

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