Bristol Life - Issue 248

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property I J Issue 248 July 2018/£3

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

PASTA MASTER ISSUE 248/JULY 2018/BRISTOL, TWINNED WITH SPRINGFIELD

RIPIENA! WE’RE GOING IN…

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

DINING AL FRESCO, BRISTOL STYLE

TALK TO THE HAND

THE STREET-LUXE WORLD OF JODY THOMAS

GLO NOW

WHY WE’RE A BIT IN LOVE WITH THE GLOUCESTER ROAD large version

Editor’s letter

above Jody in action at last year’s Upfest; photo by his cousin and top local photographer, Neil James Brain (page 42) left Little bags. They’re a thing (page 56)

S

potted the difference yet? Have a flick through our new issue, and tell us what you think; we’ve had a bit of a makeover, and spruced everything up, with a clean contemporary look that we hope you’ll love.

In other news: if it’s late June, it has to be our Upfest issue. Along with our special Christmas covers, the Upfest ones are always our all-time favourite; we’ve been fans of Jody Thomas’ streetluxe style for years, he’s Upfest’s Festival Artist for 2018, and we’re thrilled to have his golden beauty of a hand on the front of this magazine. (The eagleeyed, graf-literate reader may have already spotted his hand in my editor’s pic for this issue, too.)

Turn to page 27 for the beginning of our Upfest coverage; thanks, as ever, to festival übermeister Steve Hayles for pointing us in the direction of some of the artists to look out for this year.

We’ve stuck to a festival theme for Colin’s Bristol Heroes, walked up and down the Glo Road to see what’s new in BS7, and with an optimism that triumphs over experience, selected the best restaurants to enjoy the glorious Bristol summer.

Here’s hoping.

Cover Art by Jody Thomas, www..jodyart.co.uk Model Michelle Beresford @saltandtomatoes Photo by Paul Whitfield @paulwhitfieldphotography

deri robins Follow us on Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram @BristolLifeMag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 3

Issue 248/July 2018

the arts

27 art page Kicking off a bit of a theme in this issue,

we bring you one of the total bangers to look out for at this year’s Upfest 28 WHAT’S ON Diaries out, everyone 32 festivals Hey, Upfest – happy 10th anniversary!

42 one to one While we’re on the subject, here’s

our cover artist – and Upfest Festival Artist 2018 – the

one and only Jody Thomas *riotous applause* 48 bristol heroes Sticking with the festival vibes – because it’s that time of the Bristol year

shopping

16 street life Glo now; the ever-improving face of

the Gloucester Road

bags, cross-body bags or what you will: little bags are having a moment

56 editor’s choice Call ’em bum bags, urban

16

food & DRINK

68

60 RESTAURANT Pasta Ripiena – believe the hype,

and order the arancini

62 Food and drink news Chefs come home, and

loads of new places open (no connection)

68 al fresco Quick, there’s the sun! Let’s eat outside!

a man’s world

67 seb barrett ’Cos after all, he’s just a man...

Lifestyle

77 Try 5 Doin’ it for the kids 79 Health & beauty Coolsculpting in Cotham

sport

81 RUGBY A fresh case for the defence

Business

89 business insider Would anyone like to borrow

our tent? Plus a round-up of the best private clinics

Property

125 showcase Are friends electric with jealousy? They

will be if you move into this Art Deco penthouse

Regulars

8 spotlight 11 instas 82 society 130 bristol lives Julz Davis, and the return of Carnival Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Seb Barrett, Will Carpenter Advertising manager Lily Dalzell lily.dalzell@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager James Morgan james.morgan@mediaclash. co.uk Account manager Jake Newland jake.newland@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager/production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 5

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spotlight

Community

pit start

A flautist from Würth Philharmonic peeks round the door – the last time anyone would check on the audience from backstage

Anybody wishing to witness the best and worst sides of Bristol should spend a little time in the Bearpit. Not alone after dark, ideally.

“It has a way of showing you the worst of human nature and, a split second later, the best,” says Miriam Delogu, MD of Bearpit CIC. “It’s not an easy place to work and survive: it takes relentless perseverance.”

Because yes, the roundabout with the big bear sees its fair share of antisocial behaviour, from tagging to more serious crime – but set against this are examples of goodness and positivity that take your breath away – the efforts of the Incredible Edible Bristol volunteers, for example, who maintain a community garden here for everyone to use and enjoy, and the markets, events and initiatives. At a community action event this February, hundreds of people turned out to show their support for the area.

The latest hopes for the Bearpit are to see it transformed into a food innovation hub; a ‘green gateway’ to the city, with three spaces: food, community and incubation. The project hopes to create solutions for the global food challenge, showcase new ways to grow food, use it with new technologies, and partner with organisations and people across the city.

For more: www.thecirclebristol.org

Music

hall shook up

Take a look at the photo below. It was taken by our friend Colin Moody; you probably recognise his style by now. The photo shows Catalin Desaga, lead violinist of the Würth Philharmonic, greeting orchestra members leaving the stage.

Just another night at Colston Hall? Think again. This was the last time that anyone ever played the auditorium, which has now closed for its major refurbishment. The Würth were in on 8 June, showcasing some of the world’s most talented young classical musicians, as well as superstar conductor/violinist Maxim Vengerov; on 10 June, Sensory Symphony offered an interactive audio-visual history of the Hall by filmmakers Limbic Cinema, in which the audience had the chance to stand on the stage and channel the memories of all the great performers who have played here.

And while the Hall will continue to bring us world-class music at other Bristol venues, its doors are now closed until 2020, when it will unveil its remodelled main hall and The Lantern, the reopened cellars – and that yet-to-be announced new name. Now that will be news.

For more: www.colstonhall.org transform-the-hall

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

Public art

tails of the unexpected

Yes, yes, we know, we know – we featured Gromit Unleashed 2 on our previous news page, too; deal with it. It’s just that when we went to press with the last issue, we hadn’t had a chance to inspect the trio of groundbreaking, interactive sculptures that are set to star in this year’s trail; frankly, it’s the most exciting thing we’ve seen this month. We should probably get out more.

The Gromjet (above, top left), Gromitronic (middle) and A Grand Gromplication, unveiled on 11 June at Brabazon Hangar at Filton, were respectively created in partnership with Rolls-Royce, Renishaw UK and the University of Bristol, and feature wagging tails, flashing lights and moving eyes. Oh, and get this: Gromjet even hovers . . .

The interactive Gromits are a first for sculpture trails across the world.

There’s been no comment to date from Wallace or Feathers McGraw, who join Gromit on this year’s trail; sulking, we expect.

For more: www.gromitunleashed.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT STRIDE ON BY

There’s only one thing we love more than Bristol street art, and that’s a street-art stride-by. The indisputed master of the genre is MATTHEW HUNKIN, aka @bristolpictures, so with Upfest looming we’ve given this page over to his work

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

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Wake us up before you Go Glo

From the top of Cheltenham Road to the tip of the Gloucester Road lies a world of independent, eclectic, passionately local traders.

We’re heading under the arches and going in . . .

Photos by Tim Woolf

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

street life

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 17

architects

In a recent Gloucester Road initiative, tiny fairy doors appeared overnight on the base of trees. Adorable! But hey – if the fairies were real, and could wave a magic wand to make the street even better, what would it be?

“As Room 212 is my family home as well as my business, I’m really aware of the pollution on the high street. I’d love to get rid of the cars and go back to having a tram” – Sarah, Room 212 “If we had a magic wand, we’d wish a new, fabulous business into the old bank on the corner of Gloucester Road and Longmead Avenue – it’s such a lovely building and would make a great community space for art, or a groovy place to eat and drink” – Jill and Pam, Lunar Optical “We independent traders work so hard to create individual and unique destination shops for our customers, we could certainly do with a car parking area” – Catherine, Artemis “I’d ask the council to help us sort out the bin situation on The Promenade. There must be another way” – James, Gallimaufrey

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

i

street life

f someone was returning to central Bristol for the first time in 15 years, they’d be sure of a big surprise. It’s hard to think of a postcode that hasn’t changed for the better.

(OK, Clifton’s barely changed; but then Clifton’s always been pretty perfect.)

And while yes, of course, there’s an inevitable downside to gentrification – commercial and domestic property prices inevitably get pushed up – it’s hard to un-wish the increased vibrancy and variety that now characterises the thriving high streets and quaysides, from Harbourside to North Street to Old City; even Old Market’s on the up again. And it’s the indies who appear to be succeeding; for every chain that’s closed recently, a Bristol entrepreneur opens another branch. Vive les locals.

Possibly the most improved area of all is the Gloucester Road and Cheltenham Road. There’s still enough Stokes Croft grunge, old-school food shops and graf to appease the hipster-resistant, but the road – the longest row of indie shops in Europe, allegedly – has acquired a new confidence and buoyancy, thanks to a bunch of dedicated local traders and residents who launch regular events, parties and initiatives to keep the area firmly on everyone’s radar.

As Sarah Thorp of Room 212 told us last time we ran a profile on the street, its essential nature remains unchanged: “While businesses come and go, the spirit remains much the same; independently owned shops, funky cafés, great restaurants, trendy bars, excellent art galleries – all mixed in with traditional butchers, bakers and fruit and veg sellers”.

To explore it fully, you really need a day, with plenty of pit stops for lunch and coffee (you won’t struggle to find the perfect place). There’s no single hub to head for; interesting shops and restaurants are scattered up and down both sides of the street, interspersed with every kind of vintage and charity shop; this is where North Bristol’s old vinyl goes to die.

Sarah gives us a few more reasons to head down the If there’s a better people-watching postcode than BS7, we’ve yet to discover it Glo Road this summer. “The art – big, bright banners on lampposts along the whole length of the road, from Cox and Baloney to Horfield Common. Each of the So what’s good, and what’s new? We asked a cross-section of 32 banners shows art created by different Bristol artists, including Alex locals and Bristol food experts to share five things or places not Lucas, Hannah Broadway and Jenny Urquhart. to miss. Turns out everyone loves the Galli...

“There’s also the bold street art, from Cary Grant by Stewy Stencil merrily waving above Room 212 to the brightly painted Colab building Sarah Thorp’s favourites and the ‘Welcome to the Bristol Independent District’ wall by the Bristol Cookhouse Incredibly tasty lunches with a cookery school Arches. upstairs, and host to interesting pop-up suppers. The owner, Sam “Lovely planters of flowers and shrubs outside cafés, restaurants Waterhouse, used to be a chef in London, and a cook for celebrities. and shops cheer up the road, keep pollution at bay and keep the bees

happy, and there’ll be lots of events laid on by Gloucester Road Central Preserve Zero-waste shop. Collect your containers and top up with and Bristol Independent District (keep an eye on www.facebook.com/ dry goods, oils and natural beauty products. It’s next door to Room GlosRdCentral and www.facebook.com/BristolsIndieDistrict).

212, so brings a new meaning to popping round to the neighbours for a “There are more and more great new restaurants and cafés springing cup of sugar. up. Two new vegan cafés are about to open at the lower end, and

personally I think that the lesser known top part of Gloucester Road is The Bishopston Library Only a year old, and holding its set to be the place to eat…” own against council cuts. It’s an incredibly popular venue for the

community, offering everything from kids’ storytelling to talks on the environment and sustainability.

The Gallimaufry Great food, live music, art exhibitions and a wonderfully creative ceiling.

Cafe Ronak Wonderful hippy vibe with a plant-filled garden, locally sourced produce and amazing juices.

“While businesses come and go, the Gloucester Road spirit remains much the same”

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

GLOUCESTER ROAD YOUR QUICK GUIDE TO SOME OF THE BEST BUSINESSES IN THE AREA

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP • Contemporary menu for brunch and dinner • Locally roasted coffee • Fully licensed • Art gallery • Live music • Event space

108 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RU 0117 923 2858 - info@theartshousecafe.co.uk

REASON INTERIORS 73 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8AS; 0117 329 4505

GRAPE AND GRIND 101 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8AT; 0117 924 8718

GLOUCESTER ROAD FITNESS 306 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8PD; 0117 924 4354

PEARCE’S HARDWARE 295 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8PE; 0117 924 5787

NOLA INTERIORS 168 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8NT; 07909 308668

ARTEMIS 214 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8NU; 0117 924 1003

Street life

The Galli – so well-loved, our local and food experts recommended it thrice

Jess Carter, Crumbs magazine editor The Gallimaufrey Welcoming, chilled, and buzzy, this place is as spot -on for a night out with drinks and live music as it is for lunchtime work meetings and top evening meals.

Bakers and Co Really (really) good brunches here, and the team have always been so friendly and totally on it when I’ve been in.

Bomboloni The kind of Italian neighbourhood joint that everyone wants at the end of their road; lovely people, really cracking food, hearty portions and good value.

Tincan Great coffee and snacks, as well as a cool, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy ’em in.

Pigsty Just opened here (in a former pig butchers shop on the stretch called Pigsty Hill – what are the chances?), they’ve extended the menu of their Cargo joint and have great porky (and veggie) food on the go.

“The art banners add vibrancy and creativity, reflecting the nature and ethics of the road ”

Catherine Amesbury, Artemis jewellery The art banners I love how these add a splash of vibrancy and creativity that reflect the nature and ethics of Gloucester Road.

Room 212 Sarah Thorp has done an incredible job of providing a platform for local artists to show and sell their work.

Gloucester Road Central Created to highlight traders on the central part of Gloucester Road – we have joined together to share events, ideas and information from our vibrant community.

Tinto Lounge A comfortable and friendly café-bar with a relaxed atmosphere, where you can enjoy an all-day breakfast.

The Reclaimers Reclamation Plenty of vintage and upcycled goods to be discovered – a gem of a place.

Natalie Brereton, food writer The Gallimaufry Fantastic all-rounder. Wonderful food, a great atmosphere and lovely staff. Perfect for lunch, dinner or just drinks with friends.

The Bootlegger The place you go when you decide to have ‘one more drink’ and it’s late. Always buzzing, with a great selection of cocktails.

The Library Wine Bar A delicious range of vinos by candlelight in this gorgeous wine bar. What’s not to like?

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 21

Environmentally friendly, water and natural oil based paint in beautiful, harmonious colours. The water based paints are virtually VOC free and made in the UK with 50% recycled tins.

Textiles and rugs which are made entirely from recycled plastic bottles but with the soft look and feel of wool and jute. Machine washable.

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“Home of the world famous dirty, dirty fries!”

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street life

“Always moving with customer preferences, Joe’s now bakes and sells artisan bread, including sourdough and rye” Romantica A fabulous selection of cards and toys at great-value prices.

Finola kelly, Nola Interiors Artemis Contemporary jewellery and gift shop that offers a bespoke jewellery service if you want something a bit more individual.

Room 212 Colourful and cheerful gallery and gift shop that supports local artists and wares.

Boston Tea Party Large, light, contemporary space with quirky design features. This was my go-to place for a coffee and a break when I was refurbishing Nola Interiors.

Bomboloni I love Italian food and have been here several times. From pasta to sea bream, the food is delicious with a lovely, relaxed ambience.

Joe’s Bakery A long-standing traditional bakery and a Gloucester Road icon. Having grown up in Bishopston I have fond memories of their delicious fresh bread. Always moving with customer preferences, now baking and selling artisan bread including sourdough and rye bread.

Buster* was really hoping that Gavin** bought an extra sausage roll from Joe’s *** (* We have no idea if he’s called Buster **His owner may well not be called Gavin *** Joe’s bakery is owned by a guy called Martin)

The Urban Standard Modern and contemporary, The Urban Standard’s seasonal menu is one of my favourites. Plus, they do a great brunch with a banging Bloody Mary.

The Hobgoblin Three words. Dirty, dirty fries.

Jill sunderland and Pam Eastman, Lunar Optical Pearce’s Hardware We love this place; it’s a cornucopia of all things household and more; if you wonder if they might have something, then they probably do!

Fig Beautiful things, made by beautiful people that make beautiful gifts.

Artemis A gem for jewellery, scarves and lots of lovely ‘things’; along with Fig we are never short of ideas for gifts for friends and family.

Oddsocks Great for quality children’s footwear, expertly fitted for little, growing feet.

A sneaky extra....

Giles Butchers Traditional butchers famous for their good quality and locally sourced meat.

Staff are very helpful and friendly, too!

Lucy Sharratt, local resident The Library Wine Bar A cosy and atmospheric wine bar with an extensive wine list to suit all tastes. On Friday evening, with complimentary bread and cheese, it’s a perfect start to the weekend.

The Parlour Serves delicious ice cream and desserts, perfect for taking my nieces to when they visit.

Casa Mexicana (just off Gloucester Road) Serves hearty Mexican food; you really feel like you are in Mexico. I am vegetarian, and the menu has lots of options.

Greens (just off Gloucester Road) For a more formal, local dining experience, Greens is my favourite. They have a separate vegetarian menu as well. A place to go for special occasions.

Bakers and Co My favourite place for brunch at the weekend; I love the smashed avocado on sourdough and chocolate milk for an indulgent, Saturday morning treat.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 23

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We have an impressive 6,000sq ft of workout space with areas dedicated to cardio, resistance, free weights and functional training. We also have a great studio that offers a wide range of classes from indoor cycling to sculpt. The team at GRF are extremely passionate about health and fitness; they are on hand to welcome anyone from complete beginners to seasoned athletes looking to diversify training techniques.

CONTACTUS 302-306 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 8PD. T: 0117 9244354 | E: info@gloucesterroadfitness.com | W: www.gloucesterroadfitness.com  Gloucester Road Fitness - Bristol  @gloucesterroadfit

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the arts s n a p s h o t s o f b r i s t o l’ s c u lt u r a l l i f e

Ten Years of Colour – Gold, a seven-colour screen print signed and numbered by Inkie, costs a mere 125 of your Earth pounds from the Upfest gallery - head to the festival 28-30 June to see Ink painting it live . . www.upfest.co.uk

Ten-0

It’s not just our cover star Jody who’s going for gold at this year’s Upfest; another mega Bristol Life favourite, Inkie, is also marking the festival’s 10th anniversary with a gleaming little number called Ten Years of Colour – Gold.

Inkie – Tom Bingle to his mum – is one of the best-known graffiti writers to have emerged from the 1980s Bristol scene. Painting alongside 3D and Banksy, coming second in the 1989 World Street Art Championships, the ‘Kingpin’ was arrested as the head of 72 other writers in the UK’s largest ever graffiti bust, Operation Anderson.

No need to call ‘Five-O!’ any more, though, with everyone queuing up to buy his distinctive Ink Nouveau-style prints and original works. And great to see IKB getting on board with this year’s celebrations . . .

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 27

What’s on 22 June – 22 July

Our pick of the Bristol pops over the coming weeks

Disillusioned by the GWR London to Temple Meads service, Little Dragon opt for a novel arrival at St Philip's Gate

exhibitions Until 24 June

grayson perry Last chance to see the arch tapestry-botherer's Vanity of Small Differences exhibition; City Museum & Art Gallery, bristolmuseums.org.uk

Until 30 June

angela lizon The Bristol artist’s new assemblage of paintings, using old photos and slides; That Art Gallery; thatartgallery.com

Until 1 July

no man’s land An exhibition focusing on the rarely seen female perspective on World War I, at Bristol Cathedral; bristol-cathedral.co.uk

Laura Robertson and Mary Price Two Bristol artists display their own paintings of Frieda Kahlo, to tie in with the exhibition currently on show at the V&A; Room 212; room212.co.uk

Until 8 July

Alex Cecchetti Alex’s exhibition, At the Gates of the Music Palace, brings together performance, drawing, painting, sculpture and sound installation, turning the gallery into a 3D concert in which visitors are invited to contribute to the musical score; at Spike Island; spikeisland.org.uk andrew mania: Snapshot of a collection Andrew presents a dialogue between

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

collected 1930-40s photos, selected for their aesthetic or mystery. At Spike Island; spikeisland.org.uk

Until 11 August

No, not an ice-lolly exchange; it’s the collection of David Hurn at Martin Parr Foundation; martinparrfoundation.org

MARLA ALLISON: PAINTER FROM THE DESERT Native American artist Marla draws on her Laguna Pueblo heritage, and influences such as Picasso, to create strong acrylics; Rainmaker, rainmakerart.co.uk

Until 23 September

Until 9 September

Theatre & shows

in relation What happens when art and love collide? The work of nine couples who made an indelible mark on British art; RWA; rwa.org.uk

Until 15 September magnum swaps

bristol music Using stories contributed by people from all over the city to chronicle the history of music in Bristol; M Shed; bristolmuseums.org.uk

Until 23 June

miss saigon It’s basically Madam Butterfly set in ’Nam, in Sir Cam’s new production; at Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

what’s on the ladyboys of bangkok Celebrating 20 diamantéd years, TLBOB head to the Downs.

“Nobody leaves without a smile on their face,” they promise. ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk DoppelDänger Experimental live music and Baroque-pop mash-ups; gendertwisting visuals and Gothic storytelling – by She Goat; at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

thriller live Obviously, it’s not just the Thriller video, or we’d all be out back on St Augustine’s after ten minutes; instead, it’s a good two hours of hits from rock to disco in a moonwalk of a show in homage to Michael; at Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

welcome to thebes . . . and meet the Olivier Awardwinners of the future, as Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s graduating students present an urgent, thrilling and epic play for our time; TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com These violin delights have violin ends; it's R&J, in a Lido left Jimmy has many rivers to cross before reaching Harbourside below Laura Robertson's Frida and Friends at Room 212

Until 29 July (selected dates) romeo and juliet It’s Verona, but not as you know it; Bristol’s site-specific ninjas Insane Root take the Bard’s duellin’ and lovin’ to Eastville Park Old Swimming Pool Garden; insaneroot.co.uk

25-30 June

flashdance The ’80s-tastic musical about holding onto your dreams, love and legwarmers against all odds; Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com nachos A rough-round-the-edges yet diligent DEA agent is given the assignment of a lifetime: stop the flow of illegal tasty nachos flooding Stateside, end the murderous crisp war once for all, and take down the Kingpin permanently. It can only be The Wardrobe’s summer pastiche... thewardrobetheatre.com the elephant man What with The Grinning Man, BOV’s enjoying a bit of a circus freak beano; this one’s a bit less frolicksome, being Bernard Pomerance’s multi-awardwinning play exploring changes in perception, morality and humanity via the cruel treatment of the luckless, disfigured Joseph Merrick; bristololdvic.org.uk

4-7 July

La Fille mal gardée Birmingham Royal Ballet mix classical ballet with comedy, a clog-dancing dame and a cute pony; Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

10-14 July

anne boleyn Passive victim? Pawn of an ambitious family? Sexual predator, and all-round little madam? Henry’s second wife takes centre stage in a play first commissioned for The Globe, and reminds us once again to be careful what we wish for; at TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com birdsong The perennially popular stage version of the Sebastian Faulks novel is revived at Bristol Old Vic, to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I; bristololdvic.org.uks

25 June -7 July

26 June-7 July

An Elephant in the Garden Escaping the Allies from the West and the Russians from the East, a trio of refugees meets an RAF officer, a homeless school choir on the run from the Nazis and American tanks appearing over the horizon; TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com

9-14 July

Until 30 June

above

6-7 July

11-14 July

parlour games A cross-dressing comedy for anyone who enjoys Victoria Sponge and playing with their Prince Albert; from Sharp Teeth at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

17-27 July

south western An odyssey of revenge, from the mean streets of Bristol to the cliffs of Cornwall, via Wookey Hole, Eden Project and Easton-in-Gordano services, in a spaghetti western with Cornish pasties and cider. TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.coms

Music

Until 9 September

skyline series New series of outdoor concerts: Echo & The Bunnymen and Jesus & Mary Chain, 22 June; UB40, 23 June, both at Harbourside; Future Islands and Little Dragon, 20 July St Philip’s Gate.

More tbc... www.skyline-series.com

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what’s on 22-23 June

2 July-2 September

cider salon A weekend of tastings, talks and dinners across selected independent venues; cidersalon.co.uk

Gromit Unleashed 2 The painted pooch trail is back, and this year Gromit’s joined by putative owner Wallace and archnemesis Feathers McGraw; all profits to Grand Appeal, as ever. gromitunleashed.org.uk

1 July

© Chris Bahn

togetherness The festival for human connection; at Watershed; togetherness.com

1-28 July

above,

St Pauls is back just in time for its 50th celebrations left, The Grahams bitterly regretted their decision not to travel with Little Dragon

bristol shakespeare festival Taking the Bard outdoors and to unusual venues; everything from traditional productions to the more out-there; bristolshakespearefestival.org.uk

2-15 July

bristol pride The annual celebration of the LGBT+ community; a week of partying, theatre, comedy, dance, tribute acts and – yes! – dog shows.

Alexandra Burke headlines on 14 July’s Pride Day; bristolpride.co.uk

7 July

23-30 June

Clifton International Festival of Music Bristol’s most exciting annual summer classical music event; tickets from colstonhall.org

30 June

suzanne vega The folk-tinged American singer songwriter, whose Solitude Standing was in practically everyone's record collection back in the '80s, comes to Bristol; at St George's; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk bristol summer time The eight-hour family-friendly party you’ll want to attend this summer: a celebration of all things diverse, with some of the best artists gracing many of your favourite festivals this year; Trinity; 3ca.org.uk

10 July-5 August

rivertown Colston Hall and St George’s bring the music of America’s heartland to Bristol once again; Graham Nash, Rosanne Cash, Steve Earle & The Dukes and The Barr Brothers headline; various venues; tickets colstonhall.org

Comedy 2 July

closer each day The ongoing improv comedy soap bubble continues to froth away amusingly at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com david baddiel: my family: not the sitcom David riffs on memory, ageing, infidelity, dysfunctional relatives, moral policing on social media, golf, and obviously, gay cats. At Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

8 July

jason manford: muddle class The amiable working-class lad’s moved up in the world – but who is he anymore? At Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

festivals Until 24 June

bristol refugee festival A month-long celebration of the many ways that refugees have contributed to life in this city; bristolrefugeefestival.org

3 July

st pauls carnival Returning in time to celebrate its 50th anniversary, Carnival represents the best of African Caribbean culture, as well as the diversity, creativity and vibrancy of Bristol; we’re going to go right ahead and call it iconic. stpaulscarnival.net

20-22 July

harbour festival Used to be just a flotillla on the harbour; now it’s a solid weekend of dance, music and arts all across the city centre; Jimmy Cliff, Grandmaster Flash and Trojan Soundsystem headline. bristolharbourfestival.co.uk

Other 23-25 June

dogfest Hosted by supervet Noel Fitzpatrick, at Ashton Court; dog-fest.co.uk

24 June

bristol gaming market The first gaming market to come to the South West. Head to the Passenger Shed for video games, tabletop games and plenty of stuff for sale; bristolgamingmarket.com

27-30 June

cinema rediscovered Classics and rare movies, back up on the big screen where they belong; various cinemas, book watershed.co.uk

dan snow ‘The History Guy’ relates historical facts relating to Brizzle; The Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com

7 July

the gin bus All aboard the double-decker for Foozie’s latest alcohol-fulled scenic trip round the city, in a collab with Martin Miller’s gin; foozie.co.uk

8 July

IT20 Men’s Cricket England face world no. 1 Test side India; set to be the highlight of somebody’s summer; at The Brightside, gloscricket.co.uk UK rum festival Prefer rum to gin? No probs, because Passenger Shed is set to be awash with the stuff. Look out for the secret tiki room... ukrumfestivals. com

12 July

dr phil hammond: happy birthday NHS? Dr Phil looks back to the start of the NHS and forward (?) to the future; Arnos Vale, arnosvale.org.uk

Booking now 11 September

the downs Headlined this year by Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Paul Weller, Orbital, Goldie and Basement Jaxx; thedownsbristol.com

18 October

joanna lumley The fabulousity that is Joanna brings her live tour, It’s All About Me, to Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

7 May-8 June 2019

matilda the musical The RSC’s runaway hit, based on the Roald Dahl classic and with tunes from Tim Minchin, comes to Bristol Hippodrome; atgtickets.com n

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flag

sign of the times Graffiti and its gentler cousin, street art, have now become so legit that thousands of top international artists bid for a chance to paint at Upfest each year. Even Matt Groening of The Simpsons has come on board for the festival’s 10th anniversary!

Not bad, for an art form that began with a bunch of taggers being chased out of underpasses by the Five-O . . .

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street art

U And the piece we’re going to miss the most from last year? This mural of John Lennon by Kobra and crew, on the side of the Tobacco Factory. But then that’s Upfest for you; it’s always a case of hello, goodbye...

pfest – or as it likes to be called on formal occasions, the Urban Art Fetival – began with a few hundred people watching 50 artists. Ten years on, it attracts over 50,000 people to the streets of BS3, and is the biggest street art festival in Europe. It’s all a very, very long way from the days of Operation Anderson, when graffiti artists could expect a visit from the police, and a night in the cells was almost a rite of passage.

Stephen Hayles has organised the festival from the beginning. Most days, he can be found in his permanent Upfest gallery on North Street – further proof that what began as a shared love of an underground art form has since put down firm, long-lasting roots in Bristol.

While the walls of BS3 are transformed each year by a fresh series of paintings – it’s always a bittersweet experience to see your firm favourites vanish beneath a new, if amazing, piece – the Upfest gallery still has Gemma Compton’s blue birds, flowers and butterflies, from when she was Festival Artist in 2014. We don’t blame them for not changing it; we wouldn’t have, either. The cover we did with Gemma that year is still one of our all-time favourites, though this year’s with 2018 Festival Artist Jody (page 42) is right up there, too.

While the festival, which celebrates its 10th birthday this year, brings in tens of thousands of visitors to Southville, Bedminster and Ashton, at its heart is a community of artists, and it’s that community which Stephen remembers most from the early days.

“My main memory from the first Upfest in 2008 is the people; the artists. Most knew each other from their work or online links; however, for many, this was the first time they’d put names to faces and artwork, and many friendships from 2008 still exist today.”

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street art

look how upfest’s grown!

The Masonic is a prime site for epic pieces. Last year, the magic came courtsey of Will Barras and Xenz

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2008: 50 artists, 500 visitors 2009: 100 artists, 1,500 visitors 2010: 150 artists, 3,000 visitors 2011: 250 artists, 10,000 visitors 2012: 250 artists, 20,000 visitors 2013: 250 artists. 25,000 visitors 2015: 300 artists, 30,000 artists 2016: 320 artists, 40,000 visitors 2017: 350 artists, 50,000 visitors 2018: 400 artists...

street art Many years before the first Upfest – nearly 20 years ago, in fact (feeling old yet?), a little cartoon series called The Simpsons launched across the Pond and promptly took over the world. It never entered Stephen’s wildest dreams that Upfest would one day get into bed with Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie, but that’s what will be happening this summer: three of this year’s artists have been handpicked by Simpsons creator Matt Groening to bring his short-ass yellow family to life on the walls of BS3 in their own style. Hong Kong’s Bao, Bristol’s Soker and Manchester duo Nomad Clan are the chosen ones making pieces which will stay up for at least 12 months.

The partnership with The Simpsons may be the biggest to date, but there have been many other highlights. “Being able to attract artists from around the world is one of our biggest achievements, helping to keep Bristol as a leader in the creative street art world. There have been so many highlights – not least, winning best event at the very first Bristol Life Awards.We’ve partnered with some of the world’s best cartoon and animation companies, from Mr Men and Aardman, and now The Simpsons, which is kind of crazy for little old Bedminster.

“We’re also extremely proud to have supported and fundraised thousands of pounds for NACOA (National Association for Children of Alcoholics) and the great work they do giving kids a safe escape from sometimes horrific situations caused by alcoholic parents.”

A favourite from 2017 – we’re still in awe at the photo-realism of that eye;

by My Dog Sighs, in collab with Snub

It was in 2012, while the eyes of the world were on the London Olympics, that Steve and Emma began to fully grasp the potential of Upfest. “That was the first year we painted the wall of The Masonic pub on North Street. That same year, visitor numbers and the size of the festival area doubled, so at that point we really knew we had created something special.”

Upfest may come around at the same time every year, but each one results in new, unique artwork on the walls of BS3. Each year also comes with its own set of challenges and occasional nutty moments.

“From installing a two-metre bee to painting some buildings that are 50m tall there are some interesting moments. It’s one of the best things about the job – we just don’t know what we’ll be doing next, and the crazier the idea, the better,” says Steve. “The biggest challenge, and I’m sure it will always be this way, is getting the funding to put on a free event which now costs in excess of £120,000 to host. Hosting 400 artists and 50,000 visitors also has its challenges, but we’ve a dedicated crew, which most now have 10 years’ experience in pulling off such a major event in the Bristol and international street art calendar”.

Upfest runs from 28-30 July in the streets of Bedminster and Southville See www.upfest.co.uk for artist and location details NACOA helpline – 0800 3583456

street art

best of the fest As has become a tradition in this mag every June, Upfest’s Steve Hayles goes right ahead and chooses some artists to look out for at this year’s festival Jody Upfest 2018’s festival artist – we all know Jody’s story. Part of the notorious B.H.Y (Barton Hill Youth Club), he took an 18-year hiatus from the street art world before a misprint in Children of the Can forced him out of retirement.

Insane51 Insane51 started his street art career in 2006 in Athens. Inspired by huge murals in the city he finalised his first own mural in 2007. The insane aspect of his artworks is the ability to place two murals on the same surface. If you approach his murals wearing 3D glasses then you’re in for a surprise.

Nomad Clan Possibly the biggest female double act in global street art today, Cbloxx and AYLO made their début as a duo at Upfest 2017.

This year they’ll be working across two themes, tying in The Simpsons with Bristol Women’s Voice and the centenary of the suffragette movement . . . this is going to be truly special.

The London Police The London Police first started in 1998 with a passion to combine travelling and making art to create an amazing way of life. Known for their iconic LADS characters and precision marking, TLP’s work has graced the streets and galleries of 40 countries in the past 10 years.

Soker The second of three artists chosen by Matt Groening, Soker is a self-expressed graffiti writer rather than artist, and he has developed some ingenious ways to include Simpson’s characters into his wildstyle that we know Upfest fans are going to love.

Bao Hong Kong’s Bao was the third artist chosen

by Matt Groening. Bao has travelled and worked on projects in all corners of the globe including Australia, Taiwan, mainland China, Japan, Indonesia, Italy and Czech Republic and now Bristol... The Simpsons characters are going to look amazing in her unique illustrative style.

L7M Born in the countryside of Sao Paulo, Brazil, L7M had his first contact with a spray can at the age of 13 and the rest, as they say, is history. His undoubtable artistic skill cleverly mixes colours and geometry with passion, human emotion and the beauty of life.

Paris Through his studio work Paris has constantly pushed the boundaries of abstract spraypaint creations, on canvas and the streets. In 2011 Paris began working closely with UK indie rock band Coldplay, creating the album cover of Mylo Xyloto, and touring extensively with the band.

Odeith Born in Damaia, Portugal, Odeith is known throughout the street art world as a pioneer of the anthropomorphic style. His incredible pieces, often painted on 90 degree corners, create a stunning optical illusion effect.

Zoe Power Bristol-based Zoe Power works in a multitude of mediums from illustration to print and typography. At Upfest 2018, Zoe will be creating a stunning mural based around the centenary of the suffragette movement.

Caro Pepe Argentinean artist Caro Pepe will also be honouring 100 years of women’s suffrage at Upfest 2018, with a stunning portrait in her signature style that sees women with one eye obscured; a hint towards the partial view we have on reality and how misperceptions define our worlds and emotions.

Inkie One of the UK’s most charismatic graffiti writers, Inkie’s career path has been nothing short of staggering. Arrested in the ‘90s as part of Operation Anderson, he went on to become head of design for Sega and Xbox – since then he’s been an international jet setter bringing Ink Nouveau loveliness to all four corners of the globe.

One of our all-time favourite Upfest captures: Neil James Brain caught Louis Masai taking a supremely nonchalent break from painting The Last Unicorn

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Walden Lodge veranda

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

Cabans Interior

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Walden Lodge interior

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Bugail Hut

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Coastline from St Donats to Tresilian Bay

the beautiful works from local artisans and poets through to each Caban. These buildings embody ‘cwtch’, the lovely Welsh word for an affectionate hug. There’s no literal English translation, but its nearest equivalent is safe place. n

Paula Warren Hide at St Donats, Tresilian Wood St Donats, Vale of Glamorgan Tel: 07766726317/ 01446 794362 www.hide.wales

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Golden years Jody Thomas is Upfest’s Festival Artist for its 10th anniversary celebrations – and this year, he’s going for gold….

Words by Deri Robins Main photo by Neil James Brain (who just happens to be Jody’s cousin...)

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one to one

ven people who tut-tut at tagging love the work of Jody Thomas. He’s been called ‘the Christian Dior of street artists’ (hang on, didn’t we coin that phrase?), due to the high-def photorealist glamour of his images.

Jody has always straddled the worlds of fine art and graf. He may have been one of John Nation’s original Barton Hill Youth Club boys, along with Inkie and Banksy, but as he told us on a previous occasion, back in those days his style made him pretty unpopular. “The graf back then drew directly from US hip hop culture – that interested me, but my strength was in the purer form of art, and I fused the two together.

“Painting portraits and figurative work came much more naturally to me, but the tools available to us in the late 1980s were crude – mainly car paint, which had a very limited range of colours, and one nozzle that blasted the paint out. I saw a piece by 3D in Bristol around 1986; he had used a stencil on the face of a character which gave a really sharp definition, which I just couldn’t achieve freehand. I remember being roughed up by one of the graf writers from Barton Hill for ‘cheating’ because I’d used a stencil – at the time it was just me and 3D using them.”

Badass days! But let’s bring it all up to the present, and Upfest’s 10th anniversary. Have you been involved with the festival from the start?

I missed the very first Upfest in 2008, as I had only just got back into painting after an 18-year hiatus [following the notorious Operation Anderson police raids of the 1990s, Jody left the graf scene and went to art college].

It was a very low-key affair, compared to the size and scale of the festival now, with a handful of artists in the back garden of the Tobacco Factory – a humble beginning that has blossomed into the internationally acclaimed festival that we all know and love. It’s a microcosm, really, of the way that Bristol can create an incredible energy around a small scene and then evolve it into a citydefining event.

Has your style evolved since your first Upfest?

Oh yes, definitely – The first piece I painted in 2009 was a Sylvia Ji-inspired Dios de la Muerte (Lady of the Dead) at the now-defunct Try Again pub on Greenway Road.

My work was far more heavy in tone in those days; looking back over your earlier work is like seeing older pictures of your younger self, maybe catching sight of a hairstyle or clothing choice, and saying, ‘What was I thinking?’. In any artist’s life there has to be a progression, and my work has definitely become more colourful and feminine, as well as sharper and more accurate from a technical point of view.

If someone who’d never seen your work asked you how you’d describe your style, what would you say?

A little while back I saw a comment online on one of my pieces – it described me as ‘the Christian Dior of street art’ – I have to say as compliments go, and as a wonderfully generous description of my work, they don’t get much better than that! I’m still in love with the noirish, strong, feminine Art Deco paintings of Tamara De Lempicka that I saw as a young boy, that has had a big influence on my work, even to this day.

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one to one

“Upfest is a microcosm of the way that Bristol can create an incredible energy around a small scene, and then evolve it into a city-defining event ” Jody’s Cassie Meder for Upfest 2016 has been painted over; but hey, we’ll always have the print, and photos such as this one by fellow street artist D7606 @d7606

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the big interview festivals If you had to pick a favourite from your Upfest pieces down the years, which would it be?

I tend to rate my pieces in terms of ‘success’, which takes in several factors, such as the technical aspect, placement and impact of the piece as well as my general happiness about it. The piece which has scored pretty highly on all of these for me was my first Cassie Meder piece alongside the NatWest bank on North Street in 2016. I was happy with the outcome of the tall, melancholy figure she cut – the feedback I received via messages and emails over the year from people who had seen it was overwhelming.

Many people said it had affected them profoundly (even reducing several onlookers to tears); as an artist you really can’t ask for more than that, it’s incredibly humbling.

How did you feel when Steve Hayles invited you to be Festival Artist for the 10th anniversary?

Steve called last August, and said he wanted to meet me in person to speak about something. When someone says this to you, in this era of emails and text communications, they either want to tell you something bad, or ask you something nice… thankfully it was the latter, but he did say something that made me pause for thought: “This is your only chance to be festival artist; you’ll never have this opportunity to do it again,” which really stuck with me. I decided early on that I wanted to do something away from portraits, and maybe do a series of pieces. I’ve painted hands before, as they have a character and expressive quality, just like faces do, but they also pose a pretty hefty technical challenge as they are incredibly difficult to paint… the paint dripping is a familiar look for me, as my hands are often covered in paint, as are every artist’s involved with Upfest. It’s an inevitable part of the process, and I wanted to create something visually iconic and memorable.

You’ve told us that you’re painting in the run-up to the festival, too – how many pieces will you be doing altogether, and are they part of a linked set?

What have been the challenges of the pieces you’re doing this year – does working with the gold, for example, mean you need a special technique?

Painting a gold effect is difficult, as ironically you don’t use any actual gold paint at all. It’s an illusion created with shades of yellow, brown and mustard, then very careful highlighting and shadow-placement on top. It was tricky. So much so that around 75% completion, I had a wobble and had to refer back to the old Dutch masters to see how they did it. I never quit on a piece, but I came close this time around. It’s such a defeating feeling when a painting isn’t going your way, but pure euphoria when you nail it.

You’ve done a lot of mural work for restaurants recently – everyone seems to want a slice of Bristol street art luxe – is this a growing side of your work?

I’ve been fortunate over the last year, as my own personal work – the more floral pieces – have coincided with the branding of several new businesses including three new restaurants – Pasture on Portwall Lane, The Florist on Park Street and their flagship bar and restaurant in Liverpool. The timing couldn’t have been better, as a very prominent wall above Vincenzo’s Italian on Park Street, a spot I had had my eye on for many years, was offered to me and I jumped at the chance. It’s part of the fabric of Bristol establishments now to invite local artists in to add to their interior spaces with original art around their walls – they clearly see the value it adds. I work closely with interior designers and architects to make my work an integral part of the buildings, and The Florist pretty much gave me carte blanche, along with another Bristol favourite, Gemma Compton, who did some striking work on the interiors as well.

What else are you working on at the moment?

I’ve just come back from Hong Kong painting live at the Affordable Art Fair there and I have a constant queue of private commissions in my studio, but my main aim is to put together a new collection for a solo show I’m planning; but it’s a way off yet...

Catch Jody at Upfest, and see his work and prints for sale on his website, and at Art Salon in Bath www.jodyart.co.uk www.artsalon.co.uk

I plan to paint a few smaller pieces in the run-up, and one big wall over the weekend, and yes, I plan to link them with the gold paint theme…

No, Mr Thomas, we expect you to paint...

Hand model Michelle Beresford @saltandtomatoes; photo Paul Whitfield @paulwhitfieldphotography

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BRISTOL HEROES

You come to Bristol for the lifestyle – but you stay for the festivals . . .

Words and pictures by Colin Moody 48 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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elcome to Bristol: city of festivals. No really. I have lost count of how many there are. There must be hundreds. Festivals of ideas, balloons, art and food; green festivals, cultural festivals, some that take a rest for a year or two, and then come back hard – really go for it, you know what I mean?

I’ve attended many festivals over the years because I work at BCFM, Bristol Community Radio, and they roll the amps, mixing desks and mics to some of the lesserknown events in town that are technically micro festivals – and I’ve seen people having the time of their life at them.

You can see some of them here, along with betterknown festivals. It’s a kind of festival eco-system, here in Bristol. Some may only come here for the headline festivals, like the Balloon Fiesta, but for those of us who live here, and know that when the leaves start to grow tall, stacks of speakers will be dusted off, and printers will be busy delivering flyers and programmes by the bus- and bikeload all over town.

To put it succinctly: I came to Bristol for the lifestyle, but I stayed for the festivals.

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Love Saves The Day. I was told by everyone in the office, “You are too old for Love Saves The Day”– so then I just had to go. I am bookending this series with Love Saves The Day shots, because for me, festival season really kicks off with this one, and I saw so much, perhaps too much, and wanted to mark it here. This is a woman who climbed to the top of the platform to express just how much cider and this festival means to her.

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Bristol Pride Festival.

This is one of the festivals that makes me proud of my city. The biggest and the best, with so many film, theatre and activities connected with it. Media is still catching up with some of the incredible talent in the LGBT+ community and engaging with them fully. Come on over Channel 4.

Where are the dedicated LGBT+ TV and radio shows?

Bristol Community Radio has most of them and they always rock up to the festival. Tune in. I look forward to seeing everyone shine again this year.

“This is a woman who climbed to the top of the platform to express just how much cider and this festival means to her”

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Celebrating Age Festival.

When I am 80 plus I hope that I will be able to kick my legs up as high as this. Probably not. But that is why this festival is so needed. One that shows how forward thinking we can be as a city to make Bristol a city where our elders are a major part of the plan. Lynchpins. Not cast away to care. There are so many organisations that work with the elders of Bristol that come together with packed programmes.

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BRISTOL JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL. I’ve been listening to Fred Wesley and Pee Wee Ellis (seen here) for years. It was a great pleasure to interview them for the radio a couple of years ago as the festival reached out to engage with many different and diverse communities.

They stood up under that jazz club-esque single downlight (it was actually the lobby of the hotel), and I got the shot I wanted. They clearly love jazz and blues as much as ever.

Music-wise we are spoiled for festivals, and having icons of the styles associated integrated into the festivals is what we do so well.

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THAI FESTIVAL Desy Thai ran her festival a couple of years ago in Millennium Square and there was the most amazing display of fashion I’ve seen anywhere. They were so busy that they hardly had time to pause for a photo. You can see they want to get on. With these smaller festivals that represent some of the diverse cultures in our city, I am always welcomed and encouraged to get involved. Now hurry up, take your shot, we got a fashion parade to put on.

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EASTON FOOD FESTIVAL With a strong Somali presence, this festival had music, food and culture aplenty. One of the most powerful things I’ve ever seen was this young boy, getting up on the small stage and rapping for his friends before the DJ started.

We are a city that wants to reach out to all its citizens, and festival season is the time and place for it.

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“We are a city that wants to reach out to all its citizens, and festival season is the time and place for it ” 50 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

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BACK TO LOVE SAVES THE DAY I know. I have missed out dozens of other really cool festivals. What about all the theatre ones? Didn’t see a green issue being covered, Mr Moody? Don’t worry; I will be back with some more soon. Maybe you know of some that need covering. Let me know.

I was captivated by the woman on this chairo-plane ride at the festival.

She was as free as a bird up there, hair in the wind, and yes I know that it may have started with a local cider, but most of it is pure joy.

Everyone said, get home, bolt the door, a storm is coming and those skies behind are bruising.

I think she has somehow, through force of will, kept the elements at bay.

So whatever your summer festival plans, tap in, chill out, and enjoy. See you there.

Follow Colin on Twitter @moodycolin Instagram @moodycolin319

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BALLOON FIESTA A few years ago I was asked by a balloon sponsor to be part of the Fiesta. I had never been before, and had never got so close to the burners, the baskets and the crews. For some, balloons are Bristol, and this festival, which makes the city a lot of tourist cash, is the festival.

While everyone is looking at balloons I am also keeping a close eye on people. Their sense of joy, disappointment (if the weather bails), hope and ‘wooooow’ is palpable.

This shot is landing, not take off. It was shot after our balloon had landed; because the wind was so tame, a dozen and more airborne crews were all aiming for the same landing spot. How many bottles of booze did the field owner get that day, given the tradition of giving bubbly for every basket downed in your field?

A passing father wanted to get his family a closer look. I legged it over and got the shot.

I like the way their heads are quite literally in among the balloons.

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

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Meet the indie retailer

Just a few of the amazing independent shops we’re lucky enough to have in the city Alex Jones

Kate Tarling

Edith Wilmot Florist 0117 950 8589; www.edithwilmot.co.uk The Edith Wilmot brand is very well known in Bristol – how did it all begin?

The Edith Wilmot business we see today has grown through many phases over the years, and we like to think that we are now one of the best-established providers of flowers throughout Bristol. It is a family business through and through. The shop was opened in Redland in 1895, by the original Edith Wilmot; my grandparents bought it from her, and then my parents grew the business for many years until I took over the reins in 2006.

What do you most enjoy about running a shop in Bristol?

Bristol is my home town, and to be able to contribute to the local economy and take our place in the local community gives me huge satisfaction. I am privileged to work with our customers daily, and there is nothing better than dealing with such fabulous people.

Please describe your shop We focus on providing a great British seasonal selection, making sure that we always start the day with a really good variety of plants and flowers, so that there¹s something for everyone. Our reputation has been built on providing a very high quality product and a friendly, supportive service. I hope our customers would agree.

FIG 0117 9244898; www.figshop.co.uk

Alex Jones

Kate Tarling

Marcelle Fletcher

Please tell us about your shop Fig is an art and crafts gallery and gift shop run by five Bristol artists and makers. Our purple-fronted shop is based on Gloucester Road, and between us we make and sell silver jewellery, screen prints, glass ornaments and jewellery, embroidered pictures, printed textile cushions and lampshades.

We also sell beautiful ceramics made by three different guest makers.

What do you most enjoy about running a shop?

Working in the shop gives us all direct access to our lovely customers and, as artists, that can be invaluable in terms of feedback. We listen to their responses to our work, and that can sometimes lead us into new and exciting directions. It also means that we can offer a very personal and individual service, making memorable one-off commissions.

Which other shops and retailers do you admire?

We’re very lucky to be based in the central area of Gloucester Road, as we are surrounded by brilliant shops such as Icon Beauty opposite, Pawson’s greengrocers down the road, (the best fruit and veg) Joe’s bakery (where you can buy incredible artisan loaves) and our fellow art galleries, Room 212 and Paper Plane.

Movement Boutique 0117 373 7675; www.movementboutique.co.uk Please tell us a little about your shop I have a unique, independent lifestyle boutique, based on Alma Road, off Whiteladies Road.

I sell lovely womenswear, menswear, accessories, apothecary and homeware. I sell clothing from Scandinavia, Britain and other European countries.

Many of my products are from ethical and sustainable sources; they are very stylish and a bit different to anything you might find on the high street.

What is your favourite part of the job?

When new customers discover us and say what a lovely boutique we have. We have been described as ‘Bristol’s hidden gem’. I love the fact that many customers come to us because the boutique has been recommended to them by their friends or family. I also enjoy constantly researching new and exciting labels to introduced to Bristol.

Which accomplishment has made you proudest?

I am really proud of creating a loyal customer base. Customers pop in to chat, we are like a little community hub!

I am also proud to have been able to source high quality and stylish products that are from sustainable sources. Organic cottons and natural dyes really make a difference.

Gail Crispin

THE MEws bridal 0117 973 8784; www.themewsbridal.com

Marcelle Fletcher

Gail Crispin

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

If you could give one bit of advice to those starting out in retail, what would it be?

Be fearless in your approach. If you want something, no- one’s going to be more passionate about that than you are.

Please tell us a little about your shop Bringing fashion and bridal together in a combination that brides crave, The Mews provides that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ for the bride who is looking for something unique, yet effortlessly beautiful. The Mews began on a quaint, little mews in the heart of Clifton Village, where Mews HQ is still is set, in an old Victorian pharmacy. Soon after, we opened our second boutique in Notting Hill, just a stone’s throw away from the famous Portobello Road. In Autumn of 2016, we took French bridal couture stateside with our third boutique in New York. The Mews Bridal exclusively stocks the sought-after Parisian designers Rime Arodaky, Laure de Sagazan, and Margaux Tardits. At last: bridal, à la mode.

Which accomplishment has made you the most proud?

Opening our Mews boutiques both in London and New York and having my beautiful daughters join the company.

Your home, Our visions...

Together creating inspiring spaces

Visit our show room today or get in touch to book your design consultation.

Style and Sophistication 36 The Mall, Clifton Village, Bristol, BS8 4DS sales@sjpinteriordesign.co.uk www.sjpinteriordesign.co.uk

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD VENICE CLUTCH, £275 Cut from iridescent green leather, and adorned with the famous orb emblem From Garment Quarter 23-25 Penn Street www.garmentquarter.com

CLUTCH CONTROL

Little bags. Overgrown purses.

Bag-ettes. Bumbags slung across the chest, and renamed 'cross-body' bags (fooling nobody). They're small, they're clever, and they're having a moment NICKY JAMES MINI CROSS-BODY BAG, £28 A mini-version of Nicky's popular cross-body, in a range of bold tribal prints From Pod Company 24 The Mall, Clifton www.thepodcompany.co.uk KATE SHERIDAN SMALL TAB BAG , £185 A clean, simple shape makes this a perfect day bag; it's made from vegetable tanned leather with a pleasingly tumbled texture From Maze, 26 The Mall, Clifton www.mazeclothing.co.uk

ZEBRA SQUARE PURSE KEYRING, £39 No actual zebras were harmed in the making of this cowhide purse, which is admittedly scant consolation for the cows. An ideal bag-within-a-bag From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street www.mintvelvet.co.uk

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

PERRIN PARIS LA MINAUDIÈRE PINK RAFFIA BAG, £1,190 Ooh la la, and more la. At 4.5x7" this is tiny, but all a girl really needs is a phone, credit card, keys, mirror and lippy, are we right?

From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com

ED’S CHOICE

ROUND RATTAN BAG, £40 If you don't happen to have offspring conveniently backpacking in Bali, just head to the Gloucester Road; Fox & Feather'll sort you out From Fox & Feather, 43 Gloucester Road www.foxandfeather.co.uk

RUTH PULLAN POUCH BAG, £70 Beautifully crafted, perfectly proportioned, and with a new-leather smell you'll be tempted to dab behind your ears From Strange Bristol www.strangebristol.com

SOPHIA AND MATT BOX BAG, £99.95 OK, not so tiny; indeed, big enough to fit a small laptop or big iPad – but styled in the oh-sopopular, cross-body urban design From Amulet, 39A Cotham Hill www.amuletboutique.co.uk

BUTCHI + GOSMOS Z-PRINT BUMBAG, £22 You don't need to be going to a festival to wear this bag; the style police will issue a permit for you to use it for everyday purposes, too. Phew.

From That Thing, 45-47 Stokes Croft www.thatthing.co

LANVIN LEATHER CLUTCH, £145 A one-off from vintage fashion store Village Green; plenty more to choose from if you miss out on this sold-out-everywhere beauty. With wrist strap for jaunty swinging From Village Green, 5 The Mall. Clifton www.villagegreenboutique.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 57

Serving the Finest Authentic Indian Cuisine in Bristol, Avon Contact us today to book a table and sample our unforgettable Indian food.

Something for everyone...

By having such a varied and diverse menu, we make sure that every visitor to Urban Kohinoor finds a dish that they fall in love with. From a variety of traditional options to impressive specials, our food menu is filled with meals that offer a mixture of sensational tastes and flavours.

OPENING HOURS Monday Closed Tuesday - Sunday 5:30 PM - 10:45 PM www.urban-kohinoor.com

Urban Kohinoor 211 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, Avon, BS8 2XS Tel: 0117 973 1313 / 07576 804136 Email: info@urban-kohinoor.com

Pasta Ripiena

The buzz that heralded the second opening from team Pasta Loco was off the scale – but does it live up to the hype? Silly question . . .

H

ospitality seems to be more effortless for some than for others. We’ve encountered old-school-British waiters as grumpy Basil Fawlty (lactose-intolerant? We’ve met staff who came out in hives at the sight of customers). At the other end of the scale, we’ve basked in the warm charm of maître d’s at the top of their game; the kind you find in almost every Italian restaurant, in other words.

They might be as Bristol as a Thatchers balloon flying over Brunel’s bridge, but Italian blood flows through the veins of cousins Dominic Borel and Ben Harvey. This may well be why their Pasta Loco on Cotham Hill became an overnight success. Think inventive, excellent food, complemented by a FOH who writes your name at the top of the menu – maybe even adding a cheeky comment, if you’re a regular – and no wonder you have to give several month’s notice to bag a table at weekends.

Bucking the trend of most restaurateurs, whose second branches tend to be bigger than the original, the cookin’ cousins have chosen an even smaller space than Loco, on St Stephen’s Street, for their new venture.

Naturally, as soon as Pasta Ripiena opened, demand was off the scale – you should plan your visit well in advance, although if you like to live dangerously you could gamble on the few seats set aside each day for hopeful walk-bys.

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

The Ripiena site once housed Mr Wolf ’s nightclub – a popular stomping ground for the young Ben and Dom. Nostalgia for those salad days (lol) was a big reason that they were so keen to add it to their portfolio.

The kitchen is under the culinary command of Joe Harvey, Ben’s younger brother, who earned his sabatiers at the likes of Bell’s Diner and Bellita. It’s only been open for eight weeks, but already feels like a Bristol institution.

The décor’s stripped down, tall shelves over the diners’ heads offer space-saving shelving for the olive oil and tinned tomatoes, herbs flourish in window boxes, and the open kitchen is ready for action.

Although neither Joe nor Dom was in on the night we visited, we can’t imagine how the food or service could have been better. Waiters Felix and Madga strike the elusive, magical balance between friendliness and unobtrusiveness (with just a soupçon of quirkiness) that makes every customer feel like a valued guest.

Manning the kitchen were Frankie and Jonny (I know; they couldn’t have arranged it better). When we asked Felix if Jonny had an ‘h’ in his name – we do aim for accuracy here – back snapped the quip: “No; but what he lacks in an h, he makes up for in pasta brilliance”.

Funny, and accurate. But before we even got to the pasta bit of the meal – ripiena means ‘stuffed pasta’ – we had to choose us a couple of starters. This was a challenge, as

restaurant

we wanted to eat all four, but I totally lucked out with the arancini. I’ve had far too many bland, stodgy versions of these little risotto critters in the past, but Ripiena takes them to a whole new level, with hazelnut pesto kicking into the creamy, melting mozzarella, and a piquant, herby romesco sauce for the dipping. We’re delighted to learn that Joe’s not one for changing his menu every three hours or so, preferring his dishes to bed in; we’ll be ordering these on our next visit, which frankly can’t come too soon.

The second starter of pork belly cubes were tender and succulent, the fat as sweet as a nut, and deftly paired with tender Wye Valley asparagus and a sage-flecked dollop of quince purée; pasta may rule the roost at Ripiena, but it doesn’t have the final word.

Except when it comes to the main courses. Choosing just one from the enticing rotollos, mezzalunas, triangolis, tortellinis and raviolis was even trickier than picking the starter, though I suspect we could have stuck a pin in blindfold and still struck gold.

A dish of mezzaluna saw the half-moon pasta parcels stuffed to bursting point with bosky black truffle, porcini and wild mushrooms, in a generous pool of sage butter.

As second-guessing the customer’s every whim comes as standard here, we weren’t remotely surprised when Felix, unasked, shimmied over with a basket of springy, freshly backed focaccia for the mopping.

Black, squid-ink triangoli had a creamy garlic and mascarpone filling (“good choice,” purred Magda, though we bet she says that to all the punters), with briny Cornish cockles, crayfish and samphire. We topped up our glasses from our well-priced bottle of Sicilian red, closed our eyes, and were briefly transported to a coastal ristorante in the warm South.

We’re fans of menus that list the desserts from the get-go, rather than springing them on you as a surprise once you’ve snaffled up the mains. It’s handy to pace yourself. Had I mentally lined up the Tuscan chocolate and rum torte, for example, I might have eased up a bit on the focaccia (maybe). As it was, I’d singled out the lighter option of panna cotta, a delicate wobble of a thing with crumbled pistachio for a bit of crunch, that probably deserves its own Instagram following.

Ripiena offers terrific food at very reasonable prices; its dishes range from good to memorable. It’s fully lived up to the hype, and like Loco, offers a game-changing insight into just how innovative and exciting Italian food can be.

You’ll never look at spag bol in the same way again . n

“We could have stuck a pin in the menu blindfold, and still struck gold”

Dining details Ripiena, 33a St Stephen’s Street, BS1 1JX; 0117 329 3131; www.pastaripiena.co.uk Opening hours Monday 6-10pm; Tuesday-Saturday midday–2.30pm, evenings 6-10pm We visited Thursday evening Prices Starters £6/£7, mains £12£14.50, dessert £2.50-£4.50 Drinks Some excellent-value bottles starting at around the £19 mark. Most available by the glass from £4.90; glass of fizz for a fiver Atmosphere Boho-Bristol, busy Service Attentive, friendly, intuitive Disabled access One step at the door Children Bambinos welcome

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 61

food & drink

the only way was up . . . for our valiant bunch of chefs this spring, on a mountain in Nepal. They’re down again now, though . . .

C

ast your mind back to our early spring issue. You know – the one with the chefs on the cover, beaming out at us beneath colourful umbrellas. The guys (and one gal) were preparing to swap their chef ’s whites for hiking gear – we have no idea what the brollies were for – before heading to Nepal for the fundraising Action Against Hunger trek. Are they still smiling after the event? What were the biggest challenges they faced, and the lessons they’ll take away with them? Let’s ask them, shall we . . .

Jamie Randall, Adelina Yard The whole thing was a challenge; not just walking to 4400m, but not being able to wash for five days, sleeping in a tent on a hard floor next to someone who snores like an elephant – no names (Dom). And I won’t get started on the toilet facilities. I learned many things on this trip, one being how much we take clean drinking water and food for granted. There are still many people in Nepal that have to travel to get drinking water every day just to survive, and have very limited supplies of food.

Dominic Borel, Pasta Loco/ Pasta Ripiena The biggest challenge was the final peak, trekking up to 4400m – the altitude made it extremely hard for us to function. Trekking over what used to be Langtang village before it was destroyed was a sobering moment, and filled me with a sense of sorrow. I took away from this a sense of unfinished business – the reminder that there is still so much to do, so the mission must go on whenever it is possible within our hectic lives.

Josh Eggleton, Pony & Trap The biggest challenge was sharing a tent with Pete! Really, what I took most from the trip was that being up in the mountains and cut off from society gives you time and space to think and reflect in a way I never had experienced before. Meeting the people who live in the mountains and seeing how different people

above, right, The mountain air gets a chef to reflect (photos by Josh)

live; there was a real beauty in their happiness and their welcoming nature.

Kieran Waite, Season + Taste (Bravas etc) The biggest challenge was being away from my family. Mostyn was only 10 weeks old when we set off for Nepal, and Winston’s just two; it was a lot to leave my wife Imogen with, as she’s still working with Mostyn in tow, and we have recently taken on two new sites.

Seeing Lantang had a big impact.

It’s incredibly eerie and very sad to see the destruction left by the earthquake and landslides, knowing there was once a village underneath the boulders. And physically, the last few hundred meters of the summit to reach 4400 meters was hard. The wind was brutal, sideways hail, and my calf muscles felt like they were going to pop.

The trek gave me so much respect for the power of human endurance – seeing one of our guides, Ishue, carry a porter, Harry, down the mountain on his back after Harry was hit by pneumonia was both uplifting and devastating at the same time.

Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Casamia I don’t like walking, travelling or camping… it was tough being out of our comfort zones, but we were there to raise money for those facing pure devastation. Being there and seeing it

“The trek gave me so much respect for the power of human endurance” 62 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

really pulled me back into thinking about what really happened; but there was hope. There was rebuilding, and people were still smiling, happy to be alive, which was incredible to see, and really took me aback. I came back with a different view on what we all have, for sure.

Aine Morris, CEO Abergavenny Food Festival The most challenging thing was surviving each day and just believing that it was possible to get to the top. The sense of achievement when we got back down the mountain was just incredible. The perspective the trip gave us, and the belief that you really can achieve anything you set your mind to, is something I’ll carry with me for a long time to come. www.everydayhero.co.uk/event/nepaltrek2018

Korean/US entente cordiale at Kauto

Open for business…

above, Black gelato – it’s the new

pistachio

Cargo at Wapping Wharf serves a handy dual purpose.

left, More jolly hoggery for

On the one hand, it gives Bristol diners an amazing opportunity to sample great cooking from talented indie chefs, right on the waterfront. Hard to remember a time when those containers weren’t there, right?

Secondly, it gives those chefs an ideal opportunity to dip a toe in the water [not literally – enough with the waterfront metaphors already]. So no big surprise to learn that two Cargo success stories, Woky Ko and Pigsty, have recently gone on to open second, bigger branches.

At Woky Ko’s big sis Kauto on Queen’s Road, you’ll find plenty of favourites from head chef Larkin Cen’s original menu (so expect baos, noodles, sharing plates etc) alongside a cocktail list. Meanwhile, festival favourites the Jolly Hog have opened a new branch of Pigsty on Gloucester Road, with extra menu options, a Pigsty craft lager, deli and a new takeaway offering called ‘On the Trot’. Insert hog-related pun of choice here. www.pigstyuk.com

Bristol below, Pete Sanchez Iglesias and crew – in poll position

It’s Bar 44, bach

Amuses bouches Among all the lovely swirly pastel

Coming soon

South Wales’ popular Bar 44 tapas bars is due to bring its unique take on modern Spanish dining to Briz, with a seasonal menu and 100% Spanish drinks list – find them on Regent Street this July. More in our next issue… www.bar44.co.uk/bristol

colours in the Swoon Gelato trays, you’ll currently see one that’s – black.

The gelateria that brought us blue cheese ice-cream now sells a limitededition charcoal-activated gelato made from carbonised coconut shell ash – terribly good for you, apparently – that, if you tasted it blindfolded, you’d swear was just an especially smooth vanilla. www.swoononaspoon.co.uk

More good foodie vibes for the Glos Road as The Bristol Cookhouse, a multi-use food venue opens its doors;

the canteen/supper club/food studio is the brainchild of chef and nutrition expert Sam Waterhouse. www.thebristolcookhouse.co.uk Props to… Casamia – named by SquareMeal last month as the best restaurant outside London… . . . Boston Tea Party for doing away with single-use cups . . . and Brace & Browns for replacing plastic straws with pasta straws. www.casamiarestaurant.co.uk www.bostonteaparty.co.uk www.braceandbrowns.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 63

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A MAN’S WORLD SEB BARRETT

Take five As World Cup frenzy revs up, five-a-side football has started up again at work, which means only one thing: all-out war

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“In the cold light of day, it’s just ten guys running around with the coordination of a rhino that’s been shot with a tranquilliser gun”

t’s probably a perverse point of pride that none of our team wear shin pads, when we really should. An hour of lashing out at anything but the ball can leave your legs looking like a half-chewed Wham bar.

Wearing socks any higher than the tongue of your trainers would be grounds for suspension, so you can see the conundrum.

It brings out the worst in people, too. You can tell who’s had a bad day at the office – or life in general – by the way they play five-a-side. On occasions, they may even revert to their childhood selves, lashing out in frustration; remembering how this football thing didn’t work out so well at school, either. But then nobody knew anything about dyspraxia back then, so they were just seen as a bit of a div.

Fitness-wise, though, it’s a great way to rack up the kilometres without even thinking about it.

Shuffling back and forth in an area the size of a netball court for 45 minutes, you can cover the same distance as running from Keynsham to Kingswood (or, more realistically, the other way round).

It’s World Cup time, so now everybody all of a sudden thinks they can shoot a Rabona, or do the Cruyff turn. So high are they on the glorious nostalgia of tournaments past, they might even sport a retro jersey, thinking they’re channelling the spirit of Roberto Baggio or Ronaldo (you know which one).

In the cold light of day, it’s ten guys running around with the coordination of a rhino that’s just been shot with a tranquiliser gun – and probably just as dangerous in their cumbersome clumsiness.

The ‘Weekend Warriors’ of

the Territorial Army get to play soldiers as an escape from their normal lives, and the ‘Midweek Militants’ of five-a-side are just fulfilling another fantasy held by boys since football and war existed.

You’d also be surprised at how hard it is to find a convenient five-a-side league to compete in – one that fits around a life full of responsibilities – so you cherish the one game you can play in once a week. Even if, like family, it’s dysfunctional and constantly threatening to break out in a punch-up.

So why do we do it? Because we must. Women don’t need our brawn in the way they used to: we don’t need to go out hunting (unless it’s for a bargain), and things are so bloody ergonomically-designed these days that even our ability to lift heavy things is redundant.

If pretending to be David Beckham once a week can stave off these feelings of inadequacy brought on by spreadsheet fatigue; if marshalling your players loudly from the back of the field like a poor man’s Tony Adams makes up for not fulfilling that childhood dream of actually becoming Tony Adams; well, let us have that moment.

So maybe, just maybe, when your husband, boyfriend or brother is transfixed by the TV this World Cup summer, he’s vicariously living the life he dreamed he’d have when he was going for a kickabout as a kid.

It’s once every four years: let him have it.

Seb Barrett works in sports communications. Follow him on Twitter @bazzbarrett

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 67

Take it outside…

Whenever a watery ray of sun peeps out from behind a Bristol cloud, we’re suddenly all mad for al fresco . . .

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

al fresco

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or some reason we can’t explain (though we’re sure that a science boffin at UWE could), food and drink tastes that little bit better when consumed out of doors. With this in mind, along with the hope of absorbing a bit of Vitamin D, we’ve shared some of our favourite al fresco spots across the city, from humble street vans to Michelin-starred pubs. That’s virtually guaranteed it’ll rain until September, then.

BAMBALAN

What is it, and where’s it at? All-day dining

images from left to right: Quick pop quiz: can you name all three sunny dining spots?

emporium on the first floor of Colston Tower.

The al fresco deal A vast roof terrace with views across St Augustine’s Parade towards the harbour; ping-pong tables on the lower level, and a cool, funky music track.

Fun fact Bambalan means ‘lazy bum’ in Puerto Rican.

What’s on the menu? A vibrant Middle-

Eastern mix, including the signature babs – homemade flatbreads piled high with salads, grilled meat, veggie and vegan options, waistline-destroying weekend brunch baps, cocktails and homemade cakes and coffee at Little Bam coffee shop on the ground floor We’re having The Banh Mi Bab, £9 – grilled lemongrass- and coriander-marinated tofu bab with peanut sauce, vegan mayo and chilli sauce. www.bambalan.co.uk

Brace & Browns

What is it, and where’s it at? Regency townhouse bar and restaurant on Whiteladies; so popular that it gets booked up waaaay in advance, especially for Sunday brunch.

The al fresco deal Big outdoor decked terrace.

What’s on the menu? Tapas, roasts on Sundays, and their legendary brunch.

Fun fact The guys have recently replaced

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Bambalan; The Square; Three Brothers

plastic straws with pasta straws. Nice one.

We’re having The three-course Sunday prosecco brunch, obviously; £32. www.braceandbrowns.co.uk

BREW coffee co

What is it, and where’s it at? Popular Whiteladies Road hangout that cares as much about its food as it does about its coffee (ie, lots).

The al fresco deal The decking outside the shop can seat up to 40; it’s hidden from the street by a ‘curb garden’ in the form of planters filled with year-round fragrant herbs.

We’re having A glass of homemade strawberry and basil lemonade to go with ‘Turk-ish’ eggs – poached with rosehip harissa.

They say “As many people know, brunch is our thing – however, lunch is pretty awesome, too!” www.brewcoffeecompany.co.uk

The Famous Royal Navy Volunteer (The volley)

Burgers on a Bristol boat? That’s three of our favourite Bs!

What is it, and where’s it at? Characterful 17th-century town house pub on King Street, purveying craft beers and gastropub food; live music three nights a week.

The al fresco deal The Volley’s ‘secret’ roof terrace has a huge telly for screening summer sport; the huge awning that means that rain never needs to stop play.

Fun fact The terrace has a fake turf ‘carpet’.

What’s on the menu? A diverse, seasonal and local menu, with beer from the UK’s finest microbreweries and the best local scrumpy.

We’re having The triple-roast lunch on Sunday, £17, and we’re not even sorry. www.navyvolunteer.co.uk

The Grain Barge

What is it, and where’s it at? Well, it’s a boat, moored just off the Hotwell Road at Mardyke Wharf.

The al fresco deal A large top deck with panoramic views along the water, from the ss Great Britain to Underfall Yard.

Top tip It’s the only restaurant in town where you can arrive directly by boat.

What’s on the menu? Solid global comfort food, notably the home-made pies and roasts, but lots of seasonal specials, too.

We’re having A Korean rice burger with homemade kimchi and black bean mayo, please, £10.50. www.grainbarge.co.uk

Highbury Vaults

Our Brew heaven

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What is it, and where’s it at? Historic hostelry on St Michael’s Hill.

The al fresco deal The unexpected, pretty beer garden at the back has arbours dripping with greenery; when the sun shines you could be seated beneath a Tuscan loggia. Almost.

Fascinating fact Back in the early 1800s, prisoners would have their last meal here before being taken away to be, err, hung.

What’s on the menu? Solid home-made pub grub, Youngs beer and guest ales.

al fresco We’re having The beef and Gem Ale pot pie

with mashed potato and peas, £9.95 www.youngs.co.uk

The Lido

What is it, and where’s it at? Clifton’s beautifully restored Victorian lido, on Oakfield Place.

The al fresco deal The glass-fronted poolside restaurant has tables both outside and in, divided by huge sliding glass doors.

Fun fact There’s a ‘swim and eat’ package – and yes, that means you can have pudding.

What’s on the menu? Award-winning food cooked by Freddy Bird, an early and devoted adopter of the wood-fired oven method.

We’re having Freddy’s ‘Bird Food’ tasting menu, £50 – five courses chosen by Chef. www.lidobristol.com

PI SHOP

What is it, and where’s it at? Sandwiched between fine-dining bruv Casamia and toptapas padre Paco’s, in the three-restaurant site within The General on Guinea Street owned and run by the Sanchez Iglesias family.

The al fresco deal A good sized terrace right on the waterfront.

What’s on the menu? Some of the best sourdough-based pizza you’ll ever eat.

Fun fact They’ve recently adopted a new cooking method; rather than slide the whole pizza into the copper wood-fired oven, they just cook the base, then add the ingredients, which ‘cook’ from the heat of the base.

We’re having The Margarita, £12 – because Pete Sanchez Iglesias told us that this simplest of all toppings – tomato, mozzarella, basil – is his favourite, because “The ingredients have nowhere to hide”. www.thepishop.co.uk

Pigsty

What is it, and where’s it at? A porcine

delight of a restaurant. There’s a new 100-cover branch just opened on the Glo Road, but we’re heading to the original Cargo one for the waterfront vibes.

Foodie claim to fame Jay Raynor is a fan of their “killer sandwich made with their impeccable black treacle-cured bacon”. Mmm...

What’s on the menu? Every conceivable piggy delight, from bacon to pork belly, braised shoulder, crackling, Scotch eggs, three flavours of award-winning Jolly Hog sausages and baconnaise. There’s a veggie option too, but carnivores will have the best time here.

We’re having The £40 sharing* (*well, that’s up to you) Pig Board, featuring all the best bits. No-one leaves here hungry. Ever. www.jollyhoguk.com/pigsty

The Pony & Trap

What is it, and where’s it at? One of Bristol’s four Michelin-starred restaurants, and its only rural one. The atmosphere of a friendly local inn combines with Josh

Bring yer spare wheel; Pi Shop’s an easy cycle from the centre

Eggleton’s beautiful, inventive, field-to-fork, seasonal cuisine. Kind of a one-off.

The al fresco deal The large garden with its gorgeous Chew Magna views.

Foodie fact Josh also runs superior fish and chippies Salt & Malt, and is a director of Yurt Lush and Eat Drink Bristol Fashion; he also co-owns the Kenny gastropub in Redland. You might have seen him on the TV show Great British Menu. He occasionally remembers to write us a column.

What’s on the menu? Everything from a simple but superior ploughman’s lunch to regular full-on tasting menus.

We’re having The daily tasting menu (£50) with optional wine flights (£35-£50).

Our tip Nobody will want to be the designated driver, so book a taxi. Certus Cars are great and local – ask for Tim, and tell him we sent you… www.theponyandtrap.co.uk

The Primrose Café

What is it, and where’s it at? One of Bristol’s most popular all-day restaurants; since Boyce’s Avenue was pedestrianised, this whole street has become one big café quarter, but nobody is ever likely to overtake the Primrose in our affections.

The al fresco deal Some people mark the start of summer with the first call of the cuckoo; in our book, it’s the first clatter of outdoor tables at Primrose Café. There’s also a secluded roof terrace.

Did you know? It’s been under the same ownership for a quarter of a century; no wonder they have the recipe just right.

What’s on the menu? Wonderful breakfasts until 3.30pm, late lunches and a bistro menu in the evenings.

We’re having The wellness salad with mushroom and nut rissoles, quinoa, courgette, mint and lemon, aubergine chermoula and za’atar-roasted squash, £ 9.95. We feel healthier just typing that. www.primrosecafe.co.uk

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al fresco The Yard at TFT. The guy on the right has bagged the table early before Upfest hits BS3

The Square

What is it, and where’s it at? Elegant members’ club on Berkley Square with a strong arts and media bent; you don’t need to be a member to dine here, though.

The al fresco deal Charming, contemporary, decked outdoor ‘rooms’.

Fun fact There’s a rumour (strenuously perpetuated by The Square) that they do the best hog roasts in Bristol.

What’s on the menu? Sophisticated modern European cuisine; their Sunday roast is better than our mum’s, or your mum’s, or that of all our mums put together.

We’re having Confit chicken ballotine, grilled octopus, chorizo, £18.25. www.thesquareclub.com

The Steam Crane

Other Bristol hotspots We didn’t want to miss these guys out, so here’s the best of the rest...

99 Queens It’s new, it’s fresh and it does a top brunch all day long… www.facebook. com/99Queens Falafel King It may be a one-man van on Harbourside with just a few zinc tables out front, but this pioneer of Bristol street food is still one of the best-value pitstops in the city. www.falafelkingbristol.com Gallimaufry Small plates of delish food and sunny seating. Cool as. www.thegallimaufry.co.uk Kate’s Café at Arnos Vale Cemetery An escape from the city, atmospheric, a sun trap – and utterly different. www.kateskitchenbristol. co.uk

The Lansdown Traditional family-run pub in Clifton; the lovely walled garden has an outdoor big screen for big TV events We hear there’s some kind of footie thing on; they’ll probably show that. www.thelansdown.com Primrose Café A stalwart of Clifton life.

Boyce’s Avenue becomes positively Parisian when it fills with al fresco tables and chairs. www.primrosecafe.co.uk Salt and Malt Because sometimes, great fish and chips is the only thing that hits the spot.

Both at Chew Magna and Cargo 2 on Wapping Wharf. www.saltmalt.com/ wappingwharf Steam Pub with banging burgers and beers. www.steambristol.co.uk St Werburgh’s Farm Great food from the most

local of suppliers (even neighbouring allotmenteers provide ingredients) in a quirky setting. www.swcityfarm. co.uk/the-farm-cafe Yurt Lush Festival vibe, very tasty food, handy for the train. www.eatdrinkbristolfashion. co.uk/yurtlush Spotted Cow Popular pub in Southville, named best gastroub at the 2016 Bristol Life Awards www.thespottedcowbristol. com Warmley Waiting Room Disused-railway-stationcum-café on the Bristol-toBath Cycle Path.

Old-school, quirky, fun. www.facebook.com/ WarmleyWaitingRoom Westbury Park Henleaze pub with a twinkly patio garden, renowned for its Sunday roast www.westburyparkpub. co.uk

What is it, and where’s it at? Some say, the best craft beer pub in Bedminster; it takes its kitchen seriously, too.

The al fresco deal Tables out front and a beer garden out back; the murals are by Cheo, letting you know that you can only be in Bedminster.

Fun fact In 1827, the publican installed a live tiger to attract customers, and on one occasion paid a local named Joseph Kiddle to get inside its cage. This ended better for the tiger than it did for Joseph.

What’s on the menu? Freshly made and locally sourced superior pub-grub.

We’re having A selection of small plates, which average out at around a fiver each. www.thesteamcrane.co.uk

Tobacco factory yard What is it? Tobacco Factory has been a

social hub for BS3 since it opened in 2001, and outdoor space The Yard hosts numerous events, from Factoberfest Beer Festival to Bristol Eats, as well as the regular Sunday Market. It’s naturally rammed during Upfest.

The al fresco deal A large attractive space with lots of planting and a relaxed atmosphere.

It’s a suntrap, but there’s also plenty of shade, with a fully covered terrace and parasols.

What’s on the menu? A range of meat, vegetarian and vegan flatbreads and salads, prepared on the premises and cooked in a newly installed pizza oven. A new addition from this month is the light tapas menu, including patatas bravas and spicy chorizo prawns, served in cast iron skillets.

We’re having

Probably most of the tapas; or maybe the Jamaican flatbread: smoked cheddar, jerk chicken, jalapeno, coriander, £9.40. www.tobaccofactory.com www.thesteamcrane.co.uk

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Situated in the renowned Spike Island, we are the sister café to the much loved Folk House Café and offer a wonderful setting for everyone.

133 Cumberland Road Bristol BS1 6UX spikeislandcafe.co.uk 0117 954 4030

LOCAL, ORGANIC, SUSTAINABLE, ETHICAL, DELICIOUS. We also cater for evening events, wedding receptions, birthday parties, supper clubs.

Call now for more information.

40a Park Street, Bristol, BS1 5JG folkhousecafe.co.uk 0117 908 5035

Ghorlideayafutn For all the family

For more info and to book visit www.redpointbristol.co.uk or call us on 0117 332 2222

try five 2

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1

kids and the city

Bristol’s brilliant for kids (so ditto for their parents). Here are five inspired ideas to keep them busy, fit and active this summer

1

mojo active One of Bristol’s largest outdoor activity centres, offering outdoor adventures for 7+ at their popular holiday clubs, in 150 acres of fields and woodland. There’s a 400m militarystyle assault course, a 15-stage high ropes course, low ropes, tunnel maze, zorb football, archery, archery tag, football golf, pedal karts...

Special away-days include surfing in Croyde and water sports in Ilfracombe, while Mojo Active Dance week takes place at Bristol Grammar School in July. Older kids can take a three-day kayaking course; see website for lots more ideas. www.mojoactive.co.uk

2

we the curious If Bristol doesn’t produce some of the great scientific minds of the future, it won’t be the fault of We The Curious. The summer activities are all framed around the question ‘What if I could change the world?’, and they’ll be kicking it all off with the Festival of What If from 26-31 July, with inspirational activities, art, music, comedy, pop-up cafés and some special guests. www.wethecurious.org

3

fox cycling Been trying to teach your child to cycle with no success? Fancy cycling as a family?

Cyclekids offers one-to-one tuition for pedal refuseniks throughout the week in Portishead,

and guarantees that your kid will be cycling confidently by the end – or your money back.

Following the course, kids can ride confidently with the rest of the family, fully take part in school-based cycling activities and generally discover the freedom and joy of whizzing around on a bike.

The guys have been teaching children and adults to cycle for nine years; they make it fun, they use balance bikes (stabilisers don’t teach a child to balance properly), and use lightweight, easy-to-ride Frog and Squish bikes.

They’ve successfully taught children with many types of abilities, disabilities, levels of confidence and concentration, and they won’t give up on them until they are cycling confidently. Seriously, is he or she even a Bristol kid if they’re not a cyclist? www.foxstudiocycling.com

4

go aloft Kids can make like a Victorian sailor, and climb the huge mainmast of the ss Great Britain.

Unlike a Victorian sailor, you’ll be pleased to hear, they’ll be strapped into a harness. After being briefed by a topman, they’ll ascend the rigging to a viewing platform over 25m above ground level; from there, if they’re brave enough, they can step out onto the main yard, which takes them 9m out across the ship below, before returning to solid ground. For kids aged 10 upwards. www.ssgreatbritain.org

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redpoint Based in a former Art Deco cinema in Bedminster, Redpoint’s summer activities challenge and entertain kids in small groups overseen by friendly, professional instructors.

Crazy Climb (age 6+) features 20 different challenges, from spiders’ webs to spinning gears and the Skyscraper Walk; Little Monkeys (age 4-7) makes a great starting point for your adventurous little ones, and Rock Monkeys (age 7-17) is designed to develop climbing skills, to lay the foundations for a lifetime of climbing adventures. Week-long holiday programmes are also available. n www.redpointbristol.co.uk

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health & Beauty

above; the rather chic waiting area at Simon Lee

left; best bring along some back copies of Bristol Life;

you’ll be on the couch for two hours, so will need some riveting reading matter

the big chill

Deri Robins discovers whether Coolsculpting is the answer to ‘unwanted’ stubborn fat . . .

I

’m on Cotham Hill, Bristol, not 9th Street, Minneapolis – but as I walk into the chic reception area of Simon Lee’s Aesthetic Medical Clinic, in my mind I can hear Tom Waits growling, “There’s nothing wrong with her that a hundred dollars won’t fix.”

It’ll probably cost more than $100 to sort me out, but otherwise I can relate to this.

Approaching a milestone birthday, and being constitutionally gym- and diet-averse, rather like Tom’s ‘crumbling beauty’ of a waitress, I need help in rolling back the years. Moreover, I have heard very good things indeed about the efficacy of Coolsculpting when it comes to removing unwanted (are there any other kind?) areas of stubborn fat.

Here’s the science. The Coolsculpting machine exposes pockets of fat to cold temperatures, causing fat cells to crystallise, triggering natural cell death; the cells are gradually and naturally eliminated by the body over the following 8-12 weeks. No downtime is required; it’s the only procedure that involves fat-

cooling that’s officially approved by the FDA. It’s not a treatment for anyone hoping to lose several stone, then, but it is ideal for someone who isn’t too far off their ideal body weight, but with refusing-to-budge bulgy areas.

If you choose to be Coolsculpted at Simon Lee, and I really can’t recommend too highly that you do, you can expect a thorough pretreatment consultation; mine was with nurse Lucy Cairns, who is as kind and welcoming as she is experienced; ie, extremely.

Excitingly, I am deemed a suitable case for treatment. We decide to target the flabby areas around my hips, with a possible view to trimming the front abdomen in a follow-up treatment.

Just thinking of the number of sit-ups I won’t need to do is making my head spin; I briefly consider picking up a burger from Alex at Squeezed on the way home to celebrate.

On the day, Lucy marks up my hip area with black pen to ensure that the correct position is targeted, and then fits on an applicator; a rubber cup that’s suckered onto the flesh, creating a vacuum which draws in the tissue. Through this, the fat cells are exposed to the cold temperatures, causing natural cell death.

Take that, fat cells.

The sensation is tuggy, and initially a little strange, but in no way uncomfortable, and not even especially cold. I’m left with a pile of magazines and a nice cup of tea, while the machine does its sucking thing for 20 minutes; it’s then repositioned to sucker up the rest of the area, and then the whole thing is repeated on the other side; so you’re looking at an 80-minute to two-hour session.

And that’s it! I’ve already been warned by Lucy that there might be a few mild side-effects, from numbness to itchiness or soreness, and the area may look bruised, and even bigger than it did before the treatment, for a while, but that it will all settle down.

It’s now two weeks after treatment, and my symptoms have been negligible; a little itchy this week, and a little sore to the touch, but all quite ignorable. It’s too early to gauge the end result, so I’ve promised Lucy to follow up this review of the actual treatment with a Part Two in ten weeks time.

Let’s say that I’m quietly confident…. n

“Excitingly, I am deemed a suitable case for treatment . . .”

Coolsculpting at Simon Lee starts at £1900 1-3 Whiteladies Gate, Bristol 0117 329 2027; www.simonleeclinic.co.uk

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SPORT WILL CARPENTER A case for the defence

“It’s a quick turnaround for John, who only called time on a stellar playing career five weeeks ago”

I

t’s been 17 years since John Muldoon was the new kid on the block, but after firstday introductions and the challenge of learning new names, the former Connacht stalwart is relishing his next chapter as Bristol Bears’ defence coach.

It’s been a quick turnaround, given that he called time on a stellar playing career less than five weeks ago. And after settling in at only the second club of his professional career, John is focused on making the smooth transition to the sidelines.

“I’m hugely excited about getting stuck in with Bristol Bears, the Premiership, and everything that goes with it.

I’m looking forward to gaining more experience and leaving my comfort zone; I’m starting from scratch again,” he says.

“It’s just been about getting into the realm of coaching and trying to transition from that playing environment. It’s a bit different, not pulling on the boots, but it’s been an enjoyable week getting to know everyone – coaches, staff and players.”

One person who needed no introduction was head coach, Pat Lam, under whom John played for four years in Galway, captaining the historic PRO12 winning side of the 2015/16 season.

It was Lam who identified John’s coaching pedigree during his memorable spell in charge at the Sportsground, and once the three-cap Ireland international had announced the conclusion of his playing career, Lam wasted little time in snapping him up.

“John has the character traits and qualities that match everything we are looking for,” said Lam.“When I was still playing, my mentor – Ian McGeechan – gave me my first coaching opportunity in the professional game and I want John to have the same opportunity to begin his coaching career.”

And the respect is mutual, with John determined to learn from Lam’s forensic attention to detail.

“I’ve worked with Pat at Connacht and got on well with him as a person. He said to me a few years ago that he saw a lot of my characteristics in himself – a player transitioning from rugby and looking at what was next.

“So, to be able to come over and learn, and see the detail and experience that Pat has as a coach – and the organisation he brings to it – that’s something I was looking forward to getting back involved with.”

From the minute John had begun to turn one eye to his future and a life after playing – and following conversations with Pat Lam – a career in professional coaching was always on the horizon. And although accepting the inevitable ‘steep learning curve’ his new role will force upon him, John feels primed and ready to go in the West Country.

“From a while ago, coaching was the plan after I finished playing,” he said. “I’ve done some coaching at club level in Ireland and I suppose, seven or eight years ago, I’d gone through college and done my degree, and I could never see myself going back there.

“It’s going to be a steep learning curve, but it’s something that I’m looking forward to and something that I’ve been getting ready for, for a few years.”

John describes his new role as ‘the nuts and bolts’ of defence, putting a weight of emphasis on communication and leadership – something the 320-cap former Connacht captain knows a thing or two about.

“I was saying to the players that they’re going to be sick of me if they don’t start talking more on the pitch,” he says.

Both at Bristol Bears and in the realm of coaching, John’s the new kid on the block, but with vast experience, and a reputation and persona that inspired an emotional farewell video from the west coast of Ireland, Bristol knows they’ve got a good’un. ■ Will Carpenter is the Bristol Bears club journalist; www.bristolbearsrugby.com.

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SOCIETY

Darren McKimm and Jane McKimm

Team Mint Room (thanks guys!)

Holly Osman

WINNER, WINNER, MINT ROOM DINNER

Stephen Dunleavy

We invited the winners and sponsors of this year's Bristol Life Awards to celebrate and network at The Mint Room in Clifton – so much talent in one room!

Photos by Sam Norman of

Adam Finnimore and Patrick Fallon

www.whitevillaweddings.co.uk

Rob Spendelow and Mike Harris

Llosa Daly and Adam Green

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

Lee Bignall

Matt Bennett and Adam Tutton

Tobyn Tribbeck

Deri Robins, Dan Chandler and Tom Payne Sam Bell and Stuart Rose

Nigel White Niki Facey and Ingrid Bates

Michael Jenkins and Adam Green Nathan Palmer and Leigh-Anne Treadwell

Nicola Williams and Lucy Reeves Khan

Robin Squire

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SOCIETY

Eddie and Erica Farwell

Lee Johnson and Steve Lansdown

Pat Lam

DOING IT FOR THE KIDS

Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) hosted an exclusive drinks reception at the Lord Mayor’s Mansion House in Clifton; the highlight of the evening was a question-andanswer session with Steve Lansdown, compèred by Downsy of Sam FM Bristol.

Marlon Pack, Jill Wragg and Frank Fielding

www.chsw.org.uk

Steve Lansdown and Downsy

THEIR TV BRINGS ALL THE ROYALS TO THE YARD The Bottle Yard Studios welcomed HRH the Duke of Kent, whose tour of Bristol's major creative hubs also took in Watershed and Colston Hall. HRH met the small Bottle Yard operational team, and received a full site tour.

HRH meets Bottle Yard staff Ian Parr and Emma Reid

The High Sheriff of Bristol Roger Opie greets HRH The Duke of Kent and Lord Lieutenant of Bristol Peaches Golding OBE

www.thebottleyard.com

advertising feature

Mortgage and protection opportunities

By Jack Harries of DIgby associates Ltd

I

t was announced earlier this month that the expected increase to interestrates would not materialise, with the Bank of England deciding that a rise would not be beneficial in our current economic climate.

Does this mean that we will see an increase later in the year? Very possibly.

Should you therefore be looking to maximise the opportunities that low rates can bring to your clients right now? Absolutely!

A record amount of fixed-rate mortgages are maturing this year, with around £269bn worth of mortgages up for maturity – a 33% increase on 2017! We now therefore see a ‘perfect storm’ on the horizon meaning that many of your clients will be thinking about remortgaging at a time when rates are still relatively low. Also, it’s important to not forget that you could save your variable-rate clients’ money too by transferring them to a cheaper fixed-rate mortgage before the rate rises.

If rates were to rise later in the year, and those clients hadn’t changed their mortgage product, they could instead be facing increased repayments. According to Nationwide, if rates rose by 0.25% this would mean that someone with a £200,000 variablerate mortgage would pay around £300 more than they are currently.

High quality advice At Digby Associates we recognised that as a firm, the highest value that we can offer clients is to work towards financial security by delivering co-ordinated wealth management. To that end, what goals do you have that will take planning, time, mnoney and ongoing co-ordination to achieve?

As your partner in building wealth and security, we generally focus on ways that we can help you live the life that you want to. By engaging in the serivces of Digby Associates you assure yourself of regular financial reviews and valuations, along with access to new ideas brought to you by the team.

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

Image caption 3mm inset from edge

Not only will acting now save your clients money, the conversation around protection could also prove far easier.

With more money in the client’s bank account, you can delve deeper into the importance of being fully protected should the worst ever happen.

Therefore, in a time of record mortgages maturing, and low interest rates – now is the time to discuss the opportunities out there for affected clients, demonstrating your expertise and your tremendous value. n

Digby Associates, Independent Financial Advisers 57 Queen Square, Bristol, BS1 4LF Tel: 0117 933 5544 Email: info@digby-associates.co.uk www.digby-associates.co.uk

BRISTOL’S MOST AFFLUENT AND INFLUENTIAL AUDIENCE FOR OVER 13 YEARS To discuss how we can help you promote your business call 01225 475824 or email lily.dalzell@mediaclash.co.uk

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businessinsider B R IS T O L g e t s s e r i o u s

Quote of the issue

“build upwards, but in a measured way”

Who’s conditionally in favour of thinking high when it comes to new builds?

See page 91

The Big Number

35%

The amount of Bristol office space rented by the tech sector; more on page 90

In tents experience Looking for a stylish venue for your next event?

Could the answer be Bristol Life’s unique marquee – the biggest ever erected in the city, by Clifton Marquee Company, which can host up to 800 guests in its central, fabulous Bristol Harbourside location?

The Bristol Life Awards will once again be hosted in the marquee in Lloyds Amphitheatre next April; but it remains up for several days, during which it can be rented out for other purposes – this year, for example, it was used to host the Bristol Rovers end-of-season

awards and the VOW Live wedding show.

Dates are now available to hire the marquee in late April 2019. The space available is extremely versatile, and beautifully dressed, and could be adapted for an awards ceremony, conference, exhibition in the heart of the city – or simply the best-ever party . . .

To discuss your event requirements and dates contact the MediaClash events team: events@mediaclash.co.uk; 01225 475860

smells like team spirit It’s Father’s Day until the end of the month . . .

We’re big fans of the way that Ivy Clifton Brasserie likes to partner-up with Bristol indies – this time they’ve worked with Bristol Blue Glass, who created these beautiful tumblers especially for serving the Ivy’s new Bristol Blue Sour.

The cocktail offers a twist on the traditional Whisky Sour, combining Chivas Regal’s 18-yearold Scotch whisky with orange juice, Amaro Averna liquor, fresh lemon, egg white, maple syrup and bitters; it’s available at the restaurant until 30 June.

You can also buy a pair of the tumbers for £50.

For more: www.theivycliftonbrasserie.com www.bristol-glass.com

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BUILDING A BETTER BRISTOL What’s Bristol got going for it, property-wise, and what’s holding it back? Simon Peacock of JLL – the real estate experts with a global reach and an important base right here in Bristol – gave us the lowdown at the latest Bristol Life Business Club

J

LL is big. Proper big. You might not have heard of them, but Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated – as they like to be called on formal occasions – is a giant real estate investment company, operating across the world. They have British origins, though – the ‘Jones Lang’ bit comes from a London firm, started in 1783 – and their purchase of King Sturge some years ago means many local staff, working out of their Great George Street office, have Bristol roots that go deep.

Simon Peacock began here 18 years back, and took over as lead director for the South and Wales last year.

Aware that sheer size can worry some

clients, he’s keen to remain a balanced business, working extensively with regional developers like Cubex, as well as the big institutions.

“The Bristol eco-system is richer than you’ll find in other cities,” Simon says, “but there are things that hamper our growth. Our boundaries aren’t ideal – many ‘Bristolians’ actually live in South Gloucestershire – and we can get a bit complacent as a city.”

How so?

“In Bristol, we tend to think we’re doing okay, so don’t challenge ourselves. Right now, the South West has a strong brand in terms of worklifestyle balance, but it’s nothing like as potent as ‘Northern Powerhouse’.

Simon Peacock (ABOVE) and two recent JLL developments in the city: Assembly Bristol (BELOW LEFT) and Glassfields (BELOW RIGHT)

“AWARE THAT SHEER SIZE CAN WORRY SOME CLIENTS, SIMON IS KEEN THAT JLL REMAINS A BALANCED BUSINESS” It’s frustrating that this matters, but in terms of foreign investment and central government it does. Where Bristol has always done well, though, is with those relocating outside London.

Entrepreneurs rate lifestyle highly, and Bristol is one of the best places to live. That’s one reason we see so much tech growth – it’s very attractive for start-ups.”

Three years ago, the tech sector – more commonly called TMT

these days, for technology, media and communications – rented 15% of the office space in Bristol. Last year it was 35%. There’s genuine growth here, and we need to support it – because these companies help build cities fit for the future. The problem is, TMT businesses tend to be well supported in their early years, but not so much after that.

“They’re sat in co-working spaces like Engine Shed,” Simon says, “then get kicked out the door, because there are so many queuing to get in. These are companies created to grow quickly and sell themselves quickly – so when they meet a landlord asking them to sign a ten-year lease, they’re baffled.

Things are improving, with projects

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like Royal London’s Temple Quarter Distillery Building, but we still need small spaces that businesses can move into, expand, then step away.”

Another big growth area has been in the universities – and, particularly, student accommodation. So, have we reached peak student?

“In some cities yes, but not Bristol – thanks to the new Temple Quarter Campus. There are, however, already tensions in terms of how many students we need, and where they should be housed. Fusion Tower, for instance, offers high-end accommodation – but at the expense of repurposing office space. Bristol built a million square feet of offices last year, but saw a net uplift of only 200,000 square feet, as 800,000 was lost to other uses.”

And there’s been a third big property investment trend of late – the growth of giant industrial ‘sheds’ in out-of-town locations, like Amazon’s three-storey, million-square-footdevelopment at Avonmouth. “These are driven by everyone clicking to buy things,” says Simon, “and from an investor’s point of view they’re really attractive. As the high street continues to struggle, you’ll find people taking

Inside Assembly Bristol, where matching your hair to your seat is doubtless admired, but not a requirement

Local turf With practical solutions to the homeless problem, Home Turf Lettings links landlords with tenants in need The latest Bristol Life Business Club lunch saw a presentation from Ricarda Todd of Home Turf Lettings, a not-for-profit social letting agency tackling the local housing crisis; there are almost 3,000 homeless in the city, for instance, and we have the sixth highest number of rough sleepers in the country. Home Turf currently manages approaching 60 properties

across the South West, setting rents at affordable levels and allowing tenants to stay as long as they need; their new Bristol East Street Mews property – a derelict Bedminster building being developed in partnership with Land Aid, Cubex and JLL – will offer 11 beds to young homeless people. To get involved, contribute or simply find out more, go to hometurflettings.co.uk

pension funds out of normal retail and putting it into industrial.”

So, what would you invest in, property-wise?

“Offices, purely because of the lack of grade A space. The office vacancy rate in Bristol is 3%, which means there aren’t enough chairs. And rents have gone up in the last few years, from £20 per square foot to over £30. Many companies would like to move, but simply can’t. And new builds at the top of the market don’t help everyone – tech businesses would be happier with a tired space, but more flexible terms.”

What’s best about what you do?

“What I love about this business is that it’s not just about pushing money around, but that you actually start to see new buildings come up, and people living and working in them.

Something like Cubex’s Finzels Reach development has shown the city a whole new model for what mixeduse environments can be, and with this and the University of Bristol expanding in the vicinity of Temple Meads, it’s changing what’s – let’s face it – a terrible part of town. It’s a gateway to the city, but it’s never been a great advert for Bristol.”

I n London, they’re building upwards, with taller and taller buildings all the time…

“And they’re a necessary step here, in my opinion. We’re a very lowdensity city, especially compared with somewhere like Birmingham, and though we don’t need tower blocks all over the place, right now Bristol is 80% full, and our parks make up much of the 20% that’s not. If we want to keep growing, we need to make the most of brownfield land – like Filton Airport, where more than 2,500 new homes have been approved – and build upwards, but in a measured way.”

inally, how is Brexit impacting F on things?

“In the immediate aftermath, a number of schemes stopped suddenly.

People sat on their hands, and it looked scary – but then we started to see money coming back, not so much the big funds but smaller companies.

We actually had a really good year last year. What hasn’t changed is that the UK is a location that will attract investment from around the world, because the legal and financial systems are so strong. Why does South Korea put so much money into this country?

Because it’s safe to do so.”

For more: www.jll.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER and non-judgemental, for ‘normal’ people. The perfect blend for longlasting lifestyle changes.

What services do you offer?

One-to-one and semi-private PT (2-4 people). Every client is supported with nutrition and lifestyle guidance.

We also run educational seminars to boost their progress. We teach mostly weight-training to our clients, and they find it very empowering.

What is your own personal fitness regime?

I used to do mostly running and cycling, but now my preference is weight-training. My body is so much stronger and more shapely, and my energy levels are great.

ONE TO WATCH Meet Amy Oldfield – the founder of Empowered Fitness, a personal training service offering guaranteed results, in a fun and empowering way Love the idea of getting fitter and shedding weight, but intimidated by the lycra-clad toned bodies of twentysomething gym bunnies?

Empowered Fitness could be the perfect, well, fit.

Before founding her company, Amy worked in marketing.

“I started my own fitness journey at that time, and realised it was my true calling in life,” she says. “I have struggled with my own body issues since I was a child, so it’s something I am very passionate about.”

What training do you have?

I’m a Level 3 qualified PT and nutrition consultant. I also hold many other qualifications such as treating obesity and diabetes, and working

with kettlebells and TRX. The learning never stops!

Who’s on the team, and how do their skills and experience complement each other?

Chris has been a gym-goer since forever, Laura has a background in sports rehab, and nutrition is my favourite topic. Fran is a godsend at admin, so we’d be lost without her.

What makes Empowered Fitness special on the Bristol gym/health and beauty scene?

Is there anything unique about your approach – the holistic aspect, for example?

We predominantly help people over 40 who want to lose weight and get fit. Our ethos is around creating a supportive community, which is fun

What first started you on your own fitness journey?

My weight fluctuated when I was younger and this left me quite insecure as an adult. Eight years ago I joined a PT studio, and learned how to lift weights. I started reading a lot about nutrition. My life changed entirely, and I decided that my mission was then to help others to feel the same as me. So I retrained and became a PT. For the extremely timestrapped, what single change could we make to our day to become fitter?

Walk! Add a 30-minute walk to your day – morning, lunchtime, or evening.

You’ve won an award for being an inspirational fitness teacher – why did the judges choose you?

My clients nominated me, and I think they chose me because my focus has always been on helping people achieve sustainable lifestyle changes, always drawing on my own experiences to help inspire their own change.

We see you do a corporate wellness course – tell us a bit about that.

We take small teams of employees

and help them to become a stronger workforce. They come to work out with us together, and we visit them regularly for health and fitness seminars.

How do you market the business?

Our biggest marketing efforts right now are optimising Google search for the website; Facebook, and our free open days.

Do you use social media, and if so, what platform do you find to be the most effective?

Facebook is our main platform, and we meet many of our new clients this way. We’re keen on posting daily to provide people with great content and a snapshot of our little community.

We are starting to use Instagram a little more now, too.

Are you someone who can switch off the phone/emails at weekends and on holiday?

I am a big advocate of switching the phone off. I only check my emails twice a day at set times. And when I’m not working, I take my emails off my phone. It helps to keep me balanced!

Tell us a testimonial that has really pleased you.

“Empowered Fitness was transformative for me! The trainers helped me change my bad habits and showed me how to exercise in a way that was good for my body. Their studio is one of the most pleasant I’ve ever trained in, with everything you need to get strong and lean. Their skills, knowledge, expertise and indeed their own stories are inspiring. I’ve never met a more dedicated and fun team to get fit with. They are worth every penny and every 6am start!’’

Where would you like to see the business in three years’ time?

I definitely see the business expanding, with potential to open a second location in north Bristol. www.efitbristol.co.uk

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advertising feature

Be careful what you wish for Alison Dukes of AMD Solicitors considers the recent Court of Appeal case of Waggott v Waggott on spousal maintenance.

A

Alison Dukes

wife is likely to be regretting her decision to appeal against a spousal maintenance award of £175,000 made against her former husband. He was due to have to pay her maintenance until the death of the first of them or until her remarriage.

When the wife appealed the decision and sought an extra £15,000 per year plus a share of the husband’s bonuses from his employment, the husband himself put in an appeal against the decision of the first judge. He sought a clean financial break so that he did not have to pay any further maintenance at all after a fixed period of five years.

The Court of Appeal dismissed the wife’s appeal while the husband’s appeal was allowed.

In short, this means that having previously expected to receive maintenance from the husband for life (or until she remarries), the wife’s maintenance will now end in 2021 after a fiveyear period.

“the court ruled that the wife would be able to adjust ‘without undue hardship’ to the termination of her maintenance ” The Court took account of the wife’s capital settlement of £9.76 million. Some of those monies had been used to purchase a home in this country and a holiday home abroad, but there was a substantial balance remaining.

In capital terms, the Court calculated that the shortfall in the wife’s income if a five year term was imposed equated to around £950,000.

The wife had free capital of £4.6 million after purchase of her properties. The view of the Court of Appeal was that even if the wife used

£950,000 of those monies to plug any gap in her income she would still have substantial free capital in addition to her two properties.

She would be able to adjust “without undue hardship” to the termination of her maintenance and the outcome would not be unfair in all the circumstances.

The wife had worked as an accountant early in the marriage but had not worked since 2003.

The parties had one child who was born in 2004. The Court of Appeal made the further point that the wife would also be able to obtain employment to supplement her other income.

Applications to vary maintenance or to appeal Court orders should be considered very carefully before proceedings are issued. n

For advice on all aspects of Family Law, Alison Dukes or her colleague Jo Morris can be contacted at AMD’s Henleaze office at 100 Henleaze Road, by telephoning 0117 9621205 or by emailing Alison at alisondukes@amdsolicitors.com.

100 Henleaze Road, Henleaze BS9 4JZ 15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS 139 Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL 2 Station Road, Shirehampton BS11 9TT

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Meet the AGENCIES

Need to get your message across?

Need fresh ideas and highly creative thinking?

Here’s who you gonna call . . .

advertising feature Gemma McGrattan

Sue Atkinson

Synergy Creative 0117 962 1534; www.synergycreative.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

We’ve developed this real specialism in employee engagement and the employee experience. We’re also known for our creative approach (one of our guiding principles is ‘Never stop exploring’). But I also think clients come back to us because we work in a collaborative, open way with plenty of ideas – we’re here to support and inspire them.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

Lots of big-name brands including Lidl, Simplyhealth and Odeon, to name a few.

How has your industry changed over last 10 years?

There’s been a massive explosion in communication channels being used internally (internal social channels and collaboration tools). But there’s also been a big change in mindset. Board-level directors have got engagement, performance and employee experience on their agenda. They get it. So we’re creating these amazing employee campaigns that are every bit as sophisticated as those aimed at consumers.

What do you find most rewarding about the role?

The variety is fantastic, as is the satisfaction in taking a comms campaign all the way from the challenge (which can be quite vague!) to delivery and immediate improvement. I also love that lightbulb moment when people realise what can be achieved by thinking creatively and the enthusiasm it creates.

Agency Director, Ardent Communications 0117 214 0393; www.ardentcommunications.co.uk

Gemma McGrattan

Sue Atkinson

James Stevens

Hive agency 0117 972 8777; www.hive.agency What sets you apart from other agencies?

Our senior team studied and built the foundations of Hive from an unwavering passion for information design, the process of understanding and displaying complex information and messaging effectively.

Executed with a highly creative edge it’s the characteristic thread that runs throughout the team and every project we take on. Our lives are saturated with information, stories and data from businesses.

We work with our clients to make sure theirs has impact, is easy to find, simple to use, and instantly understandable and recognisable.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

We celebrated Hive’s 13th birthday this year, and a lot has changed since we started. We have evolved as an agency to service the growing demand for media comms and the consumer’s thirst for knowledge prior to making a purchase.

The ‘always on consumer’ means our agency/client partnerships now focus on creating consistent, multi-layered brand communications for when and where suits the audience. We’re always switched on.

What is the oddest thing you have done in your role?

Running the London Marathon three times, dressed as a Pink Lady apple – always going the extra 78 miles for a client!

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

We are fortunate to work with some fantastic clients both in the SW and further afield. Locally we are lucky to work with two Bristol institutions – Bristol Old Vic and the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Why did you get into agency work?

Having decided I’d probably end up ‘resting’ too much if I pursued an acting career, I was set on another performing career as a barrister. However, I saw Sir John Hegarty, founder and creative director of Bartle Bogle Hergarty (BBH) discussing his ground-breaking campaigns for Levi’s ,and from that point on I was determined to pursue a career in advertising. For those old enough to remember (my youthful looks belie my years!) the adverts featured Nick Kamen, a then unknown model who stripped off down to his boxer shorts in a launderette. Music was also very important to Hegarty and the music of seven Levi’s commercials made it to UK number one.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

That every day is different.

Why should a business utilise your services?

It’s in our name – we’re Ardent, we’re enthusiastic and passionate about our clients and the work we do for them and are determined to achieve their desired results in everything we do.

ALAN THORPE

Bray Leino CX 0117 973 1173; www.brayleinocx.co.uk

James Stevens

Alan Thorpe

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Here’s the thing. Selling to you and I is about giving impatient us what we want, when we want it, and in the way we desire it. House of Fraser or ASOS? Wait ten minutes or Uber? Bank branch or mobile?

So, as an agency, our job is no longer just to drive demand for the products and services that clients already have. It’s also to identify, anticipate, test and measure the value of new opportunities for our clients - to drive results through Customer Experience innovation.

What bespoke services do you offer clients?

Panoptic Personas. Our SEO, PPC and social marketing team have developed a process that uses search data – yours and your competitors – to deliver deep understanding of target audiences: their age groupings, gender, product and service interests etc. Our clients can then identify opportunities and invest digital, creative and tech budgets where they will deliver results.

Why should a business utilise your services?

Results. Our blend of strategic thinking, digital marketing, technology, design and creative capabilities enable us to keep clients aligned with their opportunities. We’re trusted business partners, most of our clients having been with us for many years.

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advertising feature John French

Meg Pope and Frankie Wallington

Fat Media 0117 971 2499; www.fatmedia.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

We believe we have the best of both worlds – the feeling of a small agency, with the breadth of knowledge of a large one. Clients still have that personal relationship with their account manager, who takes the time to get to know them and their brand, and advises them personally.

They are backed up by our large team which means we have specialists in a wide range of disciplines, so you can get all the expertise you need all under one roof.

What bespoke services do you offer clients?

Every Fat Media project is bespoke, because every business we work with is different! We take a consultative approach to every brief, taking the time to understand the business, their challenges and their goals, and build and deliver a solution to meet them.

Working this way generates the best possible results, as everything we do is specifically aligned to your targets.

Why should a business utilise your services?

The digital world changes so quickly, it can be hard to stay up to date and stand out from the crowd. It’s our job to keep up with these changes so you don’t have to!

Duchess Media 07791 896421 / 07919 541163; www.duchessmedia.com

John French

ALISON WOODHEAD

ClientsEye 07958 607 022; www.ClientsEye.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

A totally client-focused approach which comes from having been a buyer of agency services in the past and knowing how difficult it is to find a genuine extension to your team. ClientsEye, is all about seeing everything from the client’s perspective and working towards the best possible outcome as a partnership.

Why did you get into agency work?

After 20 years working with Management Boards in-house and directly with clients to create their own business successes, it was a natural next step for me to set up a business where I had more control over an approach focused entirely around the needs of my own client relationships. Many businesses will say clients are at the heart of their business but research proves that few rarely meet their clients expectations in delivering their services. ClientsEye was set up with the aim of helping more organisations to recognise the issues and make changes which impact on brand reputation, turnover and growth potential.

What is the most challenging brief you have faced?

Every project has its challenges, that’s business, but nothing is impossible. From cultural change or brand revolution to recruiting a team with the best fit, it’s never a one size fits all approach but about the destination and the journey which is unique each time. Whether you have been in business 2 or 20 years, there is always a lesson to be learned.

Once you stop learning, you stop growing.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

The opportunity to work with a varied range of great people and learn from them as much as they can learn from us, particularly those looking to innovate or disrupt their industry. True innovation is rare but incredibly motivational and inspiring.

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Meg Pope & Frankie Wallington

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We pride ourselves on offering a really handson approach with all of our clients, and like to become as much a part of their team as we can.

We predominantly work with smaller, independent businesses, so it’s essential to get to know the people behind the brand.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

A brilliant mix of Bristol food and drink heavyweights such as the Hyde & Co group, Woky Ko, Pizzarova, Wellbourne and Queen & Whippet as well as a host of retail, licensing, travel and festival clients from Bristol and beyond.

Why did you get into agency work?

We always joke that the business came about by accident – which it kind of did, seeing as we never set out with the intention to start up! After hosting an event at The Milk Thistle, the owners approached us for some marketing advice – an hour later we left with our first ever client, and the business was born!

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Working with a brand from scratch and seeing them grow and develop is the most exciting part of the job. We also love throwing events and seeing people having a really great time – that feeling makes you really love what you do!

What bespoke services do you offer clients?

All of our services are bespoke, as we get that there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution when it comes to marketing. Small businesses are normally always a direct reflection of the people and the passions behind it, so so we work closely with our clients to make sure their marketing reflects that!

Andrea Sexton

Andrea Sexton PR 07887 997922; www.andrea-sexton.com

Alison Woodhead

Andrea Sexton

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We always go the extra mile, and I never take no for an answer. If the first idea for a campaign doesn’t work, we will think of a new angle on it until it does work, and our clients get the coverage they deserve. I am very keen to keep things simple and transparent – PR should not be complex, and it’s also not voodoo. A lot of people don’t realise how much we can measure results and how it’s possible to set clear KPIs for campaigns.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Helping other peoples businesses grow. I literally do dance around the office when we help other businesses succeed. It’s a good job that most of my staff work remotely from home otherwise they would have to deal with my office antics!

Why should a business utilise your services?

Word of mouth is by far the most powerful way to promote a business – PR helps build this word of mouth. If you want more people to talk about you, your product or your service in a positive way that creates sales then have a chat with me – you might be surprised at what we can do.

advertising feature

Empica

Public Relations Agency 01275 394400; www.empica.com What sets you apart from other agencies?

We have been around for a long time and have a dedicated team, from recent graduates with fresh ideas to experienced journalists and PR professionals. The mix of people, expertise and investment in new technology enables us to handle projects comfortably. Having worked on so many projects over the years enables us to know what will work for our clients

Chris Jones & Nikki Boyle

Otrovez 0117 300 5541; www.otrovez.com What’s your background?

Otrovez has been a part of the Bristol Agency scene for 5 years now, although the two directors Chris Jones and Nikki Boyle, have worked together as a team for a lot longer.

Chris was a founder of one of Bristol’s largest independent agencies and was one of the early founding directors of Bristol Media. After selling most of his shareholding he started a new venture with a new slant on the typical agency business model. Otrovez, loosely translated, is Spanish for ‘once again’.

What does Otrovez do?

We are a design–based, cross-creative media management team with international clients.

Big agency service and expertise, yet there are only eight of us based here in Paintworks.

How is Otrovez different?

We have a core creative team that manage all client programmes. All design is done inhouse, but we bring in and manage specific specialist disciplines for the duration of a project, dependent on the requirement, from print to digital, film, photography and exhibition. Paying only for what they need, while they need it.

What unusual things has Empica done?

To get noticed in PR you have to be creative and you find yourself in some odd situations. Our MD, Martin Powell was involved in a game of “rock, paper, scissors” with 400 nurses in Japan as part of a promotion; we have publicised custard pie fights on the Grand Pier, a high-wire wedding and delivered spare books from Bookbarn International to Bristol Zoo as bedding material for the rats in their Twilight World exhibit. We have followed classic British cars as they are shipped overseas, including a former fire engine, a brace of ice cream vans and a sports coupe which ended up on the Concours d’elegance in Japan.

What are the main services you provide?

Our bread and butter is public relations, but that embraces a whole host of activity including media relations, localism, writing written material for websites, leaflets and awards, drafting and issuing press releases, producing videos, managing social media channels and creating online and digital content for our clients. We also arrange events, launches and handle crisis issues and provide advice on generic marketing activity. No day is ever the same which makes it very different and exciting.

What kind of clients are you working with at the moment?

We are proud to be generalists; so our client list includes a wide range of businesses from all sorts of sectors. These include commercial property, accountancy, law, hotels and leisure, care providers, residential developers, restauranteurs and celebrity chefs. We are also proud to have many South West-based clients including Bakers Dolphin coaches, DoubleTree

by Hilton Hotels, The New Room in Bristol, and Wookey Hole Caves. It is an eclectic mix, and we like that.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

It is an increasingly busy media scene, and we thrive on achieving coverage and getting the results. Seeing a planned campaign get media space on television, the internet, radio, newspapers, magazines and social media for our clients is always a thrill.

How do your clients benefit?

Otrovez is an ‘on-tap’ extension to our clients’ in-house marketing team. Our resource and industry knowledge enables us to fulfil their niche and mainstream marketing requirements. Everything we do is ‘bespoke to the brief’.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

Without doubt, the ‘digital shift’. There is almost no aspect of design and marketing that does not integrate digital elements in to the mix. From truck tyres to stately homes, we have produced online educational material to eCommerce websites.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Every client, every job and every day is different.

As a business we instigate positive change for our clients. It may be an internal communications programme, a sales demand-driven programme, a push for a charity to generate greater donor income, or a trade show in on the other side of the world in Jakarta.

Why do your clients use you?

They tell us for three main reasons: effective creative work, transparency and control of budgets and rapid response and turn around, We’d like to think it’s also because they like working with us, too!

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ADVERTISING FEATURE JACQUI DOUGHTY

WALK TALL MEDIA LTD, BATH 07771 710705 www.walktallmedia.co.uk

ANDY BARNES

Who are you?

A refugee from London, and employee of the BBC for 13 years, I set up Walk Tall Media Ltd in Bath in 2008. In our first three years we managed to get two broadcast commissioned series under our belt, filming in South Africa, China and all over Europe. We soon added a collection of corporate clients to our portfolio and also make promotional videos and micro media.

Why agency work?

With a BAFTA nomination for Short Form, it just made sense and we have never looked back. Devising appropriate and creative concepts, writing good scripts and planning an efficient work flow is how we get that all-important value for money on screen.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

Prezola, Rossiters of Bath and Diethelm Keller Brands.

What can’t you do without?

A story. A reason. A great cameraperson.

Your mantra?

Minimum fuss, maximum professionalism.

Newest additions to your portfolio?

20 boomerangs, 6 cinemagraphs and an Instagram filter.

The most rewarding thing about your business?

Dipping into other worlds, and learning what makes others tick. It’s a privilege.

What sets you apart from other agencies?

At Diva we believe happiness comes from loving what you do. We’ve built on that, by celebrating and trading on true passion. The result is a thriving creative agency, packed with amazing people, who combine their professional talent with their favourite pastimes. The secret to our success is simple. Do great work. Be nice to people.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

The last ten years has seen the video game industry explode from a niche entertainment sector to a blockbuster powerhouse with annual revenues that outstrip the film and music industries.

Innovations in VR and AR, increasingly powerful gaming consoles, online multiplayer, eSports and mobile gaming have firmly cemented the genre as a cultural phenomenon. From our early years marketing Call of Duty and Guitar Hero we have worked at the core of this incredibly creative and innovative industry. The ever-evolving digital landscape is a dream for our creative team, and brings a wealth of exciting challenges every day.

What does your industry mean to you?

The video game and creative industries offer us unlimited possibilities in terms of innovation and original thinking. We increasingly work across a growing number of media channels from digital and video through to print and social executions.

The ever-growing media landscape has allowed us to triple in size over the last three years and stay ahead of developments in the design and digital tech space.

DIVA AGENCY 0117 214 0404; www.studiodiva.co.uk

Jacqui Doughty

Andy Barnes

SARAH WOODHOUSE AMBITIOUS PR

01179051177 sarah@ambitiouspr.co.uk www.ambitiouspr.co.uk What sets you apart from other PR agencies?

Every client who works with Ambitious works with a director who has a stake in the company. Handson senior counsel comes as standard. We’ve just won a national award for Best PR Agency based on client service and delivery of results.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

Our clients include commercial property specialists, CBRE; management consultants, Procorre; prominent South West law firm, Barcan + Kirby; education charity, ASDAN and a leading pharmaceutical company. We’re creating a third business hub in Bristol with the launch of Origin Workspace. We are behind global conference Social Media Week which will return to Bristol for the third time in 2019.

What bespoke services do you offer your clients?

We determine the most effective routes to reach a client’s target audiences. We ensure the chosen toolkit of tactics is based on a solid strategy and fuelled by insight, creativity and clever ideas. We’re experienced in media, influencer and blogger relations, digital PR, content marketing, copywriting, stakeholder mapping and engagement, social media management and issues and crisis management.

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

NATASHA BALDWIN

NOISY LITTLE MONKEY 0117 327 0171; www.noisylittlemonkey.com

Sarah Woodhouse

Natasha Baldwin

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Noisy Little Monkey is the perfect blend of technical SEO, creative wonderfulness and sales shebang. We’re great at attracting strangers to your website and converting them into valuable leads, which makes a measurable impact on your business. As the HubSpot partner agency for Bristol, we run the Bristol HubSpot User Group meet-ups. We love sharing knowledge about what we do and helping marketers do their jobs better.

Why was Noisy Little Monkey founded?

The agency was set up to stop people being burned by fraudulent SEO companies and to provide honest and genuine digital marketing advice to those who need it – it’s grown from there, really. Our mission is to make digital marketing fun for us and for our clients. If you have to do it nine to five, five days a week, you may as well have a good time doing it!

Which clients are you working with?

We specialise in working with B2B, Legal Services and eCommerce but we also do one-off projects for clients.

For example, we’re running social ad campaigns for several premium marques in the automotive industry.

advertising feature Hannah Williams

Tom Likeman

Client Partner - Halo 0117 9277841; www.wearehalo.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

We’re different from other agencies because we believe ideas come from anywhere; each and every person working at Halo has a creative voice and input. We actively encourage collaboration, flexible working and open minds. We care about each other, our clients and the work we produce. It’s how we’ve built long-standing relationships with our clients and our team.

Why should a business utilise your services?

Halo are brave – we consider ourselves the best branding agency outside of London! Bold... We always engage with interesting brands and opportunities that excite us. Ultimately, we want to connect brands with their audiences in meaningful ways. We love what we do, and what we do is loud – Halo crafted brands are louder.

Our favourite clients are those who trust us to help them build their brand (even when they sometimes have a hint of fear in their eyes!) as that’s when the magic happens.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

We’re proud to work with the breadth of clients that we do. From Live Nation and Ticketmaster to Origin Coffee, Rowan Dartington, Deezer and Budweiser Budvar. Most recently being appointed by London Designer Outlet and more locally, Mallets Cider. Exciting times ahead!

Creative Director - Image Creative UK 0117 316 4411; www.imagecreativeuk.com

Hannah Williams

Georgie Upton

Wild West Communications 01872 243560; www.wildwestcomms.co.uk What sets you apart from the others?

Our mission is to deliver relevance and resonance in storytelling, where practical rigour meets creative stretch. We innovate, create and most importantly, we deliver. We are straight-talking, no nonsense media specialists. 10-years independent, with offices in Truro and Bristol, and a sister agency in London. We take regional brands, and elevate them on a national scale.

Why is Bristol important to your agency?

Opening our satellite office in Bristol has allowed us to expand our network across the southwest.

Bristol is a vibrant and exciting city. It provides an important link between the southwest and beyond.

Our first project was to launch the impressive Bristol Harbour Hotel, and Bristol has opened the doors for brands such as Tideford Organics, Forthglade Natural Pet Food and Arden’s.

What motivates you?

In a nutshell – results. Uncovering a consumer insight and driving behavioural change for a brand in need. There’s nothing that compares to the satisfaction of seeing my team excited by delivering impressive results.

Why should businesses use an agency?

The ability to tap into a wealth of knowledge from a dedicated team at the top of their game.

Our team includes a diverse, well-connected group of storytellers, media hounds and sector specialists, ready to drive impactful coverage and conversations that will result in commercial deliverables.

Tom Likeman

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We are specialists in retail point of sale. Whether it’s a handful of bespoke FSDU’s or a window display with supporting POS for 90 stores, it’s what we do, what we love and what we’re great at. What puts us in a unique position is our partner company Image Factory, where we develop, print and manufacture our designs. We offer a complete service, from concept and 3D visualisation, through to structural design, print, assembly, fulfillment and delivery. We are often collaborating with other creative agencies as well as working directly with our own clients.

Why should a business utilise your services?

The POS industry has changed. Clients are now looking for reactive print runs with a mixture of artwork and messages, tailor-made for designled digital printing. We work with complete transparency and never become complacent in the projects we are working on. Our clients work directly with the designer and always know exactly how their projects are developing. The best solutions are always created together.

What is the most challenging brief you have faced?

Probably designing an entire reception interior out of cardboard. We made sofas, tables, a mock shop display and even a 3D geometric fox from mirror board. And this project was for our own factory reception. Thanks boss!

KAren Howell digirank 0117 923 2021 www.digirank.co.uk

Georgie Upton

Karen Howell

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Digirank is an established, award-winning digital agency with Google Premier Partner status. We focus on creating amazing online experiences between our clients and their customers. Understanding data is key to growing customers, optimising marketing performance and improving user-experience. We employ the brightest digital experts in the South West to deliver strategic, multi-channel digital campaigns. Our values make us unique: expert, determined, and positive.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

The way customers shop and interact with brands online has evolved significantly. People can spend a long time researching even the smallest of purchases, and have multiple touchpoints with brands before buying – including search, social media and content.

Brands therefore need to manage the online customer experience across all channels, adding value at each point.

What bespoke services do you offer clients?

Digirank’s digital marketing mix of content marketing, SEO, PPC and social media is tailored strategically for each client depending on their goals. Every business is unique, and therefore our approach is, too.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE POLLY AKIELAN

DARREN HART

PAM LLOYD PR 0117 924 7220 www.pamlloyd.com

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We help food and drink businesses. It’s all we do. And we think it shows. With our roots in fresh produce, we’ve become good at creating stories for products where the beauty is in their simplicity, no gimmicks.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

We’ve been working with the awesome team at Boston Tea Party on its banning of disposable coffee cups.

Putting a Bristol success story on the national stage has been one highlight of the year so far. Other current clients include Swoon, Isle of Wight tomatoes, Monty Bojangles truffles and we’re excited to be working with Honest Burgers to launch in Bristol in July.

What is the most challenging brief you have faced?

What brief?! We rarely get given a brief! We usually help clients write a brief so that it’s a collaborative process from the outset. I’ve got a personal mission to make celery sexy; it’s an ongoing campaign.

What is the oddest thing you have done in your role?

Tweeting on behalf of cheese or being the UK’s first vegetable to crowdfund a supperclub (British asparagus) it’s hard to choose between the two!

T&S CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS 0117 3155 118 www.tandsadvertising.co.uk

Polly Akielan

PETER BROWN

Darren Hart

PROPHECY UNLIMITED 0117 244 0800 www.prophecyunlimited.com What sets you apart from other agencies?

With the ability to join up the journey from acquisition to advocacy, Prophecy Unlimited builds enduring relationships that create value for individuals and brands, from attentiongrabbing content that engages people into a brand, to seamless CRM that keeps them there.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

Whether it’s shopping with Asda, coffee with Costa, homes with Barratt, baby nutrition with Aptamil and Cow & Gate, or cars with BMW, we’re lucky to work with a diverse range of brands across a number of sectors. No two days are the same, and we develop deep partnerships with all our clients, getting under the skin of their business and working together in partnership.

What does your agency mean to you?

As the largest agency in the South West, Prophecy Unlimited isn’t a single person. It’s a team effort. Our talented team of 180 people work magic every day. From strategic planners, award-winning creative talent, technical and data specialists, project managers, client services and support functions, everyone is focused on delivering consistently brilliant, effective work.

We make noise, we laugh, we share and we genuinely care about each other and the agency.

JOHN COURTNEY

THE MARKETING CENTRE 07976 436 757; www.themarketingcentre.com

Peter Brown

John Courtney

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

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

We’ve recently taken on Motorline – onboarding 50+ new clients, a hectic but fantastic challenge.

As official design partner to the TSA, we’re working to publicise technology-enabled care, and we’re currently working with Bristol Airport to help local and international brands take flight.

How did you get into agency work?

Through saying ‘yes’ to challenges that no-one else wanted. The big break came when a colleague threw a hissy fit, refusing to help out a publishing agency. The company I worked at folded with mass redundancies, and I jumped to the agency.

What does your industry mean to you?

The digital side of the industry, especially in Bristol, is collaborative and (for the most part) friendly. The new opportunities and techniques you encounter daily from brilliant and creative minds, who are ostensibly competitors, are invaluable.

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We’re not just order-takers, we love a challenge.

There’s a great mix of experience, viewpoints and fresh ideas within the agency leading to intense creative debates. With T&S, you get big agency knowledge, combined with a boutique attention to detail and creativity. What’s not to love?

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We provide part-time Marketing Directors for growing businesses who need Director level advice but cant afford a full time one. We are not consultants but in-house, just not there every day off the week. The average is a day a week but it can be as low as a day a month or as high as 3 days a week.

Why should a business utilise your services?

Businesses often start the marketing with their founders, who have the connections. Then when they need to grow more, they often hire a Marketing Executive or Manager who can get busy “doing stuff” but not necessarily doing the right thing as strategy isn’t necessarily their strength.

What is your specialism?

Marketing strategy and planning, and over-seeing implementation. We manage full time staff and also specify, filter, receipt, onboard and manage agencies from PR and web to content and digital marketing.

What types of clients are you working with at the moment?

A whole variety from management consultancy to personalised coffins via cybersecurity and cold storage.

There isn’t a sector we haven’t covered, and we have over 80 part-time Marketing Directors, so a lot of experience!

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Helping a client grow and expand into different markets and additional products or services.

ADVERTISING FEATURE JOANNA RANDALL PURPLEFISH 01179 251358 www.purplefish.agency

GRANT HAWLEY

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Insight to impact is our mantra and this is at the heart of how we work. We only use processes when relevant to the job in hand and work collaboratively and creatively with clients to add tangible value to their businesses.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

We set up as a business in the post-recession world when there was intense cost pressure and caution around marketing spend.

The last decade has seen brands realising that audiences hold the power when informing marketing strategies.

Social media has come of age and is maturing as a channel – we’re only really seeing the start of regulation around this area of marketing – 10 years ago things were more experimental. Now we have a clearer idea of what blend of content will work best.

Why should a business utilise your services?

We are creative and agile and our focus will always be on the impact our work makes to our clients. We strive to deliver a holistic and honest view with effective campaign strategies, ideas and implementation. We enjoy what we do and that comes across in how we deliver on our promises.

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We make accessing great quality, high performance digital creative both easy and affordable for agency partners, and clients. Our highly competitive, fixed price creative with an agency level service sets us apart. We are structured as a hybrid agency, with a core team and a visible extended member network which gives us increased ability to be relevant to clients and partner agencies alike. We are regularly told by clients and members that they like our approach and find the way we work refreshing.

Long may that continue!

What clients are you working with at present?

We work with a range of different industry sectors including multichannel retailers, leisure travel companies, airports, universities, not-for-profit sector and financial services. Since everyone is online these days, and connected to the net with mobile everywhere, the opportunities for all businesses to build awareness of their products and services as well as make sales and engage with their customers is ever-expanding. That being the case, we aim our creative services directly at measurable revenue generation or customer acquisition wherever possible.

Why should a business utilise your services?

We believe 100% in being effective and easy to work with. We are adept at making the life of any client or agency much easier for choosing Campaign Circle. The result is we make good long term relationships with clients and partners.

CAMPAIGN CIRCLE 0117 248 2365; www.campaigncircle.com

Joanna Randall

JAYNE NOBLET

Grant Hawley

THE COLLABORATORS 01179 374583 www.thecollaborators.com What sets you apart from other agencies?

We are as much a part of the food and drink industry as the creative industry. Specializing in this arena and working with many startups means we have a broader skill-set than our agency roots suggest. Finding a factory, preparing an investment-plan or developing a sales pitch; our involvement runs deep.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Five years ago we founded a philanthropic project called The Seed Fund. It’s an annual competition that finds and supports ambitious food and drink start-ups. We have enlisted the help of over 30 industry experts and run a summer academy. It’s unpaid and hard work... but we love it.

How has your industry changed over the last 10 years?

We work with some food giants, but it’s the artisan and smaller companies that are driving change. Finely crafted foods, deserve carefully crafted branding. The pencil and paintbrush are as commonplace as Macs in our studio now.

Who do you work with?

We’re working with some cracking companies.

Some of the best locally are Marshfield Ice Cream, Boundless Activated Nuts, Adam’s Chocolates and Far Side Cold Brew Coffee.

JAYNE SMITH

RAPPORT DIGITAL 0117 3005599; www.rapportdigital.com

Jayne Noblet

Jayne Smith

What sets you apart from other agencies?

As a relatively small agency we focus on working intensively with a small number of clients to deliver a high quality, bespoke service. We understand our clients’ businesses, cultures and marketing goals and are often viewed as an extension of their own team.

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

Our clients are typically local firms. Current clients range from some of Bristol’s best-known names including Nisbets and Elizabeth Shaw through to rising stars such as Bristol Life’s New Business of the Year, Mobius Works Ltd. How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

It has become increasingly important for companies to establish the correct mix of communication strategies rather than rely on a single channel such as email or social media.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Making an impact by ensuring marketing investment translates into increased sales and a higher profile for our clients. A recent high-point was standing on the stage with Mobius Works as they scooped their Bristol Life award, knowing that we had helped make that possible.

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advertising feature Alex Wood

JEMMA MARITN

Proteus 0117 985 8888; www.proteus-uk.com What sets you apart from other agencies?

We value creative thinking above all else. Indeed, you’ll find it in everything that we do. We’ve got an uncomplicated structure which means our clients have direct access to everyone here. There’s no smoke and mirrors at Proteus. No confusing marketing jargon. We simply believe that actions speak louder than words. We are proud of our ‘make it happen’ attitude, so we’re not afraid to say we will do anything. It’s not because we’ll take any work out there but because we know we can do anything and do it well.

Why should a business utilise your services?

Businesses should work with us if they want effective creative solutions with a straightforward approach.

Most importantly, we will help them overcome whatever marketing challenge they are facing, big or small.

We are what we do and not what we say we’ll do.

What does your industry mean to you?

This industry is about provoking action from customers.

It’s about not standing still and waiting for things to happen. It’s about making things happen.

Wonderland CommunicationS 0771 234 2974 www.wonderlandcomms.com

Alex Wood

ALISON WEIR

Wonderland Communications 0771 234 2974 www.wonderlandcomms.com Why did you start your own agency?

I’d worked in agencies for 16 years and knew there was a better way of doing things without the usual bureaucracy and bollocks. I was set on creating an agency people would love to work at and with, where we get on with doing great work with clients we believe in and have a laugh while we’re at it. Our entire agency philosophy can be summed up as ‘Don’t Be a Dick’.

Having great people on the team makes our Wonderland world go around. Our culture is massively important to me. I wanted to work with talented people who were at the top of their game but with whom I also genuinely love spending time. The same goes for our clients – we’re now firm friends with a lot of people we’ve worked with.

Which clients do you work with?

We work with local, national and pan-European companies, like Heinz, Bristol Food Connections, Trevor Sorbie, KeepCup, Good Money Week, Canopy & Stars and We The Curious. It’s a varied group of brands and organisations, which have one simple thing in common: they all make us jump out of bed in the morning because we’re so passionate about all of them.

How would your clients describe Wonderland?

We’ve been described as “the least ‘PR’ PR agency you’ll meet”, having “vast amounts of good humour”, being “true partners”, and “tenacious, collaborative, full of ideas and honest”. That sort of feedback from our clients is something we always feel super-proud of. So thank you if you’re reading!

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

Jemma Martin

What does Wonderland specialise in?

We’re a PR, communications and brand development agency but let’s face it ­most comms agencies do more or less the same things. It’s the way we do it that sets us apart. We’re ballsy, honest, and truly collaborative. We have just the right amount of process in place so we can all focus on getting brilliant results without getting bogged down in admin. We pride ourselves on being creative and taking risks but everything we do also has a rock-solid strategy behind it. And while we take our work seriously, we have a lot of fun too.

What’s it like to work at Wonderland?

Wonderland’s a pretty special thing to be part of even though we’ve doubled in size in the last six months (and moved into arguably the best offices in Bristol on the second floor of Arnolfini, with amazing views of the Harbourside) it feels like a family and we all respect, support, like and care about each other. Our culture plays a massive part in making Wonderland different to other agencies: We’re all free to be ourselves with no dress code, corporate guff or office politics and everyone’s strengths are recognised and celebrated. It’s also the most democratic place I’ve worked ­I can’t imagine many agencies where Directors get stuck into updating coverage logs or media lists - and everyone has a say on what we do and (just as importantly) don’t work on. I feel lucky to work with such switched on, smart, funny and hard-working people.

KATH DAWSON

Digital Academy Collective 07966 862998; www.digitalacademycollective.co.uk

Alison Weir

Kath Dawson

What sets you apart from other agencies?

I have been technical director then creative director for 50-person agency Strategy Digital which was sold to Fat Media in 2015. My current agency is an extensive collective of friends and partners who have specific expertise in specialist skills such as copywriting, PR, social media, PPC and web development. I create the strategies then pull together the right mix of tacticians to match the budgets and resources of my clients. Each client gets a unique virtual agency coordinated and managed by me.

What bespoke services do you offer?

For clients with bigger budgets looking to invest in an agency partner, I design the agency brief, identify suitable partners, sift the pitches, then bring on board and manage the chosen agency. I also train in-house marketing teams to upskill them in digital marketing and I’ve helped other agencies develop their growth strategies.

What motivates you?

I now get to enjoy being more selective about the clients I work with and the work I want to do. I love helping people understand the solutions available to them and seeing them and their businesses grow as a result of the time we spend together.

advertising feature Holly Shannon

Andy Reid

Friday Marketing 07866 587424 www.fridaymarketing.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

Me. As a freelance marketer I can offer flexibility and a personal service that many others can’t. I can scale ideas to suit different businesses and budgets, take the fear out of marketing and provide that vital extra resource when needed.

What bespoke services do you offer clients?

I invest in the clients I work with, both as individuals and in their businesses, so everything I do is tailormade. I specialise in working with owner-managed businesses, particularly those in a period of growth, and offer support in areas that often get neglected such as marketing, copywriting, web content and PR. Sometimes a business just needs a fresh set of eyes, a sounding board to get new ideas off the ground or simply an extra pair of hands.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

It has to be the variety of clients I work with. Many are independents and I am very fortunate to work in a city as creative and entrepreneurial as Bristol. I love helping businesses get to the next level and see them reach their full potential. I also enjoy giving clients back a little bit of precious time to do what they do best.

I like getting the job done.

McCann Bristol 0117 921 1764; www.mccannbristol.co.uk

Holly Shannon

OlLiE James

Andy Reid

Proctor & Stevenson Ltd 0117 923 2282; www.proctors.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

We work across the full media spectrum: from responsive website and banner ads, to films, animations, infographics and print. We produce content that informs, inspires and entertains, but most of all delivers results. Our digital team has built and integrated sites, systems and apps of all shapes, sizes and functionality. The technical solution to your problem doesn’t exist yet? Don’t worry, we’ll invent it!

Which clients are you working with at the moment?

We are lucky enough to work with some household names. Proctors is both the European and global digital partner agency for Panasonic Business, delivering end-to-end marketing and infrastructure support since 2009. We’ve been transforming their marketing processes and maximising results through the smart integration of digital technologies.

What challenges do you help clients overcome?

The challenge for a 250-year-old brand such as Rathbones is to strike the right balance between the traditional values of a trusted advice service and a progressive attitude ­as summed up by its strapline, ‘Look Forward’. Having worked with Rathbones for many years, we were asked to design and build its new website, which we completed in 2016.

What is the most challenging brief you have faced?

The most challenging ones are when the client doesn’t know what they want. The greatest challenge sometimes is to help to create the brief before you set about answering it!

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Part of McCann Worldgroup, we’re the only global network agency to have an offering in the South West. We’re a ‘big, small’ agency – we’re big because we can access the knowledge from our network across the UK, Europe and globally, but we’re also small, nimble and entrepreneurial.

What clients are you working with at present?

Working across all sectors, clients include Flybe, Yeo Valley, Pukka Herbs, BUPA Dental, Shiner, Pink Lady Apples, The Royal Mint and Danbury Motorcaravans, to name but a few.

What is the most challenging brief you’ve ever worked on?

There are several that spring to mind – for example, when Google launched in Europe, we had to deliver against a brief ‘advertise without advertising’.

What motivates you?

As chair of the IPA, I believe that an agency’s regional location should be no hindrance to delivering national and international success. It can also be a real advantage when working with local clients. I’m therefore not only committed to providing integrated marketing solutions to companies in the South West who need to overcome business challenges or might be going through times of transformation, but I’m particularly proud that we regularly pitch, and win, against the best that the UK has to offer.

Kellie Hasbury

Plaster Creative Communications 0117 953 0320; www.weareplaster.com

Ollie James

Kellie Hasbury

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Blood, sweat and tears. For breakfast alone!

Why should a business utilise your services?

We believe clients look to agencies to energise, inspire, tell the truth – and ultimately get stuff done. We concentrate our firepower on offering solutions, creating remarkable work and making our clients famous.

Tell us about your company?

Plaster are comprised of three specialist sector teams (tech, consumer and events), with a design studio in our engine room and an intimate knowledge of the Bristol scene built up over 13 years’ experience in the city. We work with people we like, on projects we believe in. Our processes vary depending on the challenges in front of us, but we’re a team of thinkers and doers that strive to do the absolute best we can, tell the truth and make a difference for the people we work with What is the oddest thing you have done in your role?

Don’t underestimate the importance of fun in our work – you need a sense of humour! We often find ourselves in bizarre situations – taking photos of Craig David from a rooftop while being attacked by seagulls? Check.

Getting inflatable palm trees through Dutch customs?

Check. Making a snowman out of hair braids and hand towels? Triple check. But it is that kind of stuff – going the extra mile – that motivates what we do. Any Bristol business looking to energise their communications should consider getting Plaster-ed!

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

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

• Dispute Resolution • Divorce, Family & Children • Employment Advice • Probate & Estate Services • Wills, Trusts & Tax Planning

Call free for a no obligation consultation

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

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

OUR TEAM OF SOLICITORS CAN ASSIST YOU IN A RANGE O F M AT T E R S : • Capacity, deputyship & lasting powers of attor ney

• Inheritance tax planning • Probate & estate administration

- Medically led - owned by Mr Simon Lee Consultant Plastic Surgeon

• Trusts & your family • W ills & estate planning

- Coolsculpting is a completely non-invasive fat reduction treatmentno down time, no needles or general anesthesia

If you would like to discuss a private client matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.

- FDA cleared treatment both safety and efficacy has been proven

16 Weeks after Second CoolSculpting Session

We have a strong track record of advising generations of families located in Bristol and the surrounding areas and we adopt a supportive and attentive approach to guide you through your private client af fairs.

• Disputed wills & inheritance claims

Why choose CoolSculpting at Simon Lee’s Aesthetic Medical Clinic?

Before

PRIVATE CLIENT SPECIALISTS

BUSH HOUSE, 77-81 ALMA ROAD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2DP *Photos courtesy of Brian Biesman, MD

www.simonleeclinic.co.uk Simon Lee, Aesthetic Medical Clinic 3 Whiteladies Gate, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2PH Telephone 01173 292027

HELLO@COOKCO.CO.UK 0117 317 9719 W W W. C O O K C O . C O . U K

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Cover up to keep safe this summer There may be clouds in the sky but that doesn’t mean your skin is safe!

T

hat’s the message skin experts are hoping to get across as summer approaches and people start shedding their shirts in an attempt to get their annual sun tan.

With Sun Awareness week taking place during 14-20 May, dermatologists are taking the opportunity to highlight the dangers of spending too much time in the sun.

And they are keen to point out that it doesn’t have to be ‘a scorcher’ before people should start taking protective action.

“When the sun is blasting down, everyone should know the drill by now,” explained Dr Shalini Narayan a consultant dermatologist at Spire Bristol Hospital.

“The danger is when there is cloud cover or a breeze that is making everything appear cooler.

Clouds reduce the amount of ultraviolet A and B radiation that reaches the earth’s surface and our skin, but don’t stop the damaging rays.

Clouds block more visible light than ultraviolet radiation,” he explained.

“THE DANGER IS WHEN THERE IS CLOUD COVER OR A BREEZE THAT IS MAKING EVERYTHING APPEAR COOLER” “Admittedly there will be ‘summer days’ when it is pouring it down with rain and the clouds are so thick and grey that your umbrella and raincoat should give all the cover you need but, basically, if the sun is shining then your skin is in danger.”

TOP TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR SKIN IN THE SUN: • Wear protective clothing – the tighter the weave the better the protection • Use SPF 30+ /broad spectrum UVA sunscreen and re-apply every two hours.

• Never use sunscreen to increase the amount of time you can spend in the sun.

• Wear on a wide brimmed hat that covers your ears and the back of your neck

Government figures show skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK and rates continue to rise with at least 100,000 new cases diagnosed each year resulting in approximately 2,500 people’s deaths.

Dr Narayan added: “In the case of young children, if it is warm enough for them to be playing out in shorts and tee shirts, then the sun is usually strong enough to merit covering them in a protective cream or lotion.

“I would also advise that, particularly between 11am and 3pm when the sun rays are at their strongest, you actually put kids in long sleeved tee-shirts and light, long trousers.

“It is always better to be safe than sorry and my advice would be that if you are outdoors in summer, take care. Just because you can’t feel the burn, doesn’t mean you aren’t burning!”. ■

To book an appointment or to find a full list of treatments and services available please visit www.spirebristol.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 109

private health

Your very good health Bristol’s not short of private clinics, poised to deal with everything from non-invasive aesthetic surgery to residential care. We approached a wide range of local practices and invited them to tell us exactly what they offer

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

private health Simon Lee’s Aesthetic Medical Clinic

Simon Lee’s chic-looking clinic at the junction of Cotham Hill and Whiteladies Road specialises in medical-grade aesthetic treatments that offer spectacular proven results. Drawing on Mr Lee’s extensive research from around the world, the clinic unites cosmetic medicine with the best of beauty treatments.

What treatments, for example?

Non-invasive ultrasound facelifts, laser skin resurfacing, treatments to reduce facial ageing, treatments to freeze off unwanted fat and superior monthly facial treatments. The team are all extremely experienced, and only offer treatments with a proven track record including both safety and efficacy.

Is there anything that makes Simon Lee’s clinic unique in Bristol?

The level of technology within one clinic is unique, and something that the team are very proud of. Patients travel from all over the country to have treatments here.

Mr Lee was the first plastic surgeon in the UK to offer the Fraxel repair, and it’s the only clinic in Bristol to offer miraDry FDA-cleared sweat-reduction treatment and Coolsculpting fat-freezing treatment.

The approach that they offer is based around simple, honest and impartial advice.

Consultations are available with the team at the clinic, and with Mr Lee at the Bristol Spire Hospital. www.simonleeclinic.co.uk

Zafra Medical

A private medical clinic providing advanced aesthetic treatments and anti-ageing consultation. The bespoke treatment plans for men and women help to maintain, improve and restore external natural beauty and internal health.

What kind of treatments are on offer?

They have the most advanced technology of lasers, radiofrequency and high-focused ultrasound devices, which enables them to treat all the concerns of a person’s skin, from pigmentation to moles, cysts, loss of skin quality, laxity, cellulite, scars, stretch marks and more. They also offer vaginal rejuvenation.

Advanced treatments like PRP (platelet rich plasma) for skin rejuvenation and hair loss are in very high demand, as well as the popular injectable treatments like dermal fillers, antiwrinkle injections, thread lifts, mesotherapy and fat-dissolving injections.

Is there anything that makes Zafra unique in Bristol?

Their treatment protocols are unique; they have been created by Dr Zafra who has a master’s degree in aesthetic medicine and

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private health

Spire Bristol

Residential care Barchester Healthcare is one of the UK’s largest care providers supporting older people living independent lives with dignity and respect. Five care homes across Bristol provide a wide range of services for a variety of needs, from short breaks to long-term stays.

The highly-qualified staff are passionate about independence, dignity and choice for all residents , focusing on the individual needs of each resident, developing a bespoke care plan for each and every person.

The Barchester homes in Bristol also provides expert dementia care in Memory Lane Communities, a dedicated part of the home designed to support residents who are living with various stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia stay as independent and active as possible.

At Barchester, the team celebrate life and make sure the people they support do too. They do this by treating everyone as individuals, and always tailoring their services and support to meet their needs, which vary from person to person. www.barchester.com

anti-ageing, backed up with nurse Joanna Honar, an advanced aesthetic practitioner with over 30 years of experience. All the treatments are tailored to each individual after a proper face-to-face medical consultation; they create a bespoke individual plan and the treatments are only carried out by a fully registered medical practitioner. They offer free consultations on certain days. www.zaframedical.co.uk

MyFace Aesthetics

Amanda Hawkins’ practice is based in Saltford, and holds regular clinics in Bristol, Bath and the surrounding areas. A prescribing nurse practitioner within the NHS, Amanda is qualified to an advanced, masterclass level in medical aesthetics, and she continues to improve and educate herself in this everexpanding specialty.

What kind of treatments do you offer?

A range of non-surgical procedures; it’s renowned for delivering safe and effective treatments with excellent results, fulfilling the individual needs of each patient.

Amanda’s primary aim is to enable you to look years younger without surgery, providing clinically advanced and evidence-based techniques to ensure optimum results and total patient safety. The focus is achieving natural results. “I want people to say, ‘You look fantastic’, not, ‘What have you had done?’” she says.

Amanda specialises in non-invasive cosmetic treatments such as wrinkle treatments, dermal fillers, Profhilo®, skin and anti-ageing, with a strong emphasis on skin rejuvenation and perfection.

What makes you special?

“My clinic is very warm and welcoming,” says Amanda, who endeavours to provide the best, most suitable treatment for the individual, making sure all questions and concerns are addressed prior to treatment and that all patients leave fully satisfied and well informed.

This tailored service enables her to create bespoke treatments with precision and care.

She continues to offer post-treatment care, advice and support for as long as patients require it; providing personal satisfaction and safety her number-one priority. www.myfacebristol.co.uk

Spire Bristol

Established in 1987, Spire Bristol Hospital has been providing excellent care, expertise and knowledge in a safe environment for over 30 years. The hospital offers the greatest range of high-quality treatments, services and diagnostic facilities in the South West, consultant-led and underpinned by an experienced critical care team and ITU. What makes you special?

Patients benefit from en-suite bedrooms, flexible visiting times, and catering led by an

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Be Happy, Keep Healthy and Feel Young

ANTI-AGEING CONSULTATION Genetic testing, Blood tests and 3D Skin analysis

BODY SCULPTING with Radio Frequency, Fat Dissolving Injections and VASER® Liposuction

FACIAL AESTHETICS Muscle Relaxing Injections, Dermal Fillers, Thread Lifts, PRP, Laser, Ultrasound & RadioFrequency Mole & Cyst Removal.

We are an exclusive clinic, privacy and personal attention unlike any other in Bristol with registered medical professionals carrying out treatments. We specialise in advanced aesthetic treatments with the most modern devices and techniques.

We create bespoke treatment plans to improve, maintain and restore the natural beauty of men and women.

WEIGHT LOSS Management Medically Supervised

VAGINAL REJUVENATION Treatment for vaginal laxity, dryness, loss of sensation and stress incontinence

BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION NOW

Get 50% OFF Saturday Consultations with the Exclusive Code: LIFEMAG

www.zaframedical.co.uk | info@zaframedical.co.uk 1 Litfield Place, Clifton Down, Bristol BS8 3LS | 0117 973 1323

@zaframedical @doctorzafra

private health experienced head chef. Patients and visitors further benefit from free car parking and a concièrge service.

Spire Bristol Hospital is the only independent hospital in the area which can provide surgical treatment to children from the age of three, supported by an experienced team of paediatric nurses who work in a dedicated wing with family rooms.

They are the only independent hospital in the South West with the ability to undertake highly complex and advanced surgery, such as heart, brain and spinal surgery.

The Spire Oncology Centre South West, which is located in Aztec West is one of the only dedicated private oncology units in the area. With state-of-the-art facilities delivering both radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments, they also offer a wide range of support services, allowing patients to experience a fully integrated pathway for their individual cancer care.

With no waiting lists, appointments to suit patients and first-class clinical care, Spire Bristol Hospital and Spire Oncology Centre, South West are a leading provider of private healthcare in the region. www.spirehealthcare.com/Bristol/Hospital

Elgin Park Dental practice Elgin Park provides an exclusive service focused on quality, where patient satisfaction key. They have a special interest in cosmetic dentistry, and understand how your smile can impact on confidence and self-esteem.

The surgeries have cutting-edge equipment, including a pain-free anaesthesia system, a digital oral scanner, and a CEREC machine used to manufacture crowns in a single visit.

What kind of treatments do you offer?

A comprehensive list of cosmetic treatments, including teeth whitening, veneers, and a range of hygiene treatments provided by the on-site dental therapist, along with facial rejuvenation treatments and anti-wrinkle injections, provided by a highly qualified dentist. They often provide cosmetic treatments in preparation for weddings or special occasions, and enjoy helping patients look and feel their best.

Is there anything that makes you unique in Bristol?

Elgin Park is an independent family-run practice in a beautiful period property in Redland. “Patients are greeted by our wonderful reception team, and enjoy sitting in our serene waiting room surrounded by an ever-changing collection of work by local artists. We are delighted to welcome new patients, and are pleased to be able to offer conscious sedation on-site for those patients who may benefit from it.” www.elginpark.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Legs set for summer Newer treatments for varicose veins available at NUFFIELD HEALTH BRISTOL HOSPITAL now mean we can bare all this summer.

W

hen the sun comes out, people are more likely to think of baring their legs to the elements, but for some with unsightly varicose veins, this can spell trouble.

Varicose veins are very common and affect more than one in three adults, both women and men. Often hereditary in nature, the other main causes are pregnancy, standing for lengthy periods at work, being overweight or having a leg injury.

Whilst varicose veins may lead to symptoms such as aching and itching, more often than not, it is the appearance of blue, lumpy veins which is the main reason for seeking surgical treatment.

New NICE guidelines state that the majority of varicose veins can be treated without general anaesthetic and without cuts any bigger than 1-2 millimetres. Sadly the NHS no longer offers treatment for the majority of patients. Treatment is available privately at Nuffield Health Bristol

Hospital, The Chesterfield, with prices starting at £2488, depending on the treatment type. South West trained surgeon, Nuffield Health’s Mr William Neary, who has also been a NHS consultant vascular and renal transplant surgeon for nine years, explains that guided treatment results in less discomfort and the outcomes are much improved.

Mr Neary says, “In deciding when to have your veins treated, it is important to decide how much they are bothering you. With local anaesthetic and short treatment time needed, recovery is quick and there is minimal bruising, scarring or swelling, so you can both look and feel better sooner.

"During the consultation, an ultrasound scan will detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the required treatment.

This could be endothermal ablation using a radiofrequency catheter or laser for varicose veins or foam sclerotherapy or a combination.

"These methods have a 95% success rate.

Thread veins in the legs may also be treated by

microscleropathy or Veinwave.”

A free varicose vein information evening is being held at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital on 5th July. To find out more or to book your place, please ring: 0117 906 4870 or see www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol. ■

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital, The Chesterfield, 3 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1BN 0117 906 4870

over the longer term, implants are usually a more cost-effective and satisfactory option" - The Oral Health Foundation

DENTAL IMPLANTS We are delighted to offer dental implants in-house at Elgin Park. From an initial consultation to high quality after-care, we aim to put you at ease throughout by fully explaining each step of the process.

We have extensive experience in implant cases, ranging from single tooth replacements to full mouth and jaw reconstructions using multiple implants For more information please call us today or visit our website.

Free consultation | Price from £2588 INCLUDING abutment and crown Opening times: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday - 8.30 – 6.00. Wednesday - 8.30 - 7.00. Friday 8.30 – 5.00 Email: reception@elginpark.co.uk. Telephone: 0117 9735677 Website: www.elginpark.co.uk

Dr Nicola Hembry is an independent doctor and certified practitioner of BHRT through WorldLink Medical in the USA. She is also a member of the British Menopause Society. Her clinic at Litfield House Medical Centre is registered with the Care Quality Commission.

“Look years younger without surgery” MyFace Medical Aesthetics is a Nurse led prescribing clinic based in Saltford and offering regular clinics in Bristol,Bath and surrounding areas. Specialising in Dermal fillers and anti wrinkle treatments, with a strong emphasis on volume replacement and skin rejuvenation.

CONTACT US

Bath Road, Saltford, Bristol Tel: 07793393546. www.myfacebristol.co.uk

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement therapy is hormone replacement using body-identical hormones rather than synthetic hormones. Dr Hembry’s approach is to find the optimal regime for the individual drawing on compounded as well as licensed medicines. Hormones prescribed include oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA. The aim of BHRT is to relieve symptoms of deficiency, improve wellbeing and support healthy ageing. Conditions that may benefit include PMS, PCOS, peri-menopause, menopause and post-menopause.

Dr Hembry also offers MammoVision breast thermal imaging, in conjunction with referral for conventional breast screening. MammoVision is not a stand-alone screening tool for breast cancer but it can offer additional information about breast health, and has the advantage of being non-invasive and radiation-free.

Dr Nicola Hembry Hembry BSc MB BS PgDip MRSB MBPsS Integrated Health Screening Ltd Litfield House Medical Centre, 1 Litfield Place, Clifton. Bristol. BS8 3LS Tel: 0117 317 1460 | Email: info@drhembry.com Web: www.drhembry.com

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electric dreams

An Art Deco city-centre penthouse in the ‘bullnose’ of Electricity House may just be the most desirable apartment in town

By Lisa Warren

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A property place to call home

A

nyone who works in Bristol city centre is sure to walk, cycle or drive past Electricity House on a regular basis. If you have an eye for a sexy Art Deco curve, and a yen for a ’30s font, you probably give it a nod of approval as you pass by.

The building was originally designed by noted architect Sir Gilbert Scott, and the beauty of its lines, its historic pedigree and its prominent central position made it a bit of an icon in the city. Despite this – different times, different attitudes – it was allowed to fall into sad neglect for several decades.

Its glory days were destined to arrive again, in 2014, when housing-hungry Bristol was on the lookout for properties to convert into des-res flats. The building had the great good fortune to fall into the hands of awardwinning Crest Nicholson, who have taken enormous care to preserve and cherish the façade, replacing

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

modern windows with those more in keeping with the building’s Grade-II Deco style, and recreating the terrazzo hallway floor; inside, the 85 luxury homes pull out all the stops to offer state-of-the-art contemporary living. The design also demonstrates Crest Nicholson’s commitment to sustainability – all of which won them the Best Refurbishment Project of the Year at the 2016 Housebuilder Awards.

It’s no surprise to learn that one of the most desirable homes in the building is the penthouse up on the fifth and sixth floors, in the prominent position of the ‘bullnose’.

With panoramic views of the city, and 2,000 square feet to play with, it’s actually one of the largest apartments in the city centre.

Off to the left, a door opens to the most standoutattractive rooms you’re ever likely to enter, due to the vast, fully-glazed curve of the outer wall. This is where all the daytime living takes place, comprising an open-plan (over 36ft) living room/dining room/kitchen area. From here, you can step out onto the wrap-around balcony, and take in the city views.

The dining end flows naturally into the kitchen/ breakfast area, which is fitted out with sleek units, stone surfaces and integrated Bosch and AEG appliances; there’s a central island with an induction hob and breakfast bar.

A rare bonus for an apartment, a large utility room keeps laundry clutter out of sight; there’s also a double

property

bedroom on this floor, with an en-suite shower room.

A distinctive stairwell allows the fifth floor to flow into the sixth floor, where there’s a landing large enough to house a seating area, with yet more views of the city through curved floor-to-ceiling windows.

The master bedroom suite’s a stunner, with high windows to the front and side, and an en-suite with a bath and rainfall shower; just like the bedroom across the landing, it has a walk-in storage room, too, to store the collection of the most dedicated follower of fashion.

Best of all, there’s another wrap-around, south-facing balcony, its glass balustrade gently curving to follow the sweeping design of the building; paved with ample space for garden pots and seating areas, it has an unrivalled view of one of Bristol’s most famous street artworks: Nick Walker’s several-storeys-high Vandal on Nelson Street.

You know; just in case you’d forgotten you were in Bristol.

You’re probably wondering about the parking.

There’s secure underground space for two cars and two motorbikes, and a communal bike area (to be honest, the only vehicle you’ll need for day-to-day living).

So how much will this three-bedroomed, threebathroomed beauty set you back? This little slice of urban heaven is on the market for £1.15 million; if you want your friends to be electric with jealousy, call the number below. n Savills Clifton, 20 The Mall, Clifton Village, Bristol BS8 4DR 0117 933 5800; www.savills.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 127

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bristol LIVES

“As a child, I looked forward to Carnival more than Christmas” been sorely missed. So why has it been away so long?

It’s well documented that the Carnival faced a number of funding and event management issues over the past few years.

While this was heart-breaking for us all, it provided the opportunity for us to pull together to rethink, reimagine and return a sustainable Carnival back to the streets of St Pauls.

We already know that Carnival is a great day out – but tell us about the history

Julz Davis St Pauls Carnival (no, there’s no apostrophe, don’t write in) is back in time for its 50th anniversary – and Julz is the guy making sure that (among many other things) you all nyam good Julz grew up in Knowle West in the ‘70s, and became the first black president of the NUS at Soundwell College of Further Education.

After uni, he spent 10 years working in London, including at Touch and Pride magazines, the MOBOs, and, on his return to Bristol, worked for Triodos Bank. More recently, he was station manager for the multi-award-winning Ujima 98fm.

Currently, Julz is managing director for St Pauls Carnival, overseeing a small team bringing the carnival vibe back to Bristol – just in time for the festival’s 50th anniversary.

We’re dusting down our sequin-encrusted headdresses, because St Pauls Carnival is back…

Carnival has had a four-year break, but it feels right that the community and the team have worked together, and brought it back for its 50th anniversary.

As there has been so much in the media about the Windrush generation, we’re proud to be honouring their legacy and recognise what they have done for Bristol and England. So much so, that one of our stages – the Windrush stage – is named in their honour.

From the procession to steel bands and sound systems, it’s

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

In 1948, the SS Empire Windrush arrived with the first wave of West Indian migrants, who were invited to the mother country to help put the Great back into Britain. In spite of a hostile welcome they were determined to make a positive contribution, one of which was launching a cultural celebration in 1968 called St Pauls Festival. This gift to Bristol was about sharing their culture, traditions, food and more.

Carnival started out small, but it’s grown…

Produced by the community for the community, over the years it has grown from its humble roots of a couple of hundred people to becoming a major tourist attraction with over 100,000 attending. As the city’s oldest street-based festival, it uniquely brings all of the city together as one. It supports home-grown talent by giving it a platform to shine, and helps to support local businesses, and highlights what is so great about St Pauls.

What’ll be on the menu?

People won’t go hungry at Carnival and they can be sure they’ll nyam good, which is Jamaican patois for eat well. In

fact, people will be able to eat their way around the Caribbean, without having to get on a plane.

Expect jerk chicken, BBQ meats, curry goat, rice and peas, vegan food, fresh tropical drinks and more.

We hear that Carnival is practically in your DNA…

My parents met at the first St Pauls Festival in 1968, so I very much see myself as a child of the Carnival. Growing up in Knowle West, on the outskirts of the city, Carnival was the one day of the year that I could unashamedly be me, and celebrate my culture with people who looked and thought like me. As a child, I looked forward to Carnival more than Christmas.

For an event that’s 50 years old, we have to say Carnival is looking good…

Our grassroots-led organisation has a respectful eye on the past but with our eyes firmly directed towards the future. We look forward to celebrating 50 years of Carnival while putting the framework in place for an annual event, year-in, year-out. The family-friendly area at Mandela’s Hideaway returns, we have 15 sound systems, four performance stages, a spectacular procession led by the Arcadia bug, a schools programme featuring nearly 500 children, we’ll be releasing a Carnival anthem and we even have a youth steel-pan band . . .

With the support of Bristol City Council and the Arts Council, St Pauls Carnival takes place on Saturday, 7 July from 12-10pm. Businesses who would like to sponsor the Carnival should call 0117 942 5017 For more; www.stpaulscarnival.net