Bristol Life - Issue 256

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ISSUE 256 / BRISTMAS 2018 / £3

ISSUE 256 / BRISTMAS 2018 / BRISTMAS TIME, BRISTLETOE AND WINE

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Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

Fr id S ay a 28 le S th ta De rt ce s m be r

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Editor’s letter Festive Bansky pastiches by Jim Robins www.jamesrobins.co.uk

I

think it’s fair to say that we’ve left no stone unturned while putting together this Bristmas issue. If you spot a festive stone we’ve missed, give us a jingle bell; we’ll rush out and turn it over.

We have Bristmas markets, shows, music, cocktails, presents, party frocks, and an interview with an elf.

Kam, Baz and Stan all have their Santa hats on. If you think the pages still suffer from tinsel deficiency, let us know – we’ll try harder next year.

One of our most cherished Bristol Life traditions is our annual Christmas street art cover. This year we offer up a loving tribute to Bansky; and yes, since you ask, the cover will be worth more if you shred it, but sadly still worth less than the retail cost of a shredder.

Before we sign off for Christmas, we’d just like to mention the fact that Bristol has just won the National Geographic Traveller Rising Star Award. “The Mild West’s hip hub city has long been bubbling under as a must-visit mini-metropolis, but it’s finally surfaced to get the broad attention it deserves”, they said.

So Merry Christmas, then, to our sparkly, Bristmassy, mild, wild, hip hub of a mini metropolis, and all who sail in her.

deri robins Follow us on Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram @BristolLifeMag

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Issue 256/Christmas 2018 Cover AND PAGE 3 ‘Festive Banksy’ pastiches by Jim Robins; www.jamesrobins.co.uk

It’s bristmaaaas!

12 A city made for CHRISTMAS Claus Encounters

of the local kind

the arts

21 art page Fabulous beasts and where to find them 24 WHAT’S ON It’s not all Christmas shows and New

Year shindigs. Just mostly

32 bristol heroes We live in a caring city 36 Weird bristol We also live in a weird one 39 Books The best Christmas gift of all?

a man’s world

41 kam kelly This Christmas, Kam’s just giving

his mum his heart

43 seb barrett Meanwhile, Baz is attempting to

up his gifting game

food & DRINK

47 cocktails Good libations 55 Stan Putting the Tea in Christmas 56 RESTAURANT Steaks for the heart

shopping

63 Bristmas gift guide One for them, two for you 74 fashion Party sparkle is on

Business

93 business insider A festive campaign for Park

Street, and the launch of our new Property Awards

Property

55

108 showcase A chance to own the former home of

Bristol architect, Sir George Oatley – you know, the chap who built the Wills Tower

Regulars

41

43

9 brizzogram 7 spotlight 86 society 114 bristol lives It’s the ever-so-slightly disgruntled

Chief Post Office Elf

Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore, Kam Kelly, Seb Barrett Advertising manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Jake Newland jake.newland@mediaclash. co.uk Sales Executive Gabriella Cronchey gabriella.cronchey@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. 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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BRISTOL

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Manchester . York . Sutton Coldfield . Bristol . Farnborough . Brentwood . Aberdeen . Tunbridge Wells . Cardiff Beverley . Chichester . High Wycombe . Liverpool . London North . London West . Orpington

clockwise from below:

Young David and Peter in the Sproxton’s spare room; David with Morph; the boys with third musketeer Nick Park; superhero Aardman prepares to save the world

spotlight

Books

an aard LUCK life

Last month, Aardman founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton informed the world that they’d be handing over a 75% stake in the business to their employees, in a bid to protect the company’s independence.

It’s a suitably feelgood new chapter in a story that began with a couple of school friends messing about with animation on a kitchen table, sowing the seeds that grew into the multi-million-pound Bristol institution we know and love today.

All is revealed in Peter and David’s new autobiography, Aardman: An Epic Journey. It’s essential reading, not just for Aardman fans, but anyone curious to learn how a couple of mates with brilliant ideas but zilch business experience went on to conquer Hollywood and the world.

The company takes its name from the nerdy little guy shown in the middle row (not the one on the right, that’s Dave). The boys created superhero character ‘Aardman’ for the TV show Vision On while still at school; after graduating from university they went on to model Morph for Take Hart, made groundbreaking adverts, film revolutionary music video Sledgehammer and – after recruiting bona-fide genius and third Aard man, Nick Park – the full-length claymation movies that have won them 10 Oscar nominations and four awards.

It’s hard to sum up the Aardman genius, but the recipe includes endlessly good-natured, very British, humour; preternatural patience (on average, each animator films seven seconds of footage per day), along with – to quote Simpsons creator Matt Groenig, who’s written the intro to the book – “a couple of the sweetest animated characters ever created” in Wallace and Gromit.

If you’ve always wanted to peek inside a company that Matt likens to “Santa’s very busy toy workshop,” here’s your chance.

Aardman: An Epic Journey is published by Simon & Schuster UK at £20 (hb) For more www.aardman.com

Music

christmas joy

. . . for Bristol rockers Idles, whose album Joy has just been voted by BBC6 as the best album of 2018.

You’ve come a long way from the Bat-Cave night club, lads.

For more www.idlesband.com

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SPOTLIGHT BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG CITY

Short of a trip to Narnia on the Polar Express, escorted by a Bedminster elf, with Slade on loop, it’s hard to imagine anything more yuletastic than peak Bristmas

@ten_realms_photography

@Iz.bristol

@richimal_bristol

@rogerturner6

@ten_realms_photography

@troyvlogs

@craigderrick40

@chill1983

@mick_the_click

@neiljamesb

@craigderrick40

@moodycolin319

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INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND RUN • SOUTH BRISTOL’S BEST STEAKHOUSE

Home to Bristol’s infamous 96oz steak challenge, as seen on LADbible

The Ashville Steakhouse, 15 Leigh Street, Bristol BS3 1SN • Tel: 0117 939 6897 • Email: info@theashvillesteakhouse.co.uk

www.theashvillesteakhouse.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

THE BRISTMAS FESTIVE 20!

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It’s our now-traditional Bristmas Quiz, kindly compiled by our friend Richard Jones at Tangent Books. Need more Brizzleness in your life? Tangent’s books make perfect stocking fillers 16

A

B

1 2 3 4 5 6

Who is the current Lord Mayor of Bristol and which party do they represent?

There are nine members of the Bristol City Council Cabinet. How many can you name?

C

D

Bristol City Council want to remove the bear statue from the Bearpit. What is the bear’s name?

Two other Bristol Bears were in the news in 2018.

Why?

What is the proper name of the Bearpit?

20

Can you name these local radio presenters?

11

The Bristol actor who played Darth Vader in the original Star Wars films turned 83 in 2018.

What is his name?

12

The person with Mohammed Ali was a Bristolbased sportsman. What is his name and what was his sport?

13

Name the historic Bristol pub that was demolished in May 2018 as part of the development of the new Bristol University campus on land next to Temple Meads station?

14

Which major Bristol event, whose founders included Roy Hackett and Albert Stewart, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018?

15

20 years ago in 1998 a Bristol band reached Number One in the UK Albums Chart. What was the name of the band and the album?

A

B

C

D

Where am I? Can you identify these Bristol places? (far left).

Which England cricketer was found not guilty of affray at Bristol Crown Court in 2018 following an altercation outside a nightclub on the Triangle?

7

18

8

19

9 10

20

Which Bristol band reached number five in the Official UK Albums Chart this September, the record also being voted Album of the Year by BBC6?

Rise music store closed on the Triangle and moved to Nelson Street in Broadmead in 2018.

What is the name of the new store?

The Tobacco Factory opened a new studio theatre in October 2018. What is it called?

In which Bristol shop did 2017 X-Factor finalist Daniel Quick work?

Louise, the daughter of Lesley and John Brown from Bristol, celebrated her 40th birthday in 2018. Why is she famous?

60 years ago, in 1958, a Bristol pianist had his first Top 10 hit with Party Pops. The following year (1959) he had five singles in the Top 10 including two Number Ones. What was his stage name and what was his real name?

The founder of the famous Bamboo Club in St Paul’s died in 2018. What was his name and why was he in the headlines in 1997? ■

ANSWERS 1 Cleo Lake, Green Party 2 Mayor Marvin Rees, Councillor Craig Cheney, Councillor Asher Craig, Councillor Helen Godwin, Councillor Kye Dudd, Councillor Anna Keen, Councillor Helen Holland, Councillor Paul Smith and Councillor Nicola Beech 3 Ursa 4 Bristol Rugby Union team named themselves the Bears without realising that Bristol Bear Bar is a gay bar in Old Market 5 St James Barton roundabout 6 a. Roger Griffith (Ujima), b. Laura Rawlings (Radio Bristol), c. Steve Yablsey (Radio Bristol) and d. Pat Hart (BCFM) 7 Idles 8 Rough Trade 9 Spielman Theatre 10 Iceland 11 Dave Prowse 12 Precious Mackenzie, weightlifting 13 Cattle Market Tavern 14 St Pauls Carnival 15 Massive Attack Mezzanine 16 a.Bag O’Nails, Jacobs Wells Road b. St Nicholas Street c.Hole in the Wall, The Grove d.Rendevous Café, Denmark Street 17 Ben Stokes 18 Louise Brown, World’s first test-tube baby 19 Russ Conway, Trevor Herbert Stanford 20 Tony Bullimore. In January 1997, he was rescued from the hull of his upturned boat after 4 days in the Southern Ocean.

Questions from Tangent Books and Bristol Books CIC loosely based on The Naked Guide to Bristol, A Dictionary of Bristle, Banksy’s Bristol, Punks, Adge King of the Wurzels, Louise Brown, My Life as the World’s First Test-Tube Baby and other titles all of which are available at www.tangentbooks.co.uk. Bristol Life readers get 20% off all orders if they use the code ‘supporter’.

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bristmas

A city made for Bristmas Are you hanging up a stocking on your wall?

Are you hoping that the snow will start to fall?

As inescapably festive as Slade, Dot Cotton on the sherry and Shane and Kirsty in New York, it’s our guide to Bristmas Life. Sparkle on . . .

Words by Deri Robins

D

oes any city do Christmas better than Bristol?

From harbour markets with fairy lights dancing on the water, to festive shows without a panto dame in sight (though those are also available), Bristol sparkles like a sparkly thing do all through December.

Clinching the deal, and making us disproportionately happy every year, is the fact that Bristol is the only city whose denizens can wish each other a merry Bristmas – it just doesn’t work in Bath or Swindon. Do the townsfolk of Bristol, TN do that too, we wonder? Or those of the other 37 towns in the world called Bristol? Bet they don’t. Anyway – brace yourself, Bristol, for your annual dose of seasonal magical and wonder…

That great new mural

First off, let’s just take a moment to worship Visit Bristol’s ace new mural, shown left, painted by local graf legend Cheo along with Silent Hobo. It’s right next to We The Curious, and those ‘Bristol’ letters are made from silvery metal discs that shimmer in the breeze.

If you ever need to explain Bristol to an outof-town friend, just show them that mural.

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Cheer up Issie, it’s Bristmas!

ALL THE MARKETS

Walford’s Bridge Street traders may be busily flogging leggy, needle-dropping pines and knock-off tinsel, but Bristol’s Christmas markets are on another level.

Like Santa (and the elf on page 114) they’re in many different places at once; here are the main ones you need to know about.

SHOPPING DISTRICT

BRISTOL CHRISTMAS MARKET Runs until 23 December, Broadmead Bristol’s biggest Christmas market is based on the traditional German model, with over 50 stalls and a big glittery tree.

There are sporadic visits from Santa and reindeer; after a few Glühweins in the Jäger Bar, you’ll swear you can see them even on their day off. You can also ‘try your hand at the much-loved sport of curling’– which we guess has acceptably icy festive connotations. www.xmas-markets.com BRISTOL LOCAL CHRISTMAS MARKET Runs until 23 December, Broadmead Adjacent to the above; for those who prefer to keep it indie and local, artists and makers sell everything from gifts to seasonal food and drink from 22 wooden chalets. www.bristollocalchristmasmarket.com BRISTOL BAZAAR POP-UP SHOP Runs until 24 December, The Island 70 Bristol artists, makers and designers

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have stalls at this local craft market. Oddly, they say that the ‘wonders on every plinth, stand and shelf are lovingly made by Bristol elves’ – not by them, then? – but who are we to question the magic of Christmas? www.bristolbazaar.co.uk

HARBOURSIDE & MILLENNIUM SQUARE

HARBOURSIDE CHRISTMAS MARKET Runs every weekend until 16 December A fabulous market, with the lights twinkling sexily on the water. It’s expanding this year; the 45-stall Maker’s Market is still under the covered walkway, while the street food stalls will shift up to the fountains, with a cosy covered seating area, live music, and a bar of winter themed drinks. www.theharboursidemarket.co.uk WINTER FAIR AND ICE RINK Runs until 6 January While rugrats with mad skating skills cut enviable, swishy shapes on the ice, the rest of us can be found pretending to be part of George and Andrew’s Last Christmas gang at the Après Bar, cosily tucked up under blankets and drawing straws for who gets the hot chocs in. You may wish to briefly leave, to peruse the stalls scattered around the rink, offering mulled wine, gingerbread, woolly things and a Christmas carvery. And if you fancy getting high, the big wheel will gently take you up to the

skies to look down on all the tiny skating, drinking, woolly-things-buying, George-andAndrew-wannabe people. www.wethecurious.org

OLD CITY

ST NICHOLAS MARKET Until 24 December You could probably do your entire Christmas shopping at the city’s favourite indoor market if you put your mind to it; you could definitely fill your festive larder to groaning point. There are plenty of Christmassy outdoor markets, too, on various days from 12 December until Christmas: Monday: Vegan and Wellbeing Market Tuesday: Street Food Market and Christmas stalls Wednesday: Bristol Farmers’ and Producers’ Market Thursday: Christmas stalls Friday: Street Food Market and Christmas stalls Saturday and Sunday: Christmas stalls www.bristol.gov.uk

BEDMINSTER

CHRISTMAS IN BEDMINSTER Various locations; during December If you’ve never been to a south-of-the-river Christmas, make this the year you do. On 1 December the East Street Christmas Fair kicks off the festive season with a winter wonderland of stalls; Santa’s scheduled to

BRISTMAS show up with Rudolph, Dasher and Dancer.

(Sorry to be the pedant, but we think you’ll find that Rudolph was not one of the core Christmas Eve team; remember this nugget when it comes up in the Christmas pub quiz).

North Street Nights gives shoppers and revellers the chance to take in BS3 after dark on 6, 13 and 20 December, while local thesps Show of Strength will be manning Ebenezer Gate for a humbugtastic interaction with Scrooge.

North Pole letterboxes will appear throughout Bedminster from 1 December; this year the kind folk at North Street Nursery have allowed the elves to set up their Post Office on 20 December, so the nippers can pick up their replies in person.

If you come on down for just one day, make it 8 December, for the Winter Lantern Parade. There’s nothing more evocatively, plaintively Christmassy than brass instruments playing carols, so listen out for the Bedminster Citadel Salvation Army Band; and definitely don’t miss the very first Southville Chocolate Festival. www.bedminster.org.uk TOBACCO FACTORY MARKET Tobacco Factory, 9, 16 & 23 December The thriving TF community market does Christmas, with over 50 food and craft stalls, local produce, mulled drinks, local choirs and the legendary Ali & Joe’s Christmas Trees – Bristol’s best non-drop Nordmann firs. The café’s great, too. www.tobaccofactory.com

DOIN’ IT FOR THE KIDS

Some of the best events for nippers.

WINTER WONDERLAND Until 6 January Skate around the South West’s largest openair ice rink at Cribbs Causeway, visit Santa’s Enchanted Ice Castle, take a ride through the Mall on the Christmas train and indulge in a selection of festive treats. www.mallcribbs.com

“While rugrats with mad skating skills cut swishy shapes on the ice, the rest of us pretend to be part of George and Andrew’s gang at the Après Bar”

BRISTOL ZOO Until 23 December Exclusively for nice children; pixies escort you through a wooden wardrobe to Narnia, where you can get a gift from Santa, see over 400 animals, admire the Christmas animalshaped lights and partake of Christmas arts and crafts. How is actual Christmas Day not going to be an anti-climax after all this? www.bristolzoo.org.uk WWT SLIMBRIDGE 8-9 Dec, 15-16 Dec, 21-23 Dec Head to Slimbridge for breakfast or afternoon tea with the elves, and visit Santa in his grotto; lots of other fun Christmas activities too. And birds, obviously. www.wwt.org.uk

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BRISTMAS

SANTA STEAM SPECIAL Every weekend until Christmas Eve Dads’ delight; an hour-long trip on an Avon Valley Railway steam train, with onboard visits from Santa bearing presents. www.avonvalleyrailway.org

WHITE BRISTMAS?

It’s in the bag. This year, you too can make like a character in a New York yuletide rom-com, thanks to Snow Moments, which brings film-effect snow to Millennium Promenade from 5pm every day until 7 December, and then to Old City between 15-21 December www.bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

© MAT T FENLON

SS GREAT BRITAIN 8-9 December Step into a wintry Dickensian scene complete with a decorated dockyard, Victorian characters and falling snow; make your own Victorian Christmas card, join the craft workshop and meet Mr Brunel – it’s a history lesson as well as a fun day out. The over-10s can ‘go aloft’ in the rigging, while grown-ups shop for Victorian-style wooden toys. www.ssgreatbritain.org

SAIL WITH SANTA Various dates during December Join the ferry elves on a cosily decorated Bristol Ferry complete with Christmas tree, and hunt for Santa on the dockside. www.bristolferry.com

YET MORE JINGLING…

Don’t miss the last of this Christmas’s Made in Bristol Craft Fairs at Colston Hall on 8 December – more on page 99; www.colstonhall.org In Bristol Studio is holding a Christmas Fair at Barton Hill Trading Estate on 16 December. Many stallholders are not trading at any other markets, making this a unique buying opportunity, and there’s a selection of taster workshops from the creative classes at the studios, from sculpting to sewing, needle punch and spoon carving; www.inbristol.org The Bristol Etsy Team have collaborated with Instagram collective Bristol Girl Bosses to host a Winter Pop-up Shop in The Galleries until 23 December. Shop local! www.bristolshoppingquarter.co.uk Royal York Crescent’s traditional Christmas Fayre pitches up on 8 December, with over 40 festive stalls, carol singers, Father Christmas, BBQ, mulled cider and children’s activities; find them on Facebook.

THE SPIEGELTENT The magical wooden tent is at Harbourside until 20 December, with parties, gigs and more. Marlene Dietrich once performed Falling in Love Again in a Spiegeltent, and their magical mirrors have reflected thousands of artists, audiences and exotic gatherings during the past century. The nearest thing to time travel you’ll find in Bristol this Christmas. www.christmasspiegeltent.co.uk

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New Year's Eve

31ST DECEMBER

• A glass of sparkles and canapés on arrival.

• After dark gallery viewings • Luxury three course seasonal dinner with coffee and petit fours • Elegant venue décor • DJ and disco until 1am

£79.99 per person

Celebrate in style this festive season ...with a night out to remember at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Hosted in the heart of the museum, these events are an occasion not to be missed and offer guests the rare chance to explore the museum after dark and spend an evening surrounded my millions of years of history.

Perfect for couples, families, friends or a work night out with a difference!

Murder Mystery Night BURNS NIGHT SPECIAL- 25TH JANUARY 2019 There’s been a murder! Watch as the story line unfolds, quiz the characters about their motives and find the clues to help solve the murder.

Can you unravel the mystery?

Ticket price includes arrival drink, three course seasonal dinner, live piper and murderous entertainment and DJ with disco until 1am.

Prize for the winning team!

£69.99 per person

Please visit the what’s on section of our website for full details or get in touch.

01179 222 127 | events.bmag@compass-group.co.uk | www.bristolmuseums.org.uk

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

FANTASTIC BEASTS

AND WHERE TO FIND THEM A bunch of bunnies squished into a mini. Pets on pogoes. A pair of hares. A decidedly sneakylooking jellyfish. It’s a bestiary that could only have been created by Alex Lucas, whose strong linework, cheeky anthropological humour and pop-art colours enliven walls across Bristol; her creations are cute without ever being cutesy, possibly because they look so adorably serious; it’s street art, but without the harsh edge of polemic.

Alex has just opened her new Shopdio (it’s a shop and a studio, get it?) at 47 Picton Street, filled with original artworks, signed limited-edition prints and other merchandise – it’s basically 100% Lucas Antics, and that’s something we can definitely get behind.

Need we murmur the words ‘ideal Christmas presents’ in your shell-like ear?

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What’s on

Trying to hit deadline when the rest of Scrooge and Marley want the Now That’s What I Call Christmas album on

7-31 December 2018

All the shows and all the art and all the tunes – take a shot of vodka every time you read the word ‘festive’

exhibitions

Until 16 December

we are warriors A new sound and light installation created by Helen Cole for Bristol Women’s Voice at Arnolfini; add your own LED light to the exhibition before walking through thousands of others, as a symbol of strength in the fight for women’s rights. arnolfini.org.uk

Until 22 December

in your face Paul Trevor’s spontaneous close-ups taken on the streets of London 1977-1992; Martin Parr Foundation, martinparrfoundation.org

Until 6 January

Japanese prints Original woodblock prints by Hokusai and Hiroshige; Bristol Museum; bristolmuseums.org.uk Clowns A surreal realm of light, colour, mirrors and clown cars, and the most amazing historic painted eggs; part of Circus 250 at Bristol Museum; bristolmuseums.org.uk

Until 24 February

Wildlife Photographer of the Year The Natural History Museum brings 100 beautiful, thoughtprovoking images to M Shed; bristolmuseums.org.uk

7 December-3 January 212 productions Alchemy 198’s first show, with a strong street-art element from Jody, Inkie and Cheba et al; alchemy198.co.uk

8-12 December

Christmas Exhibition Head to Centrespace for Xmas gifts with a difference, made by the gallery’s studio artists and associates; art, prints, books, jewellery and more; centrespacegallery.com

8 December-3 March

Albert Irvin and Abstract Expressionism A major retrospective of Irvin at RWA, and a celebration of the seminal exhibition, The New American Painting. They’ve got a Pollock! rwa.org.uk

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shows

Until 13 December

mrs beeton says The story behind the Victorian Delia Smith prototype tells the tales of the many women she advised, supported and befriended. At Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com

Until 3 January

the borrowers Mary Norton’s classic tale of the tiny little people who live under the floorboards gets the TFT festive treatment; tobaccofactorytheatres.com

Until 6 January

chloe and the colour catcher A bright, festive fantasy ideal for 4–7 year olds. bristololdvic.org.uk

Until 13 January

a christmas carol If Bristol Old Vic doesn’t work a generous dollop of contemporary resonance into Dickens’ classic tale, we’ll eat Scrooge’s nightcap; bristololdvic.org.uk the railway children

The E Nesbit classic brought to life by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Feel free to sob when Bobbie’s reunited with her dad and gasp with disbelief when the trains run on time. At Redgrave redgravetheatre.com

Until 20 January

Oedipuss In Boots The Wardrobe reprises one of its funniest, fastest festive hits for Christmas. thewardrobetheatre.com

6 December-6 January

beasty baby With puppetry and live music, Theatre-Rites creates a funny and magical family show for TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres,com

7-30 December

The Gift of Presents Shesus is a multi-gender Miss-iah.

The Sistas, genuine twins. Together they offer something between cabaret, comedy, carols and therapy, at TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

8 December-6 January

igloo Travelling Light’s festive show with

what’s on all the feels for babes in arms and toddlers, at BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

by his outstanding, all-star band at St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

9-11 December

15 December

steamed Aboard ss Great Britain you’ll find something festive, Dickensian and entirely improvised, by none other than the Closer Each Day crew; ssgreatbritain.org

GAZ BROOKFIELD & THE COMPANY OF THIEVES Acoustic magazine’s former singersongwriter of the year comes to SWX; swxbristol.com

16 December

9 December-6 January

rick wakeman: christmas piano odyssey A night of beautiful piano arrangements interspersed with Rick’s trademark comedy interludes, at St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

Cinderella If it just ain’t Christmas without a nice bit of He’s Behind You, hie ye to the Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

18-20 December

above: Oh OK. Just one non-Bristmassy pic then. It’s The Desert, at Crofters Rights left: Hoping for a hot date this Christmas?

Careful when swiping right below: Christmas comes in with a bang and a wimple at TFT

Nativity A fast and festive selection of brand new sketches from the very funny Sleeping Trees guys; at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com

19 December

cara dillon Cara captures the mystery of Christmas with a collection of songs ancient and modern, at St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

18-21 December

the tiger who came to tea Direct from its hit West End season, the Olivier-nominated show brings Judith Kerr’s classic picture book to the Redgrave stage; redgravetheatre.com

Comedy 13 December

Proper jokes Laugh yourself into Christmas with three up-and-coming comedy stars, at Anson Rooms; bristolsu.org.uk

Music

8 December

15 December

Ian Shaw One of the UK’s most distinctive, original and creative jazz singers brings his Shine Sister Shine album – a celebration of the actions and art of extraordinary women – to Clifton Cathedral; bristoljazzandbluesfest.com

terry the odd job man The professional Bristolian’s back with a gurt live show at Anson Rooms. Mint. Proper job. bristolsu.org.uk

razorlight Former indie-rock A-listers head to SWX; swxbristol.com

instant wit Songs, gags and general silliness by the improv ninjas, at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

curse of lono Catch the cinematic Southern Gothic alt-rockers (yes, it’s a genre) in the intimate surroundings of Mr Wolf ’s; mrwolfs.com

Other

Until 9 December

The bristol palestine film festival A new event aiming to provide a platform for Palestinian cinema, art and culture; bristolpff.org.uk

10 December

THE DESERT The Bristol band bring their hauntingly beautiful sounds to Crofters Rights; supported by Ålesund and Chaz Thorogood; headfirstbristol.co.uk

13 December

8 December

Darius Brubeck Quartet Playing his own swinging, South African-inspired compositions alongside those of his legendary dad Dave, pianist Darius is accompanied

St Nick’s 275 Celebration St Nick’s market is 275 years old, and among other things is marking the occasion with images and stories projected onto the building

by Limbic Cinema. facebook.com/ stnicholasmarket

10 December wilderland

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WHAT’S ON Showcasing a selection of independent wildlife films from across the world, the film fest will take you from awe-inspiring mountains and tangled rainforests to colourful reefs and endless oceans; at 1532, 1532bristol.co.uk

13, 16 & 23 December

BIG SCREEN A choice of free-but-chilly outdoor screenings; the most darkly hilarious Christmas movie of all, Gremlins is up for 13th, with The Polar Express on 16 December and Elf on the 23rd; bigscreenbristol.com

14 December

CHRISTMAS FESTIV-AL Colston Hall’s mega Christmas party; legendary outfit The Cuban Brothers bring the funky soul and B-Boy action, DJ Cheeba spins

the wheels of steel with a special Christmas set, and Pieminister bring the pies. colstonhall.org

19, 23, 24 & 27 December

BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL There’s a double-whammy at Bristol Museum with Paddington the Movie, followed by The Holiday on 19 Dec; meanwhile at The Passenger Shed on 23 Dec there’s the best and original Home Alone, Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas, The Polar Express again and – ho ho ho, oh yes – Love Actually.

Pencil us in for The Muppet Christmas Carol, The Snowman and The Snowdog for the 24th; we’ll probably pass on the Frozen singalong on the 27th if that’s OK, but you may well see us at Matilda. Finally, Mary Poppins is up for the 28th, along with Gremlins. bristolfilmfestival.com

Have you worked out whether we actually love Love Actually yet?

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN

Greetings, party animals! Struggling to choose between the plethora of New Year’s Eve offerings? Bad news: we’re here to make that choice just a little bit harder . . .

STEPPIN OUT ’80s PARTY The ’80s: the era that music forgot, or its last truly innovative decade?

Dust off your shoulder pads and continue the argument at the Tobacco Factory’s annual NYE shinding, which turns half the building into various club rooms; tobaccofactory.com WONKYLAND If Willy Wonka was a party, it would be this one. Expect the usual themed-to-the-nines Hype lavishness; there are edible table centres, a naughty-or-nice helter skelter, and a cascade chocolate fountain, just in case you didn’t inhale enough of the stuff over Christmas. At Passenger Shed; hypeagency.co.uk FAREWELL TO PARIS Folowing last year’s acclaimed Midnight in Paris, Hyde & Co make a further foray into the boho French 1920s with excellent cocktails (theirs) and sparkling company (BYO), with a glass of fizz at midnight. Those after early evening drinks only can join for the pre-dinner cocktail menu. hydeand.co NYE AT MILK THISTLE Over at Hyde & Co’s sister bar,

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

the bartenders are doing what they do best, with a special NYE menu alongside the usual one.

Conceivably you could visit both bars in the same night, but maybe cancel any conference calls booked for 8am the next morning. milkthistlebristol FIESTA Go Spanish style at Noche Negra’s Fiesta; after unlimited cava and pintxos there’ll be all-night dancing to the house, disco, funk, soul and dance from the resident DJ. Alternatively, downstairs in Pata Negra, the four-course tapas menu is ideal for anyone wanting a more foodie celebration. patanegrabristol.com ’90s NEW YEAR PARTY While the Tobacco Factory’s all over the New Romantic ’80s, Bambalan is winding the clock back 20 years for a night of great food, cocktails and tunes, with a specially created cocktail on arrival; Panda Pops, anyone? bambalan.co.uk GREAT GATSBY It’s the trend that just won’t go away, quite understandably, given that no era did decadent glamour better than the Roaring Twenties. Dress to the nines and avail yourself of the

free bar, but keep it classy; nobody wants to wake up to find a dead host in a swimming pool. thesquareclub.com BRISTOL MUSEUM Come along to the elegant Winterstoke Hall for a night of dark discovery, dining and dancing; explore some of the museum’s galleries in after-dark style before continuing into Wills Hall for a three course dinner and dancing; bristolmuseums.org.uk CIRCO BIZERKO Slip and slide, it’s a fast ride at Loco Klub as you dive back into the underground sound of the electronica revolution. Think the summer of love revisited in futuristic dayglo, with shimmering beats beneath the city streets. Surreal realms of audio- visual wonder, genre-jamming dance floors, psychedelic light shows, aerial circus acts, fire spectaculars, go-go dancers, interactive games, photo booths, stilt-walkers, cocktails, and you’re wondering how they’re going to cram all that into a couple of subterranean tunnel rooms, you’ll just have to go along; dress as ‘sideshow freak meets rave-goddess chic’. So your basic office capsule wardrobe, then. headfirstbristol.co.uk

DINE AT THE KENNY Redland gastropub fave The Kenny has a five-course tasting menu for those who love drink but love food even more, and who quite fancy waking up on the first day of 2019 with a relatively (we did say ‘relatively’) clear head. thekensingtonarms.co.uk PREHISTORIC POP PARTY POP CONFESSIONAL Thekla’s setting the time machine to a million years BC to celebrate with Earth’s earliest party poppers.

No idea what this actually entails or how to dress?

Us neither. Head to headfirstbristol.co.uk NYE AT THE DOGHOUSE Your VIP ticket includes drinks for the whole night with a champagne reception, while seasoned Space Ibiza resident Jonathan Ulysses plays a monster four-set smashing out Ibiza classics, supported by Bristol legend Delig.

Find The Doghouse on Facebook.

KISSTORY A massive New Year’s Eve club night at SWX with mega hip hop, dance, garage and R&B anthems from special guests and DJs. swxbristol.com

CLIFTON CERAMICS & FINE JEWELLERY

photography

BRISTOL HEROES Bristol: a caring city, where together we can make a difference Words and pictures

by Colin Moody

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’ve been photographing events all over Bristol for years now, and one thing I’ve noticed is how – at The Downs festival, at the Balloon Fiesta, and so many more events big and small; at feast-breaking on St Marks Road, inside church halls – there is a lot of support for charity. In the spirit of the kindest season, let’s take a look at eight charity heroes. Because if we all did a bit, it would be a lot – right?

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David Constantine was travelling in Australia in 1982 when he misjudged a dive and broke his neck. At just 21 years old, he was left quadriplegic.

David told me about the charity he set up to help disabled people in developing countries – Motivation – and the amazing people he’s been fortunate to work with all over the world.

Motivation is based in Bedminster. Their work offers freedom through mobility, and has touched the lives of over 160,000 disabled people in 120 countries. They have launched a charity gift catalogue this year: www.motivation. org.uk/gifts-in-motion.

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“If we all did a bit, it would be a lot – right?”

Help Bristol’s Homeless wants to change the face of homelessness in Bristol. They have been developing a site with containers, converted into self-contained studio flats, providing temporary accommodation.

The photo was taken at the Downs festival last year. Some people passing by may not have realised what hope these containers bring, but thanks to the generous engagement and support of events like this, one person’s big idea can quickly get lots of attention in Bristol.

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“We believe every generation owes a debt of gratitude to the RAF and their families. To protect the peace and safety we enjoy every day, they sacrifice the normal way of life most people take for granted. When someone in the RAF family needs help, the charity they turn to is the Royal Air Forces Association.” That’s what the charity says. When I saw

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4 them at an event in Filton, where all the Rolls Royce jet engines get made and sent to the factory that puts them in the latest jet fighters, I noticed they had lots of the Red Arrows planes. Thought it would be nice, given how they support the RAF crews and families, to show them supporting the planes.

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Didn’t catch her name, but at Christmas, in a church hall near you, many people will be pouring teas, setting lunches, and helping those less fortunate than ourselves. To this army of volunteers, who may just need five minutes between the roast and the Christmas pudding service to lean and chill, I say you are heroes.

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Easton’s Muslim community invited people from all walks of life across Bristol to a huge street party to celebrate the breaking of the fast during Ramadan. What was empowering to see was how everyone came together. The work of so many people, unseen in kitchens, who had been preparing for days all came together outside on the street as we all sat and broke the fast together. It’s one of the most wonderful moments for me from 2018, and if you want to hear, smell, taste and feel what community means you should check it out.

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Garry Buchan is homeless. He doesn’t even own a tent. They lent him one for this protest outside City Hall. But he has some ideas about solutions to homelessness.

Last year, Garry trekked 190 miles to fundraise for The Big Issue Foundation and raised £495. This year, he trekked an incredible 1,150 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats, hoping to raise £2,000. Absolute hero.

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photography 7

“Community can exist for as long as people care about people” 8

This balloon, framed by the hole in the basket I was in, flies for the Teenage Cancer Trust; the only UK charity providing specialist nursing care and support for young people with cancer.

Have you noticed how, in Bristol, charities don’t just operate alone? They collaborate and share and when big events like the International Balloon Fiesta get involved, it makes the whole thing just fly.

Thank you to all the charities featured here; it’s just a drop of what we do as a city.

Colin is available as a ‘mini-mobile PR/marketing/ social media unit’, to shoot striking street-style photographs at live events: parties, launches, promos and performances, for impactful immediate social media.

Fees start at £100 for a two-hour package. email: mrcolinmoody@gmail.com Twitter: @moodycolin; Instagram @moodycolin319

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I heart Stokes Croft. Community can exist for as long as people care about people.

If Jeff who sells The Big Issue in Stoke’s Croft is anything to go by, then community is alive and well. He always has time for everyone, remembers you, shares stories with you, cares about you and your day. And you get all that in one fist bump. Don’t forget to buy his Big Issue though, and support him as he supports you. If we had a few more Jeffs, there is nothing we could not achieve.

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

revelle in the past Author Charlie Revelle-Smith chronicles the strange, surprising and just plain odd side of Bristol – and he’s shared his findings just in time for Christmas, in his new book Weird Bristol

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hen he’s not writing mystery novels set in Bristol, Charlie can often be found posting on his Weird Bristol Twitter and Instagram accounts.

Apparently, it all began as something of a whim.“I’ve always had an interest in history, particularly the lesser-known stories of the past,” says Charlie.

“Books two and three of my Bristol Murders series relied quite heavily on the city’s past, and I accumulated a vast library of peculiar tales, of which only a tiny fraction ended up in the books – but I was certain that these slices of trivia couldn’t only be of interest to me.

“So I set out with my camera one morning and started taking photos of local oddities, and posting as @Weird Bristol on Twitter. I had no idea just how popular it would become.

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

Do you think Bristol’s unusually weird?

It certainly has its fair share of quirkiness.

In writing my Weird Bristol book it became apparent that one of the most striking aspects of our city is just how gleefully we’ve rejected conformity over the years. Whether it’s religiously, politically or just in the way we’ve lived our lives, Bristolians have had a habit of marching to their own drum. As a result, there are some really peculiar tales from our past.

Being a port city – and one which was once among the most important in the world – has helped shape us, too. People from every corner of the world could be found in Bristol.

For centuries, we’ve had a long history of welcoming other customs and types of people, and has led to a truly unique history.

stumped by a question – an interesting postbox or sculpture I’m flummoxed by – I now have enough followers that I can ask them if anybody can solve the mystery, and almost always someone will have the answer. It feels like a really collaborative effort.

Do people send you weird Bristol facts?

They do! In fact, when I get completely

Which of your novels is ‘most Bristol’?

The Bristol Murders series. This was my

It must all be quite complementary to your career as a mystery writer …

Very much so. The Bristol Murders books might have led to the creation of Weird Bristol, but by the final book in the series it was informing my writing a lot. My next work of fiction is going to expand on it ever further. It will be aimed at young adults, which is a first for me, and involves elements of time travel and some of the stranger tales from Bristol.

WEIRD BRISTOL OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE: Witness the weirdness:

Christmas Steps was once a treacherously steep, step-less hill; unicorns have been featured in Bristol for centuries – why?; the Powder House may have saved Bristol from catastrophic, wildfirestyle explosions; dead poets society? Coleridge, Wordsworth and Southey all hung out at The Rummer; this water fountain was intended to offer ‘an alternative to alcohol’; during World War II, The Grand was a base for a group of spies

attempt to give our city a sleuth who would be tied to Bristol in the same way Morse is to Oxford and Rebus is to Edinburgh. I wanted to present the city in a way we don’t often see in fiction – as vibrant and exciting, forwardlooking but respectful of its past, and above all, the kind of place which is home to so many different types of people who, for the most part, manage to get along with each other.

It’s my favourite aspect of city living, and something Bristol does incredibly well.

Oh yes, and there are also lots of murders in the books, too…

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“One of the most striking aspects of our city is just how gleefully we’ve rejected conformity over the years” Why do we all need a copy of Weird Bristol in our Bristmas stockings?

It’s a must-have for anybody who enjoys my Weird Bristol accounts, as I have the freedom to go into much more detail in the book than I ever could on social media. It was written with the kind of person in mind who has an interest in Bristol history, but may not be inclined to sit down and read an academic study. It has a light, sometimes funny and occasionally quite gossipy tone which I hope will appeal to readers. It even has maps and illustrations which I drew myself.

On top of that, it might even do you some good! I’ve set out the book so that it can either be enjoyed by dipping in and out of sections that appeal to you, or alternatively, each of the chapters is a walking tour, with each one ending where the next one begins. Readers can head out, book in hand, and go on an adventure through our city’s past – and of course, shift a little of that extra weight we all put on over Christmas . . .

Weird Bristol by Charlie RevelleSmith, £7.99

CHARLIE’S WEIRD TOP TEN 1. There is a shadow of a noose on the Highbury Vaults pub sign. This is where condemned criminals were taken for their last meal before being executed on the top of St Michael’s Hill.

2. There is no house numbered 13 on Royal York Crescent for fear of spooking the superstitious – just number 12a and 12b.

3. A headless statue of the Virgin Mary near the bottom of Christmas Steps is the oldest public sculpture in Bristol, and may have been beheaded by Oliver Cromwell himself.

4. A small building which still

stands on Picton Street was built in 1830 as a ‘Charley Box’ – a place where drunk and disorderly people could be locked up for the night.

5. St Werburgh’s Church on Mina Road once stood on Corn Street. It was disassembled, brick by brick, and rebuilt miles away between 1877-79.

6. An 1861 manhole cover just off of East Street in Bedminster was one of the earliest designs by sanitation/toilet expert Thomas Crapper.

7. In 1714, a man living on Baldwin Street found a 34ft wide cobweb in his garden.

This led to a brief panic that an enormous spider was living in the city.

8. The Llandoger Trow may be the most haunted pub in Britain. It’s rumoured that up to 12 ghosts are in residence.

9. A tiny statue of a dog on a building on Park Row is a memorial to Nipper, the dog who once lived in a nearby theatre and became internationally famous for appearing on the HMV logo.

10. There are more listed buildings in Bristol than there are in the heritage city of Bath.

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

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Stunning coastal views can be enjoyed throughout the Complex.

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JESSICA PAUL BOOKS

Books for Christmas A carefully chosen book can be the very best present of all. This Bristmas, let Jessica of Max Minerva’s suggest her magnificent seven

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t’s the time of year when we all start scrambling for ideas for what to get pals and relatives for Christmas. Books are not just an affordable option, but when chosen with care, can be a gift that comes with treasured memories. Books at Christmastime mean that the gift-giver has given thought and consideration to the receiver; it’s a small but warm gesture, and one that always delivers delight. Here are our picks for this giftgiving season.

FOR THE ESPRESSO LOVER The World Atlas of Coffee by James Hoffman, £20 This is a coffee-table book about coffee.

Everything about coffee – the tree it comes from, how it was traded, the machines that can be used to get your favoured result and the origins of each bean. As our coffee culture grows, so too does the interest in its origin.

FOR THE CHEF OF THE HOUSE Knife by Tim Hayward, £20 Cookbooks are a staple for those who enjoy cooking, so you run the risk of presenting the same gift as everyone else. More obscure but just as beloved is this compendium of knives, running through style and country of origin, as well as their reason for existence; this is as geeky as it gets for those who are deadly serious about their cooking.

FOR THE NATURALIST Wren: A Biography by Stephen Moss, £12.99 An ode to the unassuming wren, this book guides you through the history of this bird from month to month, observing its patterns, its place in literature and its habitat. The beautiful hardback cover will look wonderful when unwrapped.

“This is as geeky as it gets for anyone deadly serious about cooking”

FOR THE HISTORIAN Written in History: Letters that Changed the World by Simon Sebagh Montefiore, £14.99 This collection of letters gives us a peek into the human experience over time; not just important for its historical content, but for the ‘why’ of it

all, the passions, motivations and interests of individuals across continents and eras. You’ll find Napoleon’s letters to Josephine as well as Churchill’s letters to Roosevelt in this carefully curated selection of letters that truly did change the world.

FOR THE LITERARY ENTHUSIAST Unsheltered by Barbara Kingsolver, £20 The Orange Prize-winner’s latest novel tackles environmental concerns in nuanced prose featuring two time periods and two protagonists.

As an added bonus, this hardcover edition features beautiful sprayed edges that will ensure it stands in pride of place on anyone’s shelf.

FOR THE ADVENTURE-LOVING TEEN Chaos Walking: A Trilogy by Patrick Ness, £7.99 each book There’s a reason the third of this trilogy has won Ness the Carnegie Medal (the first and second got him nominations). Patrick Ness is a force in children’s fiction and utterly original in scope.

The Chaos Walking trilogy is set in a world when men have ‘noise’ that reveals their thoughts but women don’t. The books deal with themes of war, sexism and death; but with so much heart.

It is ultimately a love story between Todd and Viola. A pacy, unputdownable riot that once you’ve got into you won’t want to end.

FOR THE 9-12 YEAR OLD WHO HAS YET TO FALL IN LOVE WITH BOOKS Who Let the Gods Out by Maz Evans, £6.99 A riot from start to finish. Elliot’s mum is ill and his home is under threat, but a shooting star crashes to earth and changes his life forever.

The star is Virgo; a young Zodiac goddess on a mission. But the pair accidentally release Thanatos, a wicked death daemon imprisoned beneath Stonehenge, and they then need to turn to the old Olympian gods for help. After centuries of cushy retirement on earth, are Zeus and his crew up to the task of saving the world, and solving Elliot’s problems too? Maz packs the punchlines on every page.

Max Minerva’s is at 39 North View, Westbury Park 07498 538858; www.maxminervas.co.uk

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

a man’s world kam kelly

This Bristmas...

Kam’s not giving his heart to his best friend’s bird in a snowbound chalet. He’ll probably just go to his mum’s instead

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or this very festive issue of Bristol Life, my editor asked me to describe my ideal Christmas.

The problem is, that’s like saying “write about your ideal Twitter account that shows drunken people falling over”. Is there an actual ideal? Or are they all pretty awesome?

OK, I’ve thought of an ideal Christmas to write about.

My ideal Christmas would be

spent with a few attractive mates.

Maybe hire some kind of chalet, up in the mountains. The kind that you arrive at in a cable car.

After a day of snowball fights and general frollicking in the snow, we’d all sit around the table and exchange stories and bants, lit and warmed only by the glow of an open fire.

All would be lush until I caught my best mate Andrew’s girlfriend giving me the glad eye from across the table. I’m distracted slightly, but then throw

“All would be lush until I caught my best mate’s girlfriend giving me the glad eye from across the table...”

myself back in to the festivities.

If we’re talking about an ideal Christmas, then I can’t let myself dwell on the events that took place 12 months ago, when I gave her my heart, but, like the very next day she gave it away, to my best mate, if you please!

No; in order for this to be an ideal Christmas then, this year, you know to save me from tears and that, I’ll give it to someone special.

But in reality, what with global warming and so on, I doubt the chalet will get snow, so I’ll probably just go to my mum’s.

Without wanting to jinx this year’s, every Christmas I get to spend with my family is my ideal Christmas.

It starts off properly on Christmas Eve, at my stepmum’s place. My dad is Polish, as is my stepmum, but don’t worry, they won’t be a problem after Brexit. So, it’s the traditional Polish Christmas Eve (Wigilia) which mainly consists of fish and vodka. Neither of which I am particularly keen on, but in the name of tradition I give the vodka the good old college try.

By the time we sit around the tree and open presents, everyone’s a little worse for wear.

When all finishes there, I go back to my mum’s.

I love waking up there on Christmas Day morning. You can hear my mum and her best mate (my second mum) giggling with my sister in the kitchen.

Mum’s not a big drinker, but she

likes to start Christmas Day with a few glasses of Bucks Fizz, which she will inevitably blame later when her cooking times get all messed up and the veg is all ready 20 minutes before the meat.

After she has berated herself for the timings, she’ll have a couple of glasses of champagne to calm herself down. Later on she’ll blame those two glasses when we all forget that the pudding should have been out of the oven 20 minutes ago.

I am lucky enough to say that this entire publication wouldn’t have enough space to list everything I love about my family and my festive season with them. Suffice to say, I can only hope that this year, like three years ago, at the end of the evening, mum gets stuck in the sofa again.

The cushions literally swallowed her where they meet in the middle. The more she tried to get out, the more she laughed. The more she laughed, the further in she went. The further in she went, the more the rest of us laughed to the point of weakness. So weak that we couldn’t stand, let alone help her out.

That, or any variation on it, would be my ideal Christmas.

God bless us everyone.

Kam Kelly’s breakfast show airs every weekday from 6am, Sam FM Bristol, 106.5fm www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 41

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A MAN’S WORLD SEB BARRETT

It’s the thought that counts

Buy buy baby, baby good buy; and if you can’t think of a decent gift then at least make sure that the food’s on point, says Baz

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’ve been mentally prepared for Christmas for a good while now. Dropping my son off at nursery in early November, I caught the opening chords of some familiar soft rock.

“Is that 2000 Miles by The Pretenders?” I asked rhetorically (my ability to recognise songs just by hearing the first couple of seconds being unparalleled).

“Yes it is,” chirped one of the nursery workers. “We’ve been

playing Christmas songs all week!”

I knew that I could either get riled up, or I could go along with it. We turn a blind eye to so much in life that’s right there in front of us – things far worse than prematurely-played Christmas tunes – that it would be hypocritical to have a go at an otherwise very nice young lady working in a nursery.

Adding to the list of columnists

“The road to a magical Christmas is tempered by angst”

bemoaning Christmas songs played in November is not something I’m keen to do, but suffice to say, the road to a magical Christmas is tempered by angst.

Those with family dotted around the country will be familiar with the challenges that arise in the months leading up to the festivities. Passiveaggressive Whatsapp messages, put-upon family members having to act as go-betweens because nobody wants to drive, their car’s suspension screaming under the weight of presents, booze, and the usual plethora of children’s items, to the other side of the country on a day when everyone else is on the same mission.

I’m still getting to grips with the ‘thoughtful gifts’ thing. One of the biggest culture shocks I had when my partner and I got together was how much consideration she and her family put into their presents.

If I offered a throwaway comment in February about finding the Cold War interesting, you can bet that ten months later, there would be a stack of books on the subject waiting for me under the tree. Imagine getting more of a kick out of buying a nice present for someone than actually receiving one?

In contrast, my frame of reference was the block of A4 printer paper my dad bought me one Christmas, despite me not owning a printer. He also bought my brother a bunch of Bob Dylan CDs when my brother had stated

loudly and clearly on several occasions that he didn’t like Bob Dylan. Must have been a deal on at Fopp.

My mum always made up for the dearth of good gifts with her tables of fantastic food, which would suggest that my gluttony over the holidays is a compensation mechanism: ‘My prezzies might be sh*t, but I’m going to enjoy the merry hell out of this sausagemeat stuffing.’

It’s the food that brings us all together, though. Christmas meals entail a certain amount of Roman excess, albeit only once have I thrown up from eating too much. It was more out of duty than appetite that I had ended up consuming as much as I did, but I’m still amazed that it happened.

I had to explain to the chef (my partner’s mum) that it wasn’t the quality of her food that had made me sick, more that I’m a monster with a seasonal eating disorder.

To offset all this gorging, I like to go for a run on Christmas Day morning, but woe betide anyone who does this after feasting on Christmas Eve as well, because another sort of bodily malfunction can often ensue.

Nobody needs that on a sacred day of celebration. Be smart, guys. Eat sensibly, drink, and be merry.

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

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

Ross Bennett Studio Bath based design studio producing bespoke furniture, sculpture, awards trophies and other 3D objects. www.rossbennettstudio.co.uk

rossfbennett

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COCKTAILS

Good libations

Stir it, muddle it, shake it like a Polaroid picture: all we want for Bristmas is booze. Handy, then, that the city’s mixologists have some special recipes up their sleeve tattoos for our festive delight . . .

R There’s only one place in Bristol that you can drink Sri Lankan cocktails from an elephant; see page 51

emember the bad old Christmases, when festive drinking was limited to breaking out the sweet sherry?

Maybe a Snowball down the local, if you were lucky, while the turkey overcooked; or a glass of Cinzano Bianco to wash down the cheesy footballs when the neighbours popped in.

Rejoice ye, then, because we live in blessed times, when the Christmas spirit selection is wide open, with endless recipes to get you into the festive spirit.

Over the next few pages, Bristol’s bartenders give us a flavour of what they’re mixing up this season, along with recipes that would have blown Leonard Rossiter and Joan Collins’s tiny minds (just Google ‘Cinzano Bianco advert’, if you’re obscenely young ….)

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COCKTAILS KINKAJOU

If you were fretting that the closure of Upper Belgrave Road’s speakeasy-style Hausbar marked the end of the Bristol ‘secret bar’ scene, be of good cheer, for Kinkajou has now opened on the same spot. This Christmas the team have created two new signature cocktails to entice you in from the cold.

The Gingerbread Man

“A sweet n’ spicy cocktail, infused with joy, family memories and warmth,” says bartender Andie In the mix Muddle Oakheart rum, fresh ginger, fresh lemon, agave syrup and orange bitters to taste, and pour into a cocktail glass

Le Coquetier

Made by Angel and Michael, who say “with strong French influences, this celebratory drink will take you back to the 18th-century when apothecaries served brandy with bitters in eggcups – just possibly, where the cocktail was created!”

In the mix (shown right) Mix cognac, Benedictine, champagne cordial, citric acid, sweet tonic to taste, and garnish with rosemary www.kinkajoubar.co.uk

LOOSE CANNON

At this Harbourside newbie, bartender Joseph Theo Miller offers a Christmas drink which he describes as “creamy, heartwarming but still fresh, and maybe reminds you of the summer a little bit.”

Christmas in Hawaii

ALCHEMY 198

Just opened on the Gloucester Road, this new venture from Sarah Thorp is a gallery/bar/café combined. How very BS7…

“The flute shown above contains the Alchemy cocktail, made by me!” says Sarah. “Mix Saliza Amaretto, Dorelli sparkling wine, fresh berries and rosemary. Or try our other cocktail, called Lady Garden – Cox & Baloney berry- and hibiscus-infused gin, soda water, elderflower cordial, fresh lemon and berries.” www.alchemy198.co.uk

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In the mix…

45ml Plantation pineapple rum (dark rum) 15ml Cointreau 15ml Bristol Syrup Co orgeat (sugar syrup is a good substitute; mix one part water or almond milk with one part sugar) 15ml fresh lime juice 25ml spiced coconut (works with normal coconut cream as well) 50ml pineapple juice 1 bunch of fresh mint leaves Shake all ingredients with crushed and cubed ice. Fine-strain into a coupe glass. For maximum aloha, peg small pineapple sprigs to the glass, and sprinkle gold rocks over the foam. www.theloosecannoncocktailbar.com

HYDE & CO

Let’s head downstairs at 2 Upper Byron Place, to the granddaddy of all Bristol’s Prohibition-style bars, and still one of its best. Here, general manager Dan will mix you up The Tattletale – “A New York classic, from Sam Ross at Attaboy”.

The Tattletale

In the mix….

1 barspoon honey 2 dashes orange bitters 2 dashes angostura bitters 35ml Glenfiddich 15 Whisky 15ml Ardbeg Whisky Stir with ice and serve in a tumbler with cubed ice or an ice block. Finish with a twist of orange peel and lemon peel. www.hydeand.co

AVON GORGE

Who can resist a cocktail called Grandma’s Christmas Cake? It’s the signature of the hotel’s new bartender, Dan…

Grandma’s Christmas Cake In the mix…

25ml Makers Mark (bourbon) 20ml Disaronno (Amaretto) 10ml Cherry herring liquor 40ml Egg white Half a fresh squashed lemon 20ml sugar syrup

Shake with ice and then strain back into shaker.

Dry shake and pour into a rocks glass over ice. www.theavongorgehotel.com

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COCKTAILS WOKY KO

As if we didn’t already have enough reason to head to Larkin Cen’s Asian restaurants (psst – one word: ramen), they’ve come up with an irresistible twist on a cocktail classic. Find them at Cargo and Queen’s Road.

Woky Negroni

In the mix Mix equal parts of Psychopomp Woky Gin, Campari and Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth with plenty of ice in a tumbler, stir and garnish with orange peel. www.wokyko.com

THE BARTENDER

Don’t go looking for The Bartender on the high street (at least not yet; you never know). Lewis Spindlove and co are poised to come to your home or shindig, with their shiny fluorescent bar and extensive cocktail know-how.

Chestnuts by the Fire

“For our Christmas menu this year, we recruited James McGovern of HMSS to whip up some drinks – one of our favourites is Chestnuts by the Fire. So go get the logs and the Nat King Cole on…

In the mix Shake vodka with chestnut and chocolate liqueur and cream; strain into a chilled cocktail glass and dust with chocolate. www.thebartender.co.uk

ALUNA

If you have one special bottle in the drinks cabinet this Christmas, let it be Aluna coconut rum. Not to be confused with Aluna the Bristol bar; though confusingly, Aluna the bar serves Aluna the rum, too….

Aluna was created by Guy Ritchie (no, not the director) and Heather Graham (no, not the actresss). “We wanted a grown up, non-sticky-sweet coconut rum made with all-natural ingredients,” says Guy. “We launched last year and are now poured in 500+ bars and restaurants around the country, including Aluna in Bristol, HMSS, Flipside, QuayStreet Diner and Bellita; we are sold online and locally in Harvey Nichols, Corks and Great Western Wine.”

The beauty of this rum is that while it obviously lends itself to all kinds of recipes – it makes the best Pina Colada you’ll ever taste – is that it’s practically a cocktail in itself, as these two simple recipes show:

Aluna Coconut

“Served over coconut water ice cubes that extend rather than dilute the coconut as they melt. It’s unusual to have a white rum that has the confidence to suggest sipping it neat,” says Guy In the mix: Pour 50ml Aluna Coconut over coconut water ice cubes in a chilled martini glass. Sip and savour the natural coconut and pure coconut water.

Aluna Raspberry Fizz

“Perfect for the Christmas cocktail season.”

In the mix Pour 25ml Aluna coconut rum and 15 ml Chambord into a flute, and top with 75ml chilled sparkling wine. Garnish with fresh raspberries. www.alunacoconut.com

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SIX O’CLOCK GIN

An absolute staple of any Bristol drinks cabinet, at any time of year. Pete and the guys have created a very special sloe gin for Christmas, so we felt the least we could do was ask them all about it – but before you head down the page, pause to make this damson gin cocktail…

Mulled Apple with Damson Gin

“Very simple to make,” promises Pete.

In the mix Just simmer some cloudy apple juice with a mulling bag (or use cinnamon, star anise, cloves and citrus peel if you’re doing it from scratch). When it’s warm, add a good slug of 6 O’Clock Damson Gin and serve in heatproof glasses with a wedge of apple to garnish.

MEET YOUR MAKER

This guy gets to mix gin cocktails for a living. Why did nobody ever explain this career option to us at school?

Hi there! Who are you and what do you do?

Hi, I’m Pete Axford, and I’m the lucky one who gets to create all the cocktails here at 6 O’Clock Gin.

It’s Bristmas! What’s the best spirit for this season’s cocktails? (Wait, let us guess....)

How did you know? It’s got to be gin, hasn’t it – it’s perfect for whetting the appetite before a big Christmas dinner, and it certainly helps make the cooking more fun if you’re stuck babysitting the turkey and Brussels sprouts.

THE COCONUT TREE At the newly opened Sri Lankan streetfood-style Coconut Tree on Cheltenham Road, the guys are currently serving 12 Cocotials (sic) “We’re serving the most important ones in a Sri Lankan ceramic made specifically for us,” they say. “Ruby the elephant is saved for The Keeper of The Drunken Sri Lankan; we use a Sri Lankan spirit called Ceylon Arrack, which is a different to anything in the UK – a bit like whiskey, it’s made from coconut flower nectar, served with cointreau, turmeric, fresh lime and ginger beer.”

We guess you could source the arrack and whisk up something similar at home – but you definitely won’t have Ruby the Elephant, so maybe just pop in? www.thecoconut-tree.com

OK, we’ll get in the gin, then. But why should it be 6 O’Clock?

Because you love local produce, because you want your Christmas gin to be strikingly smooth and because 6 O’Clock Gin has something for everybody.

Is 6pm the idea time to crack open the gin, by any chance?

I think 6pm on Christmas Eve is a very respectable time to get a round of G&Ts poured for gathering family and friends.

Tell us about your new aged Sloe Gin, and how to serve it.

Well, this rather new (or is it old?) Sloe Gin is something of a wonder. We’ve had it sat patiently on the sloes for five years, and it tastes incredible. We’re pretty sure that no one’s tried this before (it takes some serious restraint, as anyone who’s made their own sloe gin will know). This very special (and very limited) edition is marvellously mature, and has a deep tawny colour with rich aromas of baked plums, almonds, dried fruit and molasses. We have to recommend that you really enjoy this one on its own, though if you happened to have some crumbly mature cheddar near to hand, we wouldn’t make a fuss.

Any other festive recommendations?

We have some super gin gifts perfect for

popping into a stocking or under the tree. You can buy Copa be Balon glass gift boxes or our ever-popular G&T gift sets for under £10.

We’ve also just released our new mini-selections boxes, which give a great introduction to the 6 O’Clock Gin range for under £20.

Are you doing any Christmas pop-ups?

But of course! It wouldn’t be Christmas without spending some serious time chatting to the great gin-drinking public. We’ll be at various Bristol locations throughout December.

What’s on the 6 O’Clock office playlist during December?

We try to keep things classy in the distillery though if Mariah Carey comes on, we’re not going to say no to a little festive sing along.

Please leave us with a lovely gin and food pairing

Given our love of great West Country cheese, we recommend our Sloe Gin with a nice slice of Keen’s cheddar. If you’re entertaining with some more exotic canapés, then a round of Brunel Editions with Ginger Ale makes a really refreshing alternative to a regular G&T. ■ www.6oclockgin.com

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

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cafÉ society Santa Cullimore

Eyes on the pies

Need a sugar hit before embarking on the Christmas shopping? Stan (almost an anagram of Santa, after all) knows a place that puts the afternoon T(ea) in fesTive . . .

A

s far as I can make out, there are two ways of dealing with this time of year. Either you channel your inner Scrooge and spend the time looking grumpy (my standard MO), or you dive deep into the mince-pie zone. Indulging, consuming and enjoying every simple delight that the season can throw at you. Feasting your senses

“A plate of finger sandwiches were tiny slices of savoury joy with their crusts cut off, just in case we were too tired to do any hard chewing”

until you finally start to feel like a flubbery pig in a blubbery blanket all of your very own making. This year, I have decided to go for indulgence and enjoyment rather than the usual humbug. Why not?

Christmas comes but once a year, and with the state of the world right now, I’m not sure what the next 12 months will bring.

All of which is just a long way of explaining why the Café Society team recently ended up at The Bristol Hotel. It’s down by the docks, at the business end of the horny bridge, with a wonderful view of the twinkling lights by the waterside. We were there to begin our Christmas festivities by partaking of their vintage afternoon tea.

A fine and glorious thing it was, too. I have always thought that whoever invented this sophisticated form of refreshment deserves a medal.

It’s the very best way to fill up that awkward space in the day between lunch and tea, and it has to be said that The Bristol knows how to do it in style. Vintage style.

Every single thing was perfect in every single way, from the tasteful teacups to the perfect pot of tea. Made with tea leaves, naturally. It was a complete delight.

When the triple-decker cake stand arrived I honestly thought my poor wee heart was about to

burst with Christmas joy. After a few moments of happy staring, we made a start on the bottom layer.

A plate of finger sandwiches, tiny slices of savoury joy with their crusts cut off, just in case we were too tired to do any hard chewing.

What superb decadence.

Of course, there were some cucumber sandwiches thrown in for good measure. Seriously!

Cucumber sandwiches with their crusts cut off. Mmm. Afternoon tea doesn’t get much better than that.

At least, not until you move up a layer, and find a couple of scones with your name on them.

Along with cream and jam, obviously. At this point, I looked around and realised we had the entire place to ourselves. So I decided to celebrate by moving on up to the final stage. The teeny, tiny cake layer. By the time we had all stuffed our faces to maximum effect, there was still enough finger food left over to fill a few boxes to take home for an equally exquisite supper.

So if you are looking for a some serious sandwich, scone and cake satisfaction, just direct your feet to the horny bridged side of town and prepare to be amazed. Happy Christmas, one and all. n Former Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer www.stancullimore.com

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

Pasture

All the meats and all the heat and all the beats combine in a recipe for success at this Redcliffe steakhouse and bar Words by Deri Robins

T

he big brick building currently occupied by Pasture on Portwall Lane has had a mixed time of it over the past few years.

True, the much-loved Byzantium, with its ersatz atmosphere of the souk, thrived here for a good long time, but there wasn’t so much competition back then. Now, since the Great Bristol Food Revolution, most diners are perfectly well served within their own postcodes.

And while the Redcliffe area is up and coming, it still has a fair distance to up and come. A restaurant here may be a magnet for the Temple Quarter suits during the week, but if it wants to attract the all-important weekend trade too it needs to be special. Bangkok Joe’s, for example, though pleasant enough in its Asiany-fusiony way, signally failed to cut the wasabi here last year.

Clearly undaunted by any of the above was young chef Sam Elliott, who opened Pasture in April to wild acclaim.

In his previous job, Sam had launched all Jamie’s Italians; he brought all this experience to Pasture, along with the love and care you’d expect to be lavished on a first venture.

It’s a big old place to fill, consisting of two large storeys linked by a sweeping staircase (painted by Bristol Life pal Jody), above which successive owners have dangled showstopping, site-specific chandeliers. Pasture’s is a cast-iron

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affair that looks like it might, at a pinch, be pressed into service as a barbecue if the wood fired oven went down.

The upstairs dining room is bright and spirit-lifting, with the tall-ceilinged expansiveness you only ever find in a converted warehouse. The big windows let in gallons of light – your Instagrams will look amazing – and who could ever tire of dining in full view of St Mary Redcliffe?

The staff are so charming and on-it that they could serve pot noodles and you’d still have a good time. Anyone thinking of opening a new restaurant in Bristol should probably slip a note reading ‘call me’ under the tip.

While veggies and vegans are not badly served – there was an allotment pie, miso-glazed aubergines and a beetroot starter – it has to be said that Pasture is not their spiritual home. The place is a shrine to the bovine; a horned Highlands cow head made of wicker dominates one wall, and the beefy leitmotif is followed through with chilled counters stacked with cuts of steak, and chefs theatrically hacking up yet more hunks in the open kitchen.

Even at midday there’s an impressively long cocktail list. As my breakfast martini of Chase vodka and marmalade was slipping down a citrussy treat, a young dude materialised at our table laden with cuts of meat that appeared to have been hewed from a freshly-caught mammoth. These monsters are the sharing cuts of the day,

restaurant

priced per 100g and sold until they run out, cooked over charcoal and cherrywood to give optimum flavour.

Our waiter summed up their relative merits. Tender Chateaubriand; juicy Tomahawk, or Porterhouse – a shoo-in for the indecisive, offering both sirloin and fillet on the bone. The menu is packed with details about the local farms the meat comes from; I bet, if we’d asked, that our informative meat dude could have divulged the precise name of the breed and the exact field in which it grazed.

He probably knew its favourite colour and star sign, its hopes for the Bristol Bears this season, and where it felt the Arena should be built.

Having chosen to share the Porterhouse, we needed to reach a consensus as to how it should be cooked. “Medium rare?” I suggested, raising a hopeful eyebrow at the daughter. “Rare” she said firmly. I have never been so proud of a child. Finally I forgave her for the time when, aged six, and a serial rejector of my home cooking, she wolfed down a horrid little aeroplane-meal shepherd’s pie and pronounced it the best meal she’d ever had.

She’s never quite grown out of the ‘If there’s crispy squid on the menu, I’m having the crispy squid’ phase, though.

Pasture’s fish content pleasingly outweighed the light, non-greasy batter; it was tender and fresh-tasting, and came with a black pool of aioli coloured by squid ink.

My duck liver mousse was a Brambly Hedge picture book fantasy of a dish, smothered in tiny edible flowers and plump chai-pickled blackberries. The smooth, boozy mousse could easily have served two greedy diners, and its creamy texture was offset a treat by crispy onions. Maybe because the mains demand a simple approach – buy great steak, cook it well – they like their imagination to gallop away full-rein with the starters. There’s a raw beef dish, for example, which emerges in a swirl of smoke, like a panto genie at the Hippodrome, when the waiter raises a dome.

Obviously, given its specialty, Pasture wouldn’t have lasted ten minutes, let along ten months, if it didn’t serve great steak. Our chunky slices of meat were tender and rosy pink, the chips, still with their skins on, were crunchy and fluffy in all the right places, and while the peppercorn sauce could have been more peppery and less cloying, a creamy spinach gratin was oozily delicious, and the mac & cheese – made with four cheeses – was apparently well up to scratch; I couldn’t say, I was too stuffed to manage a mouthful.

Although a weekend lunchtime visit only gave us a chance to sample the first two elements in the Pasture tagline of ‘Fire. Meat. Music’, we had a full afternoon to work off the calories (oh, OK, to slump on the sofa in a breakfast martini stupor). That said, if you came in the evening when the bar’s open, you could just dance it all off.

It was a bold move for Sam, opening Pasture; but with the steaks being as great as the stakes were high, the gamble seems to have paid off; a success that the ongoing regeneration of Redcliffe seems likely to cement further. n

“The duck-liver mousse was a Brambly Hedge picture book fantasy of a dish” Dining details Pasture, 2 Portwall Lane; 07741 193445; www.pasturerestaurant.com Restaurant hours Mon-Fri midday3pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat midday10.30pm; Sun midday-5pm We visited Saturday lunchtime Prices Starters £6.50-£7.95; house cuts to share from £7-£12 per 100g, including two sauces and two sides; other mains £11.50-£24.95; puds £6.95 Drinks Whether you like local craft beers or fancy cocktails, you’re sorted Atmosphere Buzzing, relaxed Service You’ll want to take the staff home with you Children It’s exceptionally welcoming to families, with a children’s menu

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

LOCAL. SE ASONAL. SP E C I A LI S T.

Christmas pre order available on our Christmas Gift Hampers and bespoke Cheese board options.

Please pop into store or visit our website

Tuesday to Saturday 11 - 6 and Sunday 11 - 4 Unit 8 CARGO 2, Museum Street bristolcheesemonger@gmail.com a bristol_cheese www.bristol-cheese.co.uk bristol_cheese

Tel: 07854239926 info@cliftonwineschool.com

A very warm welcome to Clifton Wine School!

We are a local wine school hosting events in Bristol and Bath.

Choose from our Cheese and Wine Matching night, a Fine Wine tasting, Wines of the World evening courses, Gin tasting, and so much more.

We also do unforgettable hen parties and corporate events.

We don’t sell wine, we sell confidence in wine knowledge from a DipWSET qualified teacher.

You can purchase any course or tasting as a Wine School Gift Voucher starting from ÂŁ25 the perfect present for any wine lovers!

Now a proud Crumbs Award Winner!

Visit us online at

www.cliftonwineschool.com

christmas gift guide Santa Paws Gr0mit figurine, £35 If you don’t own at least one festive Gromit, you’re not doing peak Bristmas. Better still, every time you buy one all profits go straight to the Grand Appeal From the flagship store at the Mall at Cribbs Causeway or www.gromitunleashedshop.org.uk.

Good boy!

Bought all the stuff in last issue’s Christmas gift guide?

Excellent. Here’s more stuff

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DOING IT FOR THE KIDS Cuddles, cowboys and colouring-in

THREE PETIT MONKEY LUNCHBOXES, £6.50 So much more appealing than spinoff Disney merchandise. Yes, even Ralph Breaks the Internet From online Bristol store Pippa and Ike www.the-pippa-and-ike-show.com

JENNY URQUHART’S BRISTOL COLOURING BOOK, £11.50 Bristol’s most colourful artist invites kids to unleash their inner rainbows From www.thebristolshop.co.uk

CROCHET COWBOY RATTLE, £12.95 They may be too little for Toy Story (and they’re definitely too small for Brokeback) but they can still get their yee-hah on with this cuddly cowpoke From Fig 1, Gaol Ferry Steps, www.fig1.co.uk

JELLYCAT ELEPHANT, £18.50 No cuddly toys are cuddlier than Jellycat’s.

They make a menagerie of animals, but in our book you can’t improve on an elephant From Soukous, 44a-46 Cotham Hill www.soukous.co.uk

CERAMIC MONEYBOX, £32.99 It’s never too early to instil the idea of saving up for a treat, and Hannah Turner’s nostalgic range offers lovely alternatives to to the usual pig From www.hannahturner.co.uk

NICHOLAS JOHN FRITH BONE CHINA MUG, £10.95 A Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous mash-up; there’s even some kind of sea-osaurus inside . . .

From www.somagallery.co.uk

BABY LAPIN NIGHT LIGHT LAMP, NOW £58.50 A nostalgic throwback to simpler times, and all the cuter for it From Mon Pote, 177 North Street www.monpote.co.uk

REBEL GIRLS 2, £25 Empower your girls with the true stories of the world’s most kickass women, past and present, from Nefertiti to Beyoncé, told fairy-story style From Papersmiths, 6A Boyce’s Avenue www.papersmiths.co.uk

PINGY, £POA (RRP AROUND £200) Eero Aarnio’s kid-sized rock’n’roll penguin will provide hours of fun, while placating any parent averse to Fisher-Price From Oskar Furniture, 47 Whiteladies Road www.oskarfurniture.co.uk

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CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

© MEL YATES

ORIGAMI ANIMAL LIGHTS, £12.95-£42 Kitsch flamingos, roaring (or maybe singing?)

T-Rexes and magical unicorns, some of which change colour; the small ones are batterypowered, the bigger guys plug in. Need we point out that you don’t have to restrict these to the nursery?

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

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You wear it well

Clothes and accessories to keep him/her warm/sparkly

peregrine clothinG He wears: Cambric 10 Hilton jacket, £165; porter ribbed beanie, £24 She wears: Heather jacket, £225 Bristol’s very own English heritage clothing company make classic basics that politely put two fingers up to faddy fashions, while adding just enough of a design spin to make you stand out from the crowd. The result? Threads you’ll wear until they fall apart. Which they won’t, for ages Peregrine Clothing, Montpelier Central Trading Estate www.peregrineclothing.co.uk

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

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

JO GORDON HAT, £78 Knitted in Scotland from 100% lambswool, with a nice, fluffy, notmade-from-animal-fur bobble From Movement Boutique, 66 Alma Road www.movementboutique.co.uk

VERSUS VERSACE HERITAGE BELT SHIRT, £370 Nothing succeeds like excess, and no designer did excess with such success as Versace From Garment Quarter, 23-25 Penn Street www.garmentquarter.com

CARNABY HUFF, £37.99 Just when you thought you had the whole colour range of Helen Moore’s fabulous faux fur huffs, along comes this irresistible colour pop of a banger From Amulet Boutique, 39A Cotham Hill www.amuletboutique.co.uk

SANDQVIST BERNT ROLLTOP RUCKSACK, £125 Made from water-resistant polyester and as spacious as it is good-looking; ‘Bernt’ means ‘strong bear’ in Swedish, btw. You’re welcome From Maze, 26-28 The Mall, Clifton www.mazeclothing.co.uk

MIA BRONZE METALLIC BOOTS, £129 A luxurious throwback to the glam-rock ’70s, but thankfully without the 6” platform soles From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street www.mintvelvet.co.uk

VICTORIA BECKHAM COAT (SIZE 10), £1600 Village Green sells preloved designer clobber at a fraction of the original price. If this VB coat’s been sold, there’ll be plenty more temptations on offer From Village Green Boutique, 5 The Mall, Clifton www.villagegreen boutique.co.uk

BAUM UND PFERDGARTEN ABEE DRESS, £189 Does this mini dress scream ‘Christmas sparkle’, or what? In Pink Lurex Flower, it has a deep v-neck softened by ruffles.

Maybe team with something from page 68?

From Grace & Mabel, 32 The Mall ; www.graceandmabel.co.uk

UNISEX OPEN ROAD TEE, £22 This Bristol company is ethical and organic, and gives 10% of all its profits to charity. Oh and their designs are festival-ready From Poison Oak, www.poisonoak.co.uk

KNOWLEDGE COTTON APPAREL BEANIE, £25 Organic wool, vegan badge, ideal for icymorning cycling to work – if Bristol was a hat, it would be this one From Brothers We Stand, Unit 20, Cargo 2 www.brotherswestand.com

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GLAD TIDINGS WE BLING But only if they’ve been awful good girls and boys

LIFE CHARMS ARABIC NECKLACE, £13.50 Choose from ‘friendship’, ‘laughter’, or seven other words – or just go for the design you like best From Amulet Boutique, 39A Cotham Hill www.amuletboutique.co.uk

ART DECO RING, £POA For dazzling, sock-knocking-off rings, look no further than Art Deco vintage.

If you’re not actually proposing, though, better make that crystal clear From Clifton Village Antiques, Clifton Arcade, 07877 633030

REY URBAN SILVER BANGLE, £495 Swedish style never dates, and this 1960 original looks as cool and contemporary as the day it was made. Equally happy teamed with a minimalist evening dress or glamming up jeans and a tee From John Kelly 1880+, Unit 4, Cargo www.johnkelly1880.co.uk

SILVER NECKLACE, £POA Catherine Amesbury sources and designs beautiful and highly giftworthy jewellery at highly affordable prices From Artemis, 214 Gloucester Road www.artemisbristol.co.uk

DEAKIN & FRANCIS CUFFLINKS, £255 There’s a beautifully made pair of D&F silver cufflinks for practically any hobby or interest – deep-sea diver? Dinosaur fancier?

Dog lover? – but we think these chilli ones are especially hot From John Titcombe, 4 The Mall, Clifton www.johntitcombe.co.uk

EILY O’CONNELL SILVER AND ENAMEL EARRINGS, £580 Just one of the high-end craft items you’ll find at the Bristol Contemporary Christmas Fair at City Hall’s Vestibules Gallery, 17-21 December From www.eilyoconnell.com

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

WHITE GOLD AND DIAMOND NECKLACE, £1580 The gold’s 18 carat, the central brilliant-cut stone is 26 ct, and it’s guaranteed to sparkle more than a Christmas tree do From Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath www.mallory-jewellers.com

WHITE GOLD AND DIAMOND EARRINGS, £450 These snowflakes are for life, not just for Christmas. But at Christmas, they’re specially amazing From Nicholas Wylde, 6 The Mall, Clifton www.nicholaswylde.com

SILVER SIBYLS, FROM £40 Designed as stylised women, each silver charm is etched with an affirming word, to hang from chains or ear wires From Diana Porter, 33 Park Street www.dianaporter.co.uk

GADGETS . . . and random other things we’ve lumped together

STEP THROUGH LIGHTWEIGHT BIKE, £750 Is anyone ever too old to get excited by a bike at Christmas? This classic step-through has been designed to be as simple, easy to ride, and light as possible, while easily dealing with long rides From Temple Cycles, 19 Wapping Wharf, www.templecycles.co.uk

GOPRO HERO7, BUNDLE EDITION, £379 Did you know our street photographer pal Colin Moody takes all his shots on a GoPro? Just shows what this brilliant bit of kit can do From Ellis Brigham, 160 Whiteladies Road www.ellis-brigham.com

ALESSI TEA REX KETTLE, £115 We admire the fact that even though a dragon whistle replaces a Tyrannosaurus on this Michael Graves kettle, they’re sticking with the Tea Rex gag. Ideal for the Targaryen in your life From Bristol Guild, 68-70 Park Street www.bristolguildgallery.co.uk

URBAN BOTTLE, £17.50 No need to explain how blamelessly eco these refillable stainless-steel bottles are.

And the cool look speaks for itself From Amulet Boutique, 39A Cotham Hill www.amuletboutique.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

POCKET BICYCLE MULTI-TOOL, £14.95 The obvious stocking filler for anyone with a bike. Even if they don’t have a bike they’ll probably want one From Pod Company, 24 The Mall, Clifton www.thepodcompany.co.uk

MASTER & DYNAMIC HEADPHONES, £319 Aluminium headphones, also available in black; both come in a cool, drum-shaped pouch From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street; www.harveynichols.com

BOOK LIGHT, £29.50-£65 When it’s closed, it looks like a wooden book; open it and it lights up – you can use it half-opened on a desk, as here, or it can be fully opened to make a sphere that looks just like an Art Deco light From Bracey Interiors, Waterloo Street, Clifton www.braceyinteriors.co.uk

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CLIFTON CERAMICS & FINE JEWELLERY

MOORCROFT POTTERY, LAMPS, PLAQUES, LIMITED EDITIONS FINE DIAMOND JEWELLERY, HAND PAINTED ENAMELS

Art Deco designs available

Designing bespoke jewellery since 1985

Selling top quality jewellery and GIA Diamonds, at prices 35-40% lower than average high street shops We supply 14 London jewellers including 5 Hatton Garden sites.

Unit 2, The Clifton Arcade, Boyces Avenue, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4AA

Telephone: 0117 909 4906 | Mobile: 07877 633030 | Email: terrycvantiques@icloud.com

Environmentally friendly paint | Wallpaper | Soft Furnishings | Homeware

168 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NT. 07909 308668 f NolaInteriors-bristol x @168nolainteriors

Antony R. White Luxury Fitted Bedrooms is a small family business specialising in the design and installation of exclusive bedrooms and studies. Taking great pride in our work we continuously strive for quality and a reliable, professional service.

Branksome, Dene Road, Whitchurch, Bristol BS14 0PG Tel: 01275 832 096 - Mobile: 07768 414 381

www.luxuryfittedbedrooms.co.uk

All Night Long The decade of excess, in all its slick and sparkly glory, is still with us

I

nfused with elements of ’80s powerdressing, with a smattering of disco thrown in for good measure, the 2018 party season is about going ultra-glam.

Adopting the maximalist’s mantra, ‘more is more’, the runways were slick with lacquered pieces paired with sequins alongside severe silhouettes and thigh-grazing hemlines. Metallics, too, like the sci-fi silver suits and boots seen at Balmain were prominent and gave the look of a retro-futuristic feel that was further amplified through experimental shapes and high-shine finishes.

If it’s time to step away from the sequins, embrace the tulle trend for a more delicate, romantic look. From soft feminine to black gothic, you can take advantage of the versatility of this trend which can be given a rebellious edge with the addition of a statement bag and classic leather biker jacket.

An antidote to attention-stealing summer pops, winter whites are commandeering a more understated, but nonetheless striking, presence in our party wardrobes. There’s nothing quite so crisp as this palette-cleansing hue. Pearly or patent, frilly or fuzzy, a pale palette is anything but faint-hearted, but if head-to-toe feels too high-maintenance then opt for smaller touches in the form of iced-up accessories and frosted makeup.

This season’s evening bag of choice is a pouch.

To tick all the pouchtastic boxes, you’ll need a drawstring – preferably with a gold chain or twisted satin cord; something luxe in the fabric department, say velvet or satin; and a touch of embellishment to add some sparkle. Overfilling totally not advised.

All products are available at Harvey Nichols Bristol or HarveyNichols.com

RED Valentino tulle strappy dress, £770

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

FASHION 2 3 4 1

5

SHOPPING LIST

6

7

10

1. Free People Time To Shine sequinned slip dress, £70 2. Self Portrait white floral lace mini dress, £370 3. Red Valentino burgundy velvet-trimmed tulle dress, £945 4. Christopher Kane black metallic weave tulle skirt, £625 5. McQ Alexander McQueen red sequinned dress, £470 6. Paule Ka silver sequinned gown, £1,245 7. Gucci GG Marmont mini leather cross-body bag, £1,330 8. Malone Souliers Robyn 100 black satin pumps, £495 9. Gianvito Rossi Levy 85 white patent leather ankle boots, £720 10. Bauble Bar Sandriana gold plated drop earrings, £55 11. Red V bag, £410

9 11 8

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Oystein Balle, silver gilt and enamel bracelet, Norway, 1960’s

£375

Specialising In Pre-owned, Design Led Scandinavian And British, Jewellery, Silver And Metalwork, From the second half of the 20th century.

Beautiful Christmas Gifts, Stocking Fillers, Jewellery, Candles, Scarves, Hand Finished Cards & Baby Clothes

Uwe Moltke, nephrite jade set silver ring, Denmark, circa 1970

£275

Unit 4, Cargo 2, Wapping Wharf, Museum St, Bristol, BS1 6ZA. 07914 764 936 johnkelly1880@yahoo.co.uk | www.johnkelly1880.co.uk a @johnkelly1880

x John Kelly 1880+

Open Mon-Sat, 10-6pm & Sun 10-4pm.

44a-46 Cotham Hill, Bristol, BS6 6LA. Visit us online www.soukous.co.uk

A place to escape and relax while we look after your hair...

Visit our luxury organic hair salon in Clifton Village using only the best Organic OWAY hair products

Address 11 Kings Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4AB Telephone: 01179733600 www.clairswinscoe.wix.com/clairswinscoehair b ClairSwinscoeHair

x clairswinscoestudiocouture

Meet the family lawyer The legal eagles featured below may have different specialties, but they have one thing in common – they’re all approachable, and here to help Sharon Mahmood

The Family Law Practice 0117 989 7965 www.thefamilylawpractice.co.uk

Sarah Jackson

What is your favourite part of the job?

It is hard to avoid clichés, but I am a people person and genuinely want to help my clients through one of the most difficult times of their lives, striving to find a solution so they can move forward with the least possible impact on them and the children. Sometimes however it becomes necessary to adopt a stronger position and fight my client’s corner to ensure we achieve the right outcome.

What do you specialize in?

Medium to High Net worth financial cases, including where there are business interests, trusts or perhaps an international element. I also deal with cohabitation work, concerning interests in property and financial provision for their children.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Find the right lawyer for you. Somebody that you connect with, but also someone who shares your objective and believes in what you want to achieve.

What was your very first job?

I spent 4 months in the Australian outback tutoring a girl educated by the School of the Air!

What area do you specialise in?

Family law – divorce and financial settlements, from modest assets to lottery winners and millionaires.

What are the challenges?

No two clients ever present with exactly the same facts and the law is always changing, which makes the job a challenge, but never dull. Trying to work out what is a fair outcome can be especially hard where there are children involved and there is not enough money to establish both parents in owned properties.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I love the meticulous task of drafting financial agreements; condensing complex agreement terms into one concise and unambiguous document can be very satisfying. But probably the most rewarding aspect of my practice is family mediation. It is humbling when a separating couple are able to put their differences aside and work together to reach settlement proposals.

What sort of misconceptions do you commonly encounter?

That instructing a solicitor puts you on an unalterable course to a court battle. With around 95% of my cases being settled through constructive negotiations, this is simply not the case.

BLB Solicitors 0117 9055308; www.blbsolicitors.co.uk

Sharon Mahmood

Sarah Jackson

Gareth Schofield

Clarke Willmott 0345 2091125; www.clarkewillmott.com How has family law changed in the last few years?

Financial settlements have become more about dividing the wealth created during the marriage but excluding the non-marital property created before or after the marriage. Plus the rise of the pre-nuptial agreement.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Helping clients resolve their problems as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

Still doing the job 25 years after I qualified.

And not looking a day older . . .

What advice would you give to anyone considering family law as a career?

Go for it; you will meet some great people, have some extraordinary experiences, and no day is ever the same. But you will have to work hard!

What do you specialise in?

Financial settlements on divorce, the unmarried family and divorce protection advice for those with a bit of foresight.

If you could introduce one new law what would it be?

I would bring in a law to give unmarried couples some form of property rights, and to stop the ‘common law’ spouse misconception.

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

Nicola Walker

Irwin Mitchell 0117 926 1584; www.irwinmitchellprivatewealth.com

Gareth Schofield

Nicola Walker

What is your favourite part of the job?

Ensuring that clients progress to a conclusion, often from a place of great difficulty and sadness, so that they can move forward with their lives. Listening to clients and helping them to achieve this is very gratifying.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

I am really proud of the junior lawyers in my team and my part in helping them to develop their careers. Seeing them transform from trainees right through to partners is wonderful.

What do you specialise in?

I deal with the whole range of financial issues that arise out of separation. I have particular experience with all types of business assets and trusts including overseas trusts. I also have extensive knowledge with regard to prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody who is going through a divorce?

A comment I find myself repeating to clients during the process is “Try to look at it from the other persons point of view,” as this enables perspective and insight into how matters are progressing and why. It is helpful to step back from your own position and can enable a better approach and indeed more effective way of progressing matters.

advertising feature

Richard sharp

Liz Bruce

sharp family law 01179 055055; www.sharpfamilylaw.com

The Family Law Practice 0117 989 7970 www.thefamilylawpractice.co.uk What is your favourite part of the job?

Dealing with people and knowing that I have genuinely helped them in working through what is an incredibly difficult period of their lives.

What do you specialise in?

Representing medium to high net-worth individuals when their relationship breaks down. In the main this involves resolving any financial issues to achieve a fair division of the assets, taking into consideration their needs and those of any children they may have.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

No matter how acrimonious the breakdown of the relationship has been, try if at all possible, to compromise those issues concerning the children and financial matters without engaging the court process. This is best done by instructing a specialist family lawyer who is a member of Resolution.

Not all couples are able to agree matters, and in those circumstances the court process may be unavoidable, ­but when you can it is far preferable to reach a compromise that both parties can live with rather than have a outcome imposed upon you by a court.

What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making?

Instructing the wrong lawyer and the wrong firm.

What do you specialise in?

Helping separating and divorcing clients to protect children, preserve assets, and limit the destruction and cost that too-often occurs when relationships breakdown.

What are the misconceptions around what you do?

There can be a belief that divorce must be fought in court. After 30 years as a family solicitor, I truly believe every divorce is unique. No single process works for every family, including court litigation. Once I’ve listened to my clients’ concerns, I help them select the right course for their separation, divorce or family issue. The decisions of divorce profoundly affect the future.

What was your very first job?

In the 1970s I worked as a caretaker’s assistant at the International Anglican School in Jerusalem.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Solving client problems – helping a client go from despair to hope, and from fear to security, so they can move forward with their lives.

What professional accomplishment has made you proudest?

Founding Sharp Family Law, a firm focused on minimising the financial and emotional cost of divorce, and which supports clients to secure the best outcome for themselves and their families.

xxxxx Liz Bruce

Richard Sharp

JO MORRIS

AMD SOLICITORS 0117 9621205 www.amdsolicitors.com What services do you provide?

I specialise in family law and am a member of the Law Society’s Family Law Panel. I represent clients in a wide range of family matters including divorce, financial settlements, unmarried couple disputes and cases concerning children. I am also a collaborative lawyer, which is an alternative approach to resolving relationship breakdown, an approach that allows couples to retain control over the process and to keep the matter outside of court.

What would you say to someone who is nervous to engage with a solicitor?

I understand how daunting it can be to take that first step and go and see a solicitor. My clients often first come to see me at one of the most distressing and difficult times in their lives. I am very keen to put clients at ease. It is worth bearing in mind that although every case is unique, there is nothing to be nervous or scared about and that I can help guide you through the process.

How long have you been in your field?

I focused on family law for the majority of my training as a solicitor, and immediately knew that it was the area I wanted to practice in. I qualified as a solicitor specialising in family law in 2005, and trained as a collaborative lawyer in 2008.

Jo Morris

Samantha Hickman

Samantha Hickman VWV 0117 314 5435; www.vwv.co.uk

What is your favourite part of the job?

Without a doubt the people I meet. No two cases are the same and as a Family Lawyer I am in the privileged position of helping people during times of great difficulty.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

Developing the family law team for VWV nationally, and being described in the latest Legal 500 directory as having the “strategic thinking of a chess grandmaster “. Legal 500 is an independent legal directory that researches clients, peers and industry experts for views and feedback.

What advice would you give to anyone considering family law as a career?

You have to be resilient. The work can be very challenging as you are working for clients whose emotions are often highly charged. Flexibility is also key as each client requires a very bespoke service. A sense of humour is also a huge help.

What do you specialize in?

Resolving financial matters on divorce. My cases often involve complex asset structures and business assets as well as assets held in different jurisdictions. I also act for clients in disputes relating to children and draft pre and post nuptial agreements.

What is the biggest mistake you see clients making?

Making decisions based on emotion rather than common sense. Not surprising but never recommended.

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advertising feature Katy Zikking

ALISON BRADLEY

Harbour Family Law 01179 055141; www.harbourfamilylaw.co.uk What services do you provide?

We provide specialist legal advice for people going through separation, divorce, child arrangement disputes and other family issues, to help them obtain a desirable outcome in the most dignified, respectful way possible.

What’s the best way to get in contact?

Please call on 01179 055141. We are all specialist family solicitors at Harbour Family Law, so please pick up the phone and speak to one of us. Or please email – katy@harbourfamilylaw.co.uk.

What would you say to someone who is nervous to engage with a solicitor?

Please don’t be, especially if you are calling us at Harbour Family Law! We are all very approachable and easy to talk to. The client testimonials featured on our website will hopefully reassure you that there is nothing to be nervous about.

Why should someone come to speak to you?

I know how to help them and I enjoy my job. We thrive on getting the best outcome for our clients.

How has your job changed in the last few years?

I am dealing more and more with clients who wish to deal with their matter through collaborative practice.

This means that both parties meet together with their lawyers to discuss a negotiated settlement and agree not to go to court. Collaborative practice has the best prospect of preserving family relationships for the future.

Wards Solicitors 0117 9292811; www.wards.uk.com

Katy Zikking

Alison Bradley

Fiona Greener

What does a good family lawyer provide?

Technical but practical advice tailored specifically to the individual, delivered in a clear and accessible way, taking into account that this is often a difficult and emotional time for all involved.

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

It’s important to come prepared, so think ahead and make a note of any questions in advance.

Don’t be afraid to ask if you want clarification on something – no question is a silly one.

Why should people contact you?

I have been a family and divorce lawyer for more than 20 years. I’m approachable and have particular expertise in financial provision following relationship breakdown. I genuinely want to know about you and understand you, your family’s situation and what is needed to enable you to move forward. I have an extensive, specialist legal knowledge and can apply this specifically to your situation.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

I find it very satisfying, and a great privilege, to advise and assist people at a difficult time in their lives. In my experience, even in the midst of the whirlwind of emotions that separation and divorce can bring, most people show good sense and it is especially heartening to see how the vast majority behave with great dignity and fairness, particularly where children are involved.

Harbour Family Law 01179 055141; www.harbourfamilylaw.co.uk What services do you provide?

Family law. When relationships break down, or new ones start, there are always legal issues to consider. I spend my time helping people through what is often a tricky period of their life.

What’s the best way to get in contact?

Probably telephone, but email is good too; fiona@harbourfamilylaw.co.uk.

What questions should clients come to you with?

Anything goes, but definitely the ones that are keeping them awake at night.

What would you say to someone who is nervous to engage with a solicitor?

I get it. No one wants to talk to a solicitor, but we are there to help. Bring a friend with you to the first meeting and, in advance, get your thoughts in order.

Perhaps write down a few points or questions; the more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel.

What is your career highlight to date?

Without doubt meeting Baroness Hale, the current President of the Supreme Court. A truly inspirational role model for women in law: the first woman and youngest ever Law Commissioner; the first woman to join the judicial committee of the House of Lords (after 600 years!) and the first woman to sit on the Supreme Court when it was created in 2009.

Why should someone come to speak to you?

I’ve been handpicked as one of the top three family law solicitors. Check it out at www.threebestrated. co.uk/family-law-solicitors-in-north-somerset

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

Lynda Merrell-Jones

Battrick Clark Solicitors 0117 973 1391 www.battrickclark.co.uk

Fiona Greener

Lynda Merrell-Jones

What do you specialize in?

My specialisms are in private children law and finances upon separation to include divorce and cohabitation.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I enjoy representing clients from all walks of life and supporting them during what is often a difficult time.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

I have dealt with a number of high profile cases over the years. However, the greatest satisfaction stems from obtaining peace of mind for my clients.

What advice would you give to anyone considering family law as a career?

It is a rewarding, constantly changing area of law which means you have to continue to update on legislation, case law and procedure. I never stop learning.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce?

Do not rush into a divorce. You need to be in the right emotional place to manage what is likely to be a difficult and testing time in your life.

If you could introduce one new law what would it be?

Currently, assisting someone to die is a criminal offence.

Individuals who are terminally ill or who suffer from pain everyday should have the right to medical help to die (subject to stringent procedures).

Why choose CoolSculpting at Simon Lee’s Aesthetic Medical Clinic?

- Medically led - owned by Mr Simon Lee Consultant Plastic Surgeon - Coolsculpting is a completely non-invasive fat reduction treatmentno down time, no needles or general anesthesia - FDA cleared treatment both safety and efficacy has been proven

Before

16 Weeks after Second CoolSculpting Session

*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

All treatments performed by Harley Street examiner Dr Christine Cowpland BSc (Hons) MBChB

cmedicalaesthetic

0117 251 0112 • 0757 668 5566 www.cmedicalclinic.co.uk

SNAPPED AC ROSS BR IS TO L , O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E

Chelsea Harding

Sid Azad Gary Regis and Will Parkman

Sarah Bailey, Karen Hogg, Beth Ross and Morgan Pepworth

Emily Woolley and Laura Turner

WINTER WARMER

Catherine Frankpitt and Jane Roscoe

It may have been cold outside, but it was cosy upstairs at Noche Negra when Bristol Life held a winter reception for colleagues and friends in the city – thanks for coming, all, and to Tim for all the photos.

Photos by Tim Woolf Photography www.twoolf.myportfolio.com

Darren McKimm

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

Alvaro Argente

Jennifer Rollason and Victoria Matthews

Elliot Mace-Blackstar and Caroline Gent

Hemali Modha and Simon Boddy Marcella Pinto and Beverley Mackenzie

Colin Moody

Aida Barket Flo Kirk and Dan Lloyd

Jason Mead

Josephine Tasker

Jon Craig and Chris Jones

Robyn Knibb and Hannah Walkiewicz

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

GVA regional heads of Bristol office past and present: left to right, Mark Brunsdon, Jo Davis, Gordon Isgrove, Derek Chamberlain, David Mace

FAB AT FIFTY

As part of celebrations marking 50 years of business in Bristol, estate adviser GVA invited clients and staff to a party at the Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin hotel. www.gva.co.uk

Holly James, Tamar Springer, Freya Burke, Angela Field and Jo Deacon

Rob Davis, Bethan, Paul Osborne, Tamar Springer and Phil Dearing

xxx Emma Summers, Steve Mitchell and Paul Moore

LIVING THE HIRE LIFE

Ellie Sutherland and Matilda Dempster Ashworth

Recruitment company Juice are also celebrating a milestone anniversary; here are the team all suited and booted at their 20th birthday roadshow drinks at Harvey Nichols. www.juicerecruitment.com

Van De V

Hoodlum

OOOH FASHION!

Bristol Fashion Show filled the catwalks at Ashton Court in November, with fabulously creative work by Bristol’s independent fashion designers.

The idea of the show began at Hamilton House, where BFS hosted four shows. The team aim to raise awareness for Hamilton House and the work of Coexist, who have encouraged and supported hundreds of Bristol’s independent artists, fostering a real sense of community and connectedness.

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

Photos by Toni Simion Photography

Linda Thomas Eco Design

The black-tie event took place beneath the wings of Concorde

SOCIETY

Team Osbourne Clarke Andrew Billingham

IN PLANE SIGHT

Business leaders and philanthropists across the South West helped to raise an amazing £150k for The Prince’s Trust in just one night, at the charity’s biggest regional fundraising event on 8 November.

The seventh annual Red Dinner took place beneath Concorde at Bristol Aerospace, and all the money raised will go directly towards helping unemployed young people across the South West get into work, training or education.

More than 450 guests from across the region attended the black-tie dinner, which has now raised more than £800,000 since it started. www.princes-trust.org.uk

Amanda Trembath, Susie Walters and Catherine Beesley

Charles Cook and Delphine Barnes

The Trembath Table Mike Beesley

Courtneay Caulken

Moira Lloyd

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 89

businessinsider meet the professionals

The Big Numbers Those city-centre lights don’t come on by themselves, you know.

Here’s what it takes to get this much sparkle on

1700

metres of UKmanufactured lights

13

Amps of power consumption

Ultra bright LEDs

Miracle on Park Street It’s the time of year when anything can happen… and while the exciting new rebranding designed to give Park Street and Queens Road a boost may not exactly qualify in the miracle stakes, it’s definitely promising . . .

P

ark Street and Queen’s Road have just received a new branding, developed by the City Centre BID. We asked Keith Rundle, operations director for the BID, about the thinking behind the initiative and the main challenges facing traders in this area.

“There is a really mixed experience for businesses in traditional shopping areas like College Green, Park Street and Queen’s Road,”says Keith.

“The impact of national chains reducing their reach, as well as the rise of online shopping has had its impact on various retail sectors; customer behaviour is changing and expectations are higher, both in terms of the offer and the presentation of an area.

“Park Street and Queens

Road needed the opportunity to represent themselves as streets with a unique offer, with a great mix of retail and leisure businesses. New arrivals to the area continue to aid its renaissance as a destination for Bristol and further afield.

“Our strategic thinking focuses on the importance of ‘placemaking’ – customers and visitors are increasingly looking for things to ‘do’, and ‘going shopping’ has become increasingly about ‘experiences’ that are not available online.

“We have developed a distinctive visual identity for the Park Street and Queen’s Road area, based on its unique attributes and characteristics; the architecture and heritage are now a setting for contemporary pursuits. The campaign combines architectural icons from buildings

that are unique to the area with icons that reflect things you can do there; eat out, drink coffee, study and work, exercise and enjoy Christmas shopping!

“The BID has worked very closely with a group of committed businesses across all sectors to support both the day and nighttime economies. We are enabling businesses to engage with the new branding assets in a variety of ways, and utilising other initiatives to support their activities.

“The campaign launched on 15 November, with graphics to dress the temporary vacant units. This has improved their appearance and the look and feel of the streets. It reinforces it as a place to business.

“To attract more visitors we are launching a ‘reasons to visit’ themed campaign focusing initially on

25,500 460 Hours of manpower

Stylish new graphics now improve the look of vacant lots

the key Christmas trading period.

This year, the City Centre BID has delivered more Christmas light garlands above Park Street and Queen’s Road, and an exciting light installation on College Green, which will go live from 6 December.”

For more www.bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 115 93

BUSINESS INSIDER How many people does the Bristol branch employ, and what areas of law do you cover – and is there a specialty?

Our Bristol office has over 270 staff. As well as our sector specialists mentioned, we offer the full range of legal services, including private client and residential conveyancing.

ONE TO WATCH VWV’s new FD Patrick Firebrace explains why the law firm is a serial award-winner, how Bristol’s diversity may help it weather the post-Brexit storm, and the value of staying abreast of technological advances The new FD at VWV recently completed a role at Rosenblatt in London, leading their IPO onto AIM; prior to that, he spent four years at Kings Court Trust, as CFO. That’s quite enough initialism for one opening paragraph . . .

VWV is a full service, national, commercial law firm. Our differentiation comes from some of our leading sectors, including education, charities, healthcare, tech start-ups, public sector, and family businesses.

What do you do at VWV? Primarily my role is to support the managing partner and the board in achieving VWV’s strategic objectives, striving for profitable growth, ensuring financial strength and resilience, plus a number of elements of compliance and risk management.

The Bristol office is one of four in a national chain – what are the advantages of being one of several branches?

We are currently ranked #77 out of over 10,000 law firms in the UK, employ 431 staff and a turnover approaching £40 million.

Our geographic spread allows us to recruit from a wide variety of backgrounds, which is important to us and our clients.

Can you tell us in a nutshell what VWV offers, and what sets it apart from other local law firms?

We’ve read that post-Brexit London is likely to suffer more than any other UK city and that Bristol might even benefit from the knock-on effect – what are your thoughts on this?

I’m not sure that many in the UK will really benefit from Brexit but Bristol has a diverse set of industries which will help it to weather the Brexit storm and make the most of any opportunities that it might provide…

Why are so many firms opening in Bristol, do you think?

Bristol has a superb offering to many employers and employees in terms of location, improving infrastructure (gradually!), transport links to other urban centres, a thriving tech sector, an established professional and financial services hub, and I can’t wait for the new surf lake to be built…

VWV tends to win a lot of awards! Please tell us about some recent ones, and why you think the judges chose you?

Over the last year we have won seven including our very own from Bristol Life (for the second year running).

The most recent one is the LawNet award for excellence in client care.

I’d like to think the judges are able to spot a winning entry! We are able to present them with tangible results from our financial performance, marketing, community activity and commitment to our clients.

Any other standout achievements that you’d like to shout about this year?

VWV has continued its growth with a strong set of financial results.

We have also developed an exciting new technology solution called My Onstream, which enables our education clients to embed compliance within their businesses.

I also completed the Barcelona marathon this year which was quite challenging given the snow in February.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?

Build a team of people around you who are experts in areas that you are not – you can’t be good at everything.

Hire people that want your job, and give them the time and opportunity to develop – they will thank you for it and work with you.

We also know that VWV does a lot of work with local charities – who have you worked with this year and are there any special initiatives this Christmas?

This year, we have a nominated charity for all of our offices – The Prince’s Trust. We are committed to support them for four years and have embarked on a series of fundraising.

How do you market the business?

The short answer is in lots of ways. 82% of our work is repeat instructions from happy existing clients. We actively manage, cultivate our client relationships and listen to clients’ feedback.

Speaking of Christmas, what are you doing for the staff party?!

Each office has a Christmas party and this year the Bristol office are heading for ‘a night at the museum’ at Bristol Museum – my first VWV party!

For more www.vwv.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 117

BUSINESS INSIDER

“WE LOOK FOR ENERGY AND AMBITION, AND WE WANT CONSULTANTS WHO SHARE OUR SERVICE-FIRST ETHOS”

IN HER ELEMENT SEJAL HAMPSON, manager of the transactional finance recruitment team at Element, shares the secrets of the company’s success Sejal describes Element as an “ethical and service-centric provider of permanent and temporary staffing for business admin, finance, accountancy, HR, and architecture in the South West.” So how did it all begin?

“Steve Colegate and Steph Jenkins started Element in 2016,” says Sejal.

“They were previously directors in a major international recruitment brand. The regional market was lacking a provider focused on delivery of quality service, while offering real value; Element was formed as a result.”

What makes you different?

We are a truly service-led organisation and achieve results through a consultative partnership with our clients. We also ensure that the candidate experience and their career are at the heart of everything

we promote. We are agile in our approach – our size and extensive consultant tenure ensures we can adapt our approach according to individual client needs.

How has the company grown since 2016?

Element has grown far quicker than we could have imagined. We work with a majority of major brands in the local market as well as a growing number of smaller entrepreneurial companies; everything from telecoms, banking & retail PLCs to start-up tech companies. The team has grown from two people with a kettle and a printer in January 2016 to a large office in central Bristol and a team of 18 (and still growing!)

What do you think has been the secret of Element’s success?

Our growth is a result of our combined expertise and tenure, and our focus on providing a personal tailored service to our clients. We are also being contacted increasingly by clients who have been referred to us by other partner clients impressed by our results and style.

What’s the secret of keeping a team close and motivated?

Managing a growing, busy and dedicated team is fun, and I focus on ensuring we have strong internal communication and coaching. We work on assignments in project teams, keeping the team involved and motivated. Successes are celebrated and rewarded, and we learn from every process, whatever the outcome.

If we wanted to join your team, what would you be looking for in a new recruit?

We are always looking for dedicated, ambitious consultants who enjoy a multi-tasking busy environment. We look for energy and ambition, and we want consultants who share our service-first ethos. We have success in hiring experienced consultants, and in developing talented ambitious but inexperienced staff.

Is social media important to the business?

Social media is a crucial element of our overall marketing strategy. We invest heavily in Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter. We offer career advice, advertise key vacancies and engage in relevant business thought leadership discussions.

What’s the best thing about the job?

I love my job. I help people every day. Element allows me the freedom to operate in the best interests of all parties, and nothing beats the moment you secure an offer for a candidate in their dream job.

We have received some amazing feedback and our Google reviews make us proud of the impact we make in people’s lives. On a personal level, the flexibility I am given by the business and the financial support it gives me to enjoy life is key.

Recruitment has its tough days, but the team here are brilliant. We laugh a lot, enjoy a night out together, and on one of the few bad days you take disappointment on the chin and bounce back positively.

Any awards or accolades that you’d like to shout about?

We were runners-up for Business Leaders 2017 in both Start-Up of the Year and Small Business of the Year.

In 2018 we were also shortlisted for Bristol Life business awards. We haven’t made much effort to apply for awards, but we are planning on applying for more accolades next year, so watch this space!

Where would you like to see the company in five years time?

In five years Element will be bigger, in other regions, offering other lines of specialism, but retaining what has made us so successful to date.

Focusing on its staff, so they value the clients and candidates, offering a premier ethical service. www.element-recruitment.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 117

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 • D ivorce, Family & Children • Employment Advice • Probate & Estate Services • W ills, Trusts & Tax Planning

Call free for a no obligation consultation

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

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

Colour Designs’ stacking rings, £32

IF THEY MAKE IT, YOU SHOULD COME Made In Bristol’s founder BRYONY MORGAN explains why it’s so important to support Bristol’s designer-maker community It’s hard to pinpoint the exact moment when crafts became sexy.

When did the word cease to be associated with tea cosies crocheted by grannies, and more about cool objects coveted by all?

“Over the past decade, a new breed of makers have arrived on the scene,” says Bryony. “These have developed and honed skills in their own specialisms, and utilised traditional techniques and forms – ceramics, jewellery, printmaking etc – and reimagined them for contemporary audiences.

“Craft now is resonant with a generation of makers, who create handmade items that add joy to people’s lives and form part of the expression of their identity, and the buyers’ too.”

Why is buying from a local craftsperson so important?

Supporting independent micro businesses strengthens the local community, and a healthy, resilient economy benefits everyone in that community – it’s win-win.

Promoting a circular economy, selling handmade objects that are made to last, rather than contributing to the disposable culture, is at the heart of our mission. Just like food localism, crafts created nearby tend to have a lower carbon footprint and are better for the environment.

Is the Bristol craft scene alive and thriving?

The city now has lots of independent homegrown, handmade events alongside our Gift Fair series at Colston Hall. A few national companies have also recognised the strength of our local talent and are bringing their brands to the South West, too.

Bristol’s neighbourhood arts trails further offer that meet-the-maker experience, where you can talk to artists directly in your community.

And watch out for Christmas popups, complementing the amazing array of artist-led shops in all corners of our city.

Tell us about the Made in Bristol markets Christmas shopping can be stressful; we strive to provide something a lot more enjoyable than the crush of the shopping malls. The Colston Hall foyer is bright, airy and, with a new café opening, the perfect place to meet friends and family to shop with a drink in hand. The hundreds of designer-makers taking part are the star attraction, but we will have music and demos, too.

What made you want to get involved with the markets, and how has the market scene grown in Bristol generally over the last decade?

can you recommend a few Ten years ago, I helped the local craftspeople that we Tobacco Factory Market launch should have on our radar? as a weekly offering. I had the For fun times check out the pleasure of working with some colourful, playful and wonderful amazing food start-ups as they grew illustrations by Hannah Broadway, their businesses (Lovely Drinks, jewellery by I Am Acrylic and Extract Coffee, Easy Bean and funny face ceramic planters by the team behind The Ethicurean Rose Nisbet. Amber Hards’ stylish were all regular traders). I quickly knitwear, Will Priestley’s hand recognised the importance of carved spoons and Priormade’s new markets as an egalitarian incubator geo pendant lights will help you for new businesses – with only a keep warm and set the scene. small outlay products can be tested and a new audience reached.

After an independent review, a few years ago, deemed it too The final Christmas Made in Bristol Fair restrictive, the Council’s ancient of this years takes place on 8 December at Market Charter was relaxed. Now Colston Hall, with a further Brislington independent market operators are event, Merry Bristmas! on 15 December animating underused spaces, such www.madeinbristolshop.co.uk as the Harbourside, with fresh market activity.

This is a fantastic Hannah Broadway’s A-Z of the Little Things opportunity to grow in Life litho, £35 unframed; £95 framed our creative and food sectors while giving visitors to our city an instant insight to the depth of innovation we have on offer.

What’s the best thing you’ve ever bought from a Bristol crafter?

A tiny object but I use it everyday – a Turks head knot light pull by Knit Knot made from found materials from a local beach. It is so tactile and I love the positive repurposing of discarded fishing waste.

Finally, with Christmas in mind,

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BRISTOL LIFE I 117 99

© WHITE VILL A PHOTOGRAPHY & FILMS

BUSINESS INSIDER

Nominations are open for the 2019 Awards!

HERE COMES THE JUDGE

Actually, here come ten of them, in all their impartial glory The line-up of judges for the 2019 Bristol Life Awards has been revealed. And nominations are now open as momentum builds, with just four months to go until the glamorous Awards ceremony on 11 April.

The panel of impeccably independent judges will assess the nominations and meet to discuss in detail the possible winners. They are chosen from disparate areas of Bristol’s business world, to reflect the diversity of the Awards.

The line-up this year looks particularly strong and eclectic: Alastair Currie (Clifton Marquee Company), Alison Bevan (RWA), Andrew Cheater (LGT Vestra), Anne Anketell (Bristol Charities), John Hirst (Destination Bristol), Martino Burgess (Gregg Latchams), Mike Livings (Jelf), Nick Sturge (Engine Shed), Peaches Golding (High Sherriff of Bristol) and Stephanie Marshall (BBC).

Nominations are now open, and any company or organisation in the area can enter, free of charge. Entries can be made via the Awards website, in more than one category if desired, and cover the year of 2018.

“The Bristol Life Awards are held in high regard by the business community in our city, which is mirrored by the calibre of our judges this year. We’re now starting to receive nominations from organisations across Bristol, and the support we’ve received from sponsors has been fantastic. It promises to be an exciting evening!” says Steph Dodd, events director of MediaClash.

Finalists will be announced on 19 February, with winners revealed at the ceremony on 11 April at the marquee outside Lloyds Amphitheatre.

To find out more about the few remaining sponsorship enquiries, please contact Neil Snow: neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk bristollifeawards.co.uk @BristolLifeAwds

IF YOU BUILD IT, YOU SHOULD COME..

Bristol’s booming property sector is to get its own bespoke Awards ceremony – and it’s taking place next May at Ashton Gate

The Bristol Property Awards will be finalists will be invited to a reception held on 17 May 17 2019. The first six in April. sponsorships have been sold, and the A panel of independent judges from Awards already have the backing of across Bristol’s business world will Bristol’s mayor, Marvin Rees. choose the winners. There will be 18 The new Awards ceremony is, categories, each of which are available uniquely, held as a lunchtime event, and to be sponsored, as well as a ‘Winner of celebrates all aspects of the property Winners’ category, awarded to the best market – from residential to commercial, overall winner. from lettings to new builds, from civic Companies already backing the buildings to bold reimaginings. It targets Awards include Regus, Brief Your agents, developers, architects, designers, Market, Interaction, Amarelle, Burston property-focused financial and legal Cook and AWW. Sponsorship is companies, and any company active and supported by a targeted multi-channel connected to property in Bristol. marketing campaign. In the Bath Its launch follows the sell-out success Property Awards, all sponsorships sold of the Bath Property Awards last month. out within six weeks of official launch.

The Awards have been created by Categories cover every aspects of the MediaClash, publisher of Bristol Life and property world, including Architect, also organiser of the Bristol Life Awards Interior Designer, Supplier and Rising plus events in Bath, Cardiff and Exeter.

Star to Developer, Professional Services, “I very much welcome these new Commercial and Residential Agent. All Awards to focus attention on all aspects details are on the new website below. of the Bristol property scene and built Companies self-nominate via the environment,” says Marvin Rees. “Bristol Awards website and can enter multiple continues to undergo change, and it is categories. Businesses can encourage important to celebrate success in the their favourite companies, clients, friends city. I am especially pleased that there and peers to submit their own entry when are categories to recognise property nominations open next month. companies’ civic role, including social housing, and to highlight the importance For more information, and to find out more about of green initiatives in this area.” sponsorship, please contact stephanie.dodd@ And here’s MediaClash events director mediaclash.co.uk Steph Dodd on the subject: “Bristol teems www.bristolpropertyawards.co.uk with clever property companies shaping The first Bristol Property our city’s destiny, Awards will be held at Ashton so we’re very proud Gate. We can’t guarantee to create these balloons, but can promise a damn fine lunch Awards to celebrate a burgeoning sector that means so much to all of us, whether commercially, aesthetically or practically.”

The Awards will be formally launched on 23 January at a breakfast event.

Finalists will be announced on 19 March, and sponsors and

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BRISTOL LIFE I 101 117

Seasons Greetings from Glenview Staff

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Alert to Landlords!

John Todd of AMD SOLICITORS provides an update after the final sections of the Deregulation Act 2015 come into force.

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previously wrote an article concerning Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) in the wake of the new Deregulation Act of 2015. The full impact of that Act came into force on 1 October 2018.

To recap the earlier provisions: 1. Notice Seeking Possession cannot be served in the first four months of a six month tenancy.

2. At the commencement of the tenancy the landlord must provide:a) An energy performance certificate b) A gas safety certificate c) The Government publication of “How to Rent: The check list for renting in England.”

Until 1 October 2018 the above provisions only applied to new or replacement tenancies after 1 October 2015, but as from 1 October 2018 the above provisions will apply to all tenancies whether they began before or after 1 October 2015.

The prescribed Section 21 Notice in form 6A will now have to be used for all Section 21 Notices after 1 October, regardless of the start date of the tenancy.

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

In a year I frequently see landlords who wish to serve a Section 21 Notice giving the tenant two months in which to vacate. Very often they have prepared the AST themselves and are simply not aware of the above provisions. I, therefore, have to advise them that they must fulfil the above provisions before their Section 21 Notice can be served; otherwise the Notice will be invalid. This is all the more important when the Particulars of Claim are filed with the Court, following the expiry of the Notice, because the form requests the date upon which the above documents have been served on the tenant.

Of course landlords should remember that any deposit paid by the tenant must be paid by the landlord into a deposit protection scheme such as the Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS) or Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) or the appropriate deposit insurance taken out.

Importantly, if this is not done, the landlord can be punished by being ordered to pay, not just the return of the deposit, but up to three times the value of the deposit.

AMD are pleased to advise in these situations and contact can be made with Chris Brown at our office at 2 Station Road, Shirehampton, Bristol BS11 9TT (tel. 0117 923 5562) or John Todd at our office at 100 Henleaze Road, Bristol BS9 4JZ (tel. 0117 962 1205). ■

Call into one of our four Bristol offices.

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

advertising feature

Bristol gains a new notary public Tom Sharkey, a partner at Bristol law firm, Barcan+Kirby, has qualified as a notary public.

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is qualification as a notary will now allow him to certify legal documents and authorise signatures on documentation for use abroad. This includes matters relating to a number of areas of law including conveyancing, workplace immigration, probate and power of attorney for individuals and companies.

A typical day for Tom might involve meeting clients to prepare documents to sell their property in the United States, or straightforward matters like certifying copy passports or educational qualifications for use abroad.

Sometimes there is more complex business work, like a company setting up a European subsidiary.

Tom joined Barcan+Kirby in 2001 and specialises as a Court of Protection solicitor where, using his vast level of experience, he has represented the needs of the vulnerable.

Last year, he was one of the first 30 lawyers appointed to the Law Society’s Mental Capacity panel of experts. Tom also worked in family law

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

and for private clients before heading up the Court of Protection team.

He is also a member of STEP, the organisation that works with families facing difficult issues relating to inheritance and succession planning, and he holds the STEP Advanced Certificate in advising vulnerable clients. He is a member of the Court of Protection Practitioners Association and is able to act as a professional deputy.

Tom studied for two years at University College London to obtain his notary qualification, and is now up-to-date with the recent developments.

Commenting on his achievement, Tom said, “I’m delighted to have qualified as a notary public. I’m really looking forward to meeting with new clients and helping them deal with either their business or personal affairs abroad.”

Bill Willcocks, Managing Partner at Barcan+Kirby said, “Many congratulations to Tom for this prestigious achievement. Over the years, Tom has shown unwavering commitment to his clients and the legal profession.

“His vast level of expertise and experience in

Court of Protection has benefited and has been a guide for many of our clients facing difficult decisions. Businesses and individuals across the region will now also be able to call on his expertise as a notary.”

Appointments are available at short notice because clients often have short deadlines. Tom is able to see clients throughout our six offices in Bristol and South Gloucestershire. n

If you need a document certified or any signatures authorising, contact Tom Sharkey t.sharkey@barcankirby. co.uk or phone 0117 325 2929. You can also request a call back at our website www.barcankirby.co.uk.

barton rocks Many homes have history and charm, but few come with such a generous sprinkling of magic as Barton Rocks in Winscombe

By Lisa Warren 108 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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here’s something about this time of year that makes us fantasise about owning a rambling, rural home. Somewhere with space for a 7ft Christmas tree. Or two trees, perhaps. Maybe three.

And if that home came with an interesting backstory – it might have belonged to an important early-20thcentury Bristol architect, for example – so much the better.

We all have a pretty clear idea what a modern architect’s home looks like, right? Vast, clean-cut rooms, and an uncompromising attitude to light spring to mind. But how about an Edwardian architect’s dream home? How about a knighted Edwardian architect?

It turns out that it looks nothing like the Palace of Westminster; it’s more like one of the posher houses on Postman Pat’s route. Impressive, but cosily traditional.

A house like Barton Rocks in Winscombe, for example – built by Sir George Oatley, who designed Bristol’s most prominent landmark, the monolithic, neo-Gothic Wills Memorial on Queen’s Road.

Oatley eyed up the hillside plot in the early 1900s, and judged it the perfect spot to create a fairytale home to

property

House numbers Bedrooms 4 Bath/shower rooms 4 Reception rooms 2 plus an open-plan kitchen/ family room served by a large utility room Grounds and gardens Around 29 acres including paddocks and woodland; extensive outbuildings and stables Guide price £1.295 m For more: Savills, 20 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DR; 0117 933 5800; www.savills.com

enchant his family. It still feels like entering another world, as you follow a small road to a smaller drive and pass through a protective curtain of greenery before you catch a glimpse of the house. A wall of trees separates you from the road to the north, but there are wonderful views across the fields of the lower Mendips to the south.

Oatley designed the interior in the style of the Arts & Crafts movement of the day, ensuring that simple, quality craftsmanship characterised every room. This is perhaps most evident in the magnificent drawing room, with its huge inglenook fireplace, wooden panelling, multi-paned windows and tall, open-truss vaulted ceiling (we’re now mentally upgrading to a 15ft Christmas tree.)

It’s impressive, yet wholly welcoming; a leitmotif that’s repeated throughout the house.

Oatley’s granddaughter Molly has written that her granddad felt he had found “a fairytale setting”, and “set about building a storybook house that lent itself to games.”

The modern owners have retained the magic, but over the last few years they’ve added a substantial, stylish update – notably the open-plan kitchen/family room that stretches across the full width of the property.

Let the next chapter in the storybook commence. n

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 109

advertising feature

Looking for your next new home?

Bath’s Holburne Park could be the place for you

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s Bath’s newest neighbourhood Holburne Park moves into phase two of its development, with a range of properties from four-bedroom, three storeyterraced houses to five or six-bedroom detached villas coming on to the market, now could be the perfect time to make the move to Bath.

The development presents a rare opportunity to own a brand- new, but classically-designed home. We spoke to Vicky Dudbridge at Savills who explained why a move to Holburne Park could make your life in Bristol even better . . .

“There are lots of benefits of living in Bath and working in Bristol,” says Vicky. “Firstly, the commute can be quicker than some commutes

across Bristol. Holburne Park’s location is a 20-minute walk to Bath Spa railway station, meaning you can be in Bristol’s city centre and business district within 35 minutes.

“Then there is the chance to have both fantastic cities on your doorstep. You can choose between Bristol’s high street stores and shopping centres or Bath’s boutique outlets for some retail therapy, Bristol’s vibrant nightlife and Bath’s cultural hot spots for an evening out – you really can have the best of both worlds.

“Holburne Park’s location offers beautiful scenery and is surrounded by countryside. It is set in an elevated location above Sydney Gardens off Warminster Road, and has expansive views over Bath and the surrounding Charlcombe Valley.

“It’s only a short stroll from the picturesque Kennet and Avon canal and is surrounded by greenery and big open skies. Yet it’s just a short, gentle stroll from Bath city centre so is the ideal location to enjoy both city and country living.

“The setting and the beautiful homes make it ideal for family life. Each house on Holburne Park offers driveways for up to two vehicles, gardens, access to good-quality schools and picturesque views – the perfect place to bring up a family.

“Finally, the house prices are very appealing to those who currently live and work in Bristol.

Historically, Bath property has been more expensive – however increases in Bristol property prices, particularly in North West Bristol, have left little in the way of difference between the

two. A classically-designed two, three or four bedroom home at Holburne Park in Bath with a comparable commute time into Bristol city centre is now a very appealing option.”

When complete, Holburne Park will provide over 200 new homes for Bath, from one-bedroom apartments to six-bedroom detached villas with prices from £525,000 for a two-bedroom home. Show home viewings by appointment. n

With a new four-bedroom show home now available to view, please visit www.holburnepark. co.uk, call 01225 302888 or visit The Marketing Pavilion, Warminster Road, Bath, BA2 6SF from Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, or on Sundays, 10am to 4pm, for more information www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 111

2018 PROUD TO HELP BRISTOL'S

Julian Cook FRICS

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

Tom Coyte MRICS

Holly Boulton BSc(Hons)

• Sales/Lettings

• Development advice

• Acquisitions advice

• Investment

• Valuations

• Dilapidations

• Landlord & tenant

• Property Marketing

• Rent reviews

• Auction Services

BUSINESS COMMUNITY...

Julian Cook FRICS

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

Tom Coyte MRICS

Holly Boulton BSc(Hons)

(0117) 934 9977

• Sales/Lettings

• Development advice

• Acquisitions advice

• Investment

• Valuations

• Dilapidations

• Landlord & tenant

• Property Marketing

• Rent reviews

• Auction Services

bristol LIVES

“You want tall, pretty-boy elves with great hair?

Go to Leigh Woods” Post Office Elf The Chief Post Office Elf has responsibility for letters and parcels in the BS3 area over Christmas. Not that he’s grumbling, mind . . .

A few years ago, we ran an interview with the Chief Elf of Bedminster. Security levels were off the scale; we were forced to meet the elfin Übermeister at 4am behind a litterbin in the Aldi car park.

Luckily, the Chief Post Office Elf has an altogether more relaxed attitude to visibility, and was happy to chat during his Saturday stint at the Elf Service checkout counter. Still at Aldi, mind; we’re starting to suspect that there’s a porthole to the North Pole in the frozen goods section.

You have a Saturday job? Who’s minding the Elf Post Office?

Me – what, you thought only Santa was able to pull off the ‘being in several places at one time’ stunt?

So, you’re in charge of handling all the kids’ begging letters?

Actually we call them ‘magical wishlists’, but yeah, in a nutshell.

Who carries out the naughtyor-nice assessments?

Have you ever met a kid who was 100% nice or 100% naughty?

Frankly, I’d be suspicious of any nipper who wasn’t a bit tricky at some point. Especially in Bristol.

Cheeky, lairy city. Keen on riots.

Likes spraying stuff on walls.

You haven’t actually answered the question

Sorry! Yeah, senior management issue. So, basically, Santa.

Is Bristol very different from where you come from?

Per-lease. It’s a huge misconception that all elves come from the North Pole; I was born, bred and buttered in West Knome.

How did you grow up without people realising you were an elf?

You’re also unusually small

Rude, but accurate. BS3 elves mostly spend their lives pretending to be very short teenagers. Having an eternally youthful appearance helps. I’m actually 105 years old.

No offence, but you don’t look much like Legolas

No offence, but Bedminster don’t look much like Rivendell, either.

You want tall, pretty-boy elves with great hair? Go to Leigh Woods.

What’s the difference between a Bemmie and North Pole elf?

None really, though the North Pole elves think they’re all that because they get to make actual toys. We’re seen as subordinate Clauses.

What’s it like to work with Santa?

Be OK if he could hold his sherry.

Imagine the state of him after the first few house calls. Leaving out My Little Ponies for 80-year-old grandfathers. Power drills for toddlers. You get the snowdrift.

Elves have always managed to sort out the carnage in the past, but all that may change with cuts to the elf service after Brexit.

Bristol’s a diverse city. And the only thing that really makes me look different are the pointy ears, which I generally keep hidden under this weird-looking Playmobil hairdo.

How do you plan to deal with it?

How about the odd stripey trousers and the pointy hat?

Ho ho ho. As you’d expect from someone whose blood stream is 90% Bristol Cream.

Hipster innit.

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We petitioned Santa with a plan to hold Christmas only once every four years, like the World Cup. And what did he say to that?

Do families from other postcodes have to trek down to Bemmie to meet you?

‘Trek’? It’s North Street, not the North Pole. And if you come down on 8 December there’s also the lantern parade and the Southville Chocolate Market.

What do you want for Christmas? What do you really really want?

Tickets for the Naughty-or-Spice Girls at Ashton Gate, obviously.

What’s your favourite Christmas song?

Hate ’em all. It’s like the final scene of Black Mirror’s White Christmas in my post office, with flamin’ Wizard on loop. However, I do like a bit of the Arctic Monkeys.

Are rumours of a white Christmas true?

Nah. That’s flake news.

The Borrowers is on at Tobacco Factory Theatres. Do you ever get mistaken for a Borrower?

Oi! A Borrower’s the size of a house mouse. Tiddly. And when did you ever hear of one doing an honest day’s work? It’s a proper show, mind. Mint. And being an elf, we sneak in on kids’ ticket prices.

See you in a bit.

Turn to our Bristmas feature on page 12 for slightly more useful info about the Bedminster elves