Bristol Life - Issue 313

COMING SOON!

THE 2022 BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS

ISSUE 313 / MARCH 2022 / THE CENTRAL LINE

CENTRAL PERKS

ISSUE 313 / MARCH 2022 / £3

HIT UP THE HEARTLAND OF THE CITY

TALK CLUB

WONDER BOY AT BRISTOL OLD VIC

AMEN TO RAMEN

HOW WE SUCCUMBED TO THE DISH DU JOUR

PETAL GURU

GO FLORAL OR GO HOME

GIMME THE NIGHT

MEET BRISTOL’S FIRST NIGHT CZAR

EDITOR’S LETTER

I

12

Central force

From the Triangle to Queen’s Road, down Park Street to College Green, up Anchor Road and back again...

t’s the strangest thing. Over the years, we’ve run area profiles on practically every corner of this city. You’ll often spot us shopping and dining on the Gloucester Road, exploring North Street, knocking back cocktails in Old City, letting it all hang out in Stokes Croft and putting on the style in Clifton. We are no strangers to Henleaze, frequent flâneurs up and down Cotham Hill and Whiteladies, and partial to a day trip to Portishead and Clevedon. We’re definitely not averse to a bit of sea air and fish-and-chips down Weston-super-Mare.

But as far as I’m aware, we’ve never focused on the heartland of the city centre – by which I mean the bit that starts at the Triangle, heads down Queen’s Road and Park Street, continues down to College Green, lingers briefly at the top of the Harbourside, turns left up Anchor Road and doubles back via Colston Street, the Christmas Steps and Park Row. Technically, you could argue that the ‘city centre’ extends as far as Cabot Circus via Broadmead, but as far as we’re concerned, the above-mentioned roads are the centre of the centre.

Why have we never done this before? Maybe we thought it was all a bit too obvious – after all, most of us walk, cycle, drive or Voi up Park Street on a regular basis. Maybe we thought it was a bit too studenty for our sophisticated Bristol Life readership (in fact, it’s not).

Now seemed as good a time as any to take a fresh look at these streets, especially since March sees the return of the Bristol Light Fest. Brought by Bristol City Centre BID, the Festival hopes to tempt everyone into the centre, hopefully supporting the indie traders along the way: the booksellers and the vintage clothiers, the violin shops and the jewellers, the pizzerias and gelato shops, the pubs, concert halls, museums, art galleries and theatres . . . oh, just turn to page 12, you’ll discover it all for yourself. We found plenty to surprise us; hope you do, too. Special love to Jon Craig and Colin Moody for the photos.

Back in mid-March, with a spring in our step,

DERI ROBINS Follow us on Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram @BristolLifeMag

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Issue 313 / March 2022 COVER Beacon Tower by @JonCraig_Photos

STREET LIFE

12 CENTRE OF ATTENTION Head to the heartland

6

ARTS

27 ARTS INTRO Billy Howle knows that there is nothing

like a Dane

28 WHAT’S ON Shows, gigs, art; the usual shizzle 34 THEATRE Why Wonder Boy should be in your diary;

maybe with a big red circle, possibly an exclamation mark

39 THE VERDICT The view from the pit 40 BRISTOL HEROES Ooh. Fashion 44 BOOKS Looking for escapism? You won’t find it here

FOOD & DRINK

48 RESTAURANT Woky Ko: putting the amen in ramen 50 FOOD & DRINK Pies and prizes 53 CAFÉ SOCIETY Pitville pitstop

SHOPPING

56 EDITOR’S CHOICE Everybody do the floral dance 59 MILLY VAUGHAN The Posh & Becks of the spectrum

12 27

HEALTH & BEAUTY

61 RAISING THE BARRE The ballet-infused workout

EDUCATION

62 SCHOOL OF THOUGHT What are the main

preoccupations of Bristol’s young students?

BUSINESS

79 BRISTOLWORKS It’s the city’s business

PROPERTY

87 PROPERTY NEWS Wish it could be Christmas

every day?

88 SHOWCASE A three-bedroomed town house in the

heart of Clifton Village, for under £600k *rubs eyes*

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT News, views and Van Gogh 11 BRIZZOGRAM Cinematic 46 CHRIS COX Saving the planet, one misshapen carrot

at a time

98 BRISTOL LIVES Carly Heath, guardian of the night

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, Milly Vaughan, Chris Cox, Jamie Rees, Storysmith Books Commercial manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Craig Wallberg craig.wallberg@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Jake Horwood jake.horwood@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, Carriage Court, 22 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 West Country-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. 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

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SPOTLIGHT Theatre

EXIT, STAGE RIGHT

So, do you want the good news or the bad news? While they were wowing us with plans for an exceptionally exciting 2022 season, Bristol Old Vic slipped in a nugget of information that made our hearts sink ever so slightly: artistic director Tom Morris, who over the past 12 years has steered BOV through a renaissance that’s included the multi-million refurbishment of the Georgian playhouse, is leaving this autumn.

Let’s enjoy the famed Morris rhetoric while we can. The 2022 season, he tells us, has been designed to rebuild and renew the organisation after the pandemic.

“The future of Bristol Old Vic has never looked fuller of excitement, opportunity, and enriching creative challenge,” Tom told us. “This theatre, with all its history and potential, is a superb place to explore what theatre might be in the future, and what role it might play in shaping our society over the next decade. This season is just a foundation for that change. I can’t wait to see what unforeseen discoveries and creations emerge from it in the coming years.

“There have been many points since March 2020 when it has seemed questionable whether the theatre industry, which contributes so much to our economy, our international reputation and the health and well-being of our communities, would survive at all. Thanks to the investment of the Cultural Recovery Fund, we and many others have survived, and the next, urgent and thrilling priority is to work out how theatre can contribute to the economic, social and environmental recovery over the next decade.

“There is no job in British theatre as exciting as this one, and for much of the rest of this year I will continue to have the immense privilege of holding the relationship between the most beautiful theatre in Britain, the astonishing talent who relish creating and discovering their voices within it, and the endlessly inspiring city and people of Bristol. I will also be fighting as hard as I can to encourage all leaders in Bristol to seize our creative

potential – the unique combination of energy, architecture, history, diversity, spirit and justice which makes it the most creative city I’ve ever known.

“Imagine what might happen if we really committed to the celebration and release of creativity in each and every one of our citizens! Bristol could be a national and international benchmark of the value of creativity in society, cited and imitated as a trailblazer across the world.”

Tom says that he what he now needs personally is a ‘fallow period’, freed up from the day-to-day management of a building, in order to grow ideas, and to concentrate on the devising and directing of new productions – including work that puts classical music on the stage.

Well, at least no other theatre is getting him. bristololdvic.org.uk Tom’s off in the autumn. Make the most of him...

Delightful montage by artist Hannah Broadway for the 2022 season. (Fun fact: Hannah is married to Felix Hayes, who’s played a leading role in many a Bristol Old Vic show)

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SPOTLIGHT Here’s the world’s easiest guessing game: match the images to the descriptions below

Civic

WHAT SHOULD WE DO WITH A SUNKEN SLAVER?

Since being unceremoniously toppled from its plinth and chucked into the floating harbour, the statue of Edward Colston has been on display at M Shed, pending a decision about its future.

Now, judging by the results of a public consultation by the We Are Bristol History Commission, to which almost 14,000 people responded, the overwhelming feeling is that the thing should remain on display in a Bristol museum. Indeed, the majority have stated that the statue should remain exactly as it has been displayed to date: laid horizontally, still with its splattering of red paint.

It’s also felt that the now-vacant plinth should bear a new plaque to mark the moment on 7 June 2020 when the statue was removed by Black Lives Matter protesters, and that the space should be used for temporary artworks or sculptures.

The report will be considered by mayor Marvin Rees, with recommendations needing approving at the Cabinet meeting in April.

For more bristol.gov.uk

Festival

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A LIGHT FEST

The second Bristol Light Festival takes place between 1-6 March, and since we ran a feature on it in our last issue the team have announced a few more installations.

Neighbours on Park Street Neighbours returns with a new tale. The collaborative installation by four Bristol artists, superimposed on Banksy’s Well Hung Lover, will be a celebration of Bristol’s residents and how we interact with each other as a diverse community, while exploring the relationship we all have had with our homes over the pandemic.

Playtime at College Green Rather like the 2020 see-saws, Tired Industries will create a collection of light-up musical swings; music and light will be triggered by the swinging motion, playing in sync with one another, featuring music that celebrates Bristol’s rich history.

End over End at Cascade Steps Studio Vertigo’s huge illuminated slinky toy will make visitors feel as if they’ve entered a playroom in the land of giants as they watch each coil slink down Cascade Steps towards the harbour’s water.

Office Party at Cheese Lane Shot Tower Parker Heyl’s installation comes from the playful idea that our workspaces may come to life in our absence, using sequenced light choreography to make the whole building dance after the workers have gone home. bristollightfestival.org

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Art

STARRY, STARRY NIGHTS

Van Gogh: the Immersive Experience is coming to Bristol. Around 20,000 square foot, at a location we’re currently not allowed to mention, will be given over to a light and sound spectacular featuring two-storey projections of art, allowing you to immerse yourself in all those mind-messing, swirly Impressionist masterpieces in 360 degrees. VR headsets also allow you to take a peaceful walk with Vincent to discover the inspiration behind his best-known works, including Bedroom at Arles and Starry Night Over The Rhone River.

Hopefully not the bandaged ear one, though. vangoghexpo.com/bristol

SPOTLIGHT

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

Every picture tells a story. From nighthawks at a diner to solitary walkers, to noirish neon spilling out onto cobblestones, Bristol after dark has the kind of cinematic glamour you only encounter in big cities

@averycooldog_photos

@worrall_photography

@delmar.tyna

@mickael_pics

@threestopsdrive

@delmar.tyna

@theperkspective

@sambalyphoto

@mrstevebob

@xrosspurpose

@sambalyphoto

@threestopdrive

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STREET LIFE

CENTRE FORWARD Isn’t it time you reacquainted yourself with the heartland of the city?

Photos page 12-18 Jon Craig Photos page 19-22 Colin Moody

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Christmas Steps didn’t have steps at all until 1669; back then, it was just a lethally steep and muddy hill . . .

STREET LIFE

H

ere’s a thing. In all the time this magazine has been running – and we’re talking 18 long and lovely years, people, bar a six-month lockdown break – we’ve never run a feature on the city centre.

Clifton? Done loads on BS8, mate. The Glo Road, Bedminster, Cotham Hill, Whiteladies?

Written endless stuff. We’ve comprehensively covered the waterfront, Old City, Westbury, Henleaze, even Portishead and Clevedon. But we’ve never done an area profile of the city centre. Now, that time has come.

Of course, ‘centre’ is a slightly amorphous term. You could make a case for saying that it begins at the Triangle, moseys down Park Street and/or Park Row, crosses St Augustine’s Parade, gallops into Old City and doesn’t stop until it gets to Cabot Circus. But the last two are such distinct areas that we feel they merit separate treatment; so for the purposes of this feature we haven’t crossed St Augustine’s Parade, though we have hung around Millennium Square and dipped down into Harbourside (a bit).

So shoot us; if you don’t agree, write your own feature.

CENTRAL PERKS

The city centre has changed massively over the past decade. Postpandemic, it feels more vibrant than it has for a long while, with new businesses taking over historic buildings, pop-up collaborations and the coming of age of many of the city’s restaurant and bar operators.

We’re lucky to have Bristol City Centre BID bringing the joy to the area and keeping the streets spick and span. Equally, we’re lucky to have an underground scene of nonconformists making interventions in our day, from the crooner at the end of Pero’s Bridge, who invites you to sing Tina Turner classics on a Saturday night, to the numerous cycling boom boxes you come across on a walk through the city.

So, what’s our hot take on the area right now? Well, we’re loving the

top to bottom: At the very centre of the centre is the newly renamed Beacon Tower and the Drawbridge inn. The figurehead on the latter is a replica of one that belonged to a paddle steamer which ran aground on the Avon in 1851

standout combination of the old and new, such as Ahh Toots’ cakery, which could not look more at home in its 17th-century building with swirly vintage lettering on the front. Or the old stalwarts, still going strong, including Bristol Folk House, which has been offering ‘learning for pleasure’ here since 1920. And the future’s looking even brighter.

Bristol Beacon, for example, is shaping up nicely, with the glass in place in the restaurant – the first glimmer of the 2023 reopening.

Let’s break it down into the main areas you need to explore, some of the indies you shouldn’t miss, and what’s happening in the city centre as we emerge from the chrysalis of lockdown into the butterfly of summer.

PARK STREET

Bristol’s quintessential thoroughfare, and the city’s unofficial high street. ‘High’ being the operative word; it’s rather steep. Just make sure you start your cocktail consumption at the top, after which it’s all downhill (though in a good way).

Head to Pinkmans to grab the best donuts known to man, then walk over to Brandon Hill, one of the loveliest city parks in the whole of the UK, to munch it. After catching some rays/dodging the rain, visit Woky Ko’s latest addition, Lunch Bar, which switched us on to poke bowls, alongside its signature katsu curry dishes.

Just off Park Street, Bristol Folk House is the oldest education centre in Bristol, with origins that date back to its original 19th-century docklands location. This spring, you can take classes in everything from watercolours to ukelele and stand-up comedy at this community venue.

There are bottomless brunches a-go-go in this part of town; one that deserves a special mention is Lost and Found. The interior still stands up as one of the most instagrammable in Bristol; no less effulgent is The Florist, just down the road – look out for Jody and Gemma Compton’s beautiful murals.

For filling, inexpensive foodie treats, head to Sri Lankan favourites The Coconut Tree at the Triangle – they’ve recently launched a latenight offering (see page 51). Close by on Queen’s Road, everyone’s

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THE CENTRE OF THE CENTRE

The photo below is the actual ‘centre’, so-called because the old tram centre used to be here. Until 1892,the River Frome flowed right through this area, down to the harbour; old photos show stately sailing ships cruising past the Hippodrome, which must have been full of rowdy sailors on shore leave back in the day. In fact, the river’s still there; it’s just covered over by concrete. The Council considered reopening it as part of their millennium plans, but in the end these plans were shelved.

“The River Frome used to flow through the centre; old photos show stately sailing ships cruising past the Hippodrome”

STREET LIFE TELL US A FUN FACT . . .

“When the river and port were still active, and ran right up to the foot of Christmas Steps, there were at least six pubs here, reputedly popular haunts for navy press gangs” – Andy Phipps “We’ve found three wells hidden under the Beacon building, one of which is 20m deep and below the level of the nearby River Frome. We believe they served the Elizabethan Great House that was previously on the site, and we know that Elizabeth I visited.

Could she have drunk out of one of our wells?!”– Hilary Coleman “We The Curious is on the site of an 18th-century ropewalk, where ropes were laid out for the shipping trade” – Jen Foster “The Milk Thistle is housed in a building called Quay Head House, so called because prior to the development of the city centre the harbour stretched right down to this building. The River Frome runs right underneath the city centre, past The Milk Thistle and under Nelson Street, to Broadmead and past Cabot Circus before re-emerging alongside the M32” – Nathan Lee “We only found out recently that at the back of a former jewellers and pawn shop on Park Street there is a now boardedup window that was built to allow Clifton ladies who were financially struggling a place to discreetly pawn their jewellery without risk of being spotted by passers-by” – Jess Robinson

ABOVE: Does anyone else like to give the lions outside the Vic Rooms a surreptitious little pat? RIGHT AND OPPOSITE PAGE: Where does the centre end and the Harbourside begin? We’re going right ahead and calling it: Pero’s Bridge is the cut-off...

favourite Bristol-Italians, the Bianchis family, opened Pizza Bianchi last year: dine in, or make like an Italian and grab a slice to go at the hatch.

Speaking of pizza, Pizzarova has come a long way from serving food at festivals from a Land Rover – pop into their restaurant at 2-4 Park Street and watch your sourdough base being topped to order. Newly arrived is Pizza on the Park on Berkeley Square, where you can test your foosball skills while the team whip up Roman-style pizzas.

Now in a new, bigger building, Mrs Potts Chocolate House offers even more space to enjoy hot chocolate in white, milk and dark varieties, along with such decadent delights as double-chocolate-chip cookies sandwiched together with white chocolate ganache.

Shopping? Swerve the chains. Bristol Guild, the city’s only independent department store, is an institution, with a range of upmarket brands from Scandi chairs to luxury handbags and those covetable Alessi gadgets. The food hall’s great, too.

Park Street has long been a vintage mecca. Uncle Sam’s is a great source of US attire, from Western shirts to pre-loved leather jackets and the obligatory Hawaiian shirt. The Vintage Thrift Store comes close to something you would find on Brick Lane circa 2005, with staff so cool and lovely they make you want to try on everything in the shop. Sobeys also sells vintage and reworked clothing, including the prettiest retroprint frocks and accessories.

Jeweller Diana Porter is a Park Street institution, “It was Diana’s lifelong dream to have a shop on this street,” says Jess Robinson. Jess and the staff continue Diana’s legacy, selling outstanding contemporary jewellery by independent makers; perhaps the best-known pieces are Diana’s silver sibyls; they even featured in The Outlaws.

Cocktails! Bristol’s original prohibition bar, Hyde & Co, is tucked away in its secret basement home in Upper Byron Place, while the Bristol and Bath Rum Distillery can conjure up pretty much any cocktail from its signature range of Dead Man’s Fingers rum – perfect for big groups.

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“Carlos Trower (known as The African Blondin), who escaped slavery to become a world-famous high-rope walker, abolitionist and philanthropist, lived in our building on Christmas Steps in 1876. We’ve recently painted a ‘blue plaque’ on our shop sign as a permanent tribute to him” – Ruth Williams

STREET LIFE HEART OF THE ARTS

The city centre isn’t just the shopping hub of Bristol – it’s also its arts nucleus, from museums to theatres to music venues.

From the top of the street, then…

Royal West of England Academy, Queen’s Road England’s only regional Royal Academy of Art celebrates the best of historic and contemporary British art in glorious lightfilled rooms; it also stages an annual Open exhibition, one of the largest of its kind in the UK, and has done so for over 160 years.

Although it’s currently closed for refurb, reopening this April, it still hosts off-site events.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queen’s Road 19 galleries offer world-class collections of art, archaeology, geology and natural history, from Banksy’s Paint Pot Angel, to the Bristol Boxkite, to Bristol’s own dinosaur: a small, scurrying little Triassic plant-eater named Thecodontosaurus (an early example of the Bristol vegan). Guest exhibitions are always fascinating; they’re currently showing Grayson’s Art Club.

St George’s Bristol, Great George Street World-class 580-seat concert venue with beautiful new café-bar, converted from a 200-year-old Georgian church; Simon Rattle said it had ‘the best acoustic for chamber music in Europe’, no less.

Georgian House, Great George Street A restored 18th-century town house – the perfect way to step back in time and imagine what life was like in this affluent area of the city hundreds of years ago. Currently closed.

The Red Lodge, Park Row A historic Elizabethan house, once a lodge to the Great House, where Queen Elizabeth I once stayed. The Great Oak Room is said to be one of the finest rooms in the West Country.

Currently closed.

Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade Bristol’s biggest theatre, seating around 2,000.

A major entertainment hub for Bristol since 1912. Originally it fronted the River Frome,

“Simon Rattle said St George’s had ‘the best acoustic for chamber music in Europe’ ” when it was a music hall frequented by sailors.

Big enough to accommodate the largest touring shows, today it offers a little touch of the West End in the West Country, hosting many prestigious premières Bristol Beacon, Trenchard Street Under its previous moniker the Colston Hall, Bristol’s premier music venue has hosted them all, from the Beatles to Bowie. Currently closed for a major refurbishment (see panel).

O2 Academy, Frogmore Street What it lacks in atmosphere, the O2 makes up with a packed programme of big names from the world of rock, pop and indie music, along with regular club nights.

Watershed, Canon’s Road An absolute fixture on the cultural scene since opening in 1982, with a fresh concept that offered art house/left-of-centre mainstream films along with a great café.

Arnolfini, Narrow Quay Founded in 1961, this cool and collected (though friendly and accessible) centre is dedicated to producing and presenting visual arts, performance, dance, film, music, events and workshops, welcoming a broad and diverse audience of all ages. Drinking a cider on a summer’s evening on the quayside outside is such a Bristol institution that it has its own Instagram tag, #outsidefini. The covered Arnolfini Harbourside Bar opened last year, managed by Bristol Beer Factory.

Architecture Centre, Narrow Quay The Architecture Centre encourages everyone to discover, enjoy and get involved in buildings and places; it also has a rather swish Continental-style new café-bar, The Architect, home to Design West. The centre is currently closed, but it’s still running a range of online and off-site events.

We the Curious, Millennium Square Formerly known as @atbristol, Bristol’s science visitor centre is all about asking questions, getting creative and testing things out. There are over 300 exhibits, including Aardman’s exclusive exhibition and a 3-D planetarium; current exhibition Project What If ? is the first major science centre exhibition based on the curiosity of a city, based on gathering over 10,000 questions from Bristol people. The Grade-II building was originally a railway goods shed, back in 1906.

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STREET LIFE Just opened at number 32 is Four Quarters, a bar with over 20 retro arcade games; console booths coming soon. Find out how the presmartphone generation got its kicks by playing such 1970s-90s classics as Space Invaders and Time Crisis 2, while quaffing cocktails, or beers from Lost and Grounded and Bristol Beer Factory.

Fair to say that these new arrivals are loving the area. “Ascending the hill, you pass countless independent businesses, each at once incongruous and perfectly complementary to the next, and are greeted by the Bristol Museum housed in grand architecture at the top. You can even get the finest artisan donuts currently known to science while you’re here. Our area is a cacophony of lively variety and we are very proud to have become a part of it.”

Emma Choremi of McQueens has had a hair salon on Park Street for 32 years. “It has changed regarding shops and owners but remains a lovely place to be,” she says. “Park Street is the pathway into the centre of town centre or a walk up to student city. I see the same faces every day, which makes it so friendly and welcoming. Independent and vibrant is what we love here.”

COLLEGE GREEN

There’s more to College Green than the council offices, the cathedral, the skateboarders and gaggles of students.

There’s always a massive queue for Swoon, for a very good reason: the gelatos are divine, from the always-sold-out pistachio to our own favourite, the Amarena cherry cheesecake, along with guest flavours.

“The food scene in Bristol is so collaborative, and has such great energy,” says Swoon’s Pat Powell. “And College Green is getting busier again. It’s so good to see the mix of skaters, tourists, students and families slowly returning. It will be interesting to see what changes the road closure brings…” below: It’s not a Banksy, it’s IncWel’s Still Sane, flanked by Silent Hobo’s Chatterton

on Upper Maudlin Street opposite: Humans of Park Street, clockwise: Bare Grills, Bird and Blend, Yakinori, Pizza on the Park; middle, Bristol & Bath Rum Distillery

BIG UP THE BID

During lockdown, Bristol City Centre BID brought us painted Upfest hearts in parks. In December 2021 and 2021, it gave us Christmas lyrics projected onto the sides of buildings. Then there was the Light Festival, those love lyric banners, and…

“We loved the #BristolTogether hearts campaign, it brought people back together when we really needed it, in a Covid-safe way. Super playful and fun, and great for Instagram!” – Jen Foster “The BID has done a great job throughout the pandemic, keeping the streets clean, providing advice and support to businesses and working hard to make sure that the city centre is an enjoyable and safe place to visit. I’m really looking forward to the Bristol Light Festival, which feels like the first real opportunity to get out there and celebrate the amazing city we live in again. So many events were cancelled, including some of our own Summer Sessions at Bambalan. I’m really looking forward to getting the most out of everything this year!” – Nathan Lee “Bristol Bid has worked tirelessly to get people back into the city centre. As our strapline is ‘Gelato to fall in love with’, the ‘Love songs to a City’ initiative was perfect; the titles of songs, which brought back many memories, as well as the glamorous shimmering discs, was just what we all needed at that time. I’m really looking forward to the Light Festival, too. It really does help small family businesses like ours, drawing people to College Green and Park Street” – Pat Powell

Cowbee is getting much praise for its new burger menu. We were doubtful whether the mix of waffles and burgers would sit well in this sweetly decorated establishment, but were happily proved wrong.

Sergio’s Italian has been in this spot for as long as we can remember, bringing the closest experience to actually being in Italy that it’s possible to have in Bristol, from the décor to the wine list. You feel as if this family run establishment hasn’t changed since the first time you stepped into it, and you’re possibly right.

And bear with us on this one: have you ever been into the Marriott Royal on College Green? This place celebrated 150 years in 2017 and is easy to overlook as a local. From the huge marble floor in reception to all the small details of its interior, it transports you back to a bygone Bristol era in a way few places can still do.

This part of the city really comes alive at night, with some of the city’s most eclectic clubs, from the cavernous arched underground Basement 45 serving up a mixture of d&b nights, dubstep, UK funky, techno and house, to one of the city’s longest running LGBTQ venues, the Queenshilling.

“The food scene here is so collaborative, and has great energy”

PARK ROW

Running parallel (sort of) to Park Street, eventually branching off into Perry Road to the left and Lower Park Row into the right, and on into Colston Street. You won’t find any branches of Reiss or Whistles here; rather, it has an alternative, quirky offering.

Fancy Plants has a selection of lovingly cared-for succulents and greenery. The team behind this spot really know their stuff, and provide lovely handwritten care instructions as well as helping you to select plants to suit your space and competence level as an indoor gardener.

Next door is Bristol Design, a hubbub of activity for Bristol’s carpenters, sculptors and joiners as well as keen DIYers. With preloved and new tools of every type imaginable, this store is a place to source the kind of tools which just aren’t made any more. They’ll sharpen your chisels for you too, but unfortunately not your woodworking skills.

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Specialising in everything BROWS whilst also offering LVL Lash Lifting, Gel Manicures & Pedicures, Waxing, Facials & Massage.

SITUATED ON PARK ROW THIS UP & COMING SALON IS THE PLACE TO GO. The BABBA Salon. 22 Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LJ 0117 9272739 / 07391217164; www.thebabbasalon.co.uk

t: 0117 279 0980 | m: 07956 846307 e: simon@bristolcityroofing.co.uk

 @thebabbasalon @babbabrows

www. bristolcityroofing.co.uk

STREET LIFE WHERE THERE’S A WILLS

One of the ultimate Bristol vistas is square-topped Wills Memorial Building, cresting Park Street as you look up the hill.

It looks far older than it is. Designed by Sir George Oatley as a memorial to Henry Overton Wills, it was opened in 1925 and considered one of the last great Gothic buildings to be built in England. Incidentally, the bell in the tower is the fourth largest in England. It’s name is Great George, and its witty Twitter account will gradually have you believing it’s a sentient being.

KimonoKimono looks like the kind of shop which is too niche to be real. You’ll find over 300 different kimonos here, amassed over 40 years by owner Phil Porter. If you fancy a kimono but are clueless about how to wear it, they offer workshops to show you how.

Bristol’s original microbrewery Zero Degrees was making craft beers before we even knew what the term meant. All exposed pipework and pared-back furniture, this place takes its brewing very seriously; it also has the best suntrap in Bristol, with fabulous views.

Next, a guilty pleasure: it wouldn’t be a Park Row feature without a mention of Lollipop Karaoke. Eleven karaoke rooms make you feel you’ve been transported to Asia, with a mix of English, Chinese and Korean song options. Leave your inhibitions at the door.

A big family favourite for us is Sotiris, selling Greek baked goods – if you’ve ever succumbed to the delights of a bougatsa, and wished you could find one in Bristol, here’s where to go. You’re welcome.

There’s Bristol Fine Art, selling an array of handmade arts and crafts, and Hobbs, one of the city’s most established hairdressers, with young turks Mack Daddy’s a little further along the row. On Upper Maudlin Street and Perry Road you’ll find an equally esoteric array of businesses, including two excellent galleries: Clifton Fine Art, specialising in modern and contemporary art, and the always interesting That Art Gallery run by Andy Phipps. There’s also not just one but two violin shops, along with Hobgoblins music shop.

COLSTON STREET

One of our favourite streets in Bristol. Makers and Blaze Studio has a beautifully curated collection of arts and crafts, created by the myriad artists who make Bristol their home, while The Forge is an intimate venue with cracking live music and unrivalled cityscape views, accessed off the main drag via a quaint cobbled path.

Then there are the exquisite Foster’s Almshouses; architects Foster & Wood took inspiration from the Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune in Burgundy when designing them. This street is also a hive of antique shops, notably Vintage Steps and Potter’s Antiques, where you can pick up some great quality preloved homewares. Brilliant Bristol bookshop Bloom & Curll have recently released their Horrible Poems for Horrible People, and we have a frighteningly long list of people to give a copy to.

And for the sunniest spot in town, whatever the weather, it has to be Bambalan, with its Middle-Eastern wraps, cocktails, huge terrace, DJ sessions and good-time vibes…

CHRISTMAS STEPS

It didn’t use to have steps at all; up until 1669 it was just a lethally steep and muddy hill, and if that wasn’t enough to founder you there were plenty of lurking cutpurses and murderers to do the job.

Today, it’s one of Bristol’s most charmingly historic thoroughfares, styling itself the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter to reflect its creative, indie shops and makers. While every town in possession of an ancient twisty lane credits it as the inspiration for Diagon Alleys, just reflect: where did JK Rowling grow up? Damn right. Just outside Bristol.

The ideal place to start (or finish) your tour of the steps is at the pub of the same name – the historic, atmospheric Christmas Steps, which PROFILE ON…

BRISTOL BEACON

clockwise: Track ‘em down on Park Street and College Green: Pizzarova, Swoon Gelato, Diana Porter, Mrs Potts

The transformation of the Bristol Beacon is very much underway.

“We ‘Topped Out’ last week – a significant construction milestone that takes place when the highest point of the building is reached,” says Hilary Coleman.

“The most exciting thing is that the spaces are really starting to take shape – new windows have gone into the Lantern space, as well as the old box office colonnade that will be a restaurant.

You can almost start to hear music tuning up in the spaces, which is so exciting, and means that we’re speeding towards reopening in autumn 2023.”

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STREET LIFE like much of the street could have come straight out of Dickens. One of the quirkiest destinations (and that’s saying something, on this street) is Chance & Counters – the only place where you can play one of 600 or so board games over your drinks and food. The staff will happily talk you through them, from firm favourite Catan to Ticket To Ride.

The Scrandit is a restaurant known for foodie pop-ups. Taken over by a pair of friends during lockdown, this spot features an ever-changing roster of street food traders. Sit in the window, and imagine a bygone era through its bullseye glass panes.

At I am Acrylic, Ruth Williams and Brendan Fan have been making their cheerful jewellery since 2004. “Living and working on the Christmas Steps, we’re surrounded by so many inspiring, creative, independent businesses,” says Ruth. “We can buy all our gifts in the area, from Lowlands, Studio Flax, Pirrip Press, Flux, Makers, Blaze, Les Fleurs, Vintage Steps, Opus 13 or Potters, and eat well from all the great cafés/bakeries and pubs in the area, such as Ahh Toots, 404 (Not Found), Penfolds, The Christmas Steps...”

Also here is 20th-Century Flicks, the custodian of a huge collection of video and DVD – the last of its kind in the UK. Its 18-seater cinema is the ideal place to organise a get together with fellow film fans. As if that hasn’t already sent the quirk factor off the scale, the Steps has a dedicated stamp shop, West Region Stamps, as well as Trevor Jones, a specialist brass and woodwind shop.

“The CSAQ is possibly one of the last areas of truly independent shops, cafés, bars, galleries and creative practitioners in Bristol,” says Andy Phipps. “Being so central, and in such a historic neighbourhood, means that we see a real mix of locals, students and visitors, increasingly more from other larger cities looking to relocate.” n

below: Pinkmans; above: St George’s Bristol; centre: Cooshti

BIG UP THE NEIGHBOURS

“My favourite for pre-concert food is Great Chongqing on Park Row. I’m working my way through the menu, but often come back to their amazing grilled fish” – Hilary Coleman, Bristol Beacon

“A big shoutout to our neighbours at Watershed; their approach to inclusion is exemplary. Also to Creative Youth Network, who do inspiring work with young people, and a hello to our new next-door neighbours boomsatsuma: creative superstars” – Jen Foster, We The Curious “We enjoyed a harmonious existence with the Colston Hall before it closed, and worked hard to create a destination venue that our customers really enjoy coming to. We’re looking forward to the opening of the Bristol Beacon!” – Nathan Lee, Bambalan “Ahh Toots – Diana got her wedding cake here. Clifton Flowers, who always do wonderful bouquets for celebrations. The Folk House – fantastic for the community, and they serve lovely cakes.

We are looking forward to the new plant shop Mila opening up across the road” – Jess Robinson, Diana Porter “Mrs Potts Chocolate House on Park Street – a great example of a new niche café that has quickly built loyalty and success by doing it differently but well. I have also always liked the Futon Shop and their collection” – Mike Cannings, Bristol Guild “Uncle Sam’s has been here even longer than me. My new and highly recommended place is Jacob’s Barbers and clothing store” – Emma Choremi, McQueens “I am Acrylic, Brown In Town, 404 (Not Found), Lowlands, 20th-Century Flicks and Mugshot Barbers. Despite all the tribulations of the last few years, there are still new businesses opening in the area. Haveli The Yard has opened up next door to the gallery, while Great Bunnies and Black City Records are also new to the area“ – Andy Phipps, That Art Gallery

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

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SPONSORED CONTENT

NOT JUST A PRETTY FACE The COSY CLUB is known citywide for its beautiful décor and classy cocktails – but did you know they also have tempting new food dishes?

I

f you’ve ever been to Cosy Club on Corn Street, you’ll know about its gorgeous domed ceiling, beautiful stonework and distinctive decorative style. In addition to the grandeur of the building, the restaurant and bar is famous for its cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.

If you haven’t eaten there yet, you should: Cosy Club has recently revamped its food menu to offer fresh and interesting new dishes that you might be surprised to find on the high street.

Like your small plates? Try their harissa lamb shoulder with spiced cauliflower purée, tzatziki and flatbread, or the charred broccoli with pomegranate molasses and tahini, lemon and garlic dressing. The mains have a lot to offer:

garlic mushroom, leek and vintage cheddar tart; seared seabass with tamari and ginger teriyaki noodles; an incredible vegan burger or the renowned dirty chicken burger with mac and cheese fritter. Then it’s salted caramel cheesecake, lemon posset or affogato for dessert. The staff wear a modern take on ’20s style, which adds to the eccentricity.

Cosy Club is known for its excellent choice of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options; you can check out the dedicated menus on the website before your visit. If you drop in after shopping or work, grab two cocktails for £10.95 or book for a more special occasion.

The Peacock Room and The Mezzanine are both excellent spaces for private use, such as meetings or parties.

Find Cosy Club in the middle of the bustling Old City area of Bristol, and pop in for a pretty wonderful experience. It’s best to book ahead to be sure, but you’ll be welcome if you just call in. ■

cosyclub.co.uk/Bristol Tel: 0117 253 0997 email: bristolbookings@cosyclub.co.uk 31 Corn Street, Old City, Bristol, BS1 1HT 24 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH Another new element to the Cosy smorgasbord is quite possibly what we’ve all been waiting for – their “Boundless Brunch”. Add unlimited drinks to your breakfast order for £25 per person: mimosas, Bloody Mary, prosecco, some great mocktails and all hot drinks are included. The brunch dishes themselves are up there: buttermilk pancakes, shakshuka, huevos rancheros, smashed avo and a very surprising vegan garden breakfast.

Cameras at the ready . . .

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

HOWLE PLAY Tom Morris may be stepping down as artistic director of Bristol Old Vic this autumn, but he’s leaving a thrilling season of shows in his wake.

It’s hard to say which we’re more excited about, though after watching Bristol Old Vic Theatre School graduate Billy Howle in Chloe, currently showing on BBC One, we’re all fired up for his Hamlet in October. The play made a star of a then-unknown Peter O’Toole in the mid-1950s on this same stage, and according to director John Haidar, Billy’s electrifying energy will bring this production into sharp focus for a new generation.

“To have this opportunity – to which I know Billy will bring his mercurial brilliance – is a real privilege,” says John. “To be able to do so at this theatre, with this team, feels like the perfect way to re-embrace the possibilities of live performance after the pandemic.”

We also can’t wait to see Wonder Boy in March (page 34), we’re keen as a keen thing for the return of Mayfest, and greedy for another bite of the cherry when Outlier, A Monster Calls and Pride & Prejudice (Sort Of) all return. And while nobody loved A Christmas Carol more than we did, after three years we’re ready for a new festive show,which is coming to us in the form of The Nutcracker – details soon… bristololdvic.org.uk

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Bring yer sister over here; let her dance with them just for the hell of it: the Fratellis are at O2

disturbing, provoking, fascinating images; arnolfini.org.uk DONNA HUANCA: CUEVA DE COPAL Also at Arnolfini is this new site-specific new interdisciplinary installation by Huanca, a rising star of the art world, focusing upon the human body, exploring our physical relationship to the world around us. arnolfini.org.uk

Until 5 June

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Still at M Shed, with this year’s set of extraordinary nature images. bristolmuseums.org.uk

Until 12 June

HOLDING THE BABY An exhibition of new photographic work by Polly Braden, creating a portrait of the strength and resilience of single-parent families facing austerity. At Arnolfini; arnolfini.org.uk

Until 4 September

GRAYSON’S ART CLUB Artworks chosen by Grayson and guest celebs during his TV series of the same name; at Bristol Museum, bristolmuseums.org.uk

25 Feb-2 March

DREAMS, JAMS, FUEL Mark Elliott Smith sees thoughts and ideas as patterns. Ollie Smith questions how meaning is made.

Find out how this translates to a two-man show at Centrespace; livingtoolate.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

3-10 March

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY Featuring local, budding and amateur photographers with a focus on UK biodiversity; at Future Leap, thefutureeconomynetwork.co.uk

25 February25 March 2022

EXHIBITIONS

SHOWS

Until 1 May

TITANIC MUSEUM Discover Bristol’s connection to the doomed liner, along with items never seen before in public; at The Island, eventbrite.com

SAM FRANCIS: LET THE IDEA TRAVEL New film work In Here Dreaming, with text pieces and a handmade book, created during a residency at UWE’s Bower Ashton campus.

At Arnolfini; arnolfini.org.uk

reality animation, flesh-like sculptures and a large-scale mediaeval trebuchet. While you’re there, check out Nosferasta by Brooklyn-based filmmakers Adam Khalil and Bayley Sweitzer – a Rastafarian vampire film, no less; spikeisland.org.uk

Until 19 March

Until 8 May

Until 29 May

Until 27 February

NEW MOON Paintings, prints, ceramics, glass, wood-turning and more, from eight artists and makers; Bristol Guild, bristolguild.co.uk

CANDICE LIN: PIGS AND POISON Major new commission and solo exhibition at Spike Island by the LA artist, comprising virtual

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PAULA REGO: SUBVERSIVE STORIES The world-famous BritishPortuguese figurative artist returns to Arnolfini with a gallery of

Until 19 March

DISNEY’S THE LION KING Set against the majesty of the Serengeti, to the evocative beats of Africa, Simba seeks to fulfil his destiny as King of the Pridelands.

Hippodrome; atgtickets.com BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE Solo show inspired by the life of Nina Simone, written and directed by Fringe First winner Apphia Campbell. Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com

© EMELIN DUPIEUX, WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

WHAT’S ON

25 February

ON THE INSIDE Untold Dance Theatre transports you to a dystopian world in which four people are trapped inside and forced to live together; morals and values are thrown out of the window when their true selves begin to emerge. Do say: it’s an explosive full-length piece told through striking dance theatre. Don’t say: I can get all that at home. Trinity; trinitybristol.org.uk

26 February

OUT OF CURIOSITY Bristol dance troupe Impermanence invest their incredible physicality, avant garde costumes and amazing music in three new works; BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk L’ELISIR D’AMORE Creative, colourful and uplifting production of Gaetano Donizetti’s pastoral romance of an opera, by Bristol Opera at 1532 Performing Arts Centre; bristolopera.co.uk

26, 27 February

DECADENCE We’re back in Stephen Berkoff territory, where penguin suits and Mouton Rothschild collide with fake furs and powdered glass, as a terrifying light is shone on the excesses of the 1980s. Oh come on Stephen, the ’80s weren’t that bad.

Or maybe we were just doing them wrong? Alma Tavern. tickettailor.com clockwise from top left:

Killer queen: Virgin on the Ridiculous; still plenty of time to catch the Wildlife Photography show at M Shed; Play Misry for me: Family Tree at The Wardrobe; Nathaniel’s trying to remember his First Time at TFT

2-3 March

FIJI: THE WAY TO A MAN’S

3-12 March

WHAT REMAINS OF US Seung-Ki hasn’t seen her father since she was three. Separated by one of the world’s most militarised borders, they come face to face again in a compelling story based on the state-organised temporary reunions of divided Korean families ... Acclaimed actor Kwong Loke features in this moving and funny new play, at BOV, bristololdvic.org.uk

4 March

CARMEN Desire, love and toreadors, as Opera in a Box stages Bizet’s banger in the intimate surroundings of The Old Fire Station; perainabox.com

1 March

HEART IS THROUGH HIS STOMACH Modern dating can be strange at the best of times, but for two late-twentysomethings, things are about to get remarkable... The critically lauded true-crime twohander is back, and at Wardrobe. thewardrobetheatre.com

FAMILY TREE Join solo performer Misri Dey on a personal journey as she invites you to reconsider how we understand the notion of family and belonging, through storytelling, movement, song and film, at Wardrobe. thewardrobetheatre.com

5-23 March

WONDER BOY Sally Cookson directs a new play by Ross Willis; p 34; bristololdvic.org.uk

8 March

LADY OF THE HOUSE The Bristol organisation celebrating women in the dance music industry launches its first UK club tour and cultural exhibition, starting at Lost Horizon; skiddle.com

9-10 March

IMPROMPTU SHAKESPEARE Improvised Shakespeare: can it be done? Whipsmart will certainly give

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WHAT’S ON from top: Teese by name... Dita in full-on glamonatrix mode; Larry Dean appears to be inviting us to bring it on

it their best shot, at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

11-12 March

WILD TALES FOR WEIRD FOLK Storytelling troupe The Embers Collective with Stumble Trip Theatre come to Wardrobe with some wild tales that’ll have you going out a bit wonkier than when you came in. Totally unsuitable for children, they say, but bring them anyway. thewardrobetheatre.com FIRST TIME Can you remember your first time?

Nathaniel can’t seem to forget his.

To be fair, he has had it playing on repeat for the last 15 years...

Award-winning HIV+ theatremaker Nathaniel Hall (It’s a Sin) and Dibby Theatre present a critically acclaimed autobiographical show about growing up positive in a negative world; at TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

14-26 March

ELIZABETH I: VIRGIN ON THE RIDICULOUS 1558. England. A country divided by religion and politics, teetering on the brink of civil war. The hopes of the nation lie with one woman.

2020. England. A country divided by those who enjoy plays featuring men in dresses and those who don’t.

The hopes of the nation lie with two West-Country actors... Howard and Stu of Living Spit are back at BOV, attempting to tell the story of England’s greatest monarch (no offence, QEII); bristololdvic.org.uk

15-16 March

DADDY ISSUES A new dark comedy from Anna Krauze about daddy issues, sex work, fantasies, bad feminism and immigration. Alma Tavern, tickettailor.com

22-23 March

ENG-ER-LAND In 1996, England made it to the semi-finals of the Euros, Gina G came third in Eurovision and 13-year-old Lizzie went to her first in-person football game: Coventry vs Manchester City. Now it’s 1997, and she’s wondering: who’s really on your team? An energetic new play written and performed by Hannah Kumari, at Wardrobe. thewardrobetheatre.com

23 March

MOIST, MOIST, MOIST A comedy about love, sex and the sea; part-poetry, part stand-up, part-gig. We’ll overlook the use of the dreaded M word. At Wardrobe. thewardrobetheatre.com

24 March

DITA VON TEESE: GLAMONATRIX The undisputed queen of burlesque brings her weapons-grade glamour to Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

24-26 March

CATCHING COMETS A disaster movie about falling in love, or a rom-com about the end of the world – from Manchester’s Ransack Theatre, at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com

25 March

HOW TO SAVE THE PLANET WHEN YOU’RE A YOUNG CARER AND BROKE The most unambiguously titled show of the month brings us the story of Lavisha: she has 99 problems, but climate change ain’t one. At Trinity; trinitybristol.org.uk RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA: ROMEO AND JULIET No gimmicks, just the classic ballet with Prokofiev’s soaring score, danced as only Russian dancers can, at Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

27 March

DISCO INFERNO It’s quite the year for ’70s vibes; if you can’t wait until Nile Rogers and Chic in July, get your fix at Redgrave in an all-singing, alldancing celebration of everything D.I.S.C.O; redgravetheatre.com

MUSIC

25-26 February

RUPTURE BRISTOL Showcasing the jungle and breaks side of the drum and bass spectrum; at Trinity, trinitybristol.org.uk

27 February

MIMI WEBB The pop singer-songwriter turns up the volume on every emotion going, with sky-scraping runs, open-heart honesty, and a hell of a vocal range; catch her at Trinity before she gets even more famous; trinitybristol.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 31

WHAT’S ON

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Rebecca Lucy Taylor brings the self esteem; Lupe Fiasco brings the cool; the Light Fest brings the sparkle

3 March

LUPE FIASCO Grammy award-winning rapper and producer, Lupe Fiasco brings hits from Food & Liquor, The Cool, and many others (obviously, we’re hoping for Daydreamin’) to O2; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

4 March

SELF ESTEEM Formerly one half of indie-folk duo Slow Club, Rebecca Lucy Taylor now appears as experimental-pop project Self Esteem, referencing her increasing confidence as a solo artist. We think she sounds great, but don’t take our word for it; The Guardian, The Sunday Times and Gigwise ranked her Prioritise Pleasure the best album of 2021. Trinity, trinitybristol.org.uk

8 March

LADY NADE & FRIENDS Eclectic mix of Americana, soul, roots, blues and jazz from the Bristol favourite, with flares of r’n’b folk-pop country; at the Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com WOLF ALICE Ellie, Joff, Theo and Joel bring songs from album Blue Weekend to O2. academymusicgroup.com

10 March

STIFF LITTLE FINGERS Still punking it up after all these years, the Norn Irn rigid digits come to O2; academymusicgroup.com

15 March

NILÜFER YANYA There’s some great female talent at Trinity this month; ’90s alt-rock-influenced popster

Nilüfer’s mercurial voice veers from deadpan speak-singing to a sublime, wandering falsetto. trinitybristol

20 March

THE FRATELLIS The indie heroes hit the road with a new load of upbeat, footstomping anthems from their latest album, Half Drunk under the Full Moon. academymusicgroup.com

COMEDY Ongoing

CLOSER EACH DAY The world’s longest improvised comedy soap continues to bubble amusingly away twice a month at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com

26 February

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR The charismatic quartet – 12-time sold-out veterans of the Edinburgh Fringe – come to Bristol Improv, – and they’re putting you, the audience, in charge, in brilliant and bombastic new ways. chucklebusters.com

1 March

LARRY DEAN: FUDNUT The Double-Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and star of Live at The Apollo comes to 1532 Performing Arts Centre with a new hour of confessional storytelling at its funniest; chucklebusters.com

OTHER 26 February

THE ENCHANTED MASQUERADE BALL Loft Live Sessions bring live

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music, DJs and cabaret to a party at Bristol’s magical new venue The Mount Without; expect upbeat pop/funk and, they say, an unrivalled atmosphere; loftlivesessions.com

27 February

CRAFT AND FLEAMARKET Does what it says – local traders sell plants, to jewellery, prints, ceramics, vintage clothes etc at bristol Folk House; bristolfolkhouse.co.uk

1-6 March

BRISTOL LIGHT FESTIVAL

The second outing of the light trail – the first took place in 2020 – brings colour, light and playfulness to city centre spaces with a series of commissions from local and internationally renowned light installation artists. See also page 6. bristollightfestival.org

5 March

RAY MEARS: WE ARE NATURE Ray’s at The Redgrave, offering techniques that will help us improve our senses and highlight the problems nature faces today. redgravetheatre.com ■

THEATRE

LOOK WHO’S TALKING Wonder Boy: it may be the name of Ross Willis’s new play, but could just as easily refer to its rising star of an author…

Words by Deri Robins Main photo Ben Robins

R

oss Willis: if you’re up on your contemporary theatre, you’ll know the name. If not, that’s all set to change, when Ross’s new play Wonder Boy opens at Bristol Old Vic on 5 March.

Here’s the synopsis. Wonder Boy is about growing up – a tricky time for most kids, but if you happen to be Sonny, a 12-yearold with a severe stammer, it’s pitiless. A comic book hero of Sonny’s own creation helps him to soar above his bleak reality, but when cast in the school production of Hamlet, he finds the real heroes are closer

than he thinks.

“Hopefully, Wonder Boy is mischievous and surprising and full of playfulness and pain,” Ross has said.

“Perhaps a little bit like a John Hughes film on acid.”

We’re totally in.

In fact, there are two reasons why we’re pretty damned excited about this show.

One, it’s directed by the wondrous Sally Cookson, who can do no wrong. Secondly, when Ross’s first play, Wolfie premièred at London’s Theatre503 in 2019, it went down an absolute storm with the critics, who handed out phrases like ‘inventive’, ‘fresh and fearless’ ‘playful’ and ‘anarchic’ like sweeties.

Inventive? Fearless? Anarchic? Playful?

Anyone would think Ross had grown up in Bristol. Oh, hang on . . .

Then, later as an adult, I was in London one day. My friend cancelled on me just as I arrived in Victoria, so I needed something else to do. I ended up at the Royal Court Theatre, where I watched The Internet is Serious Business by Tim Price and The Wolf from the Door by Rory Mullarkey, both in the same day. It was the first time I realised new writing was a thing, and that theatre could be strange, surrealist, contemporary and not just adaptations, or twee.

We hear you spent time as an usher at Bristol Old Vic – what productions really impressed you during that time?

Jane Eyre. It felt like a real event y’know? Inherently theatrical and endlessly creative. You could just tell it was made with love. Also, Iphigenia in Splott with Sophie Melville, because until watching that play I don’t think I knew theatre could be furious, visceral and political.

“There’s at least one impossible stage direction in every scene, and it has a real dazzle-bright tone to it. It’s full of surprises . . .”

How did you make the move into writing?

I wanted to direct, but luckily I quickly realised I was very rubbish at it.

Wolfie premièred to huge critical acclaim, and went on to win awards – that must have opened a few doors?

Hi Ross! We know you grew up around these here parts, so we’re keen to hear a bit about your childhood – for example, was drama always important to you?

Not to sound too X-Factor-y, but it literally changed my life. I went from someone who wrote in the evenings or weekends to being a full-time professional playwright. It’s allowed me to tell the stories I want to tell in the ways I want to tell them.

I’m so lucky that this happened prepandemic, because it feels like a different time now. It feels like the door is shut a bit more now? Most importantly, it’s made me realise that what new artists need is long-term support from theatres which isn’t just part of a scheme; everything needs to be heading towards a full production and that needs to be embedded into the theatre.

Tell us how you got into theatre. What or who first inspired you?

Wolfie showed us the desolation of being a child adrift in a care system, while Wonder Boy is about a 12-year-old living with a heightened stammer. Are you particularly drawn to the plight of troubled teens?

Hello! Yes, I grew up in Bristol. Young Company or drama groups weren’t really on my radar growing up but it’s something I would have loved to have done. I remember enjoying GCSE drama a lot.

I remember as a kid watching a pantomime with Chris Harris at the Bristol Old Vic and it BLOWING MY MIND. My tiny brain hadn’t seen or felt anything like it before! The anarchy and liveness of pantomime is still something which really inspires me.

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Ha, yes; I’ve accidentally written two plays back to back about troubled teenagers, which is why the next few plays I’m writing right now are about troubled immortal creatures instead. I like that quote by Simon Stephens about how every playwright is writing the same play over and

THEATRE There’s such a joy and imagination to her work. Her mind is really special. Because I wrongly thought she was only interested in devising and not directing new plays, I just presumed a collaboration between us would never happen, so this entire thing has been a great surprise. Our friendship began pre-pandemic, so it was so special to have someone to regularly gossip and solve the problems of the world with. I inherently trust her as a theatremaker and person, so that feels really special.

You seem to have several commissions and invitations going on at the moment, from being invited by Royal Court to be part of their Jerwood New Playwrights Programme, to taking part in the inaugural Genesis Almeida New Playwrights Big Plays programme – and something about Pentabus? Can you talk us through what this all means?

Basically writing ALL THE PLAYS!!! I think about seven all together.

Being under commission to the Royal Court feels particularly exciting, and right now I’m currently writing a play for Paul Miller’s final season at the Orange Tree Theatre in London, which feels really important to me. I’m also DESPERATE to make a show with Bristol’s very own genius, Julia Head, as well.

We’re told that you worked with Stephen Merchant on The Outlaws – how did that go?

That was great fun! When you’re a playwright, you’re mostly the only active writer working in the room, so being in a television writers’ room was a brilliant change. He’s a brilliant, kind man.

Finally, to those wondering about coming to Wonder Boy, tell us why we shouldn’t miss it.

Happy, sad joy, and a good night out. n Booking now: bristololdvic.org.uk above: Wolfie – yes, that’s Bristol Old Vic Theatre School-trained

star-du-jour Erin Doherty again; below: Author, author: Ross Wills

over, just in different guises, so maybe I’m just doing that. I think I’m more drawn to teen characters because I find their resilience incredible.

In Bristol Old Vic’s synopsis, we read that a ‘comic book hero of Sonny’s own creation helps him to soar above his bleak reality’.

‘Surreal’ is a word used by many critics to describe Wolfie – does Wonder Boy have a surreal element too?

I think when a lot of people read a new play, they think it’s going to be BORING and set in a kitchen and just have lots of boring talking. I’m not really interested in plays like that. In Wonder Boy there’s at least one impossible stage direction in every scene and it has a real dazzle-bright tone to it. It’s FULL of surprises, hopefully.

Another critic wrote, “You feel his real interest lies in pushing the boundaries of what theatre can do” – do you agree?

Ha! I never read reviews. I guess I’m interested in writing plays which could only ever exist as theatre. The idea has to be inherently theatrical to excite me. I want to use everything theatre has to offer. Sometimes it’s about metaphor, imagination, non-literal storytelling, striking images, surprising audiences, FUN; at other times it’s about simply changing the temperature of the room, moments of utter vulnerability. Theatre by its very live nature is a very emotional medium; it’s an incredible empathy machine. I don’t know if I’m pushing anything, but I know I’m always going to be interested in new ways to tell stories. And in the theatre, the experience shouldn’t be passive; it should be something which is deeply felt, deeply imaginative and inherently lived A short while ago, you tweeted: “SALLY COOKSON SALLY COOKSON SALLY COOKSON (!!!)” We find this excitement entirely understandable. What’s it been like working with Sally?

She’s wonderful, and she’s literally one of the greatest living directors.

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

THE VERDICT JAMIE REES

Theatre’s back...

...and it’s back with a vengeance!

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can only start with one venue for this issue’s Verdict, and that’s Bristol Old Vic. It’s not every day you get to see an Oscar (Olivier, BAFTA, Tony etc, etc) winner on stage in your home town, so what a treat to see Sir Mark Rylance at Bristol Old Vic. Dr Semmelweis tells the story of an overlooked Hungarian physician and scientist, a misunderstood, complicated man who pioneered antiseptic procedures in the early 1800s.

Rylance as the doctor delivers a performance of Shakespearean dimensions as he relives Semmelweis’s discovery that every death from childbed

top:

fever at a Vienna Hospital was caused by resorption of cadaveric particles. Relentless in his pursuit to prove his theory to a resistant industry of medical ‘experts’, Semmelweis becomes undone in brutal and heartbreaking fashion as he descends into madness from the sheer frustration of his treatment.

This is a performance which will live in the memory for a long time, not least because the themes of battling an invisible killer are so very timely.

A mention must also go to the supporting cast, including Jackie Clune, who is positively Dickensian in her hilarious portrayal of nurse Anna Müller.

A performance of Shakespearean proportions: Rylance in Dr Semmelweis Eat, sleep, act football: The Red Lion

bottom:

World-class theatre, made right here at Bristol Old Vic. I can only predict a West End transfer for this astonishing production.

In the Studio at the same venue was a very different play.

Patrick Marber’s The Red Lion is a remarkable observation of the male psyche when it comes to the ‘beautiful game’. Set in the changing room of a semi-pro football club in Bristol is the tale of Yates, Kidd and Jordan, three generations of footballers who are in the sport for very different reasons.

Jordan is an exciting up-andcoming talent who finds himself in a moral tug-ofwar between kit man and footballing purist Yates and manager Kidd, who’s in it for the money and the kudos.

There are some beautifully tender moments between David Lloyd and Thomas McGee as Yates and Jordan respectively.

The contrast in their scenes to the explosive Joe Sims as Kidd displays brilliantly the spectrum of complexity of what it is to be a man in sport.

Across town at The Wardrobe Theatre, the West Country’s favourite double act returned with some post-festive fare.

Living Spit’s Late-ivity is a comedic massacre of biblical proportions, with a surprise manger appearance by ‘Christian Bale’. Breakneck stuff from two actors who had the

sold-out audience in the palm of their hands. Howard Coggins and Stu Mcloughlin are two comedy actors at the top of their game and I cannot recommend strongly enough that you head to Bristol Old Vic from 14 to 26 March as they attempt to tell the story of the greatest monarch that ever lived, Elizabeth I, in Virgin on the Ridiculous.

Finally to our very own slice of the West End here in Bristol, with Waitress at the Hippodrome.

Adapted from the 2007 film of the same name, it’s a story of female empowerment and friendship that follows the fortunes of new mumto-be Jenna, who works as a waitress and baking supremo in a café in the American South.

Jenna is in an abusive relationship with her husband Cal, and seeks respite in her place of work where she revels in her baking and camaraderie with best friends Becky and Dawn.

An unlikely story for a musical, yet one which was met with huge enthusiasm from the sold-out crowd on press night.

For me, though, while Chelsea Halfpenny gives a brilliant vocal performance throughout, the piece is a little too farcical, with endless baking metaphors and innuendo scattered all over the place like scattered flour.

“It’s not every day you get to see an Oscar winner in your home town”

Follow Jamie on Twitter and Instagram @theatre_ jam

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

STYLE COUNSEL

Fashion. What does yours say about you?

Words and pictures by Colin Moody 1

PHOTOGRAPHY

ashion heroes. They strut down the street, they lean against skate ramps. Maybe they come in packs, clicking their fingers as they go. As a street photographer, you just know when you see a street fashion moment – so forget the catwalk, it’s all about those alley cats and their kecks.

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Glasses that tie in with the rainbow stripe, colour splashes on both, that as a pair just works, and items of clothing I don’t even know the name of. Smashing. street style, 10/10. Backdrop by austerity and Covid shutdown.

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Street fashion shoot; kind of.

Well, the police dog section were there by Ashton Gate Stadium, because it was a local derby between City and Cardiff. But who looked the coolest?

Has to be that dog in its little off-the-shoulder number declaring SECURITY. So, it’s wannabe police dog chic here, owner rocking the white stripe classic, but it’s the pooch that’s owning this scene. Pose right out of a Vogue shoot.

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Protest chic.

I do think they were role-playing the authorities that be, who may not be listening to the proletariat, but let’s break that look down. Red shoes to offset the hair, and message delivered. The Reservoir Dogs wonky tie, shirt and jacket holy trio, matched by the dad’s golf club tie, now hands on hip, power pose, and click.

It’s fashion with a hint of menace. It’s fashion with a message.

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Fashion changes, so it’s good to see the style from 500 years ago still cropping up here with the Show Of Strength pirate. Doesn’t it just make the beanie look a bit dull? I mean, those old pirates knew how to hold it all together, didn’t they? Classy on land or water, this is shipshape Bristol fashion.

“Hands on hip, power pose, and click. It’s fashion with a hint of menace. It’s fashion with a message” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 41

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

Bristol Life team 01225 475800

PHOTOGRAPHY

“One city and thousands of cultures. You pick your entry point, and go rock your look” 5

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It’s been a pleasure to shoot the Where’s It To? campaign for the council, and one thing I’ve noticed while shooting indie traders all over town is just how many tailors we have: fine suits, tidy adjustments, whatever you need: whether it has to look good on the street or in the boardroom, all the threads are cut in just right.

While there is always one style which is all about ripping the jeans, there’s another that’s about that perfect finish. Hours and hours of craft and skill, often passed down through the family, the ones with that handmade perfection.

Take your pick, make your fashion count.

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And what good is the perfect fashion if your hair has a strand wrong? So here’s a nod to all those parlours, salons, mums and mates who help us look this good.

Photo taken from one of dozens of hair stylist businesses all over the city in the Where’s It To? campaign. From Knowle to Clifton, from Avonmouth to Old City, it feels good to make us look good.

Now dance.

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We don’t need those super-expensive glossy magazines to know how to rock it. Every other day on North Street, little fashion moments like this pass before your eyes.

“OK, action, that’s it: just walk by, hand in pocket, ignore each other, that’s it, stay cool and ‘click’, got it, that’s a wrap, guys.”

And that’s the cover sorted.

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Walking down Stapleton Road, camera swinging in my hand.

“Take our photo,” comes a voice.

No problem. Style in so many places in this town. And when the baby is born, there’s dressing-the-baby fashion.

How we hold ourselves and the clothes we wear tells the story, and it never gets old. One city and thousands of cultures. From kilo sale to fine tailoring or home adjustments with safety pins and patches. You pick your entry point and go rock your look.

See you on the street.

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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

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

EMILY & DAN ROSS STORYSMITH BOOKS

Hoping to find a bit of literary escapism from the turbulence of real-world issues on this page?

Maybe next month . . .

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or our first column this year, we were all prepared to offer a sunny distraction from all the turbulence around us. Books are so often a means of escape, a self-regulated release into sweet ignorance, but we’ve found that our reading habits for the last month or so have been firmly rooted in real-world issues, even if they’re sometimes approached from unusual angles.

So, if you were hoping for fantastical flights of fancy, then please excuse us for this issue – we hope there’s something among this trio of excellent recent reads that will help you make sense of right now.

same emotional pitch – and To Paradise doesn’t disappoint.

It’s hugely ambitious, a trio of connected stories that imagine an alternative timeline for New York where state lines are redrawn and social conventions are upended, culminating in a terrifyingly prescient section that takes place in a pandemic-ridden future, examining the effects of multiple outbreaks on a society trapped by its own draconian restrictions.

It makes for a fascinating and adventurous read, and one that thumps across its 700 pages in next-to no time. Fans of Yanagihara’s work will find it sits in her familiar style, but newcomers will also find plenty to chew over.

To Paradise by Hanya Yanagihara If you read Hanya Yanagihara’s previous novel, A Little Life, chances are you had a strong opinion on it. Her work is incredibly divisive: some find it emotionally gruelling, others deeply affecting, but in the seven years it’s taken her to come up with a new book her fans have been prone with anticipation, desperate for something that will reach the

Brickmakers by Selva Almada (translated by Annie McDermott) Written in sparse and unsympathetic prose, this bracing and starkly beautiful novel begins with one of the most brilliant cold-opens of recent years: two men lie fatally wounded in an amusement park, and we don’t know what happened.

The novel then proceeds to tell us, in the form of a condensed family saga, just how these two men ended up in their current and pressing situation, constructing a cautionary fable of poisonous masculinity, pointless rivalries and their malignant spread through small communities.

Argentinian-born Almada’s work is finding ever-larger audiences as the translations spread around the world, and her back catalogue is deliciously rich and complex; if you enjoy

“Books are so often a means of escape, a self-regulated release into sweet ignorance” 44 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Brickmakers, we really recommend exploring her previous novel, The Wind that Lays Waste, too.

(M)otherhood by Pragya Agarwal There’s an ingenious fluidity at play in this book, as Pragya Agarwal weaves elements of her own life into some deep-diving research nuggets on reproductive justice, the fight for ownership over women’s bodies and how society sees mothers as a whole. It is entirely illuminating on these subjects, unflinching and meticulous, but also disarmingly honest. The sections where her experiences with her own family and fertility intersect with the more disheartening areas of her research prove deeply affecting, an unexpected but powerful result of Agarwal’s own penchant for exhaustive data collection (she is a behavioural and data scientist by profession).

If you read books like Caroline Criado Perez’s Invisible Women, or Laura Bates’ Men Who Hate Women, and found yourself wanting further passionate education, this is the next one for you.

With any luck, next issue we’ll be back to normal and doing our best to help you plan your mental escape from the day-to-day outrages that seem so commonplace at the moment.

We like to think that our patterns of reading and the books we favour are entirely varied and not governed by one particular impulse, but sometimes, like the unconscious synchronising around a single tempo, perhaps we are more susceptible than we might suspect?

Storysmith, 236 North Street; storysmithbooks.com

Bringing you the very best of Colombia!

121 Whiteladies Rd, Bristol, BS8 2PL 01174522072 Info@thecolombiancompany.com www.thecolombiancompany.com

STAND-UP GUY CHRIS COX

Odd Cox

Chris is trying to save the planet (and himself), one misshapen carrot at a time . . .

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ou know how new year resolutions never last? Yep. Me too. That’s that’s why I don’t make them. But here I am, nearly a quarter of the way through the year, discussing new year resolutions.

Don’t worry; you haven’t suddenly found yourself in the past reading an old issue of Bristol Life. Unless you’re from 2122, and own a DeLorean; in which case, hello time traveller, please fix this mess we’ve got ourselves into.

No, you are very much in the present, and here’s the thing: since this year began, I’ve been thinking about getting healthier.

I am someone who does not care for exercise. Did you know you can see your medical records on the NHS app? On mine the doctor has noted ‘Mr Cox avoids even the most trivial of exercise’.

It’s true. Unless forced at gunpoint, you’ll never see me doing any exercise. I suspect if I’m ever buff it’ll be because I’ve somehow landed a role in a Hollywood film and they’ve paid for a personal trainer.

This being the case, my attempt to be healthy has been coming from nutrition goals, which basically boils down to limiting my visits to The Choux Box Patisserie on Wapping Wharf to, oh, once a day. I literally can’t walk past without buying a box of

“On my medical records, the doctor has noted that ‘Mr Cox avoids even the most trivial of exercise’ ” 46 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

their tasty mouth sensations.

Weirdly, my family are all pretty good at exercise; I am the outlier. My nan actually started walking a mile every day when she turned 70. It’s incredible. She’s now in her 80s and is still doing it. Only problem is we have no idea where in the world she is any more. Boom.

I decided to make my life easier through avoiding walking around the supermarket (I consider this exercise) by getting an Odd Box delivered from oddbox.co.uk.

It’s a great idea. You’re sent a box full of a huge, random selection of fresh fruit and veg.

These poor little things (or in the case of the pears, massive – how the hell are these so big?) were deemed too ugly, the wrong size or just too damn odd for the supermarket. So instead of it becoming food waste it all goes into an Odd Box and lands on your doorstep.

Opening the box allows you to pretend you’re doing a mystery box challenge on Masterchef. I was king of the side dishes for a week.

I did pomegranate-roasted sprouts, while my Ottolenghi book gave me a browned butter ras-el-hanout cabbage recipe which is going on regular rotation, although half a pack of butter probably doesn’t make this the healthiest thing in the world. After

googling kohl rabi, I discovered it was a sort of turnip thing, and made a soup involving that, with some of the other veg, which sorted a few days of lunch out.

I basically became Healthy Man, in the easiest way possible.

So I suppose it’s time to order a spandex suit and pitch him to join the MCU. After eating my spinach, Iron Man will very much live up to his name. (You know; because spinach is full of iron?

Didn’t you ever watch Popeye?)

As my healthy mission continues, I’m also starting the process of getting a new car. Since moving to the Bristol suburbs from London we’ve realised that a car is a bit more of a necessity than we previously assumed.

But the car clashes with my attempt at gathering my green credentials; merely eating cabbage does not make a Cox green. Sadly my car is about as good as my exercise knowledge, so all I know is I want something electric, ideally with four wheels and one of those steering things; oh and I probably need to buy a big extension lead to charge it.

Hopefully by the time you read this I’ll be a step, or should I say drive, further on that process.

You’re right. I shouldn’t say that. magiccox.com; facebook @ilovecox twitter @bigcox; insta @magiccox

WOKY KO

Amen for ramen: Woky Ko’s original Cargo restaurant has a new speciality...

Words by Deri Robins

RESTAURANT

B

ack in 2016, when Larkin Cen wasn’t nearly as wellsome have both, some have none. Some use a base of chintan; a light, known in the city as he is today, people invariably referred clear broth. Paitan is richer and creamier. Some chefs combine both. to him as ‘former Masterchef finalist’ Larkin Cen. Finally concluding I might be overthinking ramen, I headed for Woky Then he opened his first Bristol restaurant, serving Ko. It’s a pleasingly minimal space, with all the unshowy simplicity of authentic Asian cuisine in a tiny Cargo container offering a street food stall, done out in blond woods accented with black, and a twelve or so indoor covers, and everyone started calling bamboo roof; clearly, Larkin has no problem resisting the lure of neonhim ‘Woky Ko founder Larkin Cen’ instead. Today, lit Asian kitsch. The staff are lovely; at first I assumed that everybody Larkin has two restaurants in Cargo, one on Queen’s Road, now with who arrived at the Woky door must be a family friend or relation, but it a new lunch bar, and a stall at St Nick’s. He’s tweaked the names and turns out that Woky folk are just damn good at hospitality. offerings over the years; for example, the place we’d come to know and As well as the short ramen menu there’s a clatter of sides and sauces, love as Kaiju has been rechristened Rooftop Beer and Bao Bar, while all of them the kind of thing the word umami was invented for. A dish the original restaurant is now almost entirely given over to ramen. of super-sticky, slow-cooked Asian ribs with a gentle chilli kick was a Yes; ramen. Although well aware of Bristol’s growing mania for this flavour blindside, the meat so meltingly tender that all it took was a dish, I’d swerved the party. I was worried I might not ‘get’ ramen, or sharp look to make it fall meekly off the bone. More subtle in taste were enjoy it as much as I was meant to. In the normal course of dining out, the grilled Somerset shiitake mushrooms, with their savoury garlicky hell would freeze over before I voluntarily chose the soup course. Could dressing, while we would have quite happily have had the crispy Korean I really get excited over a bowl of broth, albeit one that’s been simmered fried cauliflower, gaudily striped with fluorescent orange vegan Korean for far longer than I could ever be faffed to simmer at home? mayo, as a mains.

The first rule about ramen club, apparently, Finally, we got around to the ramen. Pork is to talk incessantly about ramen club. This chasho shio for the son, generously filled with is a city of zealous foodies; we all have friends fatty, flavoursome meat, springy noodles, bean DINING DETAILS who’ll argue interminably over the best place shoots and sundry greens (proper ramen is a Woky Ko, Unit 7, Cargo, Wapping Wharf; 0117 403 to get galbi jjim, or pork sando, or cace e cinch for getting your five-a-day). Daughter 1698; wokyko.com/cargo pepe, but none of them do so with the kind and I had the fried chicken, in a similarly Opening hours Wed-Fri midday-3pm, 5-9:30pm; Sat of glittery-eyed fervour that overtakes the mild, fragrant, soothing, consommé-like midday-10 pm; Sun midday-8 pm true ramen believer as they explain this dish’s broth. Tip: if you want a spicier, richer soup, Prices Ramen £10.95-£13.45; noodle dishes £10.95; depth, nuance, viscosity and punch. go for the tantamen. sides £3.50-£8. Soft-serve ice-cream coming to the menu soon When they’ve finished banging on about its An ajitama soy pickled egg bobbed merrily complexity and mystery, ramen groupies will about in each bowl, laughing at our efforts Veggie A few tempting dishes that feel more than just an afterthought explain the direction the noodle dough needs to pin it down with chopsticks and a wooden to be rolled (the same direction, every time), spoon. Tackling the noodles is even messier; Service Charming and clued-up and how long you should let your eggs steep the only way to deal with those slippery boys is in its soy marinade (three days, max). They to slurp them up. Don’t wear clothing that you are able to tick off the various different kinds of broths, and debate the care deeply about. A bikini and plastic mac is ideal. Bring hair ties. And relative thickness, softness and curl of the noodles. I have one friend, maybe don’t choose ramen for a first date. not normally prone to hyperbole, who this very week described her Leaving Woky Ko in a kind of pleasant glow, feeling full but not first experience of it as ‘life-changing’. Seriously; how much more lifeoverstuffed, I decided that I now ‘got’ ramen. I understand that the changing could ramen be than a pot noodle? magic happens when the warming broth is in perfect harmony with the Given the quasi-mystical aura that surrounds the thing, I felt I chewiness of the noodles, with the toppings creating a perfect balance. couldn’t just rock up at Woky Ko without doing any research. A flying Ramen is refined, yet unpretentious. Ramen is soul food; the food of visit to Fukuoka would have been ideal, exploring the tiny warrens of the proletariat. It’s not only satisfying, but comforting, even calming. It intimidatingly local bars that are ramen’s spiritual home, but I couldn’t no longer seems mildly ridiculous to remember Japanese ramen chain quite see it being signed off on expenses. Instead, I made do with the Ippudo’s claim that ‘ramen is cosmos in a bowl’.

Google rabbit hole. There, I discovered that there are at least 40 Amen for ramen. And actually, order it on a first date after all. If different styles of ramen. Some don’t even contain soup. Some have a they can’t handle you at your enthusiastically slurping worst, they don’t soup separate from the noodle. Some have pork, some have chicken, deserve you at your best.

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

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B R I S T O L’ S F O O D S C E N E

LOCAL HEROES It’s all about the industry awards this issue. Let’s kick off with an accolade for much-loved Redland bistro Wilsons, which has made its début appearance in Harden’s Best UK Restaurants guide.

The “hyper-local” Chandos Road restaurant run by husband-and-wife team Jan Ostle and Mary Wilson is the city’s only entry in the Top 100.

As well as praising Jan’s cooking, the Guide commented that with an average meal of £50, it could well offer the best deal in the national Top 100. “Unbelievable value for the most sensational food produced in a minuscule kitchen. Three cheers for this welcoming local, with very friendly, efficient, knowledgeable service in simple surroundings. The kitchen relies on home-grown veg and local suppliers to produce a brilliant mixture of innovative dishes, textures and tastes.”

Jan, managing to be both front-of-house and in charge of the kitchen...

Keeping it Filthy...

Cotham’s Bulrush also gets a glowing mention, with praise for George Livesey’s “brilliantly original cooking”.

“Bristol continues to provide a wide range of outstanding dining options at all price points,” says Peter Harden, the Guide’s editor. “ Wilsons and Bulrush show that high culinary achievement does not need to be hugely expensive: what is more important is the opportunity for talent to thrive in small, independent venues.”

Also, just in: Wilsons has just won its first Green Michelin star, bestowed on restaurants scoring high on sustainability. The Ethicurean has also kept its Green star.

Bulrush, Casamia and Paco Tapas have retained their Michelin stars, while Box-E and Root keep their Bib Gourmands.

For more hardens.com; guide.michelin.com

GOOD LIBATIONS

While the judges of the Top 50 Cocktail Bars list continue to be largely fixated on the capital (half of the bars on the list are London-based), two Bristol faves have been ranked as among the best in the UK. Rolling in at an impressive number 27 is prohibition-style Milk Thistle, with Filthy Xiii close behind at number 30.

“We’re thrilled to be number 27 in the Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, representing Bristol alongside our great friends Filthy Xiii,” said Milkie manager Ben Peacock (not to be confused with Ben Alcock, the founder and bartender of Filthy XIII.) “It’s a true reflection of the hard work and passion each and every one of our talented team brings to the bar with them each night, and we couldn’t be prouder. “ For more: top50cocktailbars.com Bartender Renaissance at the Milkie

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

FOOD & DRINK More tasty bites…

WOKYMAN

We may claim him for Bristol, given that he runs all four of his Woky Ko restaurants here, but Larkin Cen is originally from the ‘Diff, where he grew up at his parents Chinese takeaway The Mansang.

Now, he’s representing Wales in the latest series of Great British Menu. The theme of this year’s series is a celebration of 100 years of British Broadcasting, with each chef challenged to create dishes that represent both their region and TV itself; Larkin is focusing on Fireman Sam and Doctor Who. wokyko.com

STOP PRESS....

GOTTA EAT THEM ALL Hawaiian-flavoured street food shop Loki

Poké began as a lockdown project, originally opening at a site in St Philips before moving to Cargo last July.

Now, just six months after relocating, owner Georgia Hussey has been shortlisted for the Food and Drink Heroes Street Food Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Poké – the word is pronounced ‘pohkeh’, and despite our très amusant header has nothing to do with Pokemon – means diced or chopped, referring to the fillings (usually sashimi) in the rice bowls. A health-conscious alternative to fast food, they’re a big favourite with the city-surfer community Georgia knew while living in Sydney.

For more: lokipokeuk.com

AMUSES BOUCHES… “Have you seen our new look? We’re super happy and proud,” say our Pasta Loco faves. The Bianchis guys have reopened their Italian restaurant on Cotham Hill with a fresh new décor and menu – eyes right for the arancini… pastaloco.co.uk Little Martha, Bristol’s latest brewery, has opened within Arch 23 near Temple Meads. The brewery, which seats around 20 happy drinkers, serves three beers on tap, including Mysterious Intergalactic, a New Zealand pale ale, and Neighbour We Left Behind, an IPA infused with Earl Grey. littlemarthabrewing.co.uk

ISLAND LIFE

“Nobody wants the evening to end, including us!” says the team behind the Byron Place branch of The Coconut Tree.

Our Sri-Lankan favourites – they won the Best Bar award at last year’s Bristol Life Awards, after previously winning Best New Business – are now staying open until 1am, bringing ‘big flavours and big tunes’ with a late menu of Island Mix Plates, available from 9pm

on Fridays and Saturdays.

Tables will be available for pre-booking, walk-ins are welcome, and the usual all-day menu will also be available until 10pm.

“In Bristol, we know that late nights matter,” says operations director Rodrigo Rashinthe.

“So, after speaking to the team, we were keen to trial our ‘late night eats’ idea at our Bristol Triangle site, and let the good times and island vibes roll into the early hours.”

For more: thecoconut-tree.com

Big news just in: next month, Bakers & Co will open a second branch at Cargo, selling its famed bread, pastries and coffee.

Expect new savoury Danishes, says head baker Brett St Clair, along with a “sourdough version of a pop tart...”

The new bakery joins Season + Taste stablemates Gambas and Cargo Cantina down at the Wharf. bakersbristol.co.uk

For British Pie Week (7-13 March), Pieminister are asking customers to come up with their next new pie, which will launch nationwide in the autumn – “obviously there’ll be fabulous prizes for the winner and runners up, too,” they say. They’re also serving up their legendary Sunday Best pie feast all week; think Sunday roast, but with pie... pieminister.co.uk

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

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CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Pit stop In which our investigative columnist goes in search of hard facts, but once again gets distracted by cake

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his issue’s coffee shop of choice is another one close to home, on the newly pedestrianised parts of Cotham Hill.

Should probably point out, it wasn’t laziness that made me decide to pop along for my first ever visit to 1B Pitville. It was its welcoming look and intriguing name. My interest was piqued.

Most coffee shops have names that make perfect sense. They do what it says on the tin, sort of. But this one was a bit of a mystery.

So, I resolved to head on in, sit down, sip my coffee and subtly ask probing questions about the

“It was hardly a cake at all.

More of a fruit salad with extra added cakey carbs”

naming of names. But spoiler alert: no probing questions passed my lips. Not a one. And it wasn’t my fault at all, honest.

You see, the first thing to catch my eye as I walked through the door was a pleasing array of cakes, right in the line of fire.

At which point, naturally, all thoughts turned to sweet snacks and soul satisfaction. Cakes have ever been a source of weakness in this simple heart of mine. Sigh.

By the bye, in case you’re wondering, after a bit of umming and aahing, I opted for a slice of the beetroot, orange and ginger cake. Which I can thoroughly recommend. Moist, flavoursome and with all that beetroot and orange, hardly a cake at all. More of a fruit salad with extra added cakey carbs.

In truth, I almost regretted my choice after spotting a savoury menu on the wall, which looked equally as tasty as the cake display, though by then, it was too late. I was committed to sweet.

After ordering from the pleasant young man on duty behind the counter, my coffee companion and I sat down to watch the world go by. As we often do. In fact, as we always do. For surely that is one of the very best things about cafés? The peoplewatching.

Obviously they need to have good food, good drink and a

warm welcoming atmosphere too; however, living where we do, we are spoilt rotten and can take all that as read. The extra element which keeps me in love with cafés is the people you see in them, or walking past them. It’s better than a film or a book, half the time.

And it’s all happening in real time before your very eyes.

Case in point, in this particular café, was a member of staff, a cheerful chappie who was sculpting butternut squash while creating homemade soup in what may possibly be the smallest kitchen I have ever seen outside of a camper van or narrowboat.

It was a virtuoso display of the condensed culinary craft.

Like watching Shakespeare plays being performed in a minute, it was hard to believe such glorious results could be obtained within such constraints.

Long story short, my companion and I decided there and then to return for a taste of their savoury delights another day.

By the way, after a little light Googling, I discovered that 1B Pitville is so named because while it looks as if it’s on Cotham Hill, it’s address isn’t Cotham Hill at all, but Pitville Place. So that’s that all cleared up. n Former Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer stancullimore.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 53

0117 370 2745

SPONSORED CONTENT

WHAT IS MYOPIA? Short-sightedness in children is on the rise, but LYNNE FERNANDES OPTOMETRISTS can provide an innovative solution

M

yopia (short-sightedness) is the eye condition in which near objects are clear, but objects farther away are blurred. It is caused by the eyeball growing slightly too long. The traditional answer was glasses, but at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists there’s more we can do.

Myopia in kids tends to get worse throughout childhood, and higher levels of myopia are associated with higher eye disease risks in adulthood. If your child already wears glasses, you can do something to stop their vision getting worse. If they don’t you can assess their risk of developing myopia.

WHY SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED? Myopia is becoming more common in children around the world. The average age for developing myopia is reducing: young onset means faster and increased eye growth, increasing the likelihood of high myopia and an increased risk of retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataract.

The average cost of glasses and contact lenses over a lifetime is much higher for higher myopic patients. High myopia reduces quality of life.

“MYOPIA IS BECOMING MORE COMMON IN CHILDREN AROUND THE WORLD” WHAT CAUSES MYOPIA? Myopia is multifactorial. This means that there are many causes: the fact that the pandemic has forced us all inside more, to use screens more; our ethnic origin and genes; having one myopic parent, which increases our risk by three times, or having two myopic parents, which increasses the risk by six times. Under correcting vision has been shown to stimulate the onset and accelerate myopic progression.

WHY LYNNE FERNANDES OPTOMETRISTS? We have been innovators in the UK in myopia management. Our optometrists are key opinion leaders nationally in this field and are very experienced in caring for the children we treat. We look after you and your child.

WHAT CAN I DO? Request an assessment of your child for myopia as early as six years old. At our Gloucester Road practice we will measure the length of the inside of the eye with specialised instruments, look at how the eyes work together and compare a prescription with standardised growth curves. If we feel your child is at risk we will recommend joining our Myopia Management programme, in which we reassess and give advice every six months.

We can then treat with specialised lenses and lifestyle plans.

To read more about Myopia please visit www.lynnefernandes.co.uk/questions-aboutmyopia. ■

182a Wells Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2AL bristol@lynnefernandes.co.uk; 0117 977 6330 75 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AS bristolgr@lynnefernandes.co.uk; 0117 942 6843 124a High Street, Nailsea BS48 1AH nailsea@lynnefernandes.co.uk; 01275 854946 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 55

BUTCHI + GOSMOS PURSE, £10 Gorgeous little festival bag thatʼs also ideal for everyday use; the shimmering green turquoise pattern is set with brown and gold glitter details From That Thing , 45-47 Stokes Croft thatthing.co

HAND-PAINTED WOODEN FLOWERS, £18 Laser-cut from birch plywood, and and inspired by the meadows of the English countryside – choose from buttercup, foxglove or daisy From Bristol Artisan, 3 Lower Redland Road thebristolartisan.com

PETAL GURU Spring is busting out all over, and we find ourselves in a floral state of mind...

SUSAN CAPLAN VINTAGE NECKLACE, £185 1980s vintage DʼOrlan necklace with gold plating, faux-pearls and Swarovski crystals; beautiful craftsmanship, with a touch of brilliant colour From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Sreet, Quakers Friars harveynichols.com WEEKEND MAXMARA COAT, £395 Prefer florals with a bit of edge?

This design inspired by artist Bridget Riley is an absolute dazzler From Grace & Mabel 32 The Mall, Clifton graceandmabel.co.uk

KEYA EARRING, £34 Sweet little mini-hoops from So Just Shop, which works with co-operatives in marginalised communities to produce ethical jewellery, accessories and homeware From Frankly, Unit 5, Cargo frankly.store

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

ED’S CHOICE ICHI FLORAL TOP, £15 (FROM £49.99) With itʼs long full sleeves, gathered cuffs and pretty tieback detail, this is giving us all the ʼ70 feels; clinch the retro look by tucking into high-waisted denim From Fox + Feather 41 Gloucester Road foxandfeather.co.uk

DORIS FOR HK LIVING: CUSHION, £35 Thereʼs a geometric green print on the other side, making a heady mix of vintage-inspired floral with minimal mid-century style From Mon Pote 217 North Street monpote.co.uk

RICE MELAMINE CUP, £8.50 Unbreakable melamime is perfectly happy indoors, but an obvious cinch for the patio as the weather warms up From Fig 1 Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps fig1.co.uk

WOLF & MOON BLOOM NECKLACE, £35 Elegant and playful necklace featuring a mother-of-pearl floral charm with olive Czech glass bead detail From Truce 54 Princess Victoria Street truceonline.co.uk

ETHEREAL SKIES

BY SIAN STOREY, £175 One of the most popular artists at last yearʼs Upfest, Sianʼs delicate, pretty work is also available as limited-edition signed gicleé prints From Upfest Gallery 198 North Street; upfest.co.uk

SLEEPYDOE BABY SLEEPSUIT, £28 Awww! The sweetest baby sleepsuit, in 100% organic cotton, designed and made in Britain by a firm supporting independent suppliers and factories From Maze 26-28 The Mall, Clifton mazeclothing.co.uk

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WINDOW SHOPPING MILLY VAUGHAN

Bellerose Vida dress, £169, Maze

YMC Almost Grown sweat, £90, Maze

YMC Market Trouser, £140, Maze

Nygårdsanna top, £50 (from £154), Movement Boutique

Carol knitted hat, £15 (from £30), Fox + Feather Novesta Star Master mono trainers, £49, Maze

Falke socks, £18, Grace & Mabel

Dream team Forget Posh and Becks. Park all thoughts of Barack and Michelle, George and Amal or Beyoncé and Jay Z. The only power couple we’re interested in here is navy and black…

W

e’re technically still in winter, so before I move onto the darling buds of spring trends which are waiting for us just around the corner, I wanted to pay homage to the power colour couple that has dominated this season: navy and black.

Navy has had something of a

renaissance of its own recently, but throw black alongside and they are the Benifer of the colour celebrity couples. So wrong together that it’s absolutely right; a match made in heaven.

It used to be a fashion cardinal sin to wear these so similar colours side by side, but these days it’s two fingers stuck up in rebellion to what ‘should’ go together.

“Navy has had a renaissance of its own recently, but throw black alongside and they are the Benifer of the colour celebrity couples”

I remember one occasion in my dimly lit bedroom when I was getting dressed to go out-out.

Later, once I’d reached the party, I realised the shocking truth: I was wearing navy tights with a black mini dress. Quelle horreur!

But the French, who always do things their way, have been championing this colour match for years. Black tights with a navy dress, or black trousers with a navy jacket: classic and understated.

There have been contradictions to these rules along the years – for example, dark indigo jeans were OK with black, but not navy trousers. Why was charcoal grey acceptable to wear with black, but not navy, which is in the same spectrum?

Perhaps it’s because we normally veer towards colours that either contrast each other, or are all one thing – the all or nothing mentality – that it has taken us a long time to warm up to the idea of navy and black.

We know where we are if things, people and colours are clear cut, but navy and black are

just a bit too similar: it makes us feel uneasy and muddled in its closeness. But maybe that is its success – that after a couple of years of feeling all at sea, this colour combo feels comforting and subtle and reassuring. We are getting better at living with unpredictability.

Initially, the navy/black coupling was pioneered by people trying different clothing combinations of their own, such as navy trousers with a black jumper, but then brands actively made clothes to champion this combo. Like the fab Bellerose dress featured I saw in Maze. This probably made it more palatable for some people to experiment with, as the choice was already made for them by another person ‘in the know’.

So, if you have a little rebel in you itching to get out today you can start by teaming up that black dress with navy tights. This time, I think Benifer is here to last. ■ @millyvaughan on instagram camillapettman@mac.com

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The BARRE FITNESS Studio is the ONLY specialist Barre Studio in Bristol Situated off the bustling Whiteladies Road, Clifton, step inside and take a moment to breath in its friendly and calm atmosphere. Pick your class off the carefully crafted Barre Menu and find focused exercise for every body.

There are Class Passes and Memberships to suit every need, and for every level, so dip your toes into The Barre and discover the results everyone is talking about.

The Barre Fitness Studio: 171 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2RY hello@thebarrefitnessstudio.co.uk | thebarrefitnessstudio.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

RAISING THE BARRE

G

eorgina Burke is the owner of The Barre Fitness studio on Whiteladies Road, which opened in January this year

I TRAINED AS A PERSONAL TRAINER AND BARRE INSTRUCTOR four years ago,

having wanted to switch careers from the corporate world in which I’d spent 16 years.

The barre was born out of trying to merge these two stages of my life together.

BARRE AS A WORKOUT IS SO FANTASTIC IT DESERVED A SPACE BEFITTING IT. The

studio is situated on busy Whiteladies Road, but once you step inside feels incredibly calm and fresh. Unlike larger spaces, which can feel impersonal, each class size is below 10, allowing you to get individual attention from instructors and therefore see greater results faster.

I GOT INTO FITNESS AT A YOUNG AGE,

playing a lot of hockey and cross- country running. I then went to uni and lost my fitness way for a year, picking it back up in my second year. I didn’t like how not exercising made me feel. I fell in love with the gym, and through all the twists life has taken, exercise in some form has always been a constant, and I credit my physical and mental health to it.

I OPENED THE BARRE FITNESS STUDIO IN JANUARY, with the aim of

creating a place in which people would enjoy working out, bringing my love of barre to others and ensuring exercise can become a constant in their lives, too. No barking instructions; supportive of women’s health; little touches to make the visit special, and a fab retail space to bring some of the best ‘gym bag essential’ brands to Bristol.

THE SINGLE THING I’M PROUDEST OF

is the work ethic and determination I put in to retrain while still having a corporate job, starting at the bottom of the ladder again to opening this space in a relatively short window.

THE BARRE METHOD offers focused

exercise for everybody, a blended workout fusing elements from the movement of ballet, the core focus of pilates, the stretching of yoga and the strengthening of functional exercise. The beauty of this means there will always be movement you recognise.

WE USE THE BALLET BARRE, PILATES BALLS, LIGHT WEIGHTS AND RESISTANCE BANDS. We’ve

brought the ankle weight back for the Barre Fusion Class, and love a suspension trainer!

MY TOP TIP FOR STARTING A FITTER LIFESTYLE is to

find something

you love, not what you think you should be doing; do it consistently, and mix up your workouts to challenge brain as well as body.

IF YOU DID JUST ONE THING A DAY TO GET FITTER, IT SHOULD BE… prioritising

30 minutes of moving – and attending a barre class, of course.

MY OWN EXERCISE REGIME IS… I like to

aim for around five 45-minute sessions a week.

This will include two to three barre classes working on balance and endurance, around two functional fitness sessions, perhaps lifting a little heavier, and working on a range of motion and a steady state cardio session, for example a run, pacey walk or row.

MY GO-TO LUNCH IS… My favourite time to eat is late morning, combining breakfast and lunch. Teaching early on a full stomach is no fun. Ideally some protein, carbs and good fats; I’m partial to a bacon and avocado sandwich and feel that ticks all those boxes. Add in a coffee or a kombucha, and I’m set.

thebarrefitnessstudio.co.uk

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EDUCATION

SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT

The postive side to social media; Black Lives Matter; climate change; hybrid learning: we discover the main preoccupations of the class of ’22, as Bristol schools emerge from the pandemic

S

Words by Ursula Cole

chools are beginning to return to normality as the effects of Covid recede. But some of the measures taken during the pandemic have remained, many leaving a positive legacy behind, such as the use of digital technology to keep in contact with students, teachers and friends.

Aside from picking up the pieces after the pandemic, other topics such as climate change, the use of social media and the turbulence of politics (both international and domestic) are also issues that affect students. These topics, and many more, are discussed by whole school communities in an attempt at putting some context on even the most pressing issues.

We asked some local institutes for the latest lowdown on what’s happening on their educational patch.

EMERGING FROM THE PANDEMIC

Students have coped in many ways during the pandemic. Emily Down, head of marketing and communications at QEH Bristol, believes that although the last two years have represented a very difficult time, for many students there have been some positives.

“Young people have had to get on board with a whole new way of learning, and while at QEH we were able to transfer relatively seamlessly to online learning during each lockdown, and periods where bubbles were in isolation, we’ve still seen our students demonstrate a huge amount of adaptability and flexibility.

“They’ve learnt how to successfully manage change, which has often had to happen very last-minute, as rules and regulations have changed, and that has seen them build resilience.

“These are all skills that will stay with them for life. And of course, as well as our academic teaching, our pastoral care and co-curricular provision continued, despite the challenges.

“Our enrichment Instagram account showcased all the new skills that our students were learning, our pastoral team were continuing to check in regularly with pupils – even sports day was able to go ahead

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opposite page:

Who wouldn’t want to study at a magical library like this one, at Clifton College; below: Getting hands-on at City of Bristol College

EDUCATION during lockdown, albeit beamed in from our families’ gardens!”

At Fairfield School, the vast majority of pupils are delighted to be back in school and reconnecting with their classmates, friends and teachers. Engaging with the wider world has been important too, believes head teacher Lesley Barton. “The pupils are also loving the opportunity to perform their assemblies, concerts and drama productions in front of a live audience of parents and peers,” she says. “We have seen their confidence return very quickly. A very small number of our children took a little longer to get used to things, but in our small and nurturing environment they received the support and encouragement which helped them adjust.”

At the City of Bristol College, time and resources have been dedicated to address ‘separation anxiety’ caused by Covid.

“We have helped support students with their mental health through a variety of ways,” says Jonny Elphinstone, head of safeguarding.

“The pandemic has provided the impetus for a review of how we do many activities at the college. In terms of how we support our students, through key support services such as counselling and welfare, we are able to meet with students online if they are anxious about attending college, allowing us to break down barriers.”

James Murphy-O’Connor, principal at Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools, said that they ensured that interruption to the education process was minimised.

“Our remote learning provision, called Habsmonmouth Online, was hugely successful between April and July 2020, and we reintroduced it with even more resources in January 2021.

“We continued to deliver live and vibrant lessons to pupils via the teaching community in our schools. The importance of health and wellbeing – both mental and physical – is a primary focus for us. Our buddy system and tutor networks have risen to the fore, and we have appointed a new head of wellbeing, whose first task was to gather staff feedback on their mental health and wellbeing, without adding to any anxiety or workload.” below and opposite page: Clifton College; right: Take it outside: QEH

EDUCATION AND THE GREATER WORLD

“We are living in turbulent times,” says Gavin Turner, deputy head (academic) of Clifton College. “ Our challenge as educators is to provide the best curriculum and learning environment here at Clifton which allows pupils to flourish and be successful when they leave the college. As such, it is imperative that our curriculum addresses important contemporary issues such as climate change, sustainability, the Black Lives Matters movement, politics and governance, to name but a few. Our curriculum is constantly under review, and aims to provide opportunities for pupils to explore issues relating to equality, diversity and inclusion across all subjects that comprise the academic curriculum at Clifton.”

Emily Down, head teacher at QEH Bristol, believes that the measures taken at their school have been key in bringing issues to the students, and exploring how they can be addressed. “With climate change focusing all our minds, the school played an active role last term in the World Climate Change Summit, participating with other Bristol schools in the youth-based Climate Change Summit organised by the Bristol Education Partnership.

“As a school we had our very own QEH Eco-Summit, too. Students learnt in their weekly enrichment afternoon about sports in climate crisis, the impact of fast fashion on the environment and links between climate change, transport and local air quality among other topics.

These issues are also addressed in the core curriculum – there is a wealth of current examples for our A-Level politics students to draw upon – and also through our extra-curricular programme in activities such as debating and public speaking.”

At Fairfield, the school is devoting a term’s focus to climate change through their topic Oceans and Coasts. “The children are learning about climate change, plastic pollution and Arctic and Antarctic environments, and will be forming an eco-council to look at ways to practise conservation and sustainability in school,” says Lesley Barton.

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At the City of Bristol College, Jonny Elphinstone explains that discussion among students on many matters affecting the world is actively encouraged, including how, together, they are working together towards being a sustainable college.

“The Sustainability Task Group meet to see what changes we can make, what ideas have come forward and how we can continually reduce, re-use and recycle,” he says. “Students are very tuned into these global concerns, and rightly want the college to be doing what it can to be a part of the solution.”

THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

Jonny Elphinstone believes that social media can be a force for good.

“Social media is one of many brilliant tools for education, as it provides an avenue to connect with our students,” he says. “If we utilise the right platform, in the right way, at the right time, with the right content, it’s very effective.”

City of Bristol College has a few TikTok accounts, including their main one (@cobcollege, and is already utilising the platform to communicate key news, events and updates to students.

“We have recently shared information on our Learner Support Fund, school visit activities and news about Covid restrictions,” said Jonny Elphinstone.

At QEH, digital technology has been fully embraced. “The teaching staff were in an excellent place to adapt to online learning when the first lockdown started,” says Emily Down. “The lessons learnt are continuing to influence the way that we teach.

“When assessing and working digitally, there are a number of data points that can be fed into the feedback process that weren’t available before. When you combine this with the excellent relationships that staff have with pupils at QEH, you get a form of hybrid learning that has been improved by the pandemic. We have found that working digitally improved collaboration, organisation, feedback and creativity.

With every crisis there is an opportunity.”

At Fairfield, digital technology has also been pressed into service.

“We increased our use throughout the lockdowns and it is embedded widely across year groups and across the curriculum,” says Lesley Barton.

James Murphy-O’Connor outlined the expansion of digital technology at Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools. “Our focus on digital learning accelerated during the Covid pandemic, as we fast-tracked our ability to deliver the full academic curriculum online, with live lessons and additional teaching, co-curricular and pastoral support.

“We have assessed age-appropriate software platforms to allow staff and students to innovate and use new IT systems more effectively.

Today, every teacher has access to a Surface Pro, and this has empowered our staff to improve digital literacy and numeracy.” n

YOU’VE BEEN READING CITY OF BRISTOL COLLEGE cityofbristol.ac.uk CLIFTON COLLEGE cliftoncollege.com FAIRFIELD SCHOOL fairfield.school HABERDASHERS habsmonmouth.org QEH BRISTOL qehbristol.co.uk

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LEARN NEW TRICKS SOMETHING NEW Learn something new in 2022 from some of our local experts

If you want this year to be all about expanding your world, get inspired by these Bristol-based courses and workshops...

CLIFTON WINE SCHOOL CLASSES IN BATH AND BRISTOL TEL: 0117 370 6576 CLIFTONWINESCHOOL.COM

Clifton Wine School is run by Ruth Wiles (DipWSET) who has over a decade of experience teaching about wine. With courses running in Bristol and Bath, Clifton Wine School is the perfect destination for anyone with an interest in the world’s best drink. Ruth runs everything from one-off ‘just for fun’ events to internationally recognised professional qualifications.

Wine education is endlessly fascinating; incorporating tasting skills, history, biology, geography, tradition, food and winematching, and everything in between. It’s also great fun! We especially like the food and wine events at Hotel du Vin.

YOUNG DRIVER

NATIONWIDE VENUES; TEL: 0333 577 9010; YOUNGDRIVER.COM Learn to drive from 10 years old! Young Driver is educating a generation of teens to become safer drivers – and all while they’re having fun too! The ground-breaking Young Driver scheme has just delivered its one-millionth driving lesson to 10to 17-year-olds. Lessons take place in dual-controlled cars with fully qualified instructors, and run at 70 private venues across the UK, including Cribbs Causeway. Youngsters drive around specially created road systems, with roundabouts, junctions and areas to practice manoeuvres. They’ll learn clutch control, steering and how to park – just be prepared for some backseat driving on the way home!

xx I BRISTOL BRISTOLLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk 70

SPONSORED CONTENT

FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL

AVON WILDLIFE TRUST, GROW WILDER, 181 FRENCHAY PARK RD, BRISTOL, BS16 1HB TEL: 01743 852100 FIELD-STUDIES-COUNCIL.ORG/BRISTOL The Field Studies Council is excited to bring our expert natural history courses to a new venue in Bristol. We will be delivering regular courses for our Bristol audience, starting with Beginner Bird courses, and Creative Nature Writing. Our level 1 & 2 bird courses are designed to introduce you to the skills required to begin identifying and recording birds in places local to you.

Our Nature Writing Course will teach you practices and techniques, allowing you to develop as a writer, as you take inspiration from nature and hone your craft during a one-day writing course.

GRAFT WORKSHOP THE ISLAND, BRISTOL TEL: 07894 222939 GRAFTWORKSHOP.CO.UK

If you’re looking for the ultimate Bristol experience, how about trying your hand at graffiti? Graft run regular graffiti workshops at The Island in central Bristol, where you can learn about the history of the scene, design your own tag, and create artwork using spraypaint, stencils and paint markers. Workshops take place in the cells of this former police station, so it’s an atmospheric setting for creating your own graffiti art! It’s the perfect activity for families (minimum age 9), team-building, hen and stag parties, or groups of friends, or you can book onto one of the scheduled public sessions, which are held regularly.

Get in touch with Graft to find out more.

BRISTOL ADULT LEARNING

STOKE LODGE, SHIREHAMPTON RD, BRISTOL, BS9 1BN TEL: 0117 903 8844 BRISTOLCOURSES.COM If you are looking for a wide range of courses all under one roof you will find plenty of choice at Bristol Adult Learning. Part of Bristol City Council, Adult Learning offers courses from its base, Stoke Lodge. The GradeII building has been home to Adult Learning for over 50 years, and has classrooms, art and craft workshops, an IT suite and a teaching kitchen.

Driving into the centre with its free car park, surrounding gardens and greenery is like stepping into a calming space where you can take a deep breath, relax and enjoy some ‘you time’. Staff and tutors are welcoming and friendly, and the classes seem to contain as much laughter as they do learning.

There are hundreds of courses, from one-day workshops to term- long programmes. You can learn history, philosophy, film studies, gardening and five different languages. There are practical courses in computers, cookery as well as health and wellbeing activities. They also offer a huge range of creative courses in painting, drawing, floristry, sewing and upholstery, stained glass and pottery.

If you are looking to get creative, learn something new and make some new friends along the way, Adult Learning certainly has lots to offer.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

POT HEADS POTTERY

UNIT 8 STUDIOS, ST WERBURGHS; x @POTHEADS.POTTERY POTHEADS@TASHABEE.COM; PEACEFULPOTS.CO.UK The Pot Heads are handmade, ceramic characters – each with their own unique personality. You can explore the playful side of pottery and create your own plant pot pal in a fun, relaxing workshop with community artist Tasha. No experience is necessary, and first time potters are always encouraged. You can come along to the studio and take a peep inside one of Bristol’s most colourful creative hubs, or find the Pot Heads at the pub on Saturdays for pottery and pints with pals.Tasha is also available for private parties and offers postal pottery kits.

Head to the website to see the Pot Heads hall of fame, for more information and to book. What will your Pot Head look like?

CITY OF BRISTOL COLLEGE

ST GEORGE’S ROAD, BRISTOL, BS1 5UA TEL: 0117 312 5000 CITYOFBRISTOL.AC.UK City of Bristol College is one of the South West’s largest colleges, offering more than 1,000 different courses across seven different, purpose-built centres. We offer a wide range of courses led by tutors who are specialists in their areas.

The College has top-of-the-range facilities for students of all ages to learn and further their skills; with two restaurants and professional-standard kitchens, an animal care centre, science labs, brand-new construction workshops, motor vehicle workshops and two salons to name but a few.

Students have everything they need to succeed and achieve their future career goals. Free courses for adults starting now.

CREATIVESHIFTCIC | ADULT CREATIVE WELLBEING WORKSHOPS ARNOLFINI, 16 NARROW QUAY, BRISTOL BS1 4QA TEL: 0117 917 2300 ARNOLFINI.ORG.UK

Monthly until Thursday 22 December 2022, 1pm to 3pm.

Free, bookable in advance. CreativeShiftcic brings its creative wellbeing practices to Arnolfini, inviting anyone to take some time out for themselves to be creative in a relaxed and friendly space. For more information please visit: arnolfini. org.uk/whatson/creativewellbeing or check out our Insta page @ArnolfiniArts

THE PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT

UNDERFALL YARD, BALTIC WHARF, BRISTOL, BS1 6XG TEL: 01275 394558 THEPHOTOGRAPHYPROJECT.CO.UK The Photography Project offers a range of exciting, inspiring and fun photography workshops and projects for all abilities. Based from our Bristol Harbourside studio we run both classroom and on-location tuition. Workshops include; introduction and improvers, low light & night, travel and landscape photography and our unique ‘Splashes & Flashes’ high speed flash photography workshop. Our small group workshops are led by an experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructor. Whatever your level, we’ll teach you the skills and techniques necessary to help you improve and develop your photography, enabling you to create inspiring images of your own.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

THAT’LL LEARN YOU BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL’S ADULT LEARNING SERVICE has been offering classes for over 50 years – and you may be surprised at the huge amount of choice...

B

ack in 1971, courses included ‘motor car maintenance for ladies’ and ‘understanding decimalisation’.You won’t find those courses on offer this term, but you will find lots of different courses and workshops...

ARTISTIC ASPIRATIONS

Bristol Adult Learning has a loved and wellrespected arts and creative programme, with many skilled and experienced artists to learn from. You’ll see some of the traditional classes you might expect, such as oil painting, life drawing and watercolours, but there is lots of variety to get your creative juices flowing and lots of classes you didn’t know existed.

There are classes focusing on drawing anatomy and understanding how to draw the human body, sketching architecture and urban landscapes, calligraphy, printmaking, drawing from the masters, pastels and mixed-media painting. If you fancy a more three-dimensional activity to get your teeth into, you can also sign up to classes in pottery, upholstery,

“THE TIME FLEW, IT WAS COMPLETE ABSORBING” 74 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

dressmaking, embroidery, willow weaving, beginners sewing or stained glass.

LANGUAGES TO LOVE You can learn French, German, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese, with classes from beginners to advanced conversation and lots of add-on activities to complement the classes, such as book and film clubs, and one-off sessions focusing on regions, cultural icons or historical events. Most of the language tutors at Stoke Lodge are native speakers and relish the chance not just to get you speaking their native tongue but also to develop a love for their countries and culture.

learning is just as important as the skills and knowledge.

Most courses are offered at Stoke Lodge in Stoke Bishop, with a few also taking place in St Paul’s, or offered online. Stoke Lodge is an amazing old building in gorgeous grounds with free onsite parking. The centre is buzzing, and everyone is welcoming and friendly. With so much on offer there is sure to be something for everyone. ■

FEEL-GOOD FUN Health and wellbeing classes are always popular. You can try tai chi (held outside in the beautiful Stoke Lodge grounds if the weather is good), reiki, stress reduction, meditation, mindfulness and mind and body awareness.

Still not sure? How about art history, music appreciation, computer courses, film studies, cookery and wine appreciation, bridge, history, gardening, family history or philosophy?

There is a lot of love out there for Bristol Adult Learning; many learners come back to classes year after year, and always mention how much fun they had. Clearly, the social side of

All the latest courses are listed in full at bristolcourses.com. You can book places online, by calling the team on 0117 903 8844 or by visiting Stoke Lodge, Shirehampton Rd, Bristol BS9 1BN.

To find out more about our school, please visit our website: www.fairfield.school or call 01275 462743.

Open Morning on Saturday 12 March from 9.00am-11.00am

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The new clinic

L-R: Dannii & Fran with their scan

THUMBS UP FOR NEW FERTILITY CLINIC The BRISTOL CENTRE FOR REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE (BCRM) has a state-of-the-art new premises

N

ewlyweds Dannii and Fran Thorington Neve, who are expecting their first baby in August, have given an enthusiastic thumbs-up to the new state-of-the-art fertility clinic just opened by Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine (BCRM) at Aztec West.

The pair were among the first group of expectant couples to have a pregnancy scan at the clinic and have said they are “bowled over” by the new premises.

Fran, 34, said: “We were thrilled to see the scan of our baby, who is the result of our second round of IVF with BCRM. The whole thing is such an amazing experience, and we are incredibly excited about becoming parents.

“Dannii and I opted for reciprocal IVF, which means she is carrying my embryo, and we’re hoping – after a suitable interval – to be able to do it all over again with me carrying Dannii’s embryo next time, to provide a little brother or sister for this one.”

The couple, who married last July, both work for the UK’s leading veterinary charity, PDSA, where Fran (34) is a vet and Dannii (38) is a veterinary operations manager, and they live in Totterdown in Bristol.

Fran said they are both very impressed by BCRM’s new premises.

“The new clinic has a lovely warm feeling to it: much more spacious and airy. It’s easily

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

Dannii & Fran on their wedding day

accessible, near the junction of the M4 and the M5, and there’s loads of free parking,” she said.

“Of course, we’re still being seen by the same wonderful BCRM nurses. They just have the nicest team of people there, who make you feel so special and well looked after.”

clinic has focused on enhancing the patient experience, as well as equipping them to treat a greater number of patients and to continue developing as a centre of excellence.

The Aztec West premises offers a very large consulting suite for patient appointments and a spacious waiting area which affords high levels of privacy and comfort for people coming through.

And with the latest technology, laboratories, equipment and treatment rooms for IVF and other fertility treatments, plus more energyefficient features and ultra-modern theatres, best-in-class care is assured.

BCRM treats heterosexual couples, same sex couples and single women, and can help with male as well as female fertility issues. The clinic has some of the best success rates in the country for IVF and the team is well-known throughout the fertility industry for the dedicated care and support they provide to patients throughout their whole fertility journey and treatment. ■

“THE NEW CLINIC HAS A LOVELY WARM FEELING TO IT” One of the longest-established fertility operators in the South West, the ever-increasing demand for BCRM’s services was a major driver in their relocation, and the planning for the new

For further details, please contact us: BCRM, 135 Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4UB; 0117 259 1159; contact@bcrm.clinic; www.fertilitybristol.com

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

Antonia Franceschi and Sandy Grierson

Jackie Clune and Clemmie Sveaas

Mark Rylance with assistant director Victor Lirio

Hannah Broadway, Felix Hayes and guest

DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE

It may only be February, but we’re calling it: Mark Rylance’s new play Dr Semmelweis was THE theatrical Bristol event of 2022. Press night was followed by a drinks party for cast, family, friends and guests Photos by Ben Robins benrobinsphoto.com

Joshua Ben-Tovim, Roesanna Anderson and Tom Marshman

Alan Williams (centre) and guests Milling audience; we spy, among others, George Ferguson...

Salome quartet

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

THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN CALLING ALL START-UPS, SCALE-UPS, ENTREPRENEURS AND ADVISORS.

WE’RE BACK

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Let’s connect.

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It’s the city’s business

BRISTOLWORKS Erin Doherty on location in Chloe

The Big Number

A lotta (more) Bottle A multi-million investment, three new sound stages, and hundreds of new jobs, as the Bottle Yard Studios grows apace...

W

ork is underway on the further expansion of Bristol’s film and TV production facility The Bottle Yard Studios into a neighbouring South Bristol industrial site; part of a £12m redevelopment backed by West of England Combined Authority investment that will add three new stages to the studios’ portfolio.

Planned for completion this summer, the expansion will increase the number of stages at The Bottle Yard Studios from eight to 11 and is intended to maintain and grow film and TV production in Bristol and the West of England. Titles recently filmed at the facility, the largest of its kind in the region, include psychological thriller Chloe, currently showing on BBC One, series one and two of Stephen Merchant’s series The Outlaws, and BBC One legal drama Showtrial.

Global construction specialists ISG have been contracted by Bristol City Council to convert the

industrial property at Hawkfield Business Park, less than half a mile from the main Bottle Yard site, into three new sound stages. The filming spaces will be accompanied by ancillary spaces including production offices, prop stores, costume, makeup and breakout areas, amounting to approximately 82,000 sq ft of converted floor space in total.

Operations at The Bottle Yard’s main site have also been boosted by a further £1.6m investment by Bristol City Council in renewal and repair works that will make the Studios’ existing buildings fit for purpose for the facility’s 10-year business plan. Overall, the investment in the current site and new studio provision at Hawkfield Business Park is expected to create 135 jobs during the refurbishment, with a further 863 jobs created over the next 10 years through an accompanying Workforce Development Programme focused on high-end TV skills and targeting development of new talent in South Bristol.

For more thebottleyard.com

£12M

The investment in the next expansion of The Bottle Yard Studios.

See main story, left

FOR THE DIARY The Property Symposium 22 is a virtual property conference, focused on sustainability initiatives, policies and change that affect organisations throughout the UK. Join us for researchbased keynotes focused on commercial and residential property, plus panel sessions and networking with other property professionals.

24 March from 9am-1.00pm.

Join at hopin.com/events/ property-symposium/ registration

Virtual one hour sessions, all free to attend Search Bristol Life on LinkedIn for upcoming dates and registration If you would like to get involved, please email events@mediaclash.co.uk

BRISTOLWORKS

BIKING FOR GOOD

When is big enough?

FLIGHT CONTROL Heated discussions over the expansion of Bristol Airport continue to rumble on, with the decision to block the latest proposals having been overturned on appeal.

The Airport plans to increase its current capacity from 10 million to 12 million passengers per year, while adding thousands more parking spaces. It’s fair to say that the plans have not met with unilateral favour – especially with the Green Party.

“Allowing Bristol Airport to expand – more than doubling its capacity – is an outrageous decision that is totally incompatible with the climate emergency,” said British Green Party politician and Clifton Down councillor Carla Denyer.

“Aviation, especially the frequent flights taken by a wealthy minority, is one of the fastest-growing sources of carbon emissions, and causes incredible amounts of pollution both globally and locally in Bristol and North Somerset.

“The government’s intervention on the side of the airport goes against the wishes of local people, councils and elected representatives and contradicts the advice of their own Climate Change Committee. It risks setting the UK’s progress on climate change back by years.”

North Somerset Council leader Don Davies said the council had mounted a robust defence of the council’s position, and it was “extremely disappointing” that the inspectors overturned its decision, allowing the airport to grow even further. The expansion was also opposed by Bristol City Council, Bath and North East Somerset Council and the West of England Combined Authority.

Bristol Airport has yet to respond, but its original appeal centred on a desire to offer passengers more direct routes and flights from the South West, create jobs, facilitate inward investment and inbound tourism, and support greener and more sustainable, regional economic growth.

“As the UK emerges from the pandemic, it is essential that all regions of the country are given the opportunity to grow to their full potential and contribute to the national recovery effort,” they said.

“International trade and connectivity will become increasingly important as the UK completes its departure from the European Union – increasing aviation capacity is essential in delivering this goal.”

From one controversial transport-related story to a far less contentious one, as the Big Issue launches its first eBikes scheme to boost green employment opportunities across the UK. Bristol is the first city to launch the scheme, in partnership with Norwegian micromobility company, ShareBike.

Following the Bristol launch, a wider-UK rollout of the eco-friendly eBikes will follow, boosting green employment opportunities and transport options in smaller cities and towns across the UK. The Big Issue eBikes scheme is the first of its kind, and will recruit and retrain unemployed and vulnerable people in local communities, and provide them with access to support and services to improve their lives. All employees will be paid a living wage.

Big Issue eBikes will also directly benefit Bristol’s Clean Air plan by providing a genuine alternative to car use; currently, over 80 per cent of Bristol’s pollution has been shown to be from local traffic sources. The estimated benefit for Bristol with a scheme of around 500 bikes is a direct reduction of 1,900 car trips a day.

The scheme will be launched with a £450,000 investment from City Funds, a Bristol-based impact investment fund run by Bristol & Bath Regional Capital – the region’s only investment company focusing exclusively on enabling regional change by democratising financial purpose and profit. BBRC ensures that impact-driven organisations have access to the financial support they need to succeed and thereby create long-term economic, social and environmental prosperity for the region and beyond.

For more: bigissue.bike

For more: bristolairport.co.uk

Offices in: Henleaze, Whiteladies Road Clifton Village, Shirehampton 0117 962 1205 www.amdsolicitors.com

PRIVATE CLIENT - FAMILY - PROPERTY - COMMERCIAL

© BEN ROBINS

EXETER BRISTOL LIVING LIFE AWARDS

Booking now

The Bristol Life Awards are just the ticket . . .

WHAT? The Bristol Life Awards 2022 WHERE? Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol WHEN? 18 May 2022 WHY? To celebrate the very best local businesses and organisations in Bristol and the surrounding areas WHO? Any local business, charity or establishment can enter.

Check the box for the categories– you can enter into multiple categories, if you like.

HOW MUCH? Hey, it’s free to enter!

HOW DO I NOMINATE? It’s easy, via the form on our website: bristolifeawards.co.uk

A

s we edge ever-closer to the Bristol Life Awards on 18 May, when we’ll be celebrating the very best of the city, the big night is slowly taking shape.

If you’ve nominated your business for an award, stand easy. Still thinking of nominating, but assuming you have plenty of time? Wrong: nominations close on 10 March.

Not entering, but fancy attending anyway? Join us online on 16 March, when we’ll be announcing the finalists live at our Grand Reveal event. It’s free to attend (head to bristollifeawards.co.uk and follow the link), and give a flavour of what the awards are about, as well as hearing from past winners and sponsors.

Tickets and tables for the Bristol Life Awards are on sale now, and they sell out every year, so we strongly advise you to beat the rush and buy now to make sure you secure your place.

The Awards are a great opportunity to get glammed up and have a fun night out, but they also provide invaluable networking opportunities for businesses from all the diverse sectors of the city.

When it comes to sponsorship, business is done from, at and around the Awards. Countless conversations are triggered by deep association with the city’s leading business marketing activity.

It’s efficient, too, because one deal reaches thousands of people. We support your business promotion

through our magazines, social media, email, networking events, our website, the programme, the review, and, of course, on the night itself.

If you’re interested in sponsoring, please contact harriette.dixon@ mediaclash.co.uk or neil.snow@ mediaclash.co.uk Sponsors on board for 2022 so far include: headline sponsor: Marsh Commercial. Category sponsors: Burston Cook, Bristol Life, Bristol Property Awards. Crumbs, Entreconf, Lexus Bristol, SLX, Thatchers and VWV. Feature sponsors: Bristol Sport, SAS Consultancy and Triangle. Official supplier: CJ Prop Hire & Events For more: bristollifeawards.co.uk

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PROPERTY BUILDING THE CIT Y

WISH IT COULD BE CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY?

A home for life, not just for Christmas: a rare chance to own a house in Bristol’s most creative and historic street

It can! How does living right on Christmas Steps sound?

For £800k (guide price) you can own this delightful town house, that would equally lend itself to a ground-floor shop with an upper maisonette. Believed to date from the 1600s, refronted in the early 1800s, it oozes charm and character from every beam and stair turn; it even has a charming split-level city garden.

The historical appeal of the building is obvious, but the real attraction is the wonderful streetscape provided by the Christmas Steps. Most of the properties here have a shopfront at street level, offering a wealth of vibrant boutique and private retail businesses. Find out more in our city centre feature, beginning on page 12.

This charming house has been treated to an extensive refurbishment that’s carefully introduced a contemporary feel while respecting the special, historic nature of the building.

Sash windows allow in plenty of light, and there’s a wonderful curving wooden staircase linking the four storeys. It’s a total one-off.

Agents: Hopewell on 0117 911 8663; hopewell.co.uk

Places for People have revealed their plans for 350 new homes in Dove Lane, next to St Paul’s Leisure Centre – and they’re calling it ‘Bristol’s most exciting new neighbourhood’.

The developers have launched a public consultation on the plans for the homes, along with work and retail units and spaces for community organisations, prior to submitting a planning application.

The homes would range from one- to four-bedroom flats, in blocks from four to ten storeys high, with a central square. Around 70 homes are classed as affordable.

“We’re keen to bring forward our proposals for St Paul’s, and it’s so important to us to understand what the community like, what they don’t like and what could be improved,” said Places for People’s Sammie Steele. “We want to ensure our proposed plans are right for the community.”

Places for People has worked closely with Bristol City Council for many years. While only 20% of the homes are designed to be affordable, the proposals come with the backing of Tom Renhard, cabinet member for housing delivery and homes at Bristol

© GLENN HOWELLS ARCHITECTS

DOVE LIFE

City Council. “Bristol needs new homes to meet a housing crisis that shows little sign of easing,” said Tom. “I welcome these revised plans that support our efforts to keep pace with Bristol’s housing need by delivering sustainable, wellbuilt, and affordable homes. Collaboration with the local community is a vital aspect

of successful development and I am pleased to see Places for People prioritises this aspect of their plans.The Society supports this development, which should make a significant contribution to city centre housing needs. This land is long unused and needs to be brought back into use.”

For more dovelanebristol.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 87

VILLAGE PEOPLE

An immaculate three-bedroom town house in the heart of Clifton Village for under £600k? Quick, where do we sign?

Words by Ursula Cole

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

PROPERTY

A

lthough the average millennial – the kind unencumbered by a trust fund, that is – is likely to scoff at what we’re about to say next, a three-bedroom house in Clifton for under £600k strikes us as a bit of a bargain.

Tucked away on Portland Street, snugly sandwiched between The Mall and Sion Place, the cul-de-sac on which Carters Buildings finds itself has a quiet, almost mews-like charm, despite being mostly made up of small brownstone town

houses. As a little bonus, at the end of the street you’ll find your soon-to-be new local: the much-loved Cori Tap. The more you explore this pretty Grade-II home, with its Bath stone pediments, quoins and lintels, the more you’ll find to love. Inside, spread over three floors with good-sized rooms and a pleasingly logical flow, you’ll find an absolutely immaculate refurbishment.

The ground floor is the heart of the home. The 13ft living room at the front has luxuriously carpeted stairs curving up to the first floor; the room is partly open-plan to a small dining room that opens in turn to a 13ft kitchen

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

PROPERTY

HOUSE NUMBERS Offers over £590k Receptions 2 Bedrooms 3 Bath/shower rooms 2 What else? Beautifully refurbished; central Clifton Village location Outside Courtyard garden For more: Alexander May, 35 Regent St, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4HR; 0117 974 4766 alexandermay.co.uk

with white quartz work surfaces, integrated appliances, and a huge skylight allowing as much light as you can handle into the room. There’s ample room for a table, if you’d prefer to assign a different role to the dining room; a stylish office, perhaps, or even a family room.

Hold the Fisher-Price, though, because the primarycoloured plastic would really mess with the aesthetic; there’s a genuinely boutique-hotel level of luxury throughout this home, with its expanse of light wooden floors and the calming white and grey colour scheme; really, all you need to do is move in and try to look chic.

This immense tastefulness also informs the master bedroom with its en-suite shower room, the metro-tiled main bathroom, and two bedrooms on the top floor.

Outside, Carters Buildings has a stone courtyard; this house has its own delineated seating area, with planters and room for al fresco dining.

For those already based on Planet Bristol, we need hardly explain quite how perfectly located this home is. For those who aren’t, know that all the artisan bars, cafés, boutiques and restaurants of chi-chi Clifton are literally minutes from your front door, while the Harbourside, Leigh Woods, the Downs and the city centre are all close enough to make the car redundant. No need for gym membership, either; those hills will sort you out. . .

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 91

SUSTAINABILITY 24 MARCH 2022

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE, VITAL TOPICS THOUGHT LEADERSHIP AND KEYNOTES Exclusive research insights

Jennet Siebrits, CBRE: head of research

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HOW WE FELL IN LOVE WITH UK BREAKS Savvy investors are reaping the benefits of UK staycation market boom according to AURELIUS PROPERTY

W

ith foreign holidays heavily restricted for millions during the last couple of years, Brits have rediscovered the beauty of our own green and pleasant shores. Self-catering holidays, which typically provide space, safety and privacy – some of the must-haves of the moment – have largely weathered the storm caused by the pandemic and emerged in prime position to capitalise on the muchanticipated staycation boom. And the homesoil love affair is on course to continue for years to come, with the UK tourism industry predicted to reach £257 billion by 2025.

Peter Butterworth, co-founder of Aurelius Property, an exciting new investment platform based in Bristol, is witnessing this growth firsthand.

“We are experiencing an unseasonably buoyant start to 2022. January is typically classed as low season in the holiday lodge

The ichthyosaur skeleton is the largest and most complete fossil of its kind ever found in the UK. Photograph: Anglian Water/PA

industry, however, we are seeing bookings in quantities akin to late spring, which prior to 2020 was unheard of. I was meeting an investor on site for a viewing in Rutland recently and was amazed to see how busy it was; a summer `buzz’ with holiday makers enjoying their hot tubs on a chilly (but bright) day in mid-January.

“It is a struggle to find an unoccupied lodge to show potential investors around at the moment, which is obviously great news for our clients. Inevitably, the ongoing demand for high-quality UK breaks has led to an insatiable demand from savvy investors who are already benefitting from this ongoing growth.

The first phase of lodges at Sun Valley in Cornwall, sold out so quickly that when we launched our latest offering, Ranksborough Hall, in Rutland, in late 2021, the resort brochures weren’t even ready yet. We still have some availability, but units will not hang around.”

Rutland is England’s smallest county, and certainly lives up to its motto, Multum in Parvo (much in little); This rural escape is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Rutland Water offers a multitude of leisure pursuits including water sports, cycling, fishing and bird watching, while Rutland’s many attractive villages, set in the wonderful English countryside, are home to picture-postcard cottages and traditional country pubs. And now, also home to one of the most significant fossils ever found in the UK. “As soon as I saw the lodge deal it felt like the right thing to go for,” said Mira, an owner at Ranksborough Hall.

“Over the last two years I have realised that holidays are not a luxury but an absolute necessity, especially if it means being close to

nature. No stamp duty was a plus.”

With brand-new fully managed lodges, future investors are sure to find Ranksborough Hall a robust, hassle-free and rewarding investment, that delivers straight away and assures healthy returns for years to come. ■

AT A GLANCE...

Fully managed lodges from £135k Fixed 8% Net pa Assured exit strategy Limited availability Get in touch for further details

Tel: 0117 4225 449 Email: invest@ aureliusproperty.com aureliusproperty.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 93

BRISTOL LIVES

“Our city doesn’t just come to a stop at 6pm...”

CARLY HEATH

In March 2021, Carly was appointed Bristol’s nighttime economy advisor – a new role created to lead the city’s entertainment sector out of the pandemic

I

‘ve been a part of the Bristol nightlife community for a long time,” says Carly.

“I’ve worked at Bristol Beacon, was part of the founding team of Brisfest, and ran several club nights across the city. I must have worked at over 1000 music events in Bristol...”

Our city doesn’t just come to a stop at 6pm, and I believe

that the needs of the night should be represented at a policy level if Bristol is to flourish as a 24-hour city. I represent the people who work from 6pm-6am across our city, which accounts for about a third of the workforce in Bristol.

My main aim is to champion

Bristol’s independent nightlife, help curate a safer nighttime environment, and nurture a healthy environment in which the after-dark city can flourish.

It’s been a challenging time

for the nightlife community, and the best thing you can do

to help them now is to go out and celebrate our wonderful hospitality, go to gigs, tip your waiter, and cancel your booking if you’re not able to show up.

Our nighttime economy is the lifeblood of our city. It’s where

we meet our friends. It’s where we congregate as a community. Our nightlife culture is at the heart of what it means to be a Bristolian.

Our music and arts scene is renowned. Our restaurant scene is better than it’s ever been, and getting international attention.

Everybody deserves to feel safe in the city after dark. Our

current work around women’s safety is part of a national drive. We hope to train 1000 nightlife workers to spot and respond to sexual harassment, and simultaneously launching a parade which will invite the city to ‘Shine A Light’ on the issue.

In March we’ll also complete the Bristol Women’s Safety Charter, which will give advice and guidelines to businesses.

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

I’ve lived all over Bristol since

moving here in 2004. One of my favourite places to live was overlooking Turbo Island.

We never needed a TV, there was always something going on outside. I love the fact that vibrant nightlife is so easy to access, but 20 minutes out of the city you’re in the country with some amazing walks. I say it all the time, but West really is Best.

My favourite shop is Idle Hands on City Road: a cornerstone of the Bristol dance music community.

Bristol’s food game is very strong. I’m partial to the fusion-

food small-plate delights of Seven Lucky Gods. As for pubs, nothing quite beats the atmosphere of The Plough in Easton.

Some of my favourite afterdark haunts include Cosies, a

snug little club in the heart of St Paul’s, hosting some incredible dance sessions. You always come back from a night out at Cosies

with a new forever-friend.

Trinity: if you’ve ever been to a Teachings in Dub soundclash you’ll know why this is on my list. Rib-ticking dub sessions are about the most amount of fun you can have.

Strange Brew: a relative newcomer to Bristol’s nightlife scene, but its lineup is so diverse, and there’s a lovely atmosphere every time. Community-owned, too. Love that.

A standout memory of a Bristol club has to be any of

the Dubloadeds at Croft or Subloadeds. The dubstep scene in Bristol in the late noughties was a magical time.

If I could turn the clock back, I’d return to Native. This

legendary little club held a very special place in my heart. Run Tuesdays were such a vibe, with the enormous Dirt sound system rattling the whole building.

Secret skills? My cheese on toast game is pretty spectacular.

My most regrettable habit?

Crafting. I have so many halffinished sewing and knitting projects.

Immediately after answering these questions I’m on a Zoom

with other nightlife advisors from across the world. The global community of nightlife advocates is really strong. It’s always a really fascinating conversation, where we can share best practice from nightlife communities around the world.

For more bristolnights.co.uk