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Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 316 / 24 JUNE – 8 JULY 2016 / £3

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ISSUE 316 / 24 JUNE – 8 JULY 2016 / UNIQUELY BATH

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

D R Eam Jobs wItH dowNton’S phYlliS loGan OlymPian am Y wIlLiamS Get S on her bIkE LocaL ArtiSt dItChes teCh

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in D ie COLOUr AND

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EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 316 / 24 JUNE - 8 JULY 2016

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42

INDIVIDUAL STYLE We explore Bath’s wonderful array of indie shops

They’re one of the reasons tourists come a’flocking, and they’re a vibrant part of the city’s makeup, so we’ve been out and about discovering the best of Bath’s indie shops for this issue. As July marks the start of Independent Retailer Month, we thought it was as good a time as any to get into the heart of the local shopping scene to remind ourselves why these one-of-a-kind businesses are so wonderful. We’d need an entire issue to shine a light on all of them, so we’ve picked out a colourful assortment – from designer boutiques to traditional toyshops – to encourage you, for this month and beyond, to shop local (page 42).

As if this issue wasn’t already crammed to bursting point with creatives, we also met with Emma Leith – daughter of the original Wombles animator – who uses art to reconnect with her inner child (page 72).

And yet another talented woman gracing our pages is Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams (as if she needs any introduction) who, in her role as Bike Bath ambassador, is getting more women to take to the saddle – she’s even tempted us to give it a go (page 100)! See you back here in a fortnight when we’ll have pictorial evidence of all the Bath Boules fun, plus lots of surprises to look forward to…

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag

FEATURES / ISSUE 316 / 24 JUNE - 8 JULY 2016

100

SPORTING HERO

Skeleton racer and Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams is the new spokeswoman for Bike Bath

146 Bath Lives

Local author Jean Burnett talks Jane Austen, Bath buns and being a worrier

REGULARS / ISSUE 316 / 24 JUNE - 8 JULY 2016 M E ET T H E T EAM

THE ARTS

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

59 Arts intro We admire Alasdair Lindsay’s interpretation of Pulteney Bridge

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Thomas Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Emma Bond, Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, and Jennifer Jennings Wright Senior advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Drew Toynbee andrew.toynbee@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk

60 What’s on Time to update the events diary

66 The verdict We watch Elton John at Longleat and learn the legend is better than he’s ever been

68 One to one Phyllis Logan talks Downtown Abbey, coming to Bath and staying true to her Scottish roots

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Charlie Pinder charlie.pinder@mediaclash.co.uk

72 Meet the maker Crafty yarn-bomber Emma Leith

77 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley focuses on non-fiction collections

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

79 Reel to reel Jennifer Jennings Wright previews the new Ghostbusters and Ab Fab: The Movie

FOOD & DRINK 80 Restaurant We skip and jump our way down to The Hop Pole

87 Food & drink news Ping Coombes’ recipe book and a new bar in Moles

SHOPPING 90 Editor’s choice

72 108 Travel David Flatman visits the Maldives

You’ll love all our Wimbledoninspired accessories

BUSINESS

LIFEST YLE

News, views and interviews from the region’s business world

102 Gardening Emma Bond reports back from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

113 Business insider

124 Meet the solicitor We talk to six of Bath’s lawyers

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

PROPERT Y 132 Property showcase See inside the elegantly Georgian Elstree House in Lambridge

DEPARTMENTS 9 Spotlight 14 Scene 37 It’s a man’s world

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury.

We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @ CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

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

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

On the cover Vintage Moroccan wool pots at Rossiters of Bath, photographed by Sarah Henderson. See page 42 for our indie shop feature

Felicity Kendall still leads a Good Life

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Russell helps Bob stay in good humour

THEATRE

BATH’S GOT TALENT The latest line-up for the new autumn season at the Theatre Royal Bath reads like a veritable who’s who in the acting and entertainment world. Joining Britain’s Got Talent star Amanda Holden, Angela Griffin and Nicola Stephenson for the stage version of the comedy classic Stepping Out are Doctor Who’s Tracy-Ann Oberman, and former EastEnder Tamzin Outhwaite.

Also coming up in the run of first class, eagerly anticipated premieres are Griff Rhys Jones in The Miser, Felicity Kendal in A Room With a View, Robert Powell and Liza Goddard who both star in Relatively Speaking, while TV gardener and author Alan Titchmarsh is also visiting the theatre to talk about his new novel Mr Gandy’s Grand Tour.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

FUNDRAISING

MARATHON MAN While many of us struggle to run for a bus, Bob Smith is running a half marathon every week. The coach from the University of Bath, who is six months into his challenge, made the vow after his daughter, Autumn, then just four-weeks-old, was taken seriously ill last November.

“Me and my partner, Katie, watched in awe as specialists at Bristol Children’s Hospital managed the situation with such a depth of expertise. We were both humbled by the whole experience,” explains Bob. “My

goal is to fundraise every penny of the cost of Autumn’s treatment for those six days.”

Bob is already over halfway towards reaching his £8,000 total but admits it’s not always easy. “I’ve had a knee injury, but there have been so many highlights it helps keep me motivated. I also met the comedian Russell Howard at the Bath Half.”

All the money raised is going to Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal with Bob’s very last run taking place just after Christmas.

For more: www.justgiving.com/bobsm100

SPOTLIGHT

AWARDS

PETAL POWER Bath College has been named RHS Chelsea Floristry College of the Year – making it the top place to study floristry in the country.

The Bath College floristry students joined exhibitors, experts and designers at the end of May, where judges at the world’s biggest flower show awarded them with a gold medal and the prize for best college floristry exhibit.

They spent weeks creating their stunning and innovative display – a reclining lady with a full skirt of flowers, complete with a floral headdress and parrot.

Student Emily Smith also took part in the Young Florist of the Year competition and achieved a bronze medal.

It’s a cockerel for the Boules She’s a flower lady

Floristry tutor Jo Matthews has been delighted at how well her students’ work has been received and says,“It’s great the students have had the opportunity to compete. This will give them a really good grounding for their future careers.”

For more: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

EDUCATION

TIKES ON BIKES Hundreds of pupils and their families Wheely put their pedal power to the test and good effort! cycled an incredible 10,659 miles, the equivalent distance from Bath to Sydney, Australia, for charity.

Children from the Monkton Prep nursery through to the senior school, came together for the challenge at the Odd Down cycle track on 19 June in aid of Bath-based charity, Send a Cow, which gives help to impoverished farmers in East Africa.

Event organiser Jonny Goode explains, “Around 600 people rode approximately 20 miles each throughout the day. It sounded like a person. It was a really fun day and a great way mammoth challenge but when broken down, to raise funds for a much-loved local charity.’’

For more: www.monktoncombeschool.com it equated to 17 circuits of the track per

EVENT

THE CREATIVE MASSIVE Amidst all the drink, food, music and revelry at the Creative Bath party, there were a couple of important announcements made at the Queen Square shindig on 16 June. Until recently, Creative Bath was largely funded by local government, but has now evolved to work as a standalone entity and has become more like a trade body – promoting the sector, running events, connecting people and companies.

Reflecting these changes are the number of business who have signed up to support Creative Bath including Six Anchor Partners, along with Anthem Publishing, Mr B & Friends, SearchStar, CitrusHR, Storm Consultancy and MediaClash. There was also news that the creative community hub will also be launching their Creative Bath Awards in June next year.

Oh, and not forgetting there was also the unveiling of the huge metal cockerel constructed in celebration of the Bath Boules, of which Creative Bath are one of the sponsors.

For more: www.creativebath.org

Adventures in party-going

SCENE AC ROS S B AT H , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

SUMMER SOCIAL Even the elusive sun put in a guest appearance and joined the effervescent celebrations and sparkling company at the Bath Life summer party held at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa on 13 June. As well as providing a wonderful opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones over delightful nibbles and delicious drinks, some major announcements were made including Bath Life now being the Official Media Partner of the Bath Half, and the launch of the all-new Bath Life Awards website.

Photos by Jessie Myers www.soul-media.com

14 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

Nick Woodhouse and John Law

Ian and Christa Taylor with Kent Barker

Jack King and Harry Brent

Linda Tong and Rob Stiles

Tom Walker and Alex Webb Amelia Rolfe and Anna Barton

Leonie Spencer, Vanessa Rolland and guest

Clive Hathaway and Graham Craig

w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

Continued from page 15

Steph Dodd, Annie Miekus, Dave Dixon, Les Redwood and Callum Rixson

Dom Beaven, Tim Fendley and Katherine Raderecht

Maria Mwaitenda and Nick Oliver Xxxxxx

Nickie and James Portman

Anita and Michael Reeves

Camilla Johns and Aimee Williams

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

Julian Drew, Surrinder Sandham Bains and Ian Sandham

w

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF SUCCESS! We’re proud to say it’s our tenth anniversary and, to celebrate, we’re launching a brand new look!

We want to say a huge thank you to the people and businesses of Bath for helping us over the last ten years – your support has been fantastic.

We’ve been thrilled to offer Bath Holiday Rentals guests a place to enjoy; family celebrations, romantic weekends, girlie reunions, quality family holidays and more. Meanwhile, our business guests have been able to experience a home-from-home, residential retreats and interim relocation homes.

As our portfolio of more than 60 luxury 4* and 5*gold selfcatering properties continues to grow, we’re excited about what the future holds for Bath Holiday Rentals.

t: 01225 482225 e: alexa@bathholidayrentals.com w: www.bathholidayrentals.com j

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

Continued from page 16

Tom Boyce, Alan Seward, Kate Jackson and Jennifer Clark

Joe Biao, Kambiz Sheyegan and Ben Shayegan

Tim and Annie Moss Anthony and Beata Cosgrove

Les Redwood and Carole Devonshire Xxxxxx Marcus Whittington and Barbara Gerhat

Sal Godfrey and Claire Hunton

w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

Continued from page 19 Ashley Varley, Callum Rixson and Chris Simmons

Charlotte Grey and Claire Watson Diana and Andrew Brown

Lucy and David Simon

Luke Watson and Alison Treble Alexa and Chris Voisey

Helen Malloy Reid and Kelly Ann Perry

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

Holly Stevens and George Nicholson

w

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

Continued from page 20

Betsi Miller Hughes and Mark Gillow

Owen Mason and David Barker

Angela MacAusland and Tony Rees

Amanda and Simon Brown

Jane Shayegan and Georgina Read-Peter

Gary Wood, Geoffrey Waller and Carole Waller

Sam Baker and William Hibbert

Anna Franklin and Lisa Barnes

David Moore, Jenny Cudworth, Nick Cudworth and Alex Schlesinger

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

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

MASKED MARVELS Game of Thrones’ Maisie Williams was among the 200 guests at the Summer Masquerade Ball, held at the Assembly Rooms on 4 June, in aid of the NSPCC. Along with fine food, great music, and an auction conducted by presenter Martin Roberts, one of the most moving parts of the night was a speech from NSPCC ambassador David Tait.

Alice Ellis, Imogen Sellers, Martin Roberts, David Tait, Maisie Williams, Courtney Jane Herrington and Loraine Morgan-Brinkhurst

Photos by Black Tie Portrait www.blacktieportraits.co.uk

Julian Buczek and Lynne Fernquest Charlotte Skidmore, Jo Francis-Pope and Jayne Lee-Wright

Jane Wade and Frances Burridge

Simon and Julia Emery

Sheila Hammett, Evette Brinkhurst-Hobbs and Andy Hammett Tony and Debbie Perry

Karen Clayton, David Maxwell, Yvonne Welch and Matthew Welch

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

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

LOOKING BACK

Silvia Potter, Anne-Marie Potter and AlexandraMaria Potter

Cressida Bell, granddaughter of Bloomsbury-set artist Vanessa Bell, helped to officially open the latest exhibition at the Victoria Art Gallery. A Room Of Their Own: Lost Bloomsbury Interiors 19141930. Running at the same time is the collection called Carnival by Colombian-born artist Carlos Zapat.

Photos by Anna Barclay www.annaweddingphotos.com

Deirdre McSharry and Cressida Bell

Bel Mooney and Robin Allison-Smith Caroline Harrison, Penny Finnegan and Ella Kohn

Catherine Wall and June Player

Carlos Zapata and Zoe Cropper

Phoebe Oakenfold and Simone Davis

Billy Turvey and Andrew Kaye

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

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

BEAVEN MADE

Ali and Dom Beaven

Husband and wife team Ali and Dom Beaven were the fascinating guests of the Bath Life Business Club lunch held at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa last month. There they shared their inside story and answered questions about how they founded their award-winning wedding gift website Prezola.

Peter James, Justine Walker, Vanessa Sayce and Ann-Marie James

Photos by Peter Travers www.petertravers.co.uk

James Read and Tim Moss

BUILDING BLOCKS

Lisa Evans, Amanda Graver and Chris Howard

Alan Kerbey and Sarah Wheeler

Dave and Sandra Dixon

At a reception at The Gainsborough Bath Spa last month, in the presence of 100 special guests, the Genesis Trust launched a ÂŁ1million appeal for a major new development in central Bath. The event, which was sponsored by Rotork Limited, featured a recital from pianist Keith Porter-Snell.

Trevor Osborne and Martin Tracy

Photos by Dave Saunders www.davesaundersphotography. com

Peter France and Richard Hall 28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

Attayla Harris, Pete Sturgeon, Nathan Crosby and Andy Kaye

GRAND DESIGNS

Bridgette Love, Sarah Dennis and Tom Dennis

Mr B & Friends, a Bath-based creative agency, celebrated its 10th birthday in style on 9 June at The Holburne Museum. The event was a fun-filled evening with great food, drink and music, and was attended by staff, alumni, clients and friends of the agency.

Photos by Adam Carter www.adamcarterphoto.com

Cliff Williams, Nathan Styles and Mary Kent

Jan Neville, Emily Jukes, Aphra Kiely, Annaleise Mason and Leah Brown

GARDEN PART Y

Harriet Trewby, Joanne Connolly and Nancy Connolly

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa gave guests the chance to enjoy its newest venue, The Walled/Wedding Garden on 9 June. The elegant events space was admired against a backdrop of gentle live music, soft sunshine, delicious canapĂŠs and glasses of Taittinger.

Photos by Adam Carter www.adamcarterphoto.com

Steven Andrews and Nick Oliver

Isabella Mazzotta and Androulla Karanicola 30 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Claire Pickup, Katie Sandercock, Pearl Ollerton and Sarah Moon

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

BUBBLING UP Sub 13 owners Alex Miller and Tim Whelehan helped officially launch the Perrier-Jouet champagne terrace in the city’s George Street bar last month. About sixty people enjoyed an evening of catching up over champagne and canapés as the sun shone, followed by a night of cocktails and dancing.

Anna Morgan and Jeanette Stennet

Photos by Sam Short www.soul-media.co.uk

Alex Miller, John-Paul Podvoiskis and Tim Whelehan

Amy Armstrong and Zoe Alexander

Alistair Steel, with Alexa and Chris Voisey

DRINKS REGENT

James Harvey, Paddy Nisbett and Matt Speakman

Regency Offices, in partnership with Small Business Focus, invited local business owners and entrepreneurs to join them for drinks, pizza and a relaxed summertime catch up at the Green Park Brasserie on 10 June.

, Gayle Taylor, Tessa Williams, Phil Taylor and Tony WIlliams Leila Wakeham, James Froud George Driver and Colino Violante

Photos by Derryn Vranch www.derrynvranch.com

32 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Sharmella Kirby, Tony Williams and Anji Henderson

KITCHENS

FURNITURE

JOINERY

“I have seen many houses built in my work as a director for Grand Designs, so I should have felt confident working on my own home. But I didn’t until meeting Tom and James from Bath Bespoke.

They are clever, creative and listen patiently to often vague ideas and come up with remedies.

They work with care, efficiency and expertise. The result is beautiful.” Director, Grand Designs www.bathbespoke.co.uk 01225 920900 info@bathbespoke.co.uk Bath Bespoke, Hartley Farm, Winsley, Bath BA15 2JB

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

HEAVENLY HOMES Inspired by Grand Designs, Flats has found a serious flair for interior design

N

ow we all enjoy wasting perfectly valuable time watching the odd property show on TV, right? Some of us like them because we’re nosey and we want to see how others exist behind plastered walls, and some of us might be thinking about getting involved in a project ourselves. Plenty will love the originality of a show like Grand Designs, and others, like me, will only ever have started watching them because they fancied Sarah Beeny. And Kirsty Allsopp. And Phil Spencer (this one is a joke – I’m just trying to be inclusive).

Whatever, it’s addictive stuff. Inevitably, though, the chemicals released into my bloodstream as the end credits roll on this housey show are invariably those that cause me to feel frustrated. You see, while life is good and all that, I do not find myself in a life position whereby I might drop a million quid building an über pad on an elevated, flat piece of isolated land on the outskirts of Bath. Actually, make that two million, as we’ll probably need a roof, too.

Recently, though, I was accidentally inspired by a friend. For the last five years, he and his family had lived in a house that, though potentially wonderful, remained almost entirely unfinished. Being pretty disorganised and inefficient myself, it says something that even my jaw dropped when they decided to buy a cool new Land Rover instead of finish their family bathroom and decorate the kids’ quarters. When I asked him what he was up to, he replied: “It’ll only get trashed again. We’ll do it up when we sell it.”

There is some logic in this. Maybe. Really deep in there. But this

doesn’t answer the question that stuck in my mind: What about the years you actually spend living here? Why not make it lovely for you, instead of for somebody else? After all, you bought it!

They did spruce it up, and it was truly a fantastic house. So they sold it and now live in a building site again. Good for them.

This whole episode quickly made me feel rather differently as I watched Kevin McCloud and company doing their stuff. I love our house. If I won the lottery we’d probably move, but that doesn’t mean I don’t love it. So I’ve decided to maximise its potential – gradually – instead of wasting time wishing it would turn into something else or refusing to make it lovely only for someone else to enjoy.

It turns out that choosing furniture and colours and rugs and art is every bit as addictive as watching other people do the same. I started down the route of browsing websites all over the world, looking at mirrors from Croatia and sofas from Italy. Then, two weeks ago, I popped into Brissi on Milsom Street with my little girl.

Basically, they’ve nailed it. Soon enough, our home will very closely resemble the Brissi store, minus the staff. God it’s heavenly in there. Even Mrs F, who automatically disregards my opinions on these matters, has bought in. You know those people on the TV who have lovely stuff but are nose-diving towards financial ruin despite repeatedly denying there’s a problem? Yes, well, no problems here. Just lots of lovely stuff. Please send help. Or cash.

SOON ENOUGH, OUR HOME WILL VERY CLOSELY RESEMBLE THE BRISSI STORE, MINUS THE STAFF

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman

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BATH’S LEADING WINDOW FURNISHING SPECIALIST FOR 16 YEARS Aspect Window Styling is a vibrant company who has been specialising in making windows look spectacular for 16 years as an independent family run business.

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COMMUNITY SPIRIT It’s the wonderful array of independent shops and cafés which make our city so vibrant and unique. As July marks the start of Independent Retailer Month, here we get into the heart of the community chatter and get to know some of the most creative indies on our doorstep…

By L I SA E VA NS

INDIES SPECIAL

SHOPPING

Opposite page: Indie champion Kate Smith of The Makery Left: Getting stuck into a workshop at Bath’s The Marmalade House

THE MAKERY

Owners: Kate and Nigel Smith All about it: A haven of creative and crafty delights which also runs workshops, parties and events across the South West.

The beginning: “We spent a year researching ideas and discovered that craft was on the up, yet there were no brands taking charge of this new market,” says Kate. “We now get to do something we love and build a business.”

Fun fact: “When we went on BBC’s Dragon’s Den, Peter Jones just didn’t get our business and was quite rude. So when we got back, we made a pincushion with his face on!”

What’s new: An exciting range of craft kits for children.

Looking forward to: The Makery’s Open Day on 14 August.

Favourite Bath indie: The Foodie Bugle, on Margaret’s Buildings.

19 Union Passage, Bath; www.themakery.co.uk

THE MARMALADE HOUSE

JOHNNY DEPP ONCE WALKED INTO MY SHOP AND I WAS SO SHOCKED I DROPPED A CHANDELIER THAT

SMASHED ON THE FLOOR

B

ath wouldn’t be Bath without its independent businesses, and now that we’re in the age of social media, it has never been easier for local shops to shout about themselves.

As a freelance blogger in the city, Sal Godfrey knows about the importance of bringing the indie devotees together, so she began her Twitter page @BathIndieChat to help small businesses collaborate and engage, not only with each other, but with Bath’s residents and shoppers.

“It’s dedicated to championing the city’s independent companies, on which like-minded indie owners can share their endeavours and achievements,” says Sal who came to live in the city 10 years ago. “As an adopted Bathonian, I never take for granted any of the things that make Bath such a wonderful place to live. That’s why I’m so passionate about preserving the incredible culture of independent businesses here; they’re such a part of Bath’s identity.

“I absolutely love working with people who are pursuing their passion – their energy and enthusiasm is so inspiring,” she adds. “People who run their own businesses hardly stop, so that’s why Twitter hours work so well because they can get involved from the shop floor.”

Here we meet the people behind many of the businesses involved with @BathIndieChat, as well as some other truly creative people…

Owners: Vanessa and Murray Sayce All about it: On top of offering a beautiful array of homewear, the owners give French and Swedish-style finishes to furniture with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and offer commission services and award-winning furniture-painting courses.

The beginning: “I have always worked with paint and colour,” says Vanessa. “Training with Annie Sloan inspired me to start Marmalade from my kitchen three years ago.”

Fun fact: “Johnny Depp once walked into my shop and I was so shocked I dropped a chandelier that smashed on the floor.”

What’s new: “All our Marmalade-branded items and hand-painted pieces are being launched online.”

Favourite Bath indies: Article, and David Simon Contemporary, on Bartlett Street.

The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; w www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk

A felt, do-it-yourself cuckoo clock kit from The Makery

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

SHOPPING

INDIES SPECIAL

KATHERINE FRASER

Owner: Katherine Fraser All about it: Katherine offers a bespoke weaving service, creating accessories for fashion and interiors. She also sells products by other British designers and runs weaving courses.

The beginning: “I’d seen lots of other designers working behind closed doors and thought it would be great to put the ‘making’ into the retail space so that customers could witness the process themselves,” says Katherine.

Fun fact: “All of my looms get named, the large one on the shop floor is Archie.”

What’s new: An Isabelline collection a combination of yellows and greys with striking herringbone patterns.

Favourite Bath indie: The Fig Store, on Walcot Street.

74 Walcot Street, Bath; www.katherinefraser.co.uk

GRACE & TED

Owners: Emma and Sharon Savage All about it: At the store you’ll find pre-owned designer clothes for men and women – think Chanel, Gucci, Prada and Mulberry, but at a fraction of their original price.

The beginning: “Number 10 Kingsmead Square has been a secondhand clothes shop for over 35 years and we had no intention of changing that when we took over,” says Emma. “We wanted to focus on top-end labels in excellent condition and create a unique, exciting and satisfying shopping experience.”

Ethos: “Fashion isn’t about rules or trends; if you like it, wear it.”

Fun fact: “Our shop dog, Charlie the Schnoodle, is always on hand to sit on your lap or go through your shopping bags.”

What’s new: “We’ve just redecorated our

Above: Model wearing one of Katherine Fraser’s bespoke scarves Below: Emma and Sharon Savage of Grace & Ted

menswear department, so the boys of Bath have room to themselves filled with designer goodies.”

Favourite Bath indie: Grasse, on Argyle Street.

10 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.graceandted.co.uk

MOSS OF BATH

Owners: The Moss family All about it: It’s an independent TV and hi-fi retailer, providing bespoke home and business entertainment solutions.

The beginning: It was founded in 1962 by Frank Moss and originally focused on retailing small electrical appliances and black and white TVs. Fun fact: When TV remotes were first available, Frank and his son, Tim, had a well-rehearsed jokey routine: one would ask a customer to speak to the TV in order to change channel, and the other, with the remote hidden from view, would select the channel. They told customers it was a futuristic voice-activated TV set.

What’s new: They are in the process of transforming the Georgian drawing room on the first floor above the store into a ‘Smarthome’ showroom where customers, architects and interior designers can view the latest products.

Favourite Bath indie: Society Café, on Kingsmead Square.

45 St James’ Parade, Bath; www.mossofbath.co.uk w 44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

IF MORE OF US

VALUED FOOD AND CHEER AND SONG ABOVE HOARDED GOLD IT WOULD BE A

MERRIER WORLD

your local Villeroy & Boch stockists 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS | 01225 309110 www.bathroomsatno5.co.uk

INDIES SPECIAL

SHOPPING

BERTIE & JACK

Above: Emma and Rebecca outside their Bertie & Jack stall on Burton Street. Below: A beautiful bespoke ring from Orton Jewellery

THE GUILDHALL DELI

Owner: Miranda Sidwick All about it: It’s a small delicatessen offering a variety of locally sourced products.

Fun fact: “Sir Terry Wogan and Mason McQueen visited us last year and included us in their TV documentary, Terry and Mason’s Great Food Trip,” says Miranda. “We can also include presenter Adam Henson and the actor Kris Marshall as our customers!”

Ethos: “As Tolkien said: ‘If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world’.”

What’s new: “At the moment, we are promoting our picnic and lunch menus and offering a preorder and collection service.”

Favourite Bath indie: Woods the Stationers, on Old Bond Street.

8a Guildhall Market, Bath; www.bathguildhallmarket.co.uk/the-guildhalldelicatessen

ORTON JEWELLERY

FASHION ISN’T ABOUT RULES OR TRENDS; IF YOU LIKE IT, WEAR IT!

Owners: Lee and Christine Orton All about it: “Established for 16 years, we have a large showroom with a visible workshop on-site,” says Christine. “A team of goldsmiths are designing and creating bespoke jewellery in-house, and a wide variety of watches and gifts are also available.”

Ethos: “The most precious pieces of jewellery are still those which are handmade.”

Fun fact: “Our team have over 90 years’ experience in the jewellery industry.”

What’s new: A range incorporating unusual stones such as purple sapphires and lime green garnets.

Favourite Bath indie: Topping and Company Booksellers, on The Paragon.

6-7 Market Street, Bradford on Avon; www.ortonjewellery.co.uk

Owners: Emma Hughes and Rebecca Macey-Cross All about it: The business offers a colourful range of handmade, personalised wall art inspired by nature, family life and the owners’ adventures. They have also created a range of cushions and cards.

The beginning: Their ambition was, and still is, to build a creative business that worked around their growing families. “We started back in 2010 and had just enough savings to invest in a market stall, a small amount of materials and pay the first month’s rent on our street trading pitch in Bath,” says Emma. “It was scary, but exciting!”

Ethos: “Colour is king and pattern is power.”

Fun fact: The business is named after Rebecca’s daughter, Bertie, and Emma’s son, Jack.

What’s new: The launch of their Mushy Messenger range of cut-out artworks. Customers can choose a design, pattern and frame, and add their own message to create an original artwork.

Favourite Bath indies: Repack Espresso, on Upper Bristol Road; and Beyond the Kale, Green Park Station.

Market stall on Burton Street; bertieandjack.co.uk

ROSSITERS OF BATH

Owners: Ann-Marie and Peter James All about it: At the five-floor emporium, you’ll find homeware, fashion, gifts and a personal wedding list service.

The beginning: Rossiters was first established in 1961 by the Rossiter family, who had been influenced by time spent living in Bermuda and the shops they had experienced there. Their decision to set up a similar store in the UK was in parallel with design-led businesses, like The Conran Shop, which were emerging in London.

Fun fact: They’ve had a had a whole host of celebrity visitors over the years – everyone from John Cleese to Robbie Williams.

What’s new: Look out for colourful and vivid Hammam throws, leather pouffes and vintage Moroccan pots.

Favourite Bath indie: Grace & Mabel, Broad Street.

38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

SPOTTY HERBERTS

Owners: Kate Austin and Emily Ingram All about it: “It’s a shop for children to enjoy, with clothes they’d love to wear and pocketmoney toys to take on adventures.”

The beginning: “Having young children and a shared background in arts, interiors, children’s workshops, design and retail, we had a clear vision of the shop we wanted to create,” says Kate.

What’s new: “We’re very excited about The Luggy - a little wicker trolley, which will be arriving in stock this month. We’re also delighted to be stocking the Tootsa/Saltwater sandals for boys and girls.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

SHOPPING

INDIES SPECIAL

Looking forward to: “On 2 July we’ll be celebrating our first year on Queen Street with a day of silliness lead by Bobo Boggle & Co. There’ll be goody bags, magic acts, badgemaking, crazy balloons and special offers. Do come along and help us celebrate!”

Favourite Bath indie: A Yarn Story, on Walcot Street; and Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, John Street.

5 Queen Street, Bath; www.spottyherberts.com

Owners: Michelle Aitken and Jacqui Edmiston All about it: “We offer a unique mix of contemporary British designer-made pieces alongside vintage finds,” says Jacqui. “We also offer styling, sourcing and selling services as well as an ever-changing collection of furniture, lighting, artwork and homeware.”

The beginning: Michelle has worked as an interior stylist in Bath for years and Jacqui has a background in sales and marketing. They say Verve was born from a desire to champion the creative talent all around them, combined with a determination to make good design both accessible and affordable.

Fun fact: “As she was leaving, we realised that the mysterious, petite customer with a head scarf and dark glasses was none other than the singer Kylie Minogue.”

What’s new: “Cushions and lampshades in subtle velvets, fabulous floral brights, divine linens and new artworks from Andrea Wright.”

Favourite Bath indie: Simon Jackson Decorative Antiques & Interiors, on Walcot Buildings.

15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

FARPOINT

Owners: Mark Hooper and Penny Tombs All about it: Farpoint is a Bose premium partner and an Apple authorised re-seller and service centre, specialising in repairs and sales of Mac computers.

The beginning: “Mark has been working with computers since the early days,” says Penny. “The business was formed from his want to share his collective knowledge.”

Fun fact: “Macs always seem to attract the creatives among us, and Farpoint has quickly become a hub for many – barely a week goes by where we’re not star-struck by someone who wanders through the door.”

What’s new: “Our latest favourite – a range of wireless headphones from Bose, guaranteed to change the way you enjoy your music.”

Favourite Bath indie: Gold & Platinum Studio, on Northumberland Place.

Walcot Street, Bath; www.farpoint.me

MY SMALL WORLD

Owner: Dawn Burden All about it: Renowned for its fabulous mix of wooden toys and games, the award-winning 48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY ASH JAMES

VERVE

toy store mixes traditional classics with funky new design.

The beginning: The store began in 2005, when Dawn’s children were two and three years old.

She wanted to create a shopping experience for parents and grandparents that she says didn’t seem to exist at the time – child-friendly and completely hands-on.

Ethos: “Be kind. Be gentle. Play all day.”

Fun fact: “Lionel, My Small World’s very wellridden rocking horse, is made by The Stevenson Brothers – who made Prince George’s famous rocking Zebra,” says Dawn.

What’s new: “A host of classic outdoor and garden games – think Hoopla, Tin Can Alley and Fishing Ducks.”

Favourite Bath indie: Found, on Argyle Street.

19-21 St Lawrence Street, Bath; www.mysmallworld.co.uk

Top: Spotty Herberts’ colourful children’s clothing display Above: A stylish living room setting

by Verve

FLAMINGO

Owners: Amanda and Simon Brown All about it: It’s a design-led card, art and gift shop which also offers works by Amanda that can be commissioned and personalised.

The beginning: Having been in the card business for 25 years and having taken part in the Widcombe Art Trail for the last five, Amanda found there was a demand for her work.

When the opportunity came about to take on a premises in Widcombe, Flamingo was born.

Ethos: “Fun, fabulous and friendly.”

What’s new: “We have created a Wimbledon range including framed prints and cards and, should England win Euro 2016, you can expect something along that theme.”

Looking forward to: Flamingo’s first anniversary party in September.

Favourite Bath indie: Widcombe Deli, Widcombe.

7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.amandabrowndesign.co.uk

w

THINKING POSITIVELY Bath Tourism Plus is embarking on a plan to help support the independent businesses of Bath and to promote the city’s unique retail offerings.

They are starting a voluntary group called Positive Projects for Bath Independents, that will work to help facilitate immediate impact as well as aiming to sustain, promote and develop Bath’s local shops and retailers.

There will be forum meeting on 6 July at 6pm at The Bath Function Rooms to allow independents to come forward with some short-term ideas that can help to support the indies.

To register for free, please visit: www.eventbrite.com

SHOPPING

INDIES SPECIAL

INDIES DIRECTORY Just a handful of the local shops and boutiques that help make Bath what it is Ace Optics and Cameras 16 Green Street, Bath; 01225 466364; www.aceoptics.co.uk

The Fig Store 76 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 428031; www.thefigstore.com

Antique Textiles and Lighting Lansdown Rd, Bath 01225 310795 www.antiquesofbath.com

Found 17 Argyle Street; 01225 422001 www.foundbath.co.uk

Article 3 Bartlett St, Bath 01225 460189 www.articlebath.com Bartlett Street Antiques Centre 8 Bartlett Street, Bath 01225 487888; www. bartlettstreetantiquescentre.com The Bath Framer 7 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 01225 920210 www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk Brissi 38 Milsom Street, Bath; 01225 461145; www.brissi.com Chanii B Milsom Place, 43 Milsom Street, Bath; 01225 333693 www.chaniibshoes.com Charlotte Brunswick 3 Church Street, Bath 01225 287669 www.charlottebrunswick.co.uk The Curtain Exchange 11 Widcombe Hill, Bath 01225 422078 www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk Dible and Roy Bridge House, Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; 01225 862320 www.dibleandroy.co.uk The Dressing Room 7 Quiet Street, Bath; 01225 330563 www.dressingroombath.com Fabulous SouthGate, Bath; 01225 330333; www.fabulouscollections.co.uk

Vintage-look doll’s houses at My Small World toy store

Framecraft Bath Green Park Station, Bath; 01225 447072; www.framecraft.com The Framing Workshop 80 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com Gold and Platinum Studio 19 Northumberland Place, Bath 01225 462300; www. goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk Guildhall Deli 55-57 Guildhall Market, Bath 01225 427195 www.theguildhalldeli.co.uk Haliden Oriental Carpets 98 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Homefront 10 Margarets Buildings, Bath 01225 571711 www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk Howl & Wolf and Blue The Loft, 1/2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 462111 www.theloftbath.com Independent Spirit of Bath 7 Terrace Walk, Bath; 01225 340636; www. independentspiritofbath.co.uk Loake 15 Green Street Bath; 01225 428081; www.loake.co.uk Mallory 1-5 Bridge Street; 01225 788800 www.mallory-jewellers.com Maze 19 Green Street, Bath; 01225 789398; www.mazeclothing.co.uk

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

Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights 14-15 John Street, Bath 01225 331155 www.mrbsemporium.com Nicholas Wylde 12 Northumberland Place, Bath 01225 462826 www.nicholaswylde.com Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk Old Bank Antiques 16 & 17 Walcot Buildings, Bath 01225 338813 www.oldbankantiquescentre. com

Robert Welch 6 Broad Street, Bath 01225 336530 www.robertwelch.com Silcox Son and Wicks 5-7 New Street, Bath 01225 463933; www.silcox.co.uk The Silver Shop 25 Union Passage, Bath 01225 464781 www.thesilvershop.eu.com TR Hayes 15-18 London Street, Bath 01225 465757; www.trhayes.co.uk

Owl in the Ivy 4 Cleveland Pl, Bath 07966 788070

Up to Seven 104 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 463966; www.uptoseven.co.uk

Pencil Tree 5 Cleveland Pl, Bath 01225 427008 www.penciltree.co.uk

Woodhouse and Law 4 Georges Place, Bath 01225 428072 www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

Pefect Rooms Silver St, Gastard, Corsham 01249 716445 www.perfectrooms.co.uk

Woods The Stationers 12 Old Bond Street, Bath 01225 445347 www.woodsthestationers.co.uk

D ELAN CLEVRRACE TE

D AN EL EV CL E AC PL

Cleveland Terrace vintage interior shopping • Free parking outside and on Cleveland Place • Individual, independent shops • Art, antiques, vintage furniture and plants

Original Art • Interior Design Vintage and Midcentury Furniture 5 Cleveland Terrace, Bath, BA1 5DF 01225 427008 Opening times Mon - Sat 10.30am - 5.30pm WWW.PENCILTREE.CO.UK

Natural living with Salvaged Style A unique lifestyle store offering furniture, homewares and botanics.

Wed - Sat 10.30am - 5.30pm or by appointment Tel: 07966 788070

JAMES TOWNSEND Eclectic stock ranging from Georgian antiques to retro pieces Opening times Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm Tel: 07970 779482 FREE LOCAL DELIVERY 20% discount on jtantiques stock un til end of Ju ly

N I G H T W E A R & B E A C H L I N G E R I E , I N F I N E S T T H E

OFFICE SUPPLIES OFFICE FURNITURE OFFICE MACHINES

DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR...

TEL: 01249 444777 EMAIL: SALES@WOODSOFFICE.CO.UK WWW.WOODSOFFICE.CO.UK

Woods the stationers

OUR SHOP HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED IN BATH FOR OVER 200 YEARS 7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU T: 01225 330563 E: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com

Come in for all your day to day and gift stationery

12 Old Bond Street, Bath Tel: 01225 445 347

Engagement, Wedding and Eternity rings Design • Commissions • Workshop on premises • Wedding Rings

Tel: 01225 309039

www.ortonjewellery.co.uk

6-7 Market Street, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LH Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10-5pm or by appointment!

T h e C u r ta i n E x c h a n g e For the best dressed windows

IN BATH

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT | Tel: 01225 422078 | www.curtainexchangebath.co.uk

R E TA I L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP!

The listed Victorian building has a stunning vaulted glass roof

It's all aboard for a culinary, shopping and browsing delight in the stunning glass-roofed Green Park Station

G

reen Park Station is home to some of the most popular monthly markets in the South West, as well as an array of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Set in a beautiful, listed Victorian building with a stunning vaulted curved glass roof and a rich history, this central spot is just a 10-minute walk from Bath Spa train and bus stations.

The Green Park markets have a unique and creative collection of traders, making it easy for you to enjoy a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. With a wide variety of goods on sale, from handcrafted designer-maker and artisan gifts, to vintage and retro fashion, there really is something for everyone.

An essential part of any bustling market is good quality hot food, and Green Park Station has become something of a culinary haven.

Alongside the hugely successful Green Park Brasserie, a long established restaurant and bar, the market has a growing street food scene. You can visit the Thai Hut for sizzling BBQ skewers and creamy vegetable curry, The Express Café for incredible lamb and mint burgers, and the delightful Beyond the Kale for toasted sweet chilli and falafel salad wraps, and hot vegan soups.

Start-up business Manna From Avon is launching in July, and will add street food from the East into the mix, lovingly re-created In Bath by two aspiring foodies. As if that wasn’t

enough, the station is now a regular home to both the Bath Pizza Co and The Pizza Bike, and the smell of fresh pizzas as you walk through the station is divine!

Tempted? Then make Green Park Station your destination and eat local.

Green Park Station, Green Park Road, Bath BA1 1JB 01225 787912 gps@ethicalproperty.co.uk www.greenparkstation.co.uk

A D D I N G A N OT H E R

DIMENSION TO

FRAMING

W

e all have drawers where we hide away Grandad’s medals or a collection of antique corkscrews, a signed rugby shirt or a child’s first shoes. Why not frame, display and enjoy the memories that these can invoke?

The variety of unusual items we’ve framed is vast and we believe we can frame pretty much anything! Try us - here are just a few ideas to stimulate your imagination…

80 WALCOT STREET, BATH BA1 5BD TEL : 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com

CURTAINS | BLINDS | CUSHIONS | ACCESSORIES | UPHOLSTERY SUPPLIERS OF A LARGE SELECTION OF QUALITY FABRICS

HANDMADE, MEASURING & FITTING SERVICE

The Workshop,10 St. Martins Park, Marshfield SN14 8PQ Tel: 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk

BARTLETT STREET

ANTIQUES

Offering a diversity and quality of stock to rival London’s Bond Street or the Portobello Road.

For the most comprehensive collection of quality Antiques, Jewellery, Fine Silver, Vintage Collectables and Fine Art outside of London with in-house working Goldsmiths.

Over 70 specialist dealers showing on stands and displaying in showcases.

#BartlettStreetQuarter Bartlett Street Antiques Centre 8 Bartlett Street Bath BA1 2QZ • Email: bartlettstreet@yahoo.co.uk Open 10am - 4.30pm Monday to Saturday, closed Sundays and Public Holidays

To contact individual dealers by telephone please use our website:

www.bartlettstreetantiquescentre.com

P R erfect

ooms

INTERIOR DESIGN FOR RESIDENTIAL AND CONTRACT CLIENTS For made to measure beautiful curtains, pelmets, roman blinds, cushions, bedspreads, valances and upholstery.

POP IN AND TAKE A LOOK AT OUR SHOWROOM COFFEE SHOP OPENING 24TH JUNE Monday – Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm Saturday 10am – 4pm Sunday - Closed PERFECT ROOMS, SILVER STREET SHOWROOM, SILVER STREET, GASTARD, WILTSHIRE, SN13 9PY Plenty of parking for our customers

WWW.PERFECTROOMS.CO.UK • TEL: 01249 716445 PERFECTROOMS@BTCONNECT.COM

GoldHandmade & Platinum Studio and Bespoke Jewellery

19 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR I Tel: 01225 462 300 Email: mike@goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk Visit our new website: www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk Beautifully crafted engagement rings, wedding rings and fine jewellery designed and traditionally handmade on the premises. All types of jewellery remodelled. Efficient repair service. Established 1970

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED 25 YEARS IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST

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My Small World Little Southgate, Bath Tel. 01225 938338

“stick to the things you love”

The

Guildhall Delicatessen

Situated in Bath’s famous indoor market

We now stock a wide range of vegan, vegetarian and meat based products as well as delicious cakes and Bath Buns. Ideal for lunches, picnics or any time snacks. Come and order you picnic and collect it when you need it. We can even cater for small business lunches.

15 walcot buildings. london rd. ba1 6ad free parking in weymouth st. w w w. v e r v e l i v i n g . u k furniture – styling – artworks – classes

HANDMADE ARTISAN RUGS T H AT M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E

Our range includes: Vegan, lamb or chicken samosas, veggie or meat pasties, bhajis, vegan or pork sausage rolls and veggie or pork scotch eggs. We also and stock a range of speciality scotch eggs, pork pies and vegetarian quiches. Why not add a Lovely juice drink to your picnic.

Open Mon - Sat, 9.30 - 17.00

8 Guildhall Market, Bath BA2 4AW • Tel: 01225 427195 email: guildhall-deli@hotmail.co.uk twitter: @GuildhallDeli

Demo rides available

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Handmade kilims with colourful designs add character to any space and Oriental Rugs of Bath have some of the best-looking ones available today. With prices starting from only £60 in a wide range of designs and sizes, there's bound to be a rug for everyone.

For showroom details, more information and to order, visit orientalrugsofbath.com or call 01761451764

ELECTRIC BIKE SPECIALISTS SALES - SERVICE - HIRE

Bike sale now on!

Whichever your riding style, Take Charge Bikes have the electric bike to suit you.

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C L E A N I N G • R E S TO R AT I O N • VA L U AT I O N

1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EH 01225 789568 info@takechargebikes.co.uk www.takechargebikes.co.uk * Finance on full price bikes only

Music/theatre/film/more

WEIR, OH WEIR

Basing his paintings on what he sees in everyday life, Alasdair Lindsay’s studio work is down to decisions based on instinct rather than theory. He studies interesting places and, though he sometimes sketches on site, will usually paint from memory and through experimentation. His acrylic-on-canvas take of Bath’s Pulteney Bridge and Weir is just one of the abstract artworks that will be on display at Adam Gallery for the next two weeks. The Cornwall-based artist says he has always been drawn to the sea, and many of his paintings – including this one – study, from above, the areas where bodies of water meet land.

“The grid-like forms of aerial landscape and long, narrative shadows have struck a chord with my way of working,” he says. “Over the last few years I have mainly been painting the Thames from above, along with aerial subjects closer to home.”

Often the subject of his paintings becomes secondary to the emerging pattern of abstract areas which, he says, must be evaluated and perhaps edited for the sake of the overall composition.

“For me a painting should be an object of aesthetic pleasure and exploration,” he says. “This may be from the reaction of colours to give a certain mood, or from the contrast of fluid or rough brushwork sitting next to areas of precise painting.”

The River Avon at Pulteney Bridge, by Alasdair Lindsay, is part of a current exhibition at Adam Gallery, 13 John Street, Bath, until 8 July; www.adamgallery.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

25 June – 23 July

Take a little walkie to the Rostra Gallery to see this ceramic French bulldog by Joanne Cooke; Andy Zaltzman brings his unique brand of political and satirical comedy to Komedia; expect world-class music from Stephen Hough when he joins the Bath Philharmonia at The Forum Bath to perform Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

Exhibitions U N TI L 1 J ULY

JEREMIAH! INSPIRED INTERIORS For almost seven decades, Jeremiah Goodman’s studied brushstrokes have chronicled the homes of the famous and the fashionable. More than mere illustrations, his interpretive and inspiring paintings of interiors convey his rare ability to infuse static rooms with warmth and the absent occupant’s personality.

The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org U N TI L 8 J ULY

SIMON POOLEY AND ALASDAIR LINDSAY Two new painters to the gallery are Simon Pooley, whose training

as an architect maybe ensures a strong sense of structure is present in his work, and Alasdair Lindsay, who creates with the belief a painting should be an object of aesthetic pleasure and exploration. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com U N TI L 2 3 JU LY

FRESHFORD FANCY Award-winning local artist Emma Rose exhibits a new collection of original art, limited-edition prints and canvas prints. Using Indian inks and acrylics she produces vibrant and distinctive studies of landscapes, both real and imagined, including the stunning Nothing Is Ours Except Time; The Galleries, Freshford; www. emmaroseartworks.com

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

UNTIL 4 SEP TEMBER

A ROOM OF THEIR OWN: LOST BLOOMSBURY INTERIORS An assortment of artistic treasures from the 1920s are brought to life by recreating the famous Bloomsbury rooms, with works

by Roger Fry and Duncan Grant, including his portrait of Vanessa Bell, who was the painter and interior designer sister of Virginia Woolf. Many of the objects and paintings, amassed from private and public collections, have not been seen together for over 50 years. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 4 SEP TEMBER

CARLOS ZAPATA: CARNIVAL Carlos Zapata was born in Colombia in 1963 and currently

lives near Falmouth, Cornwall.

Self-taught, his painted wood carvings belong to and take inspiration from folk and tribal arts from all over the world.

His work, which is in museums around the world reflects both his experience of living in a foreign country, and life in Colombia where a civil war rages on relatively unnoticed by the outside world. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 1 O CT O B ER

THE REMARKABLE MISS BRETON Produced in collaboration with Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, this exhibition celebrates the life and works of Victorian archeologist, artist, explorer and Bathonian Adela Breton, who is best known for her watercolour

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

copies of the wall paintings of Mexican temples, which have been an invaluable contribution to archaeological records. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.brlsi.org UNTI L 1 3 O C T O B E R

1ST WORLD WAR ACTS OF KINDNESS This exhibition, funded by the Heritage Lottery, reflects upon the day-to-day life at the Bath War Hospital and offers the opportunity to explore the concept of compassionate community support, and the comfort that this brought to recovering soldiers, as well as insight into how such relationships support treatment and wellbeing. RUH Bath; www.artatruh.org UNTI L 2 7 N O V E MBE R

PLANNING FOR PEACE While Great Britain was in the middle of the First World War, architect Robert Atkinson designed an extraordinary project to redevelop the city of Bath. His incredible unbuilt designs, which included an amphitheatre, a huge war memorial and a concert hall are explored in this fascinating exhibition. Were they really going to demolish the beautiful Georgian buildings, or was it all an elaborate ruse to distract the citizens from the misery of war?

Museum of Bath Architecture; www.museumofbatharchitecture. org.uk UNTI L 1 1 D E C E MBE R

DAILY DELIGHTS OF GEORGIAN BATH Using Thomas Rowlandson’s famous 1798 satirical etchings, The Comforts of Bath, as inspiration, the more decadent side of Bath is celebrated. This exhibition explores the rich amusements Bath had to offer such as dinners with 20 different dishes and card games where £10,000 could be lost in one sitting. There is also a collection of exquisite and expensive trinkets visitors often treated themselves to in the city’s ‘toyshops’, including a tiny ivory cage used for keeping a pet cricket. No. 1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk UNTI L 1 J ANUARY 2 0 1 8

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS The Fashion Museum presents 100 ‘star’ objects that illustrate a

history of fashion from the 1600s to the present day, referencing moments in history, as well as more personal stories. See an intricately-embroidered waistcoat worked in coloured silks and glittering metal thread worn by an aristocratic woman from the time of Shakespeare, then fast forward 300 years and see an appliqué embroidered jacket by Paris couturier Lucien Lelong, worn

by Gone with the Wind actress Vivien Leigh in 1948; www. fashionmuseum.co.uk 1 – 3 0 JU LY

IN SEARCH OF CORNISH LIGHT A mecca for artists particularly throughout the past hundred years, the Cornish peninsula offers not only spectacular landscape and coastal vistas, but a special quality of Atlantic light unique to that part of the British Isles. This exhibition by four painters who have all, at some point of their career, migrated to Cornwall, captures the essence of light and effect of coastal atmosphere that continues to inspire so many painters today.

David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary. com

Top to bottom: Sunset Rooks by Simon Pooley can ve seen at the Adam Gallery; Prior Park College stage Rossini’s Barber of Seville in their gardens

a fundraising exhibition called Tulip and filling a gallery room with artwork that honours the tulip, via a multitude of creative guises from artists. These will include contributions received from an open call to any creatives wishing to participate. All work donated will then go on sale.

44AD; www.44ad.net

2 J ULY – 27 AUG UST

THE SUMMER EXHIBITION: SCULPTURE Rostra Gallery continues its Summer Exhibition with a fantastic new collection of sculpture from some of the best artists working today. This is a chance to see some highly collectable pieces of sculpture finished to precision from artists such as Eleanor Bartleman and Joanne Cooke. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Plays/Shows 4 J ULY

8 - 10 J ULY

TULIP To celebrate its 40th birthday, the charity Dorothy House is holding

JULIAN DEANE AND ANDY ZALTZMAN Expect a ton of comedic talent as part of the exclusive Edinburgh w

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

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Preview line-up. Julian Deane has been wowing audiences across the country with his genius punch lines and perfect delivery, while Andy Zaltzman has firmly established himself in the vanguard of British comedy with his unique brand of political satire. 7pm, Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

9 J ULY

KING PORTER STOMP Energetic, dynamic and refreshingly unique, King Porter Stomp showcase a new world sound to maximum effect. With afro funk horn lines, dub reggae rhythms, harmonious hooks and conscious rhymes, King Porter Stomp’s all encompassing live show connects with every audience in mind, body and spirit. 8pm, Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

U N TI L 9 J ULY

PRESENT LAUGHTER Two of the UK’s favourite actors star in what is widely acknowledged to be Noël Coward’s funniest play. Mr Selfridge’s Samuel West plays the charming, ageing and spoilt Garry Essendine, and Downton Abbey’s Phyllis Logan plays Monica, his long-suffering secretary. Garry is determined to disregard his advancing years by reveling in endless tantrums and casual affairs but finds himself besieged by his secretary and his estranged wife. See our interview with Phyllis Logan on page 68. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 12 – 1 6 J ULY

SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER The Next Stage Theatre Company present Suddenly Last Summer by Tennessee Williams, which tells the dark story of Catharine Holly who appears to have gone insane after witnessing her cousin Sebastian’s death under mysterious circumstances.

Fearing that scandal and gossip will tarnish her beloved son’s memory and reputation, Sebastian’s socialite mother seeks the help of the inscrutable Dr Cukrowicz to silence Catharine.

Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

Music 25 JUNE

MONEY FOR NOTHING Money for Nothing was formed in 2000 as a tribute to one of the world’s premier rock bands – Dire Straits. The abundant energy and the excellence and musicality of their performance, makes Money for Nothing a must see for any rock enthusiast or Dire Straits fan.

7pm, Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

Family fun UNTIL 30 O CT O B ER

Suddenly Last Summer by Tennessee Williams performs at the Mission Theatre 1 JU LY

THE KAST-OFF KINKS This great line-up features longterm members of the original legendary band The Kinks. Mick Avory, the original drummer; John Dalton on bass/vocals; and Ian Gibbons on keyboards/vocals, are joined on guitar and vocals

by Dave Clarke who has played with the Beach Boys. Expect all the amazing hits including, You Really Got Me, Dedicated Follower of Fashion, Sunny Afternoon, Lola, Waterloo Sunset and Come Dancing.

7.30pm, Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org 2 JU LY

HEBRIDEAN CONNECTIONS The talented young Scottish pianist Christopher Guild will guide us on a voyage of discovery through music both familiar and new as we travel north to Scotland, working our way to the Orkneys and across to the Hebrides. This fascinating concert features three composers who were appointed as Masters of the Queen’s Music at various times. All of them were inspired by, and shared a love of, this magical Gaelic land of rugged landscapes and remote islands.

7.30pm, The Pump Room; www. bathrecitals.com

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7 J ULY

ROSSINI’S BARBER OF SEVILLE GARDEN OPERA London-based Garden Opera Company stage a very special performance of Rossini’s humorous masterpiece, to help raise funds for Bath charity Julian House, which can be enjoyed with a bring-your-own picnic in the picturesque grounds of Prior Park College. The well-known tunes along with the lively plot have made this a popular and accessible opera. Gates open at 5.30pm and the performance starts at 7pm. Prior Park College; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk 8 J ULY

BATH PHILHARMONIA In this concert for the people of Bath, the city’s professional orchestra pays tribute to the memory of local philanthropist, Brian Roper who died last year.

There’s live choreographed images from NASA spacecraft, photos from Mars rover and videos from the European Space Agency as Bath Phil journey across the solar system with Holst’s The Planets. Joining them is one of the world’s great pianists Stephen Hough, who will perform Rachmaninov’s wondrous Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. 7.30pm, The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

ON THE WILD SIDE BY SIMON KING Longleat plays host to worldrenowned TV wildlife presenter, photographer and cameraman Simon King’s latest exhibition.

King has been concealing himself throughout Longleat’s animal paddocks during the winter, capturing unique images of the animals inside their world, from a never-seen-before perspective.

To complement the safari park’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition will be included in the entrance fee. Longleat; www. longleat.co.uk 25 J UNE

TEAM BATH FAMILY FUN DAY Ahead of this summer’s Olympic Games, there will be a Rio theme to the annual open day at the Sports Training Village.

Try new sports like badminton, fencing, swimming, tennis and trampolining; take part in the Olympic Day Run; or relax on the Team Bath Beach – there’s an activity for all the family.

12pm-4pm, University of Bath; www.teambath.com 2 J ULY

WILDFLOWER WALK To celebrate National Meadows Day, explore Sham Castle Down on the Bath Skyline, rich in wildflowers, with a Skyline ranger and members of the Bath Natural History Society. 10.30am-12pm, Bath Skyline; www.nationaltrust. org.uk/bath-skyline 3 J ULY

FLIT, FLAP & FLY A squawking adventure that follows a young chick’s frantic w

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and funny journey towards independence, and his relationship with his fine-singing father. The audience is invited to join the pair in the nest, where they find themselves part of the daily life of a unique bird family.

1pm and 3pm, Bath City Farm; www.bathcityfarm.org.uk

8-18 J ULY

BENEDICTINE BATH FESTIVAL Explore over 1,000 years of Benedictine history and heritage, with displays of rare books and manuscripts, daily tours, vespers and familyfriendly events at various locations all over Bath. For full listings, visit www.downside.co.uk

16 -1 7 J ULY

BRADFORD ON AVON MINI BOOK FESTIVAL A two-day extravaganza of activities, discussions and artwork with book illustrators and local authors including Fleur Hitchcock and Emily Readers, to celebrate a summer of reading challenges.Bradford on Avon library; www.wiltshire.gov.uk

9 J ULY

BATH CRICKET CLUB HOEDOWN Bath Cricket Club are hosting a spectacular hoedown with a difference in a huge marquee on their ground at North Parade complete with a bucking bronco, tequila girls and a wild west dance group. There’s also live music featuring some of the best bluegrass players in the country – including the incredible Leon Hunt – a barn dance, as well as top party sounds from Vegas, followed by dance tunes from exIbiza DJ Dave Nelson. 7.30pm, North Parade; www.bathcricket.com

Other U N TI L 3 0 S E P T

FRANKENSTEIN IN BATH It may have started in Geneva, but most of Frankenstein was written in Bath by Mary Shelley 200 years ago, and this nightly walk takes you to all the unmarked places that tell Mary’s chilling tales including that of Mary’s half sister’s suicide. The tour starts and ends at Rebecca’s Fountain

by Bath Abbey. 7.30pm, www. showofstrength.org.uk

9 J ULY

29 JUNE

KAY PLUNKETT-HOGGE Food writer and journalist Kay Plunkett-Hogge talks about her new book Heat, which showcases the chilli’s extraordinary versatility, celebrates its rich and nomadic history and discovers the secrets of its red-hot and enduring success. 7:30pm, Topping & Company Booksellers; www. toppingbooks.co.uk 2 JULY

INDEPENDENCE DAY FAIR Expect fun, games, and mouthwatering food from Spitfire Barbecue during the day, and in the evening, there’s music from Kabinrock on the lawns. 12pm8.30pm, American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org 2 - 3 JULY

BATH THAI FESTIVAL Experience the magic of Thailand with a weekend of wonder. The festival starts with a traditional food offering to Buddhist monks and a huge bill of entertainment

Top to bottom: See the many faces of King Porter Stomp at the Chapel Arts Centre; Bath goes carnival-crazy with a riot of sights and sounds on 12 July

throughout the day including Muay Thai boxing and a blindfold boxing competition, traditional Thai music and dancing, a Ladyboy show, Thai massage, a Thai beer garden, food and produce stalls selling a variety of south-east Asian cuisine and a magical children’s play area. Royal Victoria Park; www.magicofthailand.co.uk

able to experience some of the best countryside that the area has to offer, as well as feed-stations offering food and drink produce from local and regional suppliers to help refuel cyclists before the next leg of their journey. Turn to page 100 for our interview with Amy Williams, Bike Bath’s female ambassador. For more details, see www.bikebath.co.uk

3 JU LY

6 J ULY

BIKE BATH Now in its fifth year, this event prides itself on being more than ‘just a bike ride’. Riders can choose from routes of 25, 50 and 80 miles, many of which are brand new for 2016. The options cater for everyone, from the complete novice to the experienced riders. Snaking along local roads, riders will be

64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

DAN RICHARDS Bath-based writer Dan Richards is the great-great nephew of the early twentieth century, prominent pioneering mountaineer Dorothy Pilley, and has written a thrilling new travel book, Climbing Days, recalling and reliving her trailblazing adventures. 7pm, Mr B’s Emporium Of Reading Delights; www.mrbsemporium.com

WHITE ROW SUMMER NIGHT FESTIVAL A celebration of local food and drink, with marquees packed with regional producers offering tasters and tempting goodies to snap up, hay bale seats and live music playing through the afternoon and evening from some of the best loved local bands, including Slap Ya Mama.

4pm. White Row Farm; www. whiterowfarm.co.uk 12 J ULY

BATH CARNIVAL Bath will be transformed with the sights and smells of South America, with a free festival event in Sydney Gardens and a carnival procession around the centre of the city. The parade features school children, dance clubs, community groups and professional acts, setting off from Great Pulteney Street with the grand finale in Kingston Parade. The festival event in Sydney Gardens has stages with live music and entertainment, a children’s play zone and a range of food and drink traders. For all events and venues see www.bathcarnival.co.uk

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE BATH THURSDAY 7th JULY 2016 Sung in English accompanied by chamber ensemble Gates open for picnics at 5.30pm Opera commences at 7.00pm Wet weather venue available if necessary

Tickets: 01225 354656 www.bathboxoffice.org.uk Adults £38 Under 16s £20

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The LION KING of POP SARAH MOOLLA watches Elton John play Longleat and finds that the music legend is not only still standing, but is stronger than ever Pictures by CHR IS DAW

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here are many faces of Elton John: from legend to diva, from Lion King to Princess Diana, from Rocket Man to Tiny Dancer and from Watford FC lifelong fan to a trailblazer for gay rights. He’s as much part of the British fabric as fish and chips, football and the Queen. His illustrious 50-year career spans genres, fashions, trends and pretenders; it boasts Grammy awards, an Oscar, 300 million records sold and more than 50 top 40 hits, which means his music is woven into the tapestry of all our lives whether we are nine or 90.

His recent Longleat concert – which was the venue’s first gig since The Rolling Stones played in 1964 – is rumoured to be a-testthe-waters possible location for Glastonbury festival’s fallow year. So could Elton, his piano and his band hold the attention of a 15,000-strong crowd in such a large space, unaccustomed to playing host to a

The energetic, entertaining and legendary Elton John

superstar? The answer is, of course, yes, and then some. In fact, if Longleat had a roof, Elton would’ve raised it to high heaven.

From the moment the legendary pocketsized rocket man stepped on stage wearing a flamingo-and-flora-embellished black jacket, a cerise shirt and equally bright shoes, the crowd flew to their feet, roared their approval and absorbed every song sung and every note played.

There were moments when flashes of the tantrums-and-tiaras Elton emerged – fiercely dismissing photographers with a swoop of his hand like a bored and angry royal, chucking a glass of water over a crew member (it missed) and angrily moaning, “It’s so sunny, I can’t see a f***ing thing”.

However, this makes you love him more – what you see is the real Elton on show. Pure talent, total showman and a genuine man.

He knew just how to command and conduct his eclectic and diverse audience, which included Viscount Weymouth and his wife Lady Weymouth, through every second

The Longleat crowd roar their appreciation

LONGLEAT HAD A ROOF, ELTON WOULD’VE RAISED IT TO HIGH HEAVEN IF

of his nearly three-hour, energetic and always entertaining set.

From a hushed and emotional Candle in the Wind, which he dedicated to the victims of the Orlando shooting that had just happened that day, to the get-up-andmosh-pit-down-the-front Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting. Elton knew to deliver the well-known hits such as Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Rocket Man and Tiny Dancer with spirit and passion, and also managed not to lose his audience with his newer material (always tricky) which included the infectious, toe-tapping Looking Up with his distinctive killer piano riffs.

We bellowed, we blubbed, we bopped and we went bonkers for the Lion King of Pop that night on 12 June at Longleat. Not only is Elton still standing after all these years, but he still rocks and he will always rule.

For upcoming events, visit www.longleat.co.uk

66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

GO YOUR OWN WAY She’s perhaps best known as Mrs Hughes in ITV’s Downton Abbey, but her starring role in Noël Coward’s Present Laughter at the Theatre Royal Bath is about to bring out Phyllis Logan’s acerbic side. Here she tells LISA EVANS about ignoring bad advice and following her own path to greatness

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

ONE TO ONE

The things I have to take on tour with me… are good teabags. But I think I’ll manage to source a decent teabag in Bath. I definitely need my mobile phone and my little laptop so I can Skype with my husband though.

My best career moment was… doing Lovejoy. We laughed like drains for the whole time, however many years it was. It was the same with Downton Abbey. It sounds like an old cliché but we did become a bit of a family with the crew.

I get frustrated by… awful drivers and rude people.

My life motto is... go your own way and do only what makes you happy.

I FULLY INTEND TO BECOME A

TOURIST IN BATH AND TRY TO BITE OFF MORE THAN I CAN CHEW

Opposite page: Phyllis hasn’t performed at the Theatre Royal Bath before, so she’s looking forward to treading the boards; this page: Phyllis in rehearsals for Present Laughter

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he’s had nearly 40 successful years on the showbiz scene, but had it not been for her nobody-puts-Baby-in-thecorner attitude, Phyllis Logan would never have given acting a shot. Had she not ignored the advice of her mentors, she “probably would have joined the bank and given up on my dreams,” but she remained headstrong and did what she felt was right, and it certainly paid off.

“I told my careers advisor that I wanted to act for a living and he said ‘no’,” says the awardwinning actress, who’s best known as the starchy housekeeper Mrs Hughes in the ITV drama Downton Abbey. “He looked at me like I was crazy, said I needed specific qualifications and that I would never ‘make it’. He was talking bollocks, though.

“I wonder how many people’s dreams have been shattered by someone telling them they can’t do something? No one should let someone tell them they’re not good enough.”

She’s a woman who knows what she wants and has never changed the person she is for the sake of how others may perceive her. When training at drama school in Glasgow, she was encouraged to get rid of her Scottish accent. Phyllis point-blank refused.

“They ask that you adopt RP – Received Pronunciation – that’s what they do on the BBC,” says the BAFTA winner. “It’s perceived as an ‘accentless’ voice and one that everyone can clearly understand… I didn’t buy that idea at all.

“A lot of people I was training with started to lose their accents altogether – not just when they were acting, but in real life. I didn’t set out to prove anything by not letting mine change, I just didn’t want to lose a part of me.”

When she first read the part for Downton, she thought that an upper-class English accent would be mandatory, but a revolutionary thought occurred to her: Why not make Mrs Hughes a Scot?

“I was thinking that the syntax of what Mrs Hughes said could really work as a Scottish woman,” says Phyllis who also played the role of Lady Jane in 48 episodes of BBC’s Lovejoy. “They were delighted.”

And she says her newest role isn’t worlds apart from Mrs Hughes. She’ll soon be treading the boards in Bath where she’ll star in Present Laughter at the Theatre Royal. Phyllis will be on stage as Monica – a prickly, long-suffering

secretary, dealing with an egotistical boss.

“Monica reminds me of Mrs Hughes a little – obviously they are totally different people, but their humour is very similar,” she says. “Monica’s got a fairly ready wit and is quite acerbic, so she’s a good foil for her boss with his shenanigans and his egomania.”

The play, written by Noël Coward in 1939, tells the story of Garry Essendine – played by ITV’s Mr Selfridge’s Samuel West – a diva determined to disregard his advancing years by revelling in casual affairs. About to depart for Africa, he finds himself besieged by a bevy of would-be seductresses. As he attempts to disentangle himself from their clutches and demands, the sparkling comedy escalates.

The UK tour of the production kicks off in Bath and, having never performed at the Theatre Royal before, Phyllis is looking forward to sinking her teeth into our arts and culture scene.

“It’s going to be marvellous,” she says. “It’ll be lovely to spend some time in the city; I’m really looking forward to it. I fully intend to become a tourist in Bath and try to bite off more than I can chew.”

She describes returning to the stage after doing six series of Downton as “pretty scary”, but says it’ll be a thrill to experience a change of pace.

“It’s a bit like getting back on a bike,” she says. “You’re a bit wibbly-wobbly for the first 100 metres, but when you get around that first bend you’re back on track. Touring is the challenge. I don’t know when I last did that. I’m getting too old for this malarkey.

“It’s true as a woman particularly, the older you get, the parts get thinner on the ground and not quite as interesting,” adds the 60-year-old. “People are trying, and I think maybe the industry is waking up to the fact that women can be funny in comedies and can be in hit films.”

So what would be her ultimate role, then?

Would she like to star in a blockbuster Hollywood comedy, maybe?

“I used to long for glamorous roles, but now?

Honestly? My dream job would be to voice an animated film – I could just show up in my pyjamas, not have to have my hair and makeup done and just have fun all day. Oh, and, as it’s a dream job, I’d like to do it alongside Dame Judi Dench and Dame Maggie Smith, please. I don’t ask for much.”

PHOTO BY NOBBY CLARK

QUICKFIRE ROUND

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Phyllis Logan stars in Noël Coward’s Present Laughter, from 22 June to 9 July at the Theatre Royal Bath. For more and to book see www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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F E AT U R E

INTERIORS SPECIAL

MEET the MAKER Thanks to the growing make-do-and-mend trend, the crafting revolution is still going strong.

Here we meet with Emma Leith, the daughter of two renowned creative types, to talk about her treasure-trove atelier, how her recent battle with cancer has changed her outlook, and her upcoming plans to yarn-bomb Bath - again!

By L I SA E VA NS

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

ONE TO ONE

BATH IS FILLED WITH PEOPLE WHO APPRECIATE THE ARTS IN ALL ITS GUISES

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t’s no wonder, really, that Emma Leith is the wildly imaginative artist she is. Her mother created the now rare, vintage and collectible 3D sculptural Monkeypuzzle jigsaws, and her father animated and built the set and models for The Wombles and went on to animate Paddington Bear.

Whether it was growing up submerged in this creative world or whether it was in her genes, Emma discovered her passion for all things colourful as a child and is now an award-winning artist who owns an eponymous craft atelier based just outside Bath, in Box. Not all of you may know of Emma, but we can almost guarantee you’ve seen her work and inspiration around the city. Her medium? Not paints, not pencils, but yarn. Remember back in the spring when Bath was ‘yarn-bombed’ (when the city’s lampposts and stop signs were ensconced in woolly graffiti) during Bath in Fashion? Well that was her, and her army of loyal volunteers.

“Everything I do is about encouraging people to access their creativity,” says the artist who has been teaching craft masterclasses in mosaic, crochet and needle felting for 18 years. “I try to teach in such a way as to both inspire and break down people’s fear of not being good enough. My classes are really about freeing ourselves of all that stuff and genuinely just enjoying the process.

“Both my parents are really creative and that’s spread through to me,” adds Emma whose own daughter, Lili, is also an artist. “I grew up immersed in the animation world, thanks to my dad, Barry Leith, who is probably someone a lot of Bath Life readers will know. My main work is in mosaics, but there is a huge parallel between animation and mosaic as you have to visualise the end product by using much smaller parts.

“It’s all about colour for me. I need to surround my self with it - mosaic tiles, rugs on walls, beaded chandeliers, it really doesn’t matter, so long as it envelopes me and takes me to the creative place that lies within.”

We sat down with Emma to find out more about her creative impulses and inspirations… w

Emma Leith at home amongst her beautiful handmade creations

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Clockwise, from top: Emma Leith with her daughter, Lili and her two miniature dachshunds; Emma’s new PomPom Curtain Kit which is designed to brighten up any window; Part of the yarn-bombing display during Bath in Fashion 2016

There has been a huge resurgence in the amount of people who have rediscovered traditional, hands-on pastimes, such as crocheting, in a digital world. Why do you think that is?

We lead busy lives, and creative crafts are a way for us to unwind and reconnect to the playful child that lies within us. I believe people are hungry for authenticity. Gifting something that is handmade by you shows real heart. There’s a lot of emotional investment in a handmade piece that simply can’t be mass-produced. TV shows like The Great British Bake Off and The Great British Sewing Bee have encouraged people to really go for it and engage with their passions. The shows are a great endorsement of creativity and take crafts and baking from simple pastimes to the seriously professional level, and why not?

Bath is known for being an individualistic, quirky place. Do you think your business lends itself well to that dynamic?

Absolutely. Bath is filled with people who appreciate the arts in all its guises. I would love to have a shop in Bath’s artisan quarter – Walcot Street. I’m always on the look out because I think it’s perfect for me. I want to fill this city with colour!

You ‘yarn-bombed’ the city for Bath in Fashion again this year, which you’ve previously described it as ‘traditional graffiti’.

What’s the purpose behind it?

It reclaims and personalises sterile public spaces by drawing our attention to everyday street furniture that usually goes unnoticed. Yarn-bombing can also be a means of delivering a peaceful protest, with a growing number of people actively taking part in challenging the establishment and creating positive change. The reason so many people commit to taking part is because they are moved to contribute to the unseen ‘love economy’. These altruistic creative acts of kindness lift the hearts and spirits (hopefully) of people in Bath as they go about their business, as well as raise money for charity.

We have a huge display of poppies coming up in Corsham this October, and I’m in talks about doing something big for the Tour of Britain when it passes through Bath in September.

Who’s your biggest motivation and what have you learnt from them?

My mum, Carol Leith. The most valuable thing she’s taught me is to say ‘yes’ now and worry about ‘how’ later. Having this attitude and determination to see things through has expanded my life enormously.

Do your personal life experiences inspire your work?

Having recovered from cancer recently, I determined in my heart to create as much value 74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

for others as I possibly could. I was diagnosed in January, had a mastectomy in March and I’m just about up and running again. Whilst I may have lost a breast, I have also gained so much that I can say, with my hand on my heart, that I don’t regret a thing. Cancer makes you dig deep and it’s amazing what lies in the depths of our lives.

I have been surrounded by love and support and in turn do my best to pass this onto others. During my recovery I made a giant pink crochet ribbon that is decorated with hundreds of tiny crochet flowers sent to me from all over. It is destined for permanent display in the entrance of the RUH, for patients, visitors and staff to enjoy.

What’s in the pipeline for you?

I’m currently designing and manufacturing my own craft kits and a boho home range and I’ve recently started designing for a large wool company. I also have a Frome art boot sale coming up on 10 July and am already gearing up to feature at this year’s Bath Christmas Market!

For details of Emma’s upcoming classes, events, installations and exhibitions, visit emmaleith.co.uk

3 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT EMMA LEITH She met the late Muhammad Ali when she was eight “I sat on his lap; he looked into my eyes and told me to follow my dreams. I like to think I am doing just that.”

She’s a Nichiren Buddhist “Through my daily practice of chanting ‘Nam Myoho Renge Kyo’ (which literally translated means ‘I dedicate my life to the mystic law of cause and effect’), I am able to tap into the infinite potential that we all possess. We are all imbued with wisdom, courage and compassion and chanting draws this out of our lives.”

She appeared on BBC’s Home Away from Home last year “I swapped homes with people living on a canal boat. It was hilarious and such fun. Walking along the canal now, I often imagine living my life on a boat. In my head I have it all laid out and designed without a thought of the practicalities.”

BOOKS

ALL THESE LITTLE THINGS These non-fiction collections take a literary microscope to the minor details that we may otherwise miss

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

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fter looking at some mainly fictitious short stories last time around, this time I wanted to focus on some new non-fiction collections which share an ability to look, with great care and detail, at the little things.

Geoff Dyer can focus in on a moment with disarming precision, and humour. White Sands (Canongate, £16.99) contains a series of essays that could loosely be termed ‘travel writing’, although really they represent a mix of many genres, and in the introduction, Dyer himself is at pains to avoid all such labels.

There is no overall geographic structure but the collection sits really well together as many themes repeat Dyer’s love for the remote, his eagerness to connect with local folk (sometimes swiftly coupled with regret) and his interest in both fine and large-scale outdoor art.

The art theme kicks in at the outset as Dyer’s first piece describes, with trademark cantankerousness, an arduous journalistic trip to French Polynesia “in the footsteps of” Paul Gauguin. That doesn’t sound too arduous, but

Dyer is so brilliantly perceptive when it comes to life’s little irritations and contradictions.

Despite being in Tahiti, he bemoans the fact that because his trip is funded by the local tourist board, his itinerary is limited to the places visited by Gaugain. That leaves Dyer teasingly close to many gem locations but forced instead to spend time in far more banal ones.

Dyer’s ability to unpick a moment, and to describe what is happening rather than what is said, is best highlighted in the title essay, a short piece describing a road trip along a New Mexico desert highway. He paints a vivid picture of a harmonious happy car as he and his wife rattle along the road marvelling at the epic trains rolling alongside. The positive mood leads them to pick up a lone hitchhiker with whom they then have a pleasant chat until the atmosphere is changed completely by a sign warning against giving lifts because of nearby detention facilities. Dyer writes that though no-one speaks “I had seen the sign.

Jessica had seen the sign. Our hitchhiker had seen the sign and the sign had changed our relationship totally”.

While Dyer can show great awareness of

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a moment in time or space, Annie Dillard is the absolute mistress of that writing skill.

The Abundance (Canongate, £14.99) is a new collection of previously published essays which acts as a fantastic introduction to her work.

To read Dillard is to receive a stark reminder of the need to pay more attention to everything around us. She is an author who encourages us to engage with the world and to be present in each moment we spend in it (in a way she is a more lyrical embodiment of the business psychologist Amy Cuddy, whose book Presence I raved about here a few months ago). Invariably it’s the natural world, which takes centre stage in Dillard’s short pieces just as it tends to in her memoirs and novels (such as the Pulitzer prize-winning Pilgrim at Tinder Creek). But Dillard is just as comfortable scrutinising people or life in general – whatever she places beneath her literary microscope is rendered vivid by her exquisite prose.

The collection covers wide and varied ground. One moment you are transfixed by her description of a moth coming a cropper on a naked flame, the next you are vicariously experiencing a solar eclipse – not just the natural phenomenon itself but also the oddity of a moment shared with equally bemused strangers. It doesn’t take too many pages of Dillard before you start to fully appreciate why she has been lauded beyond just straight literary prizes – including being awarded a National Humanities Medal for her efforts in deepening the understanding of the human experience.

Finally, I wanted to highlight another collection that comes close to blurring the essay form with fiction. The stories in Refugee Tales (Comma Press, £9.99) are all true in that they’ve been told to the various contributing authors by detainee refugees.

And the authors, including the likes of Ali Smith, Marina Lewycka and Patience Abgabi, have had the opportunity to retell some incredible and shocking tales that shine much needed light on the refugee experience. Here are kids left to cross the Mediterranean in inadequate vessels; entire lives lived as slaves and, repeatedly, interminable unjust detention within the British immigration system. It’s another wonderful example of detailed observation of real life, and by far the least comforting to read of this trio.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

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FILM

ARTS

Clockwise from left: The all-female cast in the new Ghostbusters film; Ralph Fiennes in Richard III; Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie; Romeo and Juliet, live from the Garrick

HOOT COUTURE From an all-female cast in Ghostbusters, to the leading ladies of Ab Fab, The Little has a must-watch line-up of flicks for the month ahead

By J E N N I F E R J E N N I NGS W R IGH T

B

olly and fags at the ready, here we go with the long-awaited cinema appearance of Patsy and Eddy, the most ludicrously fashion-obsessed people you’re likely ever to encounter (unless you happen to be in Bath during a certain week in April).

Big-screen outings are always apt to set a fan’s heart aflutter. Yes, exciting that more money and bigger frocks have been thrown at your modest small-screen fave watch. But, along the way, have they lost the thing that made it special to you? Well, as long as what made Absolutely Fabulous special to you was larger-than-life characters, toxically witty oneliners, wildly improbable comic situations and of course stupid outfits, then put your worries aside – you’re in for a treat.

There are cameos aplenty from the great and the good of fashion and entertainment, as well as terrific performances from all the usual stalwarts, including Bath’s very own Julia Sawalha. Talking of Saffy, we’re hoping she’ll pop by The Little to introduce a screening, as long as we’re providing Kettle chips and Bombay Mix (one there for diehard AbFabians).

Do you really need to know? OK then – Edina and Patsy get the blame for a very

unhappy episode at a super-glam fashion event, and to escape the subsequent pap hounding, they hotfoot it to the Riviera.

Without cash or standing, they attempt to hatch a plot to make their residency both permanent and well-financed. It’s brilliant – I loved it. The very height of hoot couture.

Talking of fame and fashion, now for something we showed a few years ago but have been trying to bring back ever since, especially in the last few months. David Bowie is Now was a huge hit at The Little and I’m Dancing in the Street now that it’s coming back.

It was originally broadcast from the V&A to tie in with their record-breaking David Bowie exhibition, and features a look around the show’s wealth of images and accoutrements as well as some truly bonkers trouserwear, plus testimonials to his fabulousness from pretty things such as Jarvis Cocker and, another of Bath’s finest, Sir Christopher Frayling. So that’s all Hunky Dory.

The much-missed legend was, of course, no slouch on stage, once memorably bringing The Elephant Man to life in nothing but a nappy, as well as playing Baron Hardup in Cinderella at Weston-Super-Mare every winter. So, I’m sure if he were here today he’d be interested in the growth in a new area of big-screen entertainment, that of theatrical broadcasts.

We have a couple of absolute belters coming your way in July. One of our fastestselling theatrical broadcasts ever is the upcoming Romeo and Juliet, live from the Garrick. This modern-day adaptation, brought to us by the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company, features two of the brightest stars in the firmament, Lily James (Rose in Downton) and Richard Madden (someone, probably with a sword and, I daresay, a grim look on his face, in Game of Thrones), two lovey-doveys who have already shown us what snogging’s all about in Cinderella.

Get ready for more passion and, spoiler alert, unbridled tragedy in this most perennially appealing of Shakey’s works. And if that’s not enough R&J for you, this summer look out for our outdoor screening of Baz Luhrmann’s unforgettable version in August.

But be quick – that’s almost sold out too.

If you like your Shakespeare a bit less amorous but still choc-full of emotion, violence and great big speeches, it’s my hunch (ho ho) you’ll like Richard III, which we’re screening live from the Almeida Theatre on 21 July. Heavy duty star-power is being thrown at this one. Ralph Fiennes, no less, is playing the former Leicester carpark resident and Vanessa Redgrave is prominent miseryboots Queen Margaret. This is the first broadcast from the Almeida and we’re hoping for lots more from this dramatic powerhouse.

But back to film, and an update for a truly iconic piece of work. Ghostbusters is one of those movies that occupies a special place in the hearts of most, but none more so than Little Theatre staff, for whom the original is owed a tremendous debt of gratitude.

1984’s Ghostbusters went down in history as the film that basically saved The Little’s bacon. Things were looking a bit grim for the old place in the 80s, until, due to a bit of great planning from the ownership back then, The Little secured an exclusive run on Ghostbusters, so it was the only place you could catch it in Bath. The public leapt at the chance to see the film, the consequent queues stretching into Westgate Street, and The Little survived.

So what about the remake? A great cast more than does justice to the original, with the all-female update being a great way to freshen things up and sure to spawn imitators.

In fact, I hear that an all-male reboot of Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen is on its way any day now. Can’t wait.

The Little Theatre, 1-2 St Michael’s Place 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

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80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk PHOTO BY EVOKE PICTURES

PHOTO BY EVOKE PICTURES

PHOTO BY EVOKE PICTURES

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Hop Pole Serving up proper pub grub with more than a dash of upmarket sophistication, this lovingly restored Bath Ales watering hole has found its time to shine

By L I SA E VA NS

W

hen you think of traditional pub food, soft quails’ eggs, potted wild hare, and saffron fruit cake aren’t likely to spring to mind. But The Hop Pole on Upper Bristol Road, just a skip and a jump from Royal Victoria Park opposite, has seamlessly melded these interesting, upmarket dishes with crowd-pleasing English classics. Local brewery Bath Ales – the brand behind the eatery – pretty much always seems to get that balance on the button; it gets what a proper gastropub is all about, but they always sprinkle on a little added flair too.

We try for a seat on the spacious, sun-soaked terrace – which has become one of The Hop Pole’s most popular and talked about features since it was recently lovingly restored – but a couple of fat bees are interested in our rosé and Ginger Hare; so, a frantic flailing of arms later, we retreat to the light and airy restaurant, its French doors flung open so the lovely and soft summer breeze gently floats through.

The place has only just reopened after being given a proper shake up. There are beautifully blemished wooden tables, a Farrow and Ball-style colour palette, a rural, logcladded feature wall, stripped floorboards and painted ceiling beams which are draped with tartan-print bunting and fairy lights.

We nab a table next to the wood-burning stove (it wasn’t on, thankfully) and bathe in the relaxed vibe. There’s plenty to pick at over a pint, with the menu proffering various nibbles – from the impressive-sounding Cornish Yarg, leek and parsley root pasties to tempting shell-on prawns with aioli – but we are ready for a proper meal.

To start, it’s a plump, poached-to-perfection egg – which, when poked, oozes sunshiny goodness – atop a firm bed of charred Wye Valley asparagus spears. The dish comes ever so lightly drizzled in a tarragon and chive-

IT’S A BRAWNY PLATEFUL WITH THE KIND OF

FLAVOURS

YOU FIND WHEN YOU RUN YOUR FINGER AROUND THE ROASTING TIN AT HOME ON A SUNDAY

infused butter sauce and is crowned with nutty shavings of parmesan. It’s such a good choice that my dining partner’s happy he had the same.

I toss an imaginary coin to decide on mains – it’s between the slow-cooked leg of Welsh lamb with broad bean and sweetcorn succotash and crushed new potatoes, or the Costwold goats’ cheese and mushroom Wellington, served with tender Romanesco broccoli. Feeling persuaded by the hyper-local ingredients, the latter wins and it’s a decision I pat myself on the back for. Field-fresh fungi plucked right from the city of Bath, snuggles with soft, creamy goats’ cheese and crunchy slivers of rainbow chard inside a puffed-up blanket of crisp pastry, and it’s as comforting as a massive hug.

My friend’s Somerset beef ribeye is mouth-wateringly juicy and pink-centred and is made even better by its accompaniments of golden, battered shallots, proper chips, a miniature boat of bone marrow gravy and a handful of bright green rocket. It’s a big, brawny plateful with the kind of concentrated, salty flavours you find when you run your finger around the roasting tin at home on a Sunday afternoon.

They’re pretty hot on serving up the aforementioned local ingredients here (that’s obviously why the flavours are so clean) and are very honest about where everything comes from, too. Just a glance of the menu will tell you everything you need to know: the herbs hail from just-down-the-road Bristol, the meat is brought in from Devizes and the fruit for the puds is picked from our own lovely city. And they’re all whipped up into wholesome and hearty dishes by head chef Chris Harvey who stepped up to the Hop Pole plate two years ago.

After these generous portions, I am struggling, but, ever the professional, I plough on with dessert. Of our two choices, the winner by a snout is my dense, decadent and delicious sticky toffee pudding, which is drenched in glossy peanut butter caramel sauce and topped with vanilla ice cream that’s already melting down the sides of the warm sponge. The other pud is a spot-on, sweet-meets-tart Yorkshire rhubarb crumble, served piping hot with vanilla pod-dotted custard.

If I was looking for something to moan about, I’d probably argue that the custard was a bit lumpy, but my heart’s not in it. By this point in the meal I’ve decided Chris can do no wrong. With the mid-evening sunlight still streaming in, the ale in full-flow and its beautiful new makeover winning everyone over, I reckon The Hop Pole has found its time to shine.

DINING DETAILS The Hop Pole, 7 Albion Buildings, Upper Bristol Road, Bath BA1 3AR; www.bathales.com Prices Starters £5 - £6; mains £10 - £16; desserts £6 Vegetarian choice An all-vegetarian choice of 10 side dishes as well as two veggie starters and two mains Wine list 20 wines to choose from, as well as a popular cask-ale selection Disabled access Access to the beer garden around the back of the building, and removable ramps to access the lower-floor restaurant Service/atmosphere Attentive and fun with a jovial and upbeat vibe

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NOW OPEN i� �� Corridor, Bat�

New o� th� bloc�!

FOR BOOKINGS PHONE

01225 443686

SPECIALITY PIZZERIA NOW OPEN IN BATH The only Italian pizzeria that lets you choose your dough, from the traditional kind to hemp, gluten free, kumut and more.

Top Lane, Whitley, Wiltshire SN12 8QX 01225 704966 T f @peartreewhitley

www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

A cut above...

Restaurant • Bar • Café • Deli Tuesday to Saturday – lunch and dinner Bar open from 11am for drinks and coffees Woods is available for private parties, corporate entertainment, press launches, weddings and family celebrations.

Private room seats 36-40 people.

The whole restaurant can accommodate 120 people.

Party menu £35 per head

DINE AT WOODS

Lunch and early dinner 2 courses £15 3 courses £20 Lunch: 12 noon - 2:30pm Early dinner: 5:15pm - 6:30pm Tables up to 6 people.

SEAFOOD EXTRAVAGANZA

Every Friday Lunch and dinner a la carte also available 24 hours notice required to order lobster, oysters, Dover sole and turbot, subject to availability. All our fish is delivered daily from Brixham.

SUNDAY LUNCH

1st Sunday of the month 2 courses £15 • 3 courses £20 Traditional roast.

A la carte also available.

ENJOY THE SUMMER

In the bar or on the terrace Jug of Pimms £12 Bottle of Prosecco £15 To be served with a tasting dish of cured meat and olives

NEW BAR MENU

Featuring 6oz aged Sirloin steak, fries & salad £9.95 Tuesday to Saturday lunch Tuesday to Friday dinner 12 noon - 2.30pm • 5pm to 7.30pm

9-13 Alfred St. Bath BA1 2QX • 01225 314812 woodsinbath@gmail.com

www.woodsrestaurant.com

LITE LUNCH MENU AT £8 ....

To Begin Chicken Chatt

Diced grilled chicken with a rocket salad, mint sauce, tamarind sauce, fresh pomegranate & chatt massala

Seasonal Vegetable Chatt

Samosa and onion bhaji chopped in little pieces served with a mixed leaf salad, along with mix raitha, mint sauce, tamarind sauce, fresh pomegranate & chatt massala

To Follow Lite Chicken Tikka Massala Served with saffron rice

Seasonal Veg

Grilled seasonal veg served with makhani sauce and saffron rice

Super Food Chicken Wrap

Paratha bread with free range grilled chicken with manuka honey & rocket salad tomato chutney

Super Food Vegetable Wrap

Paratha bread with grilled seasonal veg & poneer with rocket salad and tomato chutney

Drinks Indian Drink – Nimbo Panni or Glass of wine (125ml) Please inform us of any intolerances or allergies you may have

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 12-16 Clifton Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AF Tel: 01173 291300 Email: info@themintroom.co.uk www.themintroom.co.uk

fa

GREAT BURGERS FRESH LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE DELICIOUS COCKTAILS

Burgers and Barrels 2 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3EH www.burgersnbarrels.co.uk b a

WINNER WATERING HOLE

2 Saville Row, Bath BA1 2QP info@commonroombath.co.uk 01225 425550

COMMONROOMBATH.CO.UK

Take to the terraces this summer

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

MOLE IN ONE GET THE ABBEY HABIT The elegant Abbey Hotel in the heart of the city has just launched a new fiesta style pop-up terrace to mark the start of the summer.

Along with a constantly changing food menu masterminded by executive head chef Chris Staines, there will also be the introduction of new celebratory cocktails.

General manager Andrew Foulkes explains, “We will focus on a different theme every month – our current June speciality is English Garden, a sharp and refreshing blend of cucumber, mint gin and lime, which is in celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday. And we are working on the Brazilian Old Fashioned for Olympic fever in August.”

For more: www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Bath’s much-loved music venue Moles has just opened up a new bar area.

The Mole, which can be found on the ground floor, offers a playlist featuring the thousands of artists who have played at the George Street club over their 38-year history including Oasis, Ed Sheeran and Radiohead.

You’ll also find outdoor seating in the summer and retro gaming including Mario Kart, Street Fighter and Sonic on a three metre screen.

“There is also a pop-up cinema,” reveals

It’s a five-star rating for the new The Mole bar

Tom Maddicott, DJ, producer and owner of Moles. “People will be able to enjoy classics such as Natural Born Killers and The Avengers along with their craft beers, wines and spirits.”

For more: www.moles.co.uk

DOING HER PING

The red hot chilli Ping

Bath cook and 2014 MasterChef champion Ping Coombes has just published her first cookery book Malaysia. In her literary culinary debut, Ping shares all the secrets and delights of her south-east Asian cookery and in doing so reveals why she has become a global ambassador.

“I have drawn inspiration from my mother and from the late-night stalls and street markets in my hometown of Ipoh,” explains Ping. “These recipes are a perfect introduction to the tastes and textures of

WINNER RESTAUR ANT THE

Indian Fine Dining

Malaysian cooking. Chili crab and caramel pork, spicy laksas and rendangs, satays and tangy sambals. These are classic dishes that are intensely satisfying to make, share and devour. I want to welcome people to my family table – as my mother would say, ‘sek fan la!’ – come and eat.”

Hear Ping talk on 28 June about her cooking and her book at St Mary’s Church in Bathwick, at a ticket-only event organised by Topping & Company Booksellers.

For more: www.toppingbooks.co.uk

finest cask ales – superb classic wines – award winning british pub menu

award winning

beautiful village pub

FAT FOWL Bradford on Avon

We take pride in serving great quality, honest food you want to eat

biddestone arms Fine Cuisine & Country Pub

Biddestone Arms, The Green, Biddestone Nr Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7DG

Tel: 01249 714377 www.biddestonearms.co.uk

newly refurbished...

Widbrook Grange Restaurant Modern farmhouse cooking from our award winning chef in an elegant grade 2 listed farmhouse, now completely re designed Also open to non residents for dinner

To see what all the fuss is about and to book a table call 01225 864750 or email stay@widbrookgrange.co.uk www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Widbrook Grange Hotel Bradford on Avon BA15 1UH widbrookgrangehotel @widbrookgrange

Silver Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 863111 | info@fatfowl.com

www.fatfowl.com

1 2

GAMESETMATCH IF YOU’RE A TENNIS BUFF, THEN CHANCES ARE YOU’LL LOVE THESE WIMBLEDON-INSPIRED GIFTS...

5

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1. CHOCOHOLICS UNITE

2. EYE SAY

3. HOW CHARMING

4. STEP IN STYLE

5. PERFECT PICNIC

Chocolate tennis rackets, £8.99 These white and dark chocolate rackets – handmade in Bath – would make a charming prezzie for a sporty person From Choc on Choc, Chocolate House, High Street, Rode; www. choconchoc.co.uk

Karen Walker / One Astronaut Crazy Tort sunglasses, £160 A sure-fire way to keep the rays out of your eyes while watching The Championships is with these über-cool sunnies From Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www. foundbath.co.uk

Nomination tennis charms, from £18 Wear your love of sport on your wrist with these tennis-themed bracelet charms – from tiny strawberries to mini rackets – in 18ct gold From Fabulous, 17 St Lawrence St, Bath; www. fabulouscollections.co.uk

Spin rubber-soled shoes, £169 White shoes aren’t just for on the courts, y’know.

Pristine sports-luxe flats are still a reigning shoe silhouette, and they aren’t going anywhere soon From Chanii B, 9 Milsom Place, Bath; www. chaniibshoes.com

Confetti Wicker Basket, £110 Whether you’re taking a picnic to Murray Mound, or want to pretend you’re court-side, pack up your grub in this hamper which has a place for everything From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

6

7

9

10

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6. PICTURE THIS

7. BERRY NICE

8. LIGHT BITES

9. LAZY DAYZ

10. SILVER SURFER

Wimbledon framed print, £45 These handmade designs can be personalised with any destinations or names and come in a range of contemporary colours From Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.amandabrowndesign. co.uk

Strawberry Fields Tea Towel, £16 The sight of strawberries doesn’t just conjure up summer, but also the thwack of ball on racket. If you’re watching the calories, go for this pretty tea towel instead From Anthropologie, 1-4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

My Lunch! Lunch Box, £6.99 Stake your claim on your sarnies when you’re out and about watching a spot of sport with this bright and funky lunch box by Happy Jackson and Wild & Wolf From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

Fatboy Headdemock, £349 While the players are running around, you can sit back, relax and watch.

This headdemock has room for several people and it’s tennis-ball-coloured to boot!

From TR Hayes, 5-18 London Street, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk

Links of London rackets charm, £45 To commemorate Wimbledon, Links of London has created a sterling silver tennis rackets charm - the perfect addition to your favourite chain or bracelet From Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath; www.malloryjewellers.com

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SMILE WITH CONFIDENCE. Single Tooth Dental Implants from ÂŁ1500

No charge inital consultation appointments available

The Bath Health Heroes With founding director Owen Morgan

Bath’s Virtual Complementary Health Clinic.

Your Directory of Health Professionals The Heroes

Our practice is dedicated to implant dentistry Call today for the most competitive prices in the area

01225 447600 www.bathsmile.co.uk Circus House | Bennett Street | Bath | BA1 2EX Email: info@circusdental.co.uk

Owen Morgan Massage Therapy & Personal Training Anne-Marie Rose of Rose Holistic Treatments Sophia J Clifford-Sanghad of Bath Holistic Massage & Bath Pregnancy Massage Sarah Kelloway of Rooted Earth Therapies Erika Hayward Physiotherapy Sarah Clark of Mariposa Coaching Daniel Kronenberg Hypnotherapy Sue Judge Nutrtional Therapy Tom Shrubsole of Vo2 Fitness Bath Personal Training Kimberley Murray of KimFit Bath Personal Training Clare Turner of Cleanse By Clare Hayley Uberti of DAY - Dance & Yoga

Contact the team bathhealthheroes@gmail.com

www.bathhealthheroes.co.uk

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

MIND YOUR BACK! TEAM BREAKTHROUGH have a team of dedicated therapists and coaches who are experts in diagnosing, advising, helping manage and eradicating back pain and problems of all kinds

B

ox based Team Breakthrough have cemented their reputation as pioneers of health and fitness, physical therapy and personal training in the region. They have a world class facility, a vastly experienced team, and combine aspects of different therapies in a way that gives their customers a complete result. This is truly a unique offering.

One of the most frequent breakthroughs that they help clients with is to manage and eliminate back pain. Since Dave Wilby founded the company 13 years ago they have strived to learn from the very best therapists and coaches the world has to offer and bring that back for the benefit of the people of Bath with thousands of happy customers.

Neuromuscular therapist Sabrina Page is the latest addition to this high flying team. Having been trained by internationally acclaimed physical therapists in America alongside the guidance of Team Breakthrough's own Dave Wilby. She is in a fantastic position to explain and eradicate your back pain.

“For many of you back pain is not something you have to live with. The body is a complex thing and we believe you have to look at the big picture before zooming in on the details of the problem. This is why we would perform a full biomechanical analysis prior to addressing the issue,” explains Sabrina. “Perhaps your pelvis is out of alignment due to muscular, fascial or structural imbalances. Maybe you have segmental instability in the spine. Often we find clients have muscles such as the glutes, hamstrings and lower abdominals that are

Above demonstrates a common set of imbalances that is regularly seen at breakthrough HQ

Sabrina carrying out an assessment

switched off or inactive. This is making other muscles work harder every time you move.”

“The problem may be driven by something elsewhere in the body. Is your neck out of alignment which is holding you back from a full result? We would always check your atlas as that could be a neurological drive behind your problem. Do you have leg length discrepancies that could be making everything else operate differently?”

Whatever your back pain is caused by, there is a very high chance Sabrina will identify it.

“We see patterns down here at the facility and it seems to be a modern day problem where people spend too much time seated or inactive.

This often results in tightness through the hip flexor (psoas) muscles along with the external rotator muscles of the hip (piriformis). With these in a shortened position it leaves the lower back in a very vulnerable position. We often see Sacroilliac locking, fascet joint locking or even disc problems as a result. We can help with all of these.”

So many different possibilities I hear you say!

Well, the first step is to call Team Breakthrough and book an assessment with Sabrina. She can explain the rest from there and decide wether you need hands on physical therapy

in the treatment room or specific corrective strengthening exercises on the gym floor. With this team behind you, you don’t have to settle for being in pain. No more muscle spasm, no more sciatic pain, no more constant aching in the lower back. Team Breakthrough work with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Give them a call on 01225 743801 and tell them what Breakthrough they can help you with. Alternatively contact enquiries@ teambreakthrough.co.uk or visit the website at www.teambreakthrough.co.uk.

Team Breakthrough Unit 2,The Ley Business Park Box, Wiltshire SN13 8EH 01225 743 801 enquiries@teambreakthrough.co.uk www.teambreakthrough.co.uk

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

MEET THE STYLIST We spoke to four of the best hairdressers in town to find out how they stay ahead of their game and a cut above the rest!

SILKYH RICHARDSON

TASH INGRAM

Zara Perry Hairdressing Tel: 01225 444178 www.zphairdressing.co.uk

What inspired you to get in to hairdressing?

From a young age I always enjoyed messing around with people’s hair, so I knew all along that’s what I wanted to do. I started as a Saturday girl from the age of 13 and totally loved it – 13 years later and I’m still loving it!

“OUR SALON HAS A PAUL MITCHELL ART TEAM MEMBER SO WE GET FIRST LOOK AT THE LATEST LOOKS”

product; wrong product equals unhappy hair, right product equals happy hair.

What’s the secret to a really good haircut?

Getting your consultation spot on! Knowing exactly what the client wants and what they don’t.

How do you keep up with style trends?

It’s easy these days; social media, Instagram, Pinterest – we’re surrounded by it all.

Also, our salon has a Paul Mitchell Art team member so we get first look at the latest looks.

Nick Brain Hairdressing Tel: 01225 421125 www.nickbrainhairdressing.com

What would you say is the most satisfying aspect of hairdressing for you?

I really enjoy meeting new people and since my move to Nick Brain Hairdressing, I have built up a loyal client base who I look forward to seeing at every appointment.

What is the most important part of the service you provide?

As a stylist and colour technician I can provide the whole package, meaning I will be with you from the moment you walk in the salon to the

time you leave, ensuring that you are happy every step of the way!

What would a client expect when booking in with you?

I love my job and enjoy the environment I work in so I will always make sure my clients have a fun, enjoyable experience whilst receiving a great hair cut and colour.

Pop in and see the salon for yourself and find me for a free consultation, or check out my Instagram natashaingram_hair for inspiration and further examples of my work.

“MY CLIENTS HAVE A FUN, ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE”

What is the most satisfying aspect of hairdressing for you?

At the end of the service ensuring that the client loves their hair and feels a million dollars, especially knowing that they have enjoyed their whole experience with me.

What’s your top tip?

Why spend hundreds of pounds having fab hair and yet use nothing decent to maintain it? Always invest in the right

94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Before

After

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

MITCH DURNELL

HONIE LINES

David Maxwell Hairdressing Tel 01225 435713 www.davidmaxwellhairdressing.co.uk

“MY GUESTS WILL RECEIVE A FIVE STAR SERVICE” What would you say is the most important part of the service you provide?

The most important part of what I do is listening to my guests, finding out what their needs and goals are with their hair and then working towards that with them.

What would you say is the most satisfying aspect of hairdressing for you?

The most satisfying thing is just giving people that confidence boost and making them feel great!

What would a client expect when booking in with you?

My guests will receive a five star service from start to finish.

My aim is to make every guest feel great about themselves and to help restore the faith of any who are nervous of getting their hair cut.

What’s the secret to a really good haircut?

A good hair cut is taking into consideration a person’s lifestyle, face shape and their hair growth pattern. You have to make the hair work for them and not them having to make the hair right.

Who inspires you?

Guy Tong. He pushes boundaries and turns hair into pieces of art! He makes anything possible when it comes to hair.

Amore Mio Freelance stylist Tel 07832490626

What would a client expect when booking with you?

They can expect VIP treatment. I’m a perfectionist and I love my job so I can only ever give 110 per cent at every appointment. I am also a make-up artist and nail technician, so can offer a complete service. During my 13 years experience in the industry, I have been lucky enough to work at Gina

“I LOVE FASHION SO FIND IT EASY TO STAY ON TOP OF CURRENT TRENDS AND I LOVE BEING CREATIVE WITH MY WORK”

What do you think is the most important part of the service you provide?

The consultation and good communication is key. I like to know the client’s personal style, daily time restraints, styling skill level and desired result so that I can create something that they love and can easily maintain at home.

How do you keep up with style trends?

I’m constantly attending courses. I love fashion so find it easy to stay on top of current trends, and I love being creative with my work.

Although you can’t go wrong with classic styles!

Conway in Notting Hill with some fabulously talented stylists – working on photo shoots, catwalks, award events and the National Wedding Show, so I can adapt to any situation. You can’t beat Bath ladies though, we’re so down to earth!

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E D E N T I S T RY

A WHITER SMILE FOR SUMMER? Give yourself the smile you deserve with this advice from BATH SPA DENTISTRY on how to keep your pearly whites bright

I

n our image conscious society, the demand for whiter teeth has never been greater. Many celebrities and models are pictured with shiny white smiles, but most of us tend to have a duller shade in reality. So what makes teeth lose their pearly white effect, what causes them to be stained or yellow in appearance and what can you do to protect your teeth?

AVOID FOOD AND DRINKS THAT STAIN YOUR TEETH

Tea, coffee, and other drinks such as cola and red wine are among the many drinks that can stain your teeth. Fruits and foods such as blackberries, blueberries, and sugary sweets can also be a factor in giving your teeth a discoloured appearance.

After consuming food and drink most likely to stain your teeth, try swirling a sip of water around your mouth to wash away staining elements or acids, this can be a simple way of helping to keep your teeth white. Doing this can also help you to produce more saliva which is your mouth's natural defence against enamel erosion, staining and cavities.

“THERE ARE A LARGE VARIETY OF WAYS THAT YOU CAN GET A BRIGHTER WHITER SMILE�

VISIT YOUR DENTAL HYGIENIST REGULARLY

Age is another reason for yellowing teeth, so staining is inevitable. That is why regularly visiting a dental hygienist will help you keep the effects of this to a minimum. By checking for gum disease and removing plaque and tartar, your hygienist can not only help keep your smile bright and white, but they can also give advice about diet and preventing tooth decay.

STOP SMOKING

Smoking cigarettes or cigars can stain your teeth due to the nicotine and tar in tobacco.

It can turn your teeth yellow very quickly.

Smoking regularly for many years can also see your teeth turn brown. Ask your dentist or hygienist for advice about smoking cessation and the positive effects this can have not only on your teeth but your health in general.

RESTRICT CONSUMPTION OF ACIDIC FOOD AND DRINKS TO MEAL TIMES

Another factor that can cause teeth to darken is the consumption of acidic food and drink.

The surface below the tooth's enamel is much darker. Food and drink high in acid lowers the PH in our mouths and a result, the naturally pearly white enamel or outer surface, is eroded away.

Citrus, fruits, juices and smoothies, fizzy and alcoholic drinks are highly acidic. Sauces in jars, jams and vinaigrettes, high in sugar also can contribute to acid erosion. To avoid teeth staining, restrict consumption of acidic food and drinks to meal times only.

If you need to brighten your smile, then tooth whitening can lighten the existing natural colour of your teeth. The rise in demand for whiter teeth has seen many unsafe and unproven teeth whitening products becoming available on the market. Therefore, always consult with your dentist if you are considering tooth whitening.

If you are worried about the colour or appearance of your teeth, ask your dentist or hygienist for advice. With modern cosmetic dentistry treatments, there are a large variety of ways that you can get a brighter whiter smile, in time for summer and beyond.

HOW TO GET YOUR PEARLY WHITES BACK

Doing some or all of the above may not always be the solution for whiter teeth. Age, genetics and drugs can also cause the yellowing of teeth. Some antibiotics can also cause staining under the surface of teeth and teeth with tiny cracks in them can also attract stains and discolouration.

Yellowing or darkening of teeth could also be a sign of decay. If you have lost or are about to lose a tooth, then dental implants could be an option for you.

For more details please contact: Tabitha Edwards Senior Receptionist 01225 464346 reception@bathspadentistry.com www.bathspadentistry.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

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

SKIN HEALTH FOR LIFE Are you looking for radiant, glowing skin without the need for an invasive procedure? The Hydrafacial, a fantastic skin rejuvenation treatment has landed right here in Bath

H

ere at Widcombe Dental Practice, our facial aestheticians Vanessa and Karen are delighted to be able to provide you with this outstanding facial, which is suitable for all skin types. But don’t just take our word for it, here is what Baroness Karren Brady, CBE has to say about it; “Immediately following a HydraFacial treatment my skin is buffed, cleansed and glowing. It’s very rare that you see a great result after just one treatment, but the difference is incredible. My pores are tightened, the skin hydrated and the fine lines around my eyes softened. The following day, if it’s possible, my skin is even better. It actually improves the quality of my skin and makes me feel like I don’t have to cover my face with make-up.

“There’s a temptation as you get older to go for more invasive treatments. But when you can get results as quickly as this with no side

effects or downtime it certainly seems to delay the ageing process!”

HOW DOES HYDRAFACIAL WORK?

This non-invasive multi-step treatment detoxifies, cleanses and evenly exfoliates revealing firm, healthy, new skin. A brightening agent is added to help loosen debris from pores which is then extracted to remove impurities and dead skin cells. Lastly, HydraFacial Vortex-Fusion technology is used to replenish vital nutrients including antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid promoting optimum skin health and long-term results that you can see and feel instantly.

WITH AN EXPRESS HYDRAFACIAL AVAILABLE AT A FABULOUS INTRODUCTORY OFFER OF £45, CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO GIVE IT A TRY?

4 Sussex Place, Claverton Street, Bath BA2 4LA 01225 317681 www.widcombedentalpractice.co.uk

I would never force my children into anything they didn’t have a passion for. But I’d love them to get into sport. It’s given me a wonderful life

girl on a bicycle We caught up with Olympic champ Amy Williams – the new ambassador for Bike Bath – to talk women in Lycra, favourite hangouts and her plans to have a family

By L I SA E VA NS

H

ave you heard of a MAMIL before? No, we haven’t misspelled the word for a warmblooded sentient being, this is the savvy acronym for a Middle Aged Man in Lycra – or, in other words, a man who loves to cycle.

So what’s the female equivalent? Well, there isn’t one, because not enough women cycle to get their own abbreviation, apparently.

ONE TO ONE

H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S

Channel 5’s The Gadget Show. “It has had such a positive impact on me that if I can encourage and support others to get on a bike, then that would be great.”

We coaxed Amy away from her sprockets and Schraders to find out more…

Do you think the whole attitude to cycling and sport in general is slowly becoming more gender-neutral these days?

Yes, Instagram and other apps have made a huge difference to women taking part in sport and fitness. Photos of beautiful kit, advice on training and how to stay motivated has really encouraged a lot more women to take part.

Cycling, in particular, is very sociable too; chatting to your fellow riders while riding along a country lane and stopping for tea breaks – it’s perfect for anyone.

One woman who has taken it upon herself to encourage more gals to take to the saddle is Bath’s very own sporting hero, Amy Williams.

She’s the new ambassador for Bike Bath – a charitable cycling event taking place in the city in July – and thinks it’s time a new day dawned for female cyclists.

“Traditionally, cycling has been dominated by men, like many sports – football, cricket, rugby, all the big ones,” says the Olympic skeleton gold medallist who lives in Bathampton. “All the women’s teams are the ones winning, and yet they get less media coverage. It’s a shame, and shouldn’t happen. Having said that, there has been a huge change since the 2012 Olympics and so many more women are now taking up the sport and wearing Lycra.”

So far, 30 per cent of people who have signed up to Bike Bath are women, and Amy will be one of them.

“I’m really looking forward to it – the routes look fantastic and I’ll get the chance to ride through some really pretty villages that surround Bath,” she says. “For me cycling is great, you can get to places quickly, for free, while being able to enjoy your surroundings, and it’s a fantastic form of exercise – whether it’s a pootle to the park with family or more of a serious hilly training session.”

The Bath event will be a great warm-up for Amy, who will be attempting L’Etape de Tour in France the following weekend. As if the 100-mile cycle – involving 10,000 feet of hill-climbs in the French Alps – wasn’t enough pressure on its own, the whole thing is being filmed for Channel 5’s Celeb de Tour which you’ll be seeing on your screens in August.

“Training for the show means I have been taking part in sportive events and charity rides and have had the chance to meet a lot of firsttime riders,” says Amy who is also a presenter on

Poster girl for fitness, Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams feels great pride in calling Bath her home

What’s your best advice for sticking with a sport and bettering yourself at it?

You need to write down your big ‘end goal’.

Share it with others and then work out smaller bite-sized goals in order to achieve the big one.

Then, as you improve and achieve little things along the way, you can see how far you’ve come.

That’s motivation.

You started your skeleton training – which later won you an Olympic gold medal in 2010 – in Bath. Does that make you want to help other Bath women achieve their sporting potential?

Of course, I’ve lived here since I was six and have done all my education and then training in the city. I always try to encourage, inspire and help in anyway possible with events in Bath. Bath Bike is a perfect way to get us all together – different ages and levels – and have a fun time.

Will you pass your fervour for sport on to your future children?

I’d love them to get into sport. It’s given me a wonderful life. However, just like my parents brought me up, I will support them in whatever they wish to do; I would never force my children into anything they didn’t have a passion for. My husband, Craig, and I would love to have a family if we are blessed with one.

Where can we find you when you’re not in the saddle and off your bike?

Just being at home with my husband and my beautiful rescue cats is perfection to me. And, as for when I’m out and about, Bath’s Boston Tea Party is a great place. And The Longs Arms pub on the edge of Bath is one of my favourites for great food. The feeling of ‘home’ as I head into Bath will never leave me and always puts a huge smile on my face.

To register for Bike Bath and choose from routes between 25 to 80 miles, visit www.bikebath.co.uk. The event takes place on 3 July

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

Made in

Chelsea What happens when you send a Bath garden designer to the Chelsea Flower Show? She discovers silver flowers, giant fins and rotating trees, of course

By E M M A BON D

The Winton Beauty of Mathematics Garden

66 I CLIFTON LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

GARDENING

A WONDERFUL

COPPER WATER FEATURE

CAUGHT MY EYE

Above: Copper bowl water feature on The Winton Beauty of Mathematics Garden; Below, top to bottom: Chelsea Pensioners enjoying the show; The much-loved foxglove; Andy Sturgeon’s garden

M

y love affair with the Chelsea Flower Show began in the mid 1980s when I was sent as an agency temp to work at the showground at The Royal Hospital selling ice cream. I was ‘between jobs’ at that time and the chance to work outside, away from a stuffy office, seemed like a bonus. I had to be at the stand very early every morning and had the chance to wander around the pavilions and see the show gardens. On the very last day, when the plants were being sold off, I bought myself a foxglove, a very tall foxglove, and took it home on the bus to live in my flat. Needless to say, it did not survive for very long.

It was at that show, back in 1985 that my intense love for foxgloves started, and it continues to this day. If you don’t like foxgloves then Chelsea may not be for you. They are often at their very best at this time of year and many of the gardens feature them in the planting schemes.

I usually start at the pavilions as the growers and exhibitors are wonderful each year. I love to see the Mecanopsis (Himalayan poppies) growing, as their luminous colour is always astonishing.

Some outstanding planting combinations came in the form of gorgeous purple and orange Alliums and Geum. These were on Anne Marie Powell’s garden, RHS Greening Grey Britain for Health, Happiness and Horticulture. The vibrant colours of garden, including the planting, the styling and the elements of the garden were a world away from the usual restrained colour palette that is to be found at Chelsea.

One of my favourite gardens was The Winton Beauty of Mathematics Garden designed by Nick Bailey. This garden was planted with a range of species from the Southern Hemisphere and included gorgeous tones of silver, white copper, pale blue and chartreuse. The garden was designed as a celebration of the beauty to be found in mathematics and algorithms that underpin all plants, growth and life. A wonderful copper water feature caught my eye, its shape mirroring the

leaves of the succulents planted around it.

A garden that caught my eye in the Artisan category at last year’s show, was designed by Kazuyuki Tshihara and featured the most sublime arrangement of planting including gorgeous mossy balls. This year he did not disappoint with another fantastic garden, designed as a ‘garage garden’, housing a vintage Mini. The upper level was designed as a space for a family to relax in, and the use of colour, form and shape was exceptional.

I am a big fan of Acers and this garden used them to great effect; it was a design that you could imagine lifting up and moving to another place and it actually working as a garden.

Less successful for me was the Harrods British Eccentrics Garden, designed by Diamuid Gavin featuring rotating bay trees, bobbing box balls and a host of other mechanized madness. Although I appreciated his sense of humour, the planting did not work very well and, overall, it was too much of a gimmick. I think that the Chelsea crowd will enjoy the novelty of it, but it contrasted with the nearby serene peacefulness of Sam Oven’s Cloudy Bay Garden, which, for me, was beautiful, intelligent and very pleasing to the eye.

The Cloudy Bay garden featured a reflective pool and a deck, boardwalk and cabin and this was a garden that I wanted to spend time in. Cloudy Bay will donate elements of the garden to Horatio’s Garden, a charity that creates gardens for NHS spinal injury centres.

Andy Sturgeon deservedly won a gold medal for The Telegraph Garden ‘A Captured Landscape’, a typical Chelsea garden, with all of the bells and whistles you would expect from this designer as well as incredible planting. This dramatic garden incorporated huge bronze fins and echoed the chaparral of California’s Sierra Madres and the Chilean Matorral and was designed to highlight the need for gardens to adapt to their environment and a changing climate. The garden also showcased the new trend for garden lounging rather than formal dining, and I loved the combination of comfortable furniture and the multi-stemmed tree.

When I visit the show I have my ‘writer’s eye’ in as well as my ‘garden designer’s eye’ so I am also on the lookout for plants, styles and objects that my clients might like. This year I was drawn to some very interesting containers and pots made of stone and copper. I love natural planting in containers, especially when the planting looks as if it has selfseeded from the garden, and there are plenty of these to be found at Chelsea.

I suspect that Chelsea is better off viewed from the comfort of one’s own sofa rather than managing the scrum that is the public days, you certainly get to see a lot more on the telly.

However, it is a once-in-a-lifetime event if you do go, but wear comfortable shoes and pack sharp elbows, as you will need them!

Emma Bond, Bath Garden Design and Landscaping, Orchard Studio, Old Orchard, 88a Walcot Street, Bath; 07968 727415; bathgardendesign.com Photos © Emma Bond

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

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

New Tartan panels looking pretty with summer planting

NEW TO THE RANGE...

JACKSONS FENCING are having summer fun with some brand new panel games, including the striking Tartan-style fence and the Venetian Hit and Miss!

I

t’s quite hard to come up with new ideas for fencing. Panels do tend to fit into a fairly predictable format of a certain width, normally 1.8m wide with varying heights, and of course, if they are timber, which is more often than not the case, they are woody in appearance – we like wood, so that’s just fine. Our challenge is to come up with fresh ideas that will inspire our customers, giving them some new choices for their garden and other outdoor areas.

Hooray for some new additions to the already abundant and attractive range of fencing that we offer. And even if I say it myself, I think they are some winners in this new crop!

We’ve noticed that even though a lot of our customers prefer to stick with traditional types of fencing, like featherboard (AKA closeboard), there has been a sizeable swing towards the more modern and clean lined panels like our Venetian. In fact, this style has become so popular that we’ve found it has been imitated, I’d say in most cases rather poorly!

The first new panel to introduce you to is a variation on the Venetian theme; I just

mentioned how popular they are, but I’d say the one draw back is its see-throughness. It looks contemporary and sleek, complimenting the chic suburban garden beautifully. But when it comes to the balancing act of light versus privacy, the scales come down heavily in favour of light, and privacy is sacrificed!

So, how do you get the stylish look of horizontal slats that still allows some air and light through, but doesn’t allow the neighbours a view of you baring your body to catch some rays? Answer: Our new Venetian Hit and Miss panels. They look as stylish as standard Venetian, but have another set of horizontal slats on the other side. These are fixed to cover the space between the slats on the first side. The slats alternate, in much the same way as hit and miss panels are made, which means some air and light can still pass through, but the view through is obscured. Another big benefit is they are what we refer to as ‘good both sides’ so you and your neighbours don’t have a view of rails, which can be a bone of contention.

I’m aware I’m only going have enough space to tell you about two of our lovely ‘newbies’

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here, so will save the other additions for another time, and tell you about my personal favourite; Tartan trellis, seen above, how pretty is that?

I think it fits into the ‘less is more’ school of design – by not putting a baton at every third spacing, we’ve created a pattern that looks really great. I’m amazed at how effective it looks.

Enough said, I hope I’ve whetted your appetite, if you’d like to know more about these or our other new products, go to your dedicated web page www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ bathlocal • louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

The new Venetian Hit and Miss panel is on the right of the photo

For info on any of Jacksons products or brochures, please call 0800 408 4754 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 105

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

THE INSIDE STORY From marble tiles to reclaimed timber, and from garden furniture to classic range cookers, the experts from BONITI can offer inspiration, advice and choice for your home

O

ver the past 10 years, Boniti has endeavoured to become a one-stop-shop for interiors.

We have worked on projects such as Farleigh House in Bath, St Andrew Square in Edinburgh, The Manor House in Kington Langley, and Oxshott in Surrey.

We are mostly known for our variety of natural stone and timber products. We source stone from all over the globe to provide our customers with as many options as possible.

We can offer materials that are ideally suited for walls, floors and large bespoke pieces.

In the past, we have fabricated items such as vanity tops, hearths and even staircases. We always say, ‘Your imagination is your limit!’. We have a fantastic range of limestones, slates, marbles and flagstones on display in our showrooms. We also have an inspiring collection of timber boards on display. With so many types of boards available, it’s impossible to house them all, but we offer a variety that will allow us to work with the customer to find what they are truly looking for. We have something to suit every project, from refurbished 18th century timber for a very rustic look, to modern lacquered boards for a more contemporary look. We are also able to offer advice about oiling boards, which is a more price friendly way to have customised timber boards.

With our new range of decorative tiles, we can also offer a fun alternative for those looking to add a dash of colour to their home.

Our new encaustic range is increasingly popular with renovated Victorian homes, and come in a variety of colours and patterns. We

also have tiles designed for bathroom walls and kitchen splashbacks, ranging from glossy mosaics to matte bricks.

We are very proud to be premium dealers of Everhot range cookers. Everhot has truly taken off in the past few years, becoming a worthy rival of other heat storage range manufacturers such as Aga or Rayburn. The electric range is efficient to run, and is entirely flexible to suit your cooking needs. Running on a 13 amp plug, the Everhot is very easy to install. There are so flues or plinths needed, meaning that you really can plug it in and go!

With one of our directors being an Everhot owner himself, he can offer reliable advice about how he uses his cooker at home, and the impact it has had on how his family uses their kitchen. Switching to a range cooker can often make common household appliances redundant, such as electric kettles, toasters and radiators.

During the summer months, we sell a variety of garden furniture including teak, woven and aluminium sets. All of our furniture is comfortable, stylish and durable. We have multiple sets on display outside our showroom, giving you the opportunity to see

and feel the furniture for yourself. The furniture sits on our display of exterior stones, allowing customers to see what they would look like in a real garden environment. Our range of exterior stone offers many choices of colour and texture, meaning they can be used for a variety of things, such as patios or pools.

We are open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, but we encourage customers to make an appointment so we can give them our professional advice. On our website, you can find our gallery and recent projects which features a magnitude of inspiration and wonder.

Boniti Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 8JA showroom@boniti.com 01225 892200 www.boniti.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

THE HEAT IS ON Turquoise lagoon views, isolated desert island trips and belly-busting feasts add up to a dream-like Maldivian beach retreat

By DAVID FLATM AN

G R E AT ESCAPES

O

IT WAS JUST US, AND ALL WE COULD SEE WAS THE

QUIVERING, COBALT HORIZON

Above: Flats and Mrs F explore the powder-white sands at Velassaru Maldives; Left (clockwise) the resort’s luxury swimming pool; an elegant beach villa; aerial view; the happy couple living life on the edge

ne is supposed, I realise, to be more excited than I was in the weeks approaching a trip to the Maldives. It’s not that I wasn’t looking forward to it, it was that I just couldn’t relate to Mrs F’s desperation to get there, a desperation that seems to ring true with most holiday goers. This makes her excitement normal, and my relative apathy both unusual and regrettable, I concede.

The thing is, I rather enjoy my life as it is.

I love lots of the work I do, and merely like the rest. I like being at home with my kids, and being in pubs with my mates. Life is just fine, so this apparently omnipresent requirement for British people to escape something and flee to the scorching sun is not one that stirs within me.

However, I am no beast and I know that it’s necessary to give to others as well as to oneself. So, because Mrs F is a sun worshipper, I, after a fairly one-sided debate, handed over my bank card (fear not, feminists of the west, she has her own funds, but somehow we only share mine...) and watched her thumb in our trip into her iPad. Admittedly, I had an inside line on Velassaru, seeing as my friend knows the family who own the place. This meant that, before I agreed to anything, I’d be given assurances that this, no matter how permanently overheated and restless a gentleman might be, and however much his physical heft might resent the frankly antisocially narrow seats everywhere below business class, this would be both a trip to relish and to remember.

It turned out that Mrs F, despite her near-festive enthusiasm, couldn’t quite manage not to hate the admin involved in booking a trip such as this. So, a quick call to another friend of mine, Anita Powell – who runs Small World Marketing and therefore knows every travel trick in the book – and we were sent the number for Turquoise Holidays, whom she promised would do all the complicated stuff. And they did. In truth, the ease with which they booked, confirmed, and communicated every transfer, taxi, ticket – and even a pencilled-in ‘ultimate itinerary’– both pleased me greatly and left me clammy with regret that I’d never gone down this route before. Seriously, call them, say some words, and your holiday just seems to happen. Heaven for lazy folk like me.

Originally we planned to take our kids, but one 4am wake up later, they got binned off with the in-laws. So it was just the two of us and, within about eight minutes of arriving – via a breathtaking boat transfer –

we had slipped into the Maldivian routine.

We walked slowly, we dipped into the transparent-yet-bright blue ocean via the stepladder beside our plunge pool, we ate fresh fruit and crêpes with Nutella (such Brits on tour) for breakfast, and we walked slowly some more.

The temperature was, for me, very high, but for the more normally calibrated Mrs F, about perfect. So as I sweated and panted during the short walks between our pool house on the water and one of the selection of restaurants every mealtime, she basked like an alligator post-feed. For me, the heat actually added to the experience. Not because I got a tan, but because it made the extra investment in a room with both ocean access and a pool totally worthwhile.

There was a beachside movie night, during which we sipped cocktails and nibbled on bar snacks on a comfy sofa. We had supper with the manager one evening which, despite initial fears of formality, turned out to be a riot, with him challenging me to take on the most elaborate dishes on the (properly scrumptious) menu, and me meeting that challenge by eating more than he could quite believe and washing it down with champagne.

He was smiling at the time, but I don’t reckon he’ll do that again...

The very best activity we undertook, though, was the desert island trip. Not quite knowing what this meant, we boarded a super cool wooden boat, along with four staff, and were delivered to a simple, utterly isolated hump of sand in the middle of the blue. On this hump they set up an enormous lunch of fruit, sushi, and ice cold drinks. It was just us (once the chaps had retreated to the boat), and all we could see was the quivering, cobalt horizon. Truly, it was staggering. So I called my mum. Astonishingly, she answered from her vegetable patch in Kent and I did my best to describe our otherworldly surroundings.

We will never forget it.

By the time our trip to Velassaru ended, we had acclimatised fully, and readjustment was tough for a good week once back in Bath.

Mrs F is gagging to go back and, in a twist that has shocked even me, so am I. We are too busy this summer, but Mrs F has already called the guys at Turquoise and registered an interest, so it’s probably already done. And we cannot wait.

TRAVEL DETAILS Turquoise Holidays are offering a 7 night stay in a Deluxe Bungalow at Velassaru on a Bed & Breakfast basis from £1,210 per person. Includes flights with Etihad and speedboat transfers. Call one of their Indian Ocean specialists for more: 01494 678400. www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk

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

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QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“PEOPLE HERE ARE UNITED IN WORKING TOWARDS PROVING BATH HAS AN ENERGY AND LIFE BEYOND ITS IDENTITY AS JUST A BEAUTIFUL HERITAGE CITY”

Bath’s retailers are weathering the storms

RETAIL

SHOP TALK

Scarlett Mosnier thinks the people of our city are just FaB! Turn to page 118

Bath has been named as one of the leading places in Britain for high street retail investment While investment in most sub-sectors of the UK commercial property market has slowed down in the last year, the good news is demand for high street retail assets remains relatively robust, with Bath making the top six of Savills’ retail town rankings.

“Fundamentals that make Bath an attractive place for retailers are very strong – low retail spend leakage, low unemployment, relatively strong economic growth levels both historical and forecast,” explains Marie Hickey, director of Savills Commercial Research.

“From an investor perspective, the fact that Bath’s key shopping areas are relatively constrained and we are

unlikely to see any large scale retail development in the town centre, coupled with its attractiveness to retailers, means the outlook for rental growth for high street investment is relatively strong.

“With investors increasingly looking for value,” she continues, “high street retail is looking increasingly attractive when compared with prime offices for example, but it is the defensible nature of the location as a retailing centre that needs to be the foremost consideration if investors want a secure income.”

For more: www.savills.co.uk

£33m THE BIG NUMBER

The merger of which two companies will result in a business with this amount of turnover and a staff of 450?

Find out on page 115

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Tailoring care for each individual is important to Ken

KEN BISHOP We chat to Ken Bishop, ex-Royal Navy diver, former footballer and now home manager of Brunel House Care Home, which is part of the Maria Mallaband Care Group, one of the UK’s leading care home providers Tell us a bit about your background….

I’m originally from a small fishing village in Cornwall where I grew up. I went into the military in 1989 and became a Royal Navy diver and medic. In that time I managed to travel around the world twice, as well as being a part of the first Gulf War. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I wanted to be a professional football player, which I managed to achieve with Shrewsbury Town for a brief period while I was young. I did get to continue playing football while in the Navy.

What was your first job?

I worked as a barrow boy on a fruit and veg stall in my home village of Helston.

What was the career path that lead to you working with MMCG? In 1995 I left to work for the NHS and then qualified as a registered general nurse before then moving into elderly care home management in Cornwall. More recently I moved to Bristol where I worked for another large care provider.

What aspects of your work do you find most rewarding?

I feel privileged to be able to make a difference to people’s lives every day. It is important to me that 114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

those in my care lead happy and fulfilling lives, whilst maintaining control and having the ability to choose the care and support they receive. Our team always ask ourselves, ‘if this was our parent or relative, how would want them to be cared for?’

What makes your business stand out from your competitors?

When you step inside our home, you will leave behind the typical view of care homes. Our aim is to provide quality care to all our residents. We appreciate that no two residents are the same, so our compassionate and experienced nurses and carers ensure that each person receives care that’s tailored to their unique needs, personality and wishes.

Do you work with any charities?

I support a charity called Bread and Life International (www.breadlifeintl.org), who provide emergency medical, dental and social care in countries such as Cambodia, Thailand and Nepal. My wife and I are hoping to join a team going to Nepal in 2017 for two weeks, for medical and teaching support.

Who do you admire professionally?

I have huge respect for those who put their lives at risk for others, such as front line workers in the Red Cross who go to war torn areas. www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk

I FEEL PRIVILEGED TO BE ABLE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE’S LIVES EVERY DAY

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BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

Withy King’s Graham Street

DOUBLE THE STRENGTH Law firms Withy King, which has principal offices in Bath, Swindon and Oxford, and the London-based Royds, have just announced their intention to merge on 1 September this year. The result of this will create a £33million turnover business employing around 450 people. “Withy King and Royds have complementary strengths and share a similar vision and culture, making them a really good fit,” says Graham Street, managing partner at Withy King. www.withyking.co.uk

ART WORK Mytton Williams, a brand and design agency based in Bath, is not only celebrating 20 years in business this year, but have also recently won two awards at the prestigious D&AD Pencil Awards. The event celebrates global creative, design and advertising communities and rewards brilliance in commercial creativity and the finest creative work from around the world. www.myttonwilliams.co.uk

Old friends and occasional rivals Duncan Bell and David Flatman

BATH RUGBY NEWS

B

Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

ath Rugby legends David Flatman and Duncan Bell put their friendship to one side this week at their old stomping ground – all in the name of charity.

As part of Bath Rugby Foundation’s men’s health programme Move Like A Pro, Duncan and David went head to head in a ‘Flats V Bell’ touch rugby game on 6 June, which saw Team Bell winning 10-7.

The Move Like A Pro programme sees local men who want to improve their health and wellbeing taking to the rugby field and learning how to improve their diet and lifestyle and speaking up about mental health issues.

“Duncan and I both know that once you hit your late 30s, early 40s, it’s easy for the only exercise you do every day to be getting up off the sofa to find the remote,” says David Flatman, former England and Bath Rugby prop and Bath Life columnist. “So we’re both really behind Move Like a Pro. The atmosphere is brilliant, they’re a top bunch of lads and it was great to hear their stories.”

Duncan Bell, former England and Bath Rugby prop

agrees, “Move Like a Pro is such a fantastic programme.

Since the launch, I’ve seen a massive difference in both the weight and the attitude of the participants and that’s brilliant to see. I’ve even shifted 20kgs myself!

This programme has given me the kick I needed to get moving. I get a lot out of coming along and coaching the guys – they’re a brilliant bunch – and of course, Team Bell were the victors. I couldn’t be happier with that!”

• Don’t forget, tickets go on sale for the start of the new season on 4 July. The club will be bolstered by the arrival of some new world-class players next season, and demand for seats will be high, so renewing your season ticket, the cost of which has been held at 2016/17 prices, will guarantee your place for every second of the action which starts in September.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

GOOD PRACTICE Chartered accountancy firm Milsted Langdon, who have offices in Bath, Bristol and Swindon, scooped Best Tax Practice in a Regional Firm at the Tolley’s Taxation Awards 2016 at the London Hilton awards ceremony presented

by Gyles Brandeth last month.

“This is a testament to the commitment and hard work of the entire tax team over the last 12 months,” comments tax partner Rob Chedzoy. www.milsted-langdon.co.uk

Local men unite for The Move Like a Pro wellbeing programme

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

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BREAKING NEWS

TERRIFIC TRIO

All aboard for Sally’s talk

Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

PUT THE KETTLE ON! Writer and presenter Sally Kettle, who was the first woman to row the Atlantic Ocean twice from East to West, and once with her mother, is coming to Bath to address Bath Business Women’s Association to help them celebrate and mark twenty years of effective local networking.

“Our aim has always been to bring people together, helping them support one another in every type of business,” explains Julie

Cooper, chair of BBWA. “We have over 200 ladies on our books and continue to get new faces every month, which is brilliant. We are hoping to welcome as many people as possible to listen to Sally, who is a truly inspirational person.”

The celebrations take place at Bailbrook House on 22 June and are open to everyone.

For more: www.bbwa.biz

SPEAKING FRANKLY Wine expert and Bath Life columnist Ben Franks was recently selected as one of the fifteen finalists for the UK’s Freelancer of the Year Awards. Ben, who runs his own consultancy firm which helps people discover new wines and provides free tasting events, attended the 9 June awards ceremony in London.

“It was wonderful to be part of this event which shows the value of being freelance. If you’re determined to make your own career, you will do it. I want to show people that is truer than ever,” says Ben. Chris Bryce from the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self Employed who helped host the event, goes on to say, “Freelancers are the driving force behind the UK’s flexible economy. It’s important to recognise the people who choose to be their own boss and celebrate their successes.”

Ben Franks talks wine

www.benfrankswine.com

Gerard Krow, Elizabeth Truss, Ben Howlett and Mark Spencer say cheers to Bath!

HOUSES OF BATH Ben Howlett MP recently hosted a Taste of Bath food roadshow in Westminster, introducing his parliamentary colleagues to the culinary wonders of the West.

More than 300 attendees, including Secretary of State Elizabeth Truss, and Minister of Tourism David Evennett, were encouraged by Ben along with Helen Rich – founder of Taste of Bath – and CEO of Bath Tourism Plus David James, to sample the delights from many of the region’s best producers. The tasty products included Gerard Krow’s Honey Midford Cider, Bath Soft Cheese, Meg’s Cottage Fudge, Choc on Choc and Somerset Hot Sauce.

“I really enjoyed welcoming so many local producers to parliament allowing us to join together in showing off how much Bath has to offer,” says Ben. “It is a fantastic place, yet many people I spoke to at the event only thought of it as a spa town, not realising how much more there is to our city.”

For more: www.taste-of.co.uk

MasterMind Business Peer Group Membership by Invitation only!

Connect with fellow CEO’s, MD’s and Business Owners Have your questions questioned!

Have your decisions challenged!

Sponsors of the Bath Life 2016 Business Awards Contact Nicola McHale – Vistage Chair South West

Email nicola.mchale@vistagechair.co.uk or call 07887 616606 to find out more

Vistage www.vistage.co.uk/nicola-mchale

Email: nicola.mchale@vistagechair.co.uk

Twitter: @nicolamchale

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS

ARTS WINNER Sponsored by

FRINGE ARTS BATH Scarlett Mosnier and Arran Hodgson are the organisers of the non-profitmaking Fringe Arts Bath (FaB), the city’s only annual visual arts festival

So how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award?

A: It feels amazing to be recognised for all the hard work we do, and it was great to be able to use this as an opportunity to shout a loud thank you to every single artist, volunteer and curator who played a part in making Fringe Arts Bath (FaB)!

Where is your award now?

S: It sits on our kitchen shelf.

What are your ‘other’ jobs?

A: I’m a lecturer in photography at Bath College.

S: And I’m a student engagement officer at the college.

I joined FaB six years ago because, while I’m rubbish at art, I am good at organising things!

What’s the difference between you and Bath Fringe Festival?

A: Bath Fringe Festival offers everything that happens on a stage such as music, circus, theatre and comedy.

We developed from them, we run at the same time, and we produce contemporary art exhibitions free to all, with the aim of giving artists inclusive opportunities they might not have otherwise.

What do you love most about this work?

S: Because everyone is a volunteer, it means we all believe passionately in raising Bath’s arts profile.

A: I love our collaborations, it’s so amazing to be working with 44AD artspace, Creativity Works, Popup-Docs and Local Artists’ Studios.

What have been your most memorable FaB moments so far?

A: The opening night of the festival blows me away every year. You go from a week of power tools, packaging, paint rollers and dust, to an impressive 30 exhibitions full of strong artworks, packed with visitors, and then you can relax.

118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Partners Scarlett and Arran celebrate their Bath Life win

WHILE I’M RUBBISH AT ART, I AM GOOD AT ORGANISING THINGS

What aims to do you both have for FaB? A: I’d like to see FaB commissioning more works for the city, while also keeping participation at the very heart of our ethos.

S: We are seeking funding to strengthen our structure, bring our website up to date, maybe even employ someone part-time, and to develop relationships with more local businesses.

Any new, exciting projects in the pipeline?

S: We currently have five artists and five researchers at the University of Bath working together to influence each other’s work for Expressions of Research, a commission we received from the UoB’s public engagement team. We’re also working with the ICIA and we have talks and a touring exhibition planned for the project later in the year.

How do you choose art for your home?

A: We both believe you don’t choose art, it chooses you. So a lot of what we have at home is artwork that has been left behind at the end of each year.

S: It is now a large collection of amazing material!

You’d be surprised how many incredible works get left after the festival or forgotten.

What do you love about being in Bath?

A: Bath is so lively! We have a fantastic community of artists, creative and engaging people, and it is showing potential to be a really exciting arts city.

S: One of the best things is people here are united in working towards proving Bath has an energy and life beyond its identity as just a beautiful heritage city.

www.fringeartsbath.co.uk

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CAN YOU RELY ON YOUR PARTNER’S PROMISES? DON’T BET YOUR HOUSE ON IT The break-up of any relationship can be a difficult time, but it can be even harder if you stand to lose your home. Here Ross Phillips of GOUGHS SOLICITORS advises how to ease the pain...

T

he law governing property rights between couples who live together, but aren’t married or in a civil partnership, is complex. Our experience is that there is a lot of confusion and misunderstanding about it. Many people believe in the enduring myth of the ‘common law wife’. Others think that the law has recently changed to give couples who have lived together for a minimum period automatic rights. Unfortunately, neither belief is true. It remains the case that cohabitees have very few legal rights to claim an interest in a property which is in their partner’s sole name.

Many have been left empty-handed despite making significant financial contributions.

Because parliament has made no law defining the rights of couples who live together, disputes arising when relationships break down have to be settled by judges, who must apply the law developed by previous judicial decisions which bind later cases. The problem is that no two cases are the same – and this means

considerable uncertainty for anyone bringing a claim to court.

In a recent case, Liden v Burton (April, 2016), it was decided that verbal assurances given by the legal owner of the property, Mr Burton, to his partner, Miss Liden, that her financial contributions to the home they shared would be “towards the house”, were enough to form the basis of her successful claim for a share in the equity in the property.

From the start of their cohabitation in 2001 until their separation in 2013, Miss Liden paid Mr Burton £500 per month towards the running costs and maintenance of the home, as Mr Burton had made it clear that they could not afford to live there unless Miss Liden made a contribution. Mr Burton confirmed that £200 per month from her payments went “towards the house”.

The court made an order that Miss Liden should have £33,522 from the equity in the property,

representing all of her £200 contributions plus rolling interest at three per cent. Mr Burton would have to pay her this sum, or the property would have to be sold to ensure she received it from the sale proceeds.

Although this was a positive outcome for Miss Liden, cohabitation cases are fraught with risk unless the couple take specialist legal advice from the start. If they don’t, there is no certainty whatsoever that a court will be prepared to confirm that the claimant has an interest in the property. A great deal depends on the credibility of the parties as witnesses, and their ability to convincingly recall details of informal discussions which happened long ago. It’s not difficult to imagine another judge on another day coming to a different conclusion in a similar case.

Not only does a court have to sift through the evidence – it also has to apply laws which mean nothing to most people, and are challenging for lawyers too. In this case, the award to Miss Liden was made on the basis of the complex equitable doctrine of ‘proprietary estoppel’. In essence this states that if one party makes a promise, or gives an assurance, to the other, and the other carries out ‘acts to their detriment’ in reliance on the promise, fairness (‘equity’) demands that they should not be disadvantaged as a result.

In this case, the court decided that Miss Liden had the opportunity to take her money and invest it elsewhere, but she did not do so because of the assurances given by Mr Burton.

She relied on those assurances to her detriment, and therefore should be rewarded with an interest in the property.

“A DISPUTE DECIDED

BY A JUDGE WILL ALWAYS LEAVE ONE PARTY DISAPPOINTED” 122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L AW

Pursuing any claim in court always involves risk. Even if parliament clarifies the law for cohabiting couples, a dispute decided by a judge will always leave one party disappointed.

Fortunately, there is a much easier, safer and cheaper option available now: take specialist legal advice when you move in with your partner, and never make financial contributions towards a property which isn’t legally registered in your name without ensuring that your position is fully protected. This protection can be achieved in several ways, including: l A transfer of the property into joint names accompanied by a deed of declaration of trust clearly stating the extent of the shares owned by each party. l A deed of declaration of trust stating that the legally registered owner is holding the property on trust for both parties in defined shares. l A comprehensive cohabitation contract recording exactly the terms agreed between the parties about shares in the property, their mutual financial arrangements, and what they would like to happen to the property – including options to buy each other’s interest - if the relationship breaks down.

In our experience it’s much easier and better to discuss and agree things with your partner calmly and sensibly when you are making plans for the future and are on good terms, rather than in the aftermath of a bitter breakup. Specialist legal advice in this complex field is invaluable, and represents an investment which could save a great deal of money and uncertainty – not to mention considerable stress – if a later dispute has to be resolved by a judge.

So, don’t bet your house on it. Make sure you’re protected. Even if you’re not, don’t lose heart – we can give expert, realistic and sympathetic advice about all disputes relating to a property you’ve shared with your partner – and guide you every step of the way if you have to bring a claim.

Ross Phillips, Goughs Solicitors 01380 726913 Ramsbury House, 30 Market Place Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1JG www.goughs.co.uk

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LAW of the LAND We meet six of the city’s lawyers and learn about their practices, their pastimes, preferred laws and first jobs

REBECCA SILCOCK of Mogers Drewett Solicitors Partner and head of family team What’s your specialist area?

Helping clients divorce and resolving the finances arising out of divorce and separation.

What changes have you seen?

The rise of mediation and collaborative family law means many of us are resolving disputes out of court and around a table, which is far better for everyone concerned - not only does it remove the acrimony of court but it also enables settlements to be bespoke and tailor made for that couple’s needs.

Any particular career highlights?

Becoming a partner here at Mogers Drewett, and every time I resolve a case for my client without resorting to damaging litigation.

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

CHARLES CRONIN of Mowbray Woodwards Motoring and criminal law solicitor How has your area of expertise changed over the years?

The advances in technology concerning driverless motor vehicles are incredible, and experts claim they’ll be the norm on our roads within 10 years, so most of the exciting changes are yet to come, What has been one of your recent, most satisfying cases?

A client was wrongly accused of speeding and given points on his license yet he had never driven in that part of the country. I demonstrated that the registration details relied upon for the conviction did not match his and after asking for a proper review of the prosecution, the case was reopened and dropped.

Any immediate career aims?

As a member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists I plan to be constantly involved with the ongoing fight for improvements in road safety.

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

124 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I would suggest they be tenacious as, at entry level, there are far more law graduates than jobs. Also be prepared to start in a support role and work your way up to qualification.

What misconceptions do people have about your profession?

Some people think that we are trying to maximise legal fees by going to court, when actually I always advise court as a last resort and encourage people to negotiate rather than litigate.

If you could, what law would you introduce?

Tougher sanctions on cold callers.

If you weren’t working in the legal world, where would you be?

Riding my horse.

What was your first job?

It was working as a Saturday assistant in my local garden centre. www.md-solicitors.co.uk

Find an area you’re interested in, rather than an area suggested by others, because then you’ll develop a passion that is reflected in your work.

What misconceptions do people have about your profession?

People sometimes misunderstand the role of defence lawyers in the criminal courts, it’s not just about getting people off. The aim is to ensure the law is properly applied and that justice is done.

If you had free reign, what law would you like to introduce?

My pet hate is roadside littering, there is just no need for it! I would introduce a clear, wellregulated law that has the power to stamp it out for good.

If you weren’t working in the legal world, where would you be?

I would be skiing in Zermatt, Switzerland… every single day!

Any secret ambitions?

I have a passion for cooking, so a Michelin star would be great! www.mowbraywoodwards.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

What changes have you seen?

When I was first qualified in the early 1990s it was rare to encounter a person in their 90s – now many of our clients are that age and still leading very active lives.

What are the personal highlights of your work?

It is lovely to have long-standing relationships with clients and their families. I saw a client recently who I first met when I was a trainee solicitor in a firm in Bristol, and we worked out that I had acted for him for over 20 years.

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

Get as much work experience as you can. The law is an incredibly varied career and the opportunities are enormous. If you get as much experience as possible it will give the best possible chance of finding the right niche for you.

What sort of misconceptions do people have about your profession?

That if you are a solicitor, you will know everything about every single law!

If you had free reign, what law would you introduce?

I would try and do something about the housing crisis – force local authorities to start building council houses

ALISON ALLEN of Stone King Partner and head of private client sector What’s your specialist area?

Wills, probat, tax planning and lasting powers of attorney are my roots, but I have developed a particular specialism in providing advice around eligibility for care funding, for older people in particular, and advising on wills and trusts to make provision for vulnerable people.

SARAH LOVELESS of Burningham & Brown Solicitors Partner, Trusts and Estate Practitioner What’s your specialist area?

Wills, probate, lasting powers of attorney, deputyships and family matters. I am a member of STEP, Solicitor for the Elderly, and also of Resolution.

What changes have you seen in your field of work?

Clients now realise that lasting powers of attorney are just as important as wills and how they can make life much easier for their loved ones at a later stage in life, when they may not have the capacity to make decisions for themselves.

Why is your work important to you?

By 2025, more than one million people in the UK will have dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Society. One in five people over the age of 85 already suffer from it. If you

What was your first job?

I worked as a waitress for Gloucestershire County Cricket Club while I was at school. I used to serve the players their tea and Imran Khan once accidentally threw his bat at me!

Any parts of Bath you particularly enjoy?

My team’s weekly treat is going into Colonna & Smalls. www.stoneking.co.uk

lose mental capacity, unless you have a lasting power of attorney in place then your loved ones will go through a lengthy and expensive process to become a ‘deputy’.

Any future events relating to work that you are looking forward to?

The RUH ‘Make a Will’ month coming up in September, where our fee for making or updating is donated to the hospital.

What was your first job?

My first legal job was at Burningham & Brown Solicitors where I carried out my training contract, and the rest is history.

What is your first port of call for coffee with clients?

Cafe Lucca in Bartlett Street.

Best bit about working in Bath?

I love working in Queen Square and being right in the centre of Bath. The office has fantastic views over Queen Square and also Victoria Park. w www.burninghambrown.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 125

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

LOUISE HART of Withy King Partner Tell us about your work.

I’ve been at Withy King for 24 years and lead the firm’s personal injury team in Bath. Withy King’s 34-strong personal injury team represents people with all sorts of injuries, including serious brain and spinal injuries, but my specialist area is working with amputees and those suffering with complex regional pain syndrome. I also deal with general orthopedic claims.

Any changes you’d have preferred not to see?

It’s been sad to see the steady closure of many of our local law courts, although I’m pleased to say that, for now, the one in Bath is still open. These closures, together with huge hikes in court fees, the up-front costs which law firms have to shoulder and the prescribed budgets they now have to work to, have deterred many solicitors from practicing personal injury work.

HELEN STARKIE of Helen Starkie Solicitor Principal solicitor Describe your work for us.

I specialise in private client work – for all ages, but principally for older or vulnerable clients – tax planning, wills, probate, powers of attorney, court of protection deputyships, residential care funding and contracts, and residential property work.

What have been your personal career highlights?

Starting my own niche practice after many years in large firms has enabled me to get back to the basic values of the family solicitor, and it has been enormously rewarding.

What would you say to someone wanting to start out in a career in law?

Ditch the preconceptions and leave deciding which area of law is for you until you have tried them all. Then go with your instincts and specialise, specialise, specialise!

What law would you like to see passed?

We lawyers have to spend an awful lot of time and effort keeping up with new legislation, and a great deal of it is hard-going to digest and pretty superfluous. So a law should be passed that all new laws passed should be kept short, essential and practical, and in plain English!

What was your first job?

I was a cinema cashier when I was a student, which was good experience in dealing with the public in all its guises!

What secret ambitions can you share with us?

I’d like to run a marathon.

Any favourite laws?

I have a soft spot for some of the old, eccentric laws that really make us English, such as: ‘it is illegal to wear a suit of armour into the chambers of the Houses of Parliament’, and one must ‘never handle a salmon in suspicious circumstances’. www.helenstarkie.co.uk

126 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What misconceptions do people have about your profession?

That we have a compensation culture with numerous fraudulent claimants; this is hardly ever true. We work on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, so every potential claim is properly risk assessed and medical histories are thoroughly checked. The point of a personal injury claim is to try to help the person get back to where they were, before they were injured, which is why the compensation is needed, to cover their medical care and rehabilitation.

What was your first job?

Waitressing at the Bunch of Carrots pub in Herefordshire.

Where would you take clients for a coffee?

The Society Café in Kingsmead Square.

Anything about you that might surprise us?

I almost missed my job interview at Withy King 24 years ago, because my train got stuck in a tunnel and I arrived over two hours late. www.withyking.co.uk

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L E G A L F O C U S

INHERITANCE TAX ON LIFETIME GIFTS Gifts, inheritances, donations and allowances? HELEN STARKIE simply and succinctly explains the differences, and clarifies what it can mean to your loved ones

M

ost people I see professionally are already aware that their estates may be subject to Inheritance tax when they die if their estate is over a certain value. Many also have some idea that there is some kind of ‘seven year rule’ relating to gifts they have made before they die and that they can give gifts of £3,000 inheritance tax free each year. However, most are confused about how the various rules and figures they have heard apply and relate to one another – and few seem to know anything about one allowance in particular, which can often be the most useful of all. So here is an outline of inheritance tax basics which I hope you may find useful as an aide-mémoire.

The following gifts, whether made during the lifetime of the donor (the individual making the gift) or on his or her death, are not liable to Inheritance Tax. ● Gifts to a spouse or civil partner ● Gifts to charities and national institutions ● Gifts to political parties

LIFETIME GIFTS

In any one tax year an individual may make any or all of the following gifts free from any liability to inheritance tax. ● Gifts of up to £3,000. The donor may also carry forward any unused allowance from the previous tax year – but only once – so if, for example, Bill made no gifts at all in 2013/14, a gift of £2,000 in 2014/15 and now makes a gift of £7,000 to Ben, only £4,000 will be exempt from IHT – that is the allowance of £3,000 for the current year and the unused allowance of £1,000 from 2014/15. He cannot carry forward any allowance from 2013/14 and has already used part of his allowance for 2014/15) ● As many gifts of £250 each as he wishes to different recipients – so if Bill gave Ben another £250 now it would be liable to IHT. If Bill gave Weed two separate gifts of £250 in a year the first would be free from IHT; the second would not.

In the example above Bill’s £3,000 allowance for this year was offset against his larger gift to Ben. It is not possible to offset individual £250 gifts against larger gifts, so

a gift by Bill of £400 to his mother would all be taxable if he had already used his annual £3,000 allowance. ● A gift of up to £5,000 to a child of theirs who is marrying or entering into a civil partnership ● A gift of up to £2,500 to a grandchild of theirs who is marrying or entering into a civil partnership ● A gift of up to £2,500 between a bride and groom or a couple entering into a civil partnership or a gift of up to £1,000 to just one party to the marriage or civil partnership. ● This is the exemption I find most people have not heard of, and is in many cases it is the most useful – any amount paid out of the individual’s income as part of their usual expenditure, provided that the individual is left with sufficient income to meet his or her own usual standard of living without having to resort to their capital assets. This exemption is often used, for example, in relation to the payment of school fees by grandparents.

Any gift made under any of these exemptions must be declared to the Revenue if the donor dies within seven years of making it but no IHT will be payable on it.

Any gift made during the seven years prior to the donor’s death which does not fall into one of the exemptions listed above will have to be taken into account when calculating the tax payable on the donor’s estate.

This is a thumbnail sketch of the basic rules. It is not totally comprehensive. You should always seek professional advice in relation to your own specific circumstances if you are thinking of making gifts or taking any other action which may affect your tax position.

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353 www.helenstarkie.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 131

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

Elstree 132 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

This beautifully refurbished Grade-II Georgian townhouse in the east of Bath had us hooked at first sight and shocked us with its hidden surprises

By L I SA E VA NS

House

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 133 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

W

e know you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but it’s pretty difficult not to get excited when you first catch sight of Elstree House in Lambridge. Walking up to this fourstorey honeyed Georgian beauty, it’s easy to imagine that the interior will be crammed with traditional charm, and you’d be right… but it also houses a few surprises.

One of its most unexpected features is its lower-groundfloor cinema, complete with a kitchenette – perfect for popcorn-making, we presume – a shower room and utility room. This could be easily transformed into a spacious, self-contained guest suite, but its current owners are clearly lovers of entertainment; they’ve also created a library on the ground floor to enjoy when they’re tired of the big screen.

The entire interior is in immaculate order, having just been lovingly restored. It may be freshly painted and papered, but the stacks of striking original features, including quaint window shutters, grand open fireplaces, a lovely cantilevered staircase and ornate cornice-work, have not been touched. The décor is in keeping with the building’s period character, and most of the rooms have been decked out with Canadian walnut and oak floors.

Looking past the incredibly tasteful decoration and statement pieces of furniture, many of which, we must remind ourselves, don’t actually come with the property, this house has a lot going for it. Take its exceptionally convenient location, for a start. It’s not only just a leisurely walking-mile away from Bath’s city centre, but it’s within striking distance of the popular village of Larkhall where you’ll find everything but a candlestickmaker in amongst its independent businesses – from a delicatessen and grocers to a butchers, ironmongers and three public houses.

134 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: The master bedroom is elegant and wellproportioned; one of three stylish reception rooms; the Georgianstyle front garden exudes class; the dining room is positivley dripping in gold

HOUSE NUMBERS

3,950

square feet of space

3

reception rooms

£1.6M price

6

bedrooms

2

landscaped gardens

It’s certainly in a prime position – especially as there are a number of local and private schools, such as King Edward’s, Kingswood and the Royal High – and, although surrounded by activity, the house still retains a private feel. It is accessed through an enclosed, attractive courtyard and, at the back, the large, thoughtfullylandscaped garden is bordered by fruit trees, roses and perennials and offers an enchanting slice of tranquillity away from the outside world. There’s also a raised terrace area in the formal rear garden – making alfresco entertaining a breeze – and there’s a garage which opens on the other side to Lambridge Mews.

On entering the house through a characterful vestibule, the hallway leads into the stylish kitchen-cum-breakfast room – a perfect entertaining space – with its floor-toceiling windows, bespoke hand-made units, an eminently practical central island and homely Aga which has a bolt-on conventional electrical oven and gas hob. From here, you’ll find the dining room which is positively dripping in golden accoutrements – think sparkling chandeliers and gilded wallpaper – and then it’s onto a workshop space, which is also accessible from the garden.

The bright and airy drawing room on the first floor features sash windows which let light stream in, and the impressive master bedroom with en-suite shower room is also on this floor together with a family bathroom. On the top tier there is a large guest room with a beautiful dressing area and three further bedrooms together with a shower room.

With its ideal location, bedrooms aplenty and classic, Georgian-style formal gardens, Elstree House might seem impossibly perfect in its box-ticking credentials, but for some lucky new owner, it will be an idyllic reality.

Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JG, 01225 325999, www.knightfrank.co.uk

A handsome family home set on a leafy lane in this popular village!

The welcoming entrance hall leads to beautifully proportioned accommodation throughout. Spacious lounge with fireplace & patio doors to the conservatory. Kitchen breakfast room adjoining the dining room.

Four double bedrooms including the very large master with ensuite. Utility & cloakroom.

Level lawns to front & rear, terrace & veggie patch; great for the green fingered!

There is a double garage with roller electric doors & plenty of driveway parking. This is an excellent house on a good plot in a prime location within this sought after village east of Bradford-on-Avon. Good local amenities too. EPC – D.

N EW

Chestnut Corner, Holt. £625,000.

EW

Kingfisher Court, Limpley Stoke. £495,000.

N

An impressive self-contained garden apartment in this popular retirement village set high on the ridge above the lovely Limpley Stoke valley between Georgian Bath & historic Bradford-on-Avon.

The smartly presented accommodation is generously proportioned & arranged around the lengthy entrance hall. The comfortable lounge & dining room lead out onto the private garden through French windows.

There is an ensuite & separate shower room. The excellent facilities are extensive & exclusively for the use of residents.

As well as independent living there are escalating care & dementia services.

Service charges & other fees apply.

No chain. EPC – C.

Tel: 01225 866747

27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • website: www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk

P R O P E R T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

EXQUISITE TOWNHOUSES ATTRACT FAMILIES SEEKING A RETURN TO THE CITY Having a greater freedom in terms of choice of location and lifestyle is becoming an increasing trend across the city, says SAVILLS BATH

“CLAD IN THE PALE HONEY-HUED STONE SO FAMILIAR IN BATH”

136 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

A

collection of four storey townhouses at Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside development is proving popular with couples whose children have left home and who are looking for a return to city life, according to selling agents Savills.

Longmead Terrace and Percy Terrace sit back to back at the heart of the landmark development. The three and four bedroom townhouses set our over four floors offer a modern interpretation of a Georgian House, for which Bath is so renowned. Within a stone’s throw of the city centre, the properties have access to all the amenities and attractions the city has to offer.

Giles Harling of Savills explains, “The townhouses at Bath Riverside are selling well. Longmead Terrace has sold out and the properties at Percy Terrace are built and ready to go with several already under offer.

“The majority of our buyers in this part of the scheme have been owner occupiers, many of whom hail from local villages and crave a return to the restaurants, shops and leisure on offer in town. And this is a trend we are seeing increasingly across the city.

Aspects such as flexible working mean that buyers have a greater freedom in terms of choice of location and lifestyle.

“The houses on Percy Terrace are appealing for a number of reasons. Clad in the pale honey-hued stone so familiar in Bath, these exquisite properties offer stylish accommodation with fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms, carpets and light fittings. They are hassle free and ready to go.

“Each property has a landscaped garden and allocated parking and the riverside

location provides the perfect space for walking and a gateway to the city.”

Properties remaining at Percy Terrace are priced from £595,000 for a mid-terraced three bedroom townhouse. For further information and to discuss current sales incentives, contact Savills in Bath on 01225 474591.

Savills Bath Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath, Somerset BA1 2EN 01225 474591 www.savills.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 137

BATH

CHELTENHAM STREET

IMPECCABLY DESIGNED FOUR BED TOWNHOUSES EPC A rated • Garage parking • Garden laid to lawn • Underfloor heating throughout • High quality fully fitted kitchen • Fitted water softener • Buildzone 10 year warranty • Superb central location • Nearest train station: Bath Spa 0.8m

PRICES FROM £595,000 FREEHOLD

T: 01225 466225 E: lheath@pritchards-bath.co.uk

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

SUMMER COMPLETIONS MAKES FOR APPEALING INVESTMENT AT BATH DEVELOPMENT July completions at Bath’s leading new property development will provide canny investors an ideal opportunity to make the most of favourable rental conditions in the world heritage city

T

he rental market in July and August has historically been extremely buoyant in Bath when potential occupiers – including international students starting their studies at the city’s two universities – look in earnest for somewhere to live, and the attraction of living in a brand new property has not gone unnoticed by potential investors.

The sales team at Crest Nicholson Regeneration’s Bath Riverside are now advising those looking to put their money in bricks and mortar to consider the development which, with its central location and high-end spec, has appealed to tenants looking for somewhere suitable to live.

Availability at the award-winning development currently includes a selection of one and twobedroom apartments in Alexandra House, often seen as the preferred choice for investors.

The urgency to act now has been heightened further by the fact that the Alexandra House apartments are set to be the last properties of this type for at least two years, so anyone thinking about investing are being advised to do so before it’s too late.

“July and August has traditionally become a peak time when potential tenants look for somewhere to live,” explains Christine Hamilton the Crest Nicholson sales advisor. “This ties in perfectly with completions in Alexandra House.

“Bath Riverside also offers investors the best opportunity in the area, consistently delivering

higher returns than any other development.

“The properties available are ideally suited to today’s typical tenant and its central location is also ideal. The fact that a lot of the apartments in Alexandra House are earmarked for July completions now presents the perfect blend for investors.”

Christine is also keen to point out that those looking to invest see new properties as the preferred option as, unlike older properties, they don’t come saddled with hefty maintenance bills.

With yields being as much as 20 per cent higher in new properties than old, void periods much shorter and maintenance costs lower, buying a new property at the development makes for a very attractive investment package.

It also helps generate an income as well as a steady investment through capital appreciation.

“Much of the existing rental property in surrounding residential areas has long since been snapped up by existing and first-time landlords, with many traditional family homes having changed to houses in multipleoccupation.” adds Christine. “With Bath Riverside being the most significant property development in the city, it is not surprising we

are attracting investors who are looking at new build for letting opportunities right in the centre of town.”

“Striking now would mean getting the most from the investment not only in terms of potential equity, but future rental returns.”

For further information please call 01225 463 517 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/bathriverside The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10 am to 5pm

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 143

SERVICES GUIDE

GARDENING

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Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

S

he’s just written her second Pride and Prejudice spin-off titled The Bad Miss Bennet Abroad, which stars the naughtiest and youngest Bennet sister, Lydia, as she travels to Rio. Here Jean tells us about the book’s inspiration….

Why did you choose Lydia as the heroine of your new book?

I had been searching for a literary heroine to write about, but the choice was limited. I needed someone who could realistically have adventures and longevity, but women did not get around much in the past and their adventures were mainly through the boudoir. The sisters in Pride and Prejudice are very well known and Lydia was the obvious choice – the black sheep of the family with years ahead of her!

What do you think Jane Austen would make of your imaginings of this character and her adventures?

There is a huge Austen spin-off industry and some of the stories are bizarre. Austen’s characters now fight zombies, marry sea monsters and turn into vampires. I think my version is quite legitimate in comparison, so I hope she won’t be spinning in her grave.

Aside from Lydia, who are your favourite literary heroines?

Cathy in Wuthering Heights was my first heroine.

I like the whole modern generation of female sleuths in crime fiction. In classical literature I have a soft spot for Becky Sharp in Vanity Fair – a victim of her time.

What’s your most treasured possession?

My books are very precious but I couldn’t save all of them in a fire; I have a huge number. A ring that’s very precious would probably count, plus some family photographs.

What do you like best about living in Bath?

I live just outside of the city, but I spend a lot of time in Bath. I fully intend to move there when I win the lottery. The Central Library and the Fashion Museum were invaluable when I was researching the novels.

JEAN BURNETT The local author on zombies, Bath’s Fashion Museum and Jane Austen’s catty side...

If you had to live anywhere else where would it be?

My favourite places (apart from Bath) are Venice, France and the Highlands of Scotland. Venice is beautiful, gothic, melancholy and full of ghosts, Scotland is beautiful and stirring (I have Scottish ancestry) and I love the sunshine, sights and smells of France.

Share a favourite spot in the city…

I like Sydney Gardens and The Holburne Museum. We made a video for my first book, Who Needs Mr Darcy? in the gardens, but we forgot that trains rush by every few minutes. We would film a minute or two of Regency stuff and then have to stop for a train.

And a favourite place to eat and drink here?

I always head for The Courtyard Café for a snack when I arrive. Sally Lunn’s is close by and I go there for an occasional fix of the cinnamon bun.

What books are on your bedside table at the moment?

I’m reading about a female artist of the Renaissance period called Artemisia Gentileschi.

I would love to write about her.

What was the last film you saw?

Love and Friendship – the latest Jane Austen novel to be filmed. It’s based on Lady Susan, Jane’s last and funniest book. The film was excellent, I thought, but read the book first.

It’s Austen in very catty mode.

What’s next after this?

I’m putting the finishing touches to my ‘modern’ novel. It’s set in 1987 - which is modern for me. It’s a cosy crime novel set on a university campus. I have also completed a novel set in 16th century Italy, based on a true story.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

‘Stop worrying’. On the Richter scale of worriers, I’m probably an 8.5.

What do you do to relax?

I enjoy dance classes, listening to music and, of course, reading.

146 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The Bad Miss Bennet Abroad

by Jean Burnett is out now, published by Canelo, price £3.99 in eBook