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Skeleton Keys

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Amy Williams MBE gives us her tips on a healthier 2018

what's on |competitions healthy eating | gregg wallace health and wellbeing | apprenticeships | property and much more....

InBath

EST. 1980

refurbish your existing conservatory

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Health and Wellbeing

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WIN A WYLDE FLOWER DIAMOND® WORTH £1,000!

Inside

Skeleton Keys Amy Williams MBE gives us her tips on a healthier 2018

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Jan/Feb

what's on |competitions healthy eating | gregg wallace property health and wellbeing | apprenticeships | and much more....

InBath 11:52 10/12/2017 07:24 15/12/2017

3 JanFeb18.indd 87 100pagespineBath.indd

Skeleton Keys

what's on

food and drink

The new year brings with it some fantastic shows and events in Bath. We highlight everything from comedy to music, exhibitions to festivals within our what's on section.

If you've given your stomach enough time to digest the festive fayre, then you will be glad to hear that this issue sees some more fantastic gastronomic events that will tempt your tastebuds.

We get the latest from our fantastic museums and galleries, as well as an update on this years Bath Festival; including some major names coming to the city. Finally, there are two competitions from Theatre Royal Bath to win.

Along with the likes of Valentine's and Burn's Night on the horizon, we talk to MasterChef's Gregg Wallace about his campaign to get families eating healthier.

Amy Williams MBE gives us her tips on a healthier 2018

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what's on |competitions healthy eating | gregg wallace property health and wellbeing | apprenticeships | and much more....

JanFeb18.indd 87

InBath 10/12/2017 11:52

amy williams mbe

health and wellbeing

property

Bath's Olympic Gold medal winning Skeleton athlete, Amy Williams MBE, talks to us exclusively about her dedication to the sport, setting goals to achieve your fitness targets as well as getting back into shape since having her son Oscar in March 2017.

The start of a new year offers up an opportunity to reflect on the year just passed and focus on the year ahead.

If you are considering an interior transformation this year, then we offer up all the latest trends and design ideas. We will highlihgt general design ideas by Kate Howard plus look at the Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom to see what's hot in the home of 2018.

inbath InBath is published by CVM Publishing Ltd Tel: 01225 958105 M: 07966 041054 twitter: @InBath google +: In Bath Editors: Craig & Victoria Maplesden

We take a look at Health and Wellbeing, asking local experts to give us their tips and advice on how to make 2018 a year for positive change.

Finally, we take a brief look at the history of Spas.

You can obtain our competition rules and regulations by e-mailing us at the address above.

The publisher shall not be held responsible for any loss occasioned by failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damages or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions and misprints. All information correct at the time of going to press.

Also, we speak to local property experts about how they feel 2017 faired as well as predictions for the new year.

Competition e-mails may be retained for marketing purposes.

Copyright CVM Publishing Ltd 2018.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

Cover Image: Courtesy of James McFarland

inbath 3

Home of the

WYLDE FLOWER DIAMOND ®

WIN A WYLDE ® FLOWER DIAMOND WORTH £1,000!

Bath Spa Rail Station has officially branded Bath as the ‘Home of the Wylde Flower Diamond’® and to celebrate we’re giving away one of these unique gems with a jaw-dropping £1k value!

How to enter: Download the competition app from: http://go.blispa.com/wylde Take a ‘selfie’ with our special ‘I want to win a Wylde Flower Diamond®’ easy-to-use photo frame and share to our social media channels and provide us with your contact details Competition runs from November 27th to February 11th 2018.

A winner will be announced just in time for Valentine’s Day 2018!

For full Terms & Conditions, see here: http://www.nicholaswylde.com/tag-a-diamond-terms-conditions

As you discover the beauty of Bath, seek out also the city’s rare and romantic bloom, the Wylde Flower Diamond®.

Prices from £1,900 for the Flower Collection as shown.

Home of the

W Y L D E F LO W E R D I A M O N D ® nicholaswylde.com

Hetty Feather

Brendan Cole

what's on now – 7 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, which will be the best pantomime of all...?

Times and Prices vary, see website for details now – 14 Jan Little Mermaid The Egg www.theatreroyal.org.uk Thousands of leagues deep beneath the sea, a shipwrecked 1950s cruise liner is the grand palace where five little mermaids live - but don’t imagine this is going to be a pink and frilly princess story…

Times and Prices vary, see website for details now – 7 Jan Aurora The Egg www.theatreroyal.org.uk Look up into the night sky and at the furthest point, as far away as you can possibly see, there’s a fabulous party going on. Can you spot it?

The stars are the twinkling torches of the dancers and the sun is a young girl, beautiful and carefree and lost in the joy of the dance. Her older brother, the Moon, is down-to earth and watchful. He follows his sister around the North Pole, taking care that she doesn’t slip over the last horizon.

9 – 13 Jan Hetty Feather Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Having enjoyed a sold out run in the West End, where it delighted critics and audiences alike with its beautiful story-telling, original live music, circus skills and huge heart, HETTY FEATHER

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returns to Bath. A terrific adventure story, the perfect treat for the whole family.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details 16 – 20 Jan Blood Brothers Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Willy Russell’s legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers.

Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details 18 Jan Fern Brady: Super Fools Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Ferns past two fringe shows that sold out through word of mouth alone and now she’s ready for her debut tour. Scottish comedian Fern is here with Scottish hour. Scottish. As seen on English comedian Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central, English comedian Stewart Lee’s Alternative Comedy Experience and Viceland’s new series Brexit Stage Left.

Time:8:00pm Prices:General Admission: £10.00 Concession: £8.00 18 Jan An Evening with Tom Kerridge Topping and Company Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge has been developing top recipes for nearly three decades and knows how to make things taste good. He also understands how much willpower it takes to

shift unhealthy excess weight, having been on an impressive weight loss journey, and losing over 11 stone in the last four years.

He joins us to talk about realistic dieting for longterm weightloss his new book Lose Weight for Good – showing how we can all lose weight, but without compromising on flavour, enjoyment of food, or portion size.

Time: 8pm Prices: £8 - £ 22.00 19 Jan Barry Steele & Friends ‘The Roy Orbison Story 30 year special’ The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk Barry Steele is widely recognised as one of the world’s leading vocalists playing homage to legend Roy Orbison. He has stunned audiences across the globe with his uncanny similarity and ability to authentically revive the exquisite toetapping sound of this musical legend.

Time: 7pm Prices: £ 22.00 19 Jan Born To Run – A Bruce Springsteen Retrospective Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Bruce Springsteen has sold over 120 million albums worldwide and is ahead of Queen, Abba, Michael Jackson and David Bowie in an all-time list of acts with UK no1. Albums!

Time:7:00pm Early Bird Auditorium: £14.00 20 Jan King King The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk Having scored three radio hit singles on Planet Rock with the songs Crazy, Hurricane, and most recently, Rush Hour, King King received a nomination for Best New Band at Classic Rock Awards.

King King followed up with an UK arena tour supporting Thunder.

Time: 7.30pm Prices: £ 20.00

Tom Kerridge

David Baddiel 21 Jan An Evening with Aggers and Bumble Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Following one of the most hotly-anticipated Ashes series in recent memory, Aggers teams up with cricket’s number one maverick national treasure, David ‘Bumble’ Lloyd. Bumble is the Lancashire and England allrounder, first class umpire, coach and Sky TV’s most charismatic and popular commentator. This will be a fascinating, entertaining, no-holds-barred evening for cricket fans and non-lovers of the game alike. There will be an opportunity to tweet Aggers with your own questions.

Time: 7.30pm Prices: £25.00 / £27.50 22 Jan Idle Playthings Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Bath Spa Uni’s comedy society are one of Bath’s premium comedy groups. They do improv, sketches and stand-up – both writing and performing. Their flagship comedy night, Idle Playthings, takes place every month at Komedia Bath. In 2014, the Idle Playthings made their Edinburgh Fringe début with the show Ctrl-AltSketch.

Time: 7.30pm 18+ 22 – 24 Jan Showstopper! The Improvised Musical Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Showstopper! The Improvised Musical offers spontaneous musical comedy at its absolute finest and visits Bath direct from the West End. With ten years as an Edinburgh Fringe must-see phenomenon, a BBC Radio 4 series, a critically acclaimed West End run and an Olivier Award to their name, The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details 24 Jan – 11 Feb Snow Mouse The Egg www.theatreroyal.org.uk An enchanting winter’s tale for the very young

An Evening with aggers and Bumble Winter has arrived and the woods are covered in white. A child hurries to put on their winter clothes so they can run outside and play in a sparkly new world. ( 0 – 4 years) Times and Prices vary, see website for details 26 – 27 Jan Richard Alston Dance Company Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Renowned for musical choreography, danced by the very finest contemporary dancers, the internationally acclaimed Richard Alston Dance Company makes a welcome return to Bath after an absence of more than a decade.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details 26 Jan Shappi Khorsandi Ustinov www.theatreroyal.org.uk The star of Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow and Q.I., Shappi presents England's unsung heroine, Emma Hamilton.

For too many years she has been known as just ‘Nelson's mistress', a bit of a harlot...

Time: 8pm Prices: £15.00 / £13.00 discounts 28 Jan David Baddiel: My Family: Not the Sitcom Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk My Family: Not the Sitcom is a show about memory, ageing, infidelity, dysfunctional relatives, moral policing on social media, golf and gay cats. A massively disrespectful celebration of the lives of David Baddiel’s late sex-mad mother, Sarah, and dementia-ridden father, Colin. Come and be offended on David’s behalf!

Time: 7.30pm Prices: £27.50 (+ £1.25 per ticket booking fee) 29 Jan – 3 Feb Mignight Tango Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk When Mignight Tango played Bath in April 2013, the show was one of the best selling in Theatre Royal history.

Now Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace are back in their most explosive and exuberant show ever.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details 29 Jan and 26 Feb Raise The Bar Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Raise The Bar Spoken Word run Spoken Word events across the South West, bringing performance poetry to life on stage with a mixture of feature sets and open mic for all!

The event puts the Spotlight on Bath’s outstanding emerging talent pool, providing a relaxed and welcoming environment for newbies, veterans and anybody in between to perform their work in a safe space.

Time: 7:30pm Prices: £3 Ages 14+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult) 3 Feb You've Got a Friend: Music of James Taylor and Carole King The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk From the creators of the smash hit West End show ‘The Simon & Garfunkel Story’, You’ve Got A Friend celebrates two of the World’s greatest songwriters of all time - James Taylor and Carole King.

Time: 7.30pm Prices: £ 21.50 4 Feb Brendan Cole: All Night Long Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole takes to the stage with his sensational guest dancers to wow audiences in his latest spectacular production, All Night Long.

Time: 8pm Prices: £29.50 / £39.50 6 – 7 Feb St Petersburg Classic Ballet – Swan Lake Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk

>>>> inbath 7

what's on

Win tickets to watch

Showstopper!

The Improvised Musical at the Theatre Royal Bath

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical offers spontaneous musical comedy at its absolute finest and visits the Theatre Royal Bath from Monday 22nd January to Wednesday 24th January direct from the West End. With ten years as an Edinburgh Fringe must-see phenomenon, a BBC Radio 4 series, a critically acclaimed West End run and an Olivier Award to their name, The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe.

A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance as audience suggestions are transformed in to all-singing, all-dancing productions with hilarious results. These incredible performers never fail to impress as they create shows packed with drama, dazzling dance routines and

8 inbath

catchy melodies - it’s just all made up entirely on the spot!

So whether you fancy some Rodgers and Hammerstein set on a ferris wheel or a little Sondheim on Mount Everest – you suggest it and The Showstoppers will sing it!

Recommended for ages 14+ Tickets for Showstopper! The Improvised Musical are available from the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 and online via www.theatreroyal.org.uk

win

a pair of tickets to watch Showstopper! The Improvised Musical at the Theatre Royal Bath on Monday 22nd January, 7.30pm performance For a chance to win, simply send your name and contact details, on e-mail, to: competitions@inbath.net Subject: Showstopper Closing Date: January 16th Usual T's and C's apply

N

8 – 11 Feb St Petersburg Classic Ballet – The Nutcracker Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk The Nutcracker is a delightfully festive tale, and the perfect introduction to Russian classical ballet. The timeless story of Clara, who is whisked away on a fairy tale adventure by her Nutcracker Prince, is set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious score.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details

23 F EXT FE RID SHO BR AY W: UA RY

Returning to Bath following triumphant previous visits, this exciting and talented company present their opulent version of The Nutcracker, with stunning baroque designs, in repertory with the beautiful classic Swan Lake.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details

12 – 17 Feb The Play That Goes Wrong Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong… does! As the accident prone thesps battle on against all the odds to reach their final curtain call, hilarious results ensue!

Times and Prices vary, see website for details 16 Feb Joe Lycett: I'm about to lose control and I think Joe Lycett Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Pop in and see Joe Lycett on his brand new stand-up tour, where he’ll be sharing jokes, paintings and some of the pathetic internet trolling he’s been up to recently. As seen on 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, QI and The Royal Variety Performance.

SOLD OUT! 20 – 24 Feb My Fair Lady Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Professor Henry Higgins and his friend Colonel Pickering come across Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower seller, in Covent Garden. When Higgins remarks that he could train her to speak like a lady, Pickering challenges him to do so. Although difficult and frustrating for both Eliza and Higgins at first, the lessons soon begin to work wonders, and produce results that neither could ever have anticipated.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details

An electrifying evening of exceptional entertainment!

Featuring camp comedy, frisky burlesque & amazing aerial!

Tickets from £11 | VIP Experience £48 Box Office: 01225 489070 | komedia.co.uk/bath/cabaret

21 Feb Big Country Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Steeped in a stunning catalogue of proud and stirring hit songs such as Fields of Fire, Chance, In A Big Country (which sold 2 million), East Of Eden and their biggest UK hit Look Away, along with massive albums such The Seer, Steeltown, Peace In Our Time and the triple Grammy –nominated, The Crossing, Big Country continue to look beyond the next horizon.

Time: 7:00pm Price:Advance Auditorium: £20.00 22 – 24 Feb Bath Bachfest www.bathbachfest.co.uk Held each February in Bath’s stunning period venues, it attracts fine musicians and audiences from across the UK and well beyond.

23 Feb Ministry of Burlesque: Cabaret Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Fusing the wild, weird and witty traditions of circus, cabaret and burlesque Ministry of Burlesque Cabaret unfolds as a bold and daring, ever evolving new-variety experience. Enjoy a myriad of musical comedy masters, provocative prima donnas, glittering enigmatic exotic dancers and astonishing feats of human grace – all balanced on a contemporary knife edge.

Time: 6:30pm Prices: Meal Deal: £29.50, Auditorium: £18.00, Concessions: £11.00 Ages: 18+ 27 Feb – 3 Mar The Importance of Being Earnest Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk The Importance of Being Earnest by the master of comedy Oscar Wilde, makes a welcome return to Bath in this wonderfully witty, deliciously decadent and classic revival.

Times and Prices vary, see website for details.

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what's on

TEARS FOR FEARS COMING HOME FOR FITTING FINALE TO THE BATH FESTIVAL

Tears For Fears will make a triumphant return to their home city in May 2018 to headline on Saturday 26th May as part of the special finale weekend of the 70th Anniversary of The Bath Festival with special guest Alison Moyet.

One of the most influential bands to emerge from the UK, Tears For Fears have sold an astronomical 30 million albums worldwide, performed to countless sold out audiences, won various awards, and are currently more popular than ever, particularly in their home city. 2018 sees Tears for Fears embark on an 11 date UK & Ireland arena tour, the ‘Rule The World Tour 2018’, with the band announcing they will headline the first of two days of live music on the Bath Rec for the closing weekend of The Bath Festival which runs from 11 to 27 May. The band’s Roland Orzabal said: “We have a massive six months ahead, and this just tops it off beautifully. Coming home to play in the city where it all started for us 37 years ago on the Rec for the finale weekend of the 70th anniversary of the Bath Festival is a perfect way to round off the tour. We can’t wait.”

Tears For Fears’ special guest will be the iconic voice of Alison Moyet, with more big names across the weekend to be announced soon. Ian Stockley, Chief Executive of Bath Festivals said:

Coming home to play in the city where it all started for us 37 years ago on the Rec for the finale weekend of the 70th anniversary of the Bath Festival is a perfect way to round off the tour. We can’t wait.

“We’re delighted to announce plans for our finale weekend on the Rec, 26th – 27th May where we will have three outdoor stages and a number of hugely exciting acts across the two days. The mix of events will allow us to deliver a lovingly crafted, top notch, very English open air party, tailor-made for the whole family, as a conclusion to the true festival experience that we are developing for the city across the 17 days.

There could not be a more appropriate band to announce, as our first headline act for this weekend of events than Tears For Fears.”

Tears For Fears boast a catalogue of huge hits, including classics such as ‘Everybody Wants To Rule The World’, ‘Shout’, ‘Mad World’, ‘Head Over Heels’, and ‘Woman In Chains’, and have already sold out a number of dates across the UK in the spring.

Tears For Fears is Roland Orzabal on vocals, guitar, keyboards, and Curt Smith vocals, bass and keyboards. Their recently released Greatest Hits album, ‘Rule The World’ features all the aforementioned hits and more, plus it boasts the first original music from the duo since 2004, the single ‘I Love You But I’m Lost’ and acoustic track ‘Stay’.

Three-times BRIT Award-winner and Grammy-nominee, Alison Moyet, has released 9 solo studio albums with 2017 seeing the release of the critically-acclaimed album ‘Other’, and her biggest world tour for thirty years.

The new festival weekend finale comes almost 50 years after Bath Blues Festival (1969), which featured a stellar line-up on the Rec including the likes of Fleetwood Mac and Led Zeppelin.

In the crowd that day was Michael Eavis, who was inspired by the experience and started Glastonbury Festival the following year (1970).

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The Bath Festival returns as an extended 17 day multi-arts festival from 11 to 27 May 2018, celebrating the city with music and literature at its heart, engaging with the wider community and bringing the streets of Bath to life.

Booking Dates:

General Onsale: from Friday 15 December

How to book

In person at Bath Box Office from 10.30am to 5pm on the release dates (as specified above) By telephone on 01225 463362.

Online at www.thebathfestival.org.uk and www.ticketmaster.co.uk www.thebathfestival.org.uk www.orchardentertainment.co.uk www.tearsforfears.com TearsForFears.com Facebook.com/TearsForFears Instagram: @TearsForFearsMusic Twitter: @TearsForFears Hashtag: #TheBathFestival

Win 2 tickets to see

Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet at Theatre Royal Bath Returning to Bath following triumphant previous visits, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet will showcase the beautiful classic Swan Lake and their opulent version of The Nutcracker in repertory.

This exciting and talented ballet company, under the direction of Marina Medvetskaya, has won plaudits across the world. Demonstrating the superb technique and artistic heritage from the cradle of Russian ballet – the City of St Petersburg - and presenting the bestloved Russian ballet titles, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet’s performances have an air of magic, complemented by a full orchestra and outstanding soloists who will take your breath away.

At the Theatre Royal on Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th February, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet will perform Swan Lake, the romantic story of the Prince and the Swan Princess, a tragic tale of love that triumphs over evil, set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime, soaring dramatic score.

Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet performs at the Theatre Royal Bath from Tuesday 6th February to Sunday 11th February.

Tickets are available from the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 and online at www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Followed from Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th February with performances of The Nutcracker, a delightfully festive tale, and the perfect introduction to Russian classical ballet. The timeless story tells of Clara, who is whisked away on a fairy tale adventure by her Nutcracker Prince, is also set to glorious music by Tchaikovsky.

win

a pair of tickets to watch Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet perform Swan Lake at the Theatre Royal Bath on Tuesday 6th February at 7.30pm For a chance to win, simply send your name and contact details, on e-mail, to: competitions@inbath.net Subject: Swan Lake Closing Date: February 1st Usual T's and C's apply

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what's on

Mo Lancaster: Ladies at Leisure 13 January – 14 March

Mo has always been fascinated by printmaking and has specialised in reduction lino cut for several years, producing small hand-printed limited editions.

She draws and observes women together and is amused by the way they interact: to have a laugh and good time, or just be quietly introspective together.

She is interested in shape line and blocks of colour; the women’s dresses giving an opportunity for overprinting and tone. All works are for sale.

Lots to do this winter at Lacock Abbey

www.victoriagal.org.uk

The Explorer’s Guide to Lacock family trail Grab your wellies, pack some snacks and dig out the binoculars… we’re going on an adventure!

We’ve put together a pocket-sized guide to help you discover the great outdoors at Lacock.

The abbey grounds may look a bit bare during the winter, but this makes it a great time to go out exploring! Without all their leaves, you can see the skeletons of the trees and shrubs, and also the birds that live in them.

The best place for puddles is along the drive – challenge your friends to see who can make the biggest splash!

Lacock is near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. Open daily 2 January – 9 February, 11am – 4pm, abbey Great Hall open weekends only, 11.30am – 3.30pm.

Volunteer recruitment day in Lacock’s Manger Barn Saturday 20 January, 10am – 12pm Have you ever wanted to start volunteering, but weren’t sure where to begin? The team at Lacock can help…

Lacock’s volunteers are a huge part of making Lacock so special; helping with welcoming visitors, room guiding, gardening, children’s activities, events and much, much more.

The volunteer recruitment day on 21 January is a great opportunity for you to find out more about volunteering at Lacock, and hopefully decide you’d like to join the team.

Open daily 10 February – 28 October, 10.30am – 5.00pm, abbey rooms open 11am – 5pm.

The day will take place in the Manger Barn on Lacock High Street, on Saturday 20 January, 10am – 12pm. There’s no need to book, feel free to just drop in.

National Trust members and under 5s go free.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock or call 01249 730459 for more information.

For more details and opening hours, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock or call 01249 730459.

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Train to be a volunteer at the AMIB Situated within a Georgian manor house in an area of outstanding natural beauty, the American Museum is home to the finest collection of Americana outside the United States.

The Museum is a wonderful place to work where you can meet new people, learn new skills, and contribute to the community. The training programme is extremely popular and attended, not only by would-be, but also by existing volunteers. Why not give it a whirl – with your new-found knowledge, the pub quiz will never be the same again!

Contact the Volunteer Coordinator on 01225 823017 or e-mail coordinator@americanmuseum.org

Blow away the cobwebs this New Year at Lacock Cloisters, grounds and museum open daily 11am - 4pm from 2 January 2018 Winter is the perfect time to wrap up warm, throw on some wellies and go for an invigorating walk. Why not visit us at Lacock Abbey? Members and under 5's go free.

Call 01249 730459 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock #nationaltrust

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places the South West such as Lacock Abbey and The Courts Garden for ever, for everyone.

Š National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography Š National Trust Images\Trevor Ray Hart.

what's on

New Year events and exhibitions at

The Holburne Museum

Seurat to Riley: The Art of Perception Roper Gallery

Friday 20 October 2017 to 21 January 2018 £10/£9 concs/ Free to all Museum Members Under 16s FREE (Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult).

“Dazzling” The Sunday Times This exhibition explores one of the most exciting threads of art history of the past 150 years – looking at colour and depth perception – how we see what isn’t really there.

Children love perceptual illusions. Of course scientists and artists do too. Why do many adults grow out of this fascination with illusions? One reason might be that illusions are “optical” errors of the physical world, or “magic tricks”, and therefore irrelevant to normal experience.

Join Michael Proulx as he explores how illusions can be both scientifically interesting, and artistically useful, precisely because they are directly relevant to daily life. Michael reveals that even perceiving something as simple as this black pigment on a page is in a sense an illusion.

This lecture will reveal the psychology and neuroscience behind art and illusion.

ADULT WORKSHOP

Anthony Fry: A Retrospective

Saturday 13 January 2018, 10.30am-4.30pm £50 (includes entry to Seurat to Riley: The Art of Perception)

9 February to 7 May 2018 £10 | £9 concs | £5 Art Fund Free to all Museum Members Under 16s go FREE (Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult).

Cut, Pattern and Mosaic with Paper: Jessica Palmer

Discover some of the most visually striking elements of the Op Art movement with illustrator Jessica Palmer, and create your own work of art using specialist papercutting and collage techniques, experimenting with paper cutting and collaging paper fragments -including vintage maps and text.

IN CONVERSATION

Sara Moorhouse and Chris Stephens

Wednesday 17 January 2018, 7-8pm £10 | FREE to Holburne Contemporaries EVENING LECTURE

Is seeing believing?

The Psychology and Neuroscience of Illusion in Art

Join ceramicist Sara Moorhouse in conversation with Holburne Director, Chris Stephens, to discover the inspiration behind her ceramics exhibited in Seurat to Riley: The Art of Perception.

Thursday 11 January 2018, 7-8pm £10 (Garden Café open for drinks and, Seurat to Riley: The Art of Perception, open 6 to 7pm)

The evening will reveal how the theme of arable landscape and its seasonal change underlies Sara’s work.

Michael Proulx

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COMING SOON

Roper Gallery

We are delighted to be showing the first museum retrospective of the painter Anthony Fry (1927-2016), who enjoyed huge commercial success in Britain and America during his lifetime but has not previously been recognised by a major exhibition. Comprising works lent from prestigious private collections, the show reveals the considerable extent of his talent.

Images: Bridget Riley, Ecclesia, 1985. Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre, London. © Bridget Riley 2017, all rights reserved Bridget Riley Blaze 4, 1963, Crown Copyright: UK Government Art Collection. © Bridget Riley 2017, all rights reserved Anthony Fry, Mango and Rice Paddies, Thirunelli, 1991, oil on canvas, © Private Collection / Permission kindly granted by the estate of Anthony Fry. www.holburne.org | 01225 388569

what's on

Lunar New Year Season at the Museum of East Asian Art In 2018, Lunar New Year season programme runs through January and February, with a series of events and workshops around the theme. A small celebration will be held on Sunday 18 February, with cultural and craft activities for all ages - a taster of activities which the Museum offer throughout the year.

On the day of celebration, admission to the Museum is free; a small charge for some activities.

Lunar New Year Programme: For Adults: Year of the Dog Origami Netsuke

Friday 19 & 26 January 18:00 – 19:30 Akiko Wakefield

Public £8; Friends/Students £6 Booking required. Max 10 people We combine the celebration of Lunar New Year and the inspiring netsuke exhibition in these workshops for adults. Join us to make origami dogs in netsuke form.

Family Fun: Lunar New Year Crafts Saturday 10 February 14:00 - 15:30

Free, booking required. Max 16 people Join us in New Year craft activities to make fans, money packets, masks, and more.

Image: Famous residents of Bath Railway poster, Sydney Gardens bandstand.

Entertainment in Bath at the Victoria Art Gallery For Every One: 13 January – 14 March 2018

A new exhibition at the Bath & North East Somerset Council-run Victoria Art Gallery will tell the story of the star actors, musicians and artists of Georgian Bath and the venues where they performed, covering everything from the sleazy to the sophisticated.

Entertainment in Bath will also look at entertainment in the city since its Georgian heyday – from the events, activities and performances that Victorian residents enjoyed to more recent happenings such as the Festival and infamous pop concerts .

In the 18th century, Bath was second only to London for the remarkable quality and variety of music, art and theatre on offer. Performers would come to the city to entertain the wealthy spa visitors. Here they would develop their skills and attract a following and a good reputation before moving on to further fame and fortune in London.

Wonderful portraits by Gainsborough, Bath’s best painter at the time, and works by the Georgian comic artist Thomas Rowlandson will feature in the exhibition. Highlights from the Victoria Art Gallery’s own collection of paintings, drawings and prints will be on show alongside important loans from the National Portrait Gallery and Royal Collection Trust.

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The quirkier exhibits will include gambling paraphernalia and instruments similar to those played by musicians such as William Herschel (who lived and worked in Bath).

The exhibition will touch upon some of the less obvious ‘entertainments’ in the city, covering the full spectrum of morality, from gambling and prostitution to attendance at fashionable chapels.Councillor Paul Myers (Conservative Midsomer Norton Redfield), Cabinet Member for Economic and Community Regeneration, said: “Entertainment in Bath will give a fascinating insight into Bath’s social history, while showcasing highlights from the Victoria Art Gallery’s outstanding collection.

“Some of the creative stars depicted in the exhibition are still well-known today, while others have largely been forgotten. However they are all intrinsically linked to Bath’s history as a centre for entertainment and creativity, and all have interesting stories to tell.”

Admission to the exhibition is free for local residents with a Discovery Card (www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard). www.victoriagal.org.uk

Lunar New Year Celebration Year of the Dog

Sunday 18 February 12:00 – 16:30

Booking required for storytelling £2.50 pp Free entry to the Museum & crafts activities Celebrate the Year of the Dog and explore our collections in this annual Lunar New Year event. Storytelling, Lunar New Year activities, and Museum trails are all packed into one fun day for all.

Book your places at the storytelling sessions: 12:30, 13:30, 14:30 and 15:30 Max 20 people per session

For Adults: Lunar New Year Storytelling Friday 2 March 19:00 – 20:00 Polly Tisdall @ BRLSI

Public £6; Friends/Students £4 Storyteller Polly Tisdall presents the story of the Dog – a fascinating version based on a traditional story from the Akha People in South East Asia. Polly will also talk about her journey sourcing traditional tales from across South East Asia - a region where storytelling remains an important part of everyday village life.

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION YEAR OF THE DOG Sunday 18 February 2018 12:00 - 16:30 Free entry to the Museum and craft activities Storytelling £2.50 pp, booking essential 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30

www.meaa.org.uk

12 Bennett Street Bath BA1 2QJ info@meaa.org.uk | 01225 464640

IN BATH music, theatre and fun

13 January – 14 March Victoria Art Gallery

By Pulteney Bridge Bath BA2 4AT Tel 01225 477233 www.victoriagal.org.uk Open Daily 10.30-5.00

Lady in Red, Linocut (detail), 20 x 15cm

ENTERTAINMENT

Thomas Gainsborough, Johann Christian Fischer, 1774-80. Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2017.

image: vecteezy.com

Mo Lancaster Ladies at Leisure 13 January – 14 March 2018 Victoria Art Gallery

By Pulteney Bridge Bath BA2 4AT Tel 01225 477233 www.victoriagal.org.uk Open Daily 10.30-5.00 Works for sale

inbath 17

food and drink

Healthy Eating Sue Judge is a nutritional therapist, interested in looking at the components of what we eat and drink and how they are used for growth, repair and maintenance in our bodies. She help clients to achieve better health by looking primarily at their diets but also their lifestyles too. Here, Sue gives us some expert tips for a healthier 2018.

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food Hippocrates

If you drive a car with a diesel engine, you know that if you put petrol in it by mistake you have a big problem on your hands. Then why do we not stop to consider that what we are putting into our mouths may effect our health, energy levels, immune response and potentially prevent disease in the future, eating well doesn’t have to be a chore. I’m not a huge advocate for ‘diets’ and believe getting a balance is more important.

I have put together some top tips for achieving a healthier diet, helping you nourish your body and begin the New Year with some self care.

So, where to start?

Do not skip meals. This is a common mistake especially at breakfast time, if you eat breakfast it fires up the metabolism and sets you up for the day.

Aim to eat ten portions of veg and fruit per day with only two of these portions coming from fruit. Try to incorporate a few portions into each meal to make it more achievable. (A portion is approximately the size of the palm of your hand)

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Eat a rainbow. Different coloured vegetables and fruit have a range of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Diversity is also really important for our micro-biome, the good bacteria that live in our gut. Aim for organic where you can.

Frozen vegetables are not substandard, vegetables are often frozen so quickly after harvesting they usually have more nutrients than something that has been sat in the kitchen for a week. For example, peas are great to put into dishes for extra protein. This can be useful especially when cooking for one.

Eat your greens. Dark green leafy vegetables are rich in nutrients that are great for your liver and detoxification. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and sprouts are not just for Christmas. (Add frozen cauliflower rice to smoothies to make them deliciously creamy, it wont taste like cauliflower at all!

Include a source of protein at every meal. It doesn’t have to be meat or fish, it could be nuts, eggs, legumes, beans or pseudo grains such as

Sue Judge quinoa. Protein helps balance blood sugar levels and keep you full for longer.

Eat fat, it’s not all bad! Avoid trans fats (baked goods with a long shelf life) and fats that are solid at room temperature but spreadable like margarine. Use olive oil at low heat and coconut oil at higher temperatures because it is more stable, and butter in moderation.

Eat less refined carbohydrates. Foods that are less refined, such as brown versions of bread, rice and pasta have more fibre so they are more filling and will take longer to digest so they won’t spike your blood sugars as dramatically as their more refined counterparts. Reduce your portion size and eat more veg.

Keep hydrated. It is one of the easiest ways to improve your health, hydration helps with detoxification, immunity and brain function for a start. One and a half litres of water per day is an average recommended amount. Start slowly and allow your body to adjust, buy yourself a water bottle (preferably BPA free) and get used to carrying it around.

Concerned about employee wellbeing?

Eat seasonally. Vegetable boxes make this super easy and they cut down on unnecessary packaging, too. See Riverford and Farmdrop for local options.

Aim to buy animal products that are organic or from a local farm shop or butcher. This way you can avoid unnecessary chemicals, antibiotics and be assured of the quality of life of the animal.

Cooking from scratch not only saves money and tastes better but you avoid added sugar, salt and preservatives too. This also makes it easier to bulk cook and freeze, meaning you have nutritious meals ready to heat up for those busy days when you just don’t have time to cook.

We help your employees make sustainable lifestyle changes, keeping your greatest assets healthy, happy and focussed.

Using fresh herbs and spices can add amazing flavours to food and reduce the need for as much seasoning.

When shopping, plan your meals and buy accordingly. Online shopping is great for this as it helps you to budget and avoid impulse spending.

Start reading labels. Look for the salt and sugar content per 100 grams this gives you an instant guide to the percentages of the nutrients included. 4g is approx 1 teaspoon of sugar and the recommended salt intake for an adult is no more than 6g. Don’t be fooled by clever marketing, just because the packaging looks “healthy” it doesn’t mean it is.

Fermented foods have been around for thousands of years and are making a huge revival lately. These are great to include in your diet as they help support a healthy gut which in return boosts immunity, Kombucha, Sauerkraut and Kimchi are great examples. Bath Culture House have a great range available locally.

Add up how much sugar you have per day, you can use apps such as “sugar smart” to monitor and regulate your intake. Remember, alcohol breaks down into sugars and the current recommendations are now no more than 14 units per week for both sexes.

Keeping a food diary or using an app like “My Fitness Pal” or “Fitbit” to record what you eat and drink can be a really useful habit to get into.

Note down moods and cravings too, if you think you react to what you eat this is a really good idea.

Identify your relationship with food. If it isn't as healthy as you would like what do you need to change?

If you would like to find out about how I can help you, or your organisation, please call 07791 775547 or visit the website:

For more information contact us on 07791 775 547 or visit our website at www.infinitewellbeing.co.uk

www.infinitewellbeing.co.uk

inbath 19

food and drink

healthy eating

THE GENERATION GAME The Reynolds family have farmed at Allington Bar, near Chippenham, as tenants, for three generations. And since 1981, their award winning, family run, farm shop has been providing fresh, seasonal, local produce to a growing number of discernible customers.

When Paul and Jenny Reynolds first started to sell potatoes and eggs, produced on the farm, from a small garage (which is now the car park) back in the early 1980's, they could not have imagined how popular the farm shop would become; culminating in numerous awards including Countryside Alliance Awards, a Deli of the Year nomination, Taste of the West gold awards as well as being in the Daily Telegraph, Top 50 Farm Shops in the South West.

Specialising in quality, home & locally produced food, the Farm Shop boasts a fantastic range including; fresh vegetables and fruit, an in house butchery, a delicatessen counter as well as many locally produced store cupboard essentials and speciality grocery items.

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Whether you are looking for locally produced ingredients to make your own creations or something delicious, quick and ready to eat, you are sure to find it at Allington.

Throughout all the seasons of the year there is always a fantastic selection of salads, vegetables and fruit. Potatoes, pumpkins, marrows, courgettes and squash are grown on the farm.

Seasonal fruit & vegetables are sourced locally from Bromham, Sutton Benger and the local wholesale fruit & vegetable market as well as, seasonal and exotic fruit and vegetables from further afield.

There is a huge range of both essential and speciality grocery items sourced from the local

area and from further afield. Local freshly baked bread, homemade cakes & pies, locally made biscuits, local eggs, local honey, preserves, chutneys & pickles, local organic jersey milk, cream, butter & yoghurt, extensive range of local ice cream & frozen desserts, Prue’s meringues from nearby Marshfield, loose frozen fruit, vegetables & pastries, local apple juice, freshly squeezed orange juice and much more!

Although the Foot and Mouth outbreak in 2001 caused a severe downturn in customer numbers, with the family considering closing the shop, when the outbreak finally subsided, there was an even greater demand from consumers for traceability and freshness that brought new customers to the shop.

As demand for quality produce increased, the shop expanded and in 2008 was refurbished to include a new butchery, delicatessen and cafe. The in house butchery offers a wide range of meat & cuts, much of the meat is reared on the farm using extensive farming methods, the traditional British breeds are reared on grass and homegrown cereals. Traditional butchery methods are employed; by careful hanging on the bone and a high level of attention to preparation, the full flavour and tenderness of our meat is allowed to develop.

This may mean that the meat is not the bright red colour seen in most retail outlets but a darker shade which is a sign of craftsmanship. The way that meat is cut is important too; the farms butchers cut each carcass on their merits to give you, the customer, the very best.

The Farm Shop also includes a bakery with award winning handmade fresh bread from Hobbs House Bakery and Bakers Corner, Homemade Sponge Cakes as well as an indulgent selection of locally made Cakes, Meringues, Biscuits & Pies and Fresh, Gluten Free Bread, Cakes & Biscuits.

The delicatessen has an array of local, artisan & some continental cheeses, local chorizo and local wild boar salami, home cooked meats, delicious Italian olives & insalatas, pates, handmade scotch eggs, locally smoked fish & meats, locally made pies and gluten free savouries. Local, organic, jersey milk & cream, butter & yoghurt, local eggs, from quail to goose and fine oils & vinegars. If all this wasn't enough, the farm shop has an array of delicious confectionary for all tastes and ages!

Luxury chocolates handmade locally, best quality, hand packed, traditional sweets and the finest West Country Fudge, perfect gifts and scrummy treats!

Allington also stock a great selection of local, single variety apple juices, fruit cordials, presses and health drinks, hot chocolate, Fine Teas and freshly ground coffee.

For those who prefer something a little stronger, the farm shop offers a wide selection of award winning, locally brewed beers &craft ales, ciders pressed on local farms and locally distilled gins & fruit liqueurs.

The shops beautiful tasting wines have been cherry picked from small producers who work relentlessly & diligently using the best terroir, hands on production and tradition passed on through generations. The majority of the wines in Allington's collection are biodynamic and ecologically produced and will not be found in supermarkets. They will also give you a wine match as well as specially selected 'Wines of the Month' for you to try.

For anyone planning a wedding in 2018, Allington have also come up with their ingenious Cheese Wedding Cakes – whether in place of the traditional wedding cake, as a course for the wedding breakfast, or as part of your buffet, the cheese wedding cakes are sure to impress!

Each cake can be individually tailored to your taste, with as many or as few tiers as you require. The farm shop's deli manager will happily show you pictures, advise on amounts of cheese required and let you taste the cheese when choosing your ‘cake’.

You may also want to consider a Hog-Roast for a wedding or event.

Allington Farms delicious home-reared pigs are roasted to perfection by their professional staff on their top of the range equipment. Carved and served on site, in freshly baked rolls with crackling, homemade stuffing and an assortment of Tracklements condiments.

If you like a relaxed atmosphere, friendly professional staff and local chef cooked food, why not try the cafe at Allington?

The oak conservatory, or coffee lounge, is positioned at the front of the Cafe.

To the side is a large decked area with some extra outside seating, for those who like to dine alfresco or just chill in the sun with a drink. The main cafe and the coffee bar can seat over1 00 covers and once you have placed your order you can just take a seat, relax and let the professional and attentive staff do the rest.

Allington is a real family affair with Paul and Jenny's son and daughter both involved; Tim and his wife Naomi manage the shop, whille Emma manages the cafe.

Whether you are looking for ingredients to create your own culinary masterpiece, or sit back and let the chefs in the cafe work their magic; Allington has something for everyone.

Allington Farm Shop, Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 6LJ Tel: 01249 658112 www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk

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food and drink

MINISTER OF DINNER

Gregg Wallace has become a familair face on TV over the past decade. With hit shows such as 'Eat Well For Less' and MasterChef attracting millions of viewers, he has experienced the delights of Michelin starred restaurants as well as help those on a tight budget save money and eat healthier. Here, the former greengrocer talks about teaching children cookery skills in school, his love of Angel Delight and helping families cook cheap, quick and healthy meals.

Hi Gregg. How are you?

I’m good. I’ve been in the gym since 6am. I was in bed at 8pm last night, watching Alien.

Is this a typical day for you getting up early?

Because I work in television there is no normal routine. MasterChef has the most routine but Eat Well For Less doesn’t because it’s families all over the country and Inside. If I am at home then I’m in the gym with a gym instructor at 6am.

It’s easier to get up early when there’s a trainer waiting for you in the gym!

It’s that I’m an old greengrocer so my default position is to go to bed early and wake up early, that’s what I do. Left to our own devices me and Anna would be in bed by 8.30pm. Then I’m normally up around 5am. That’s what I like to do.

It’s interesting doing all those different things…

I think only people who have worked in television should be allowed to run the country because they experience life in the UK from every different angle, as opposed to some people who have a job where they travel from one place to a place every day and meet the same sort of people every day. Television people meet everybody from royalty to beggars and everything in between.

Would you want to do that kind of job? Doesn’t sound as much fun as what you do…

What? Run the country? I’d like to be Food Minister - minister in charge of dinner, if there was such a thing.

Maybe you could stop the axing of school lunches. What do you think about that?

I didn’t know anything about it. I haven’t got an opinion on that but I would, however, like to see cooking classes in school. Just an hour a week from the age of five up until the time you leave.

That would be enough.

One thing that Eat Well For Less has taught me over the three years now is there’s a chronic skills shortage in the UK, making people reliant on expensive pre-made foods. People buy them for two reasons - one: they don’t have the skills to prep food and secondly: because they honestly believe it saves them time. I wandered round the supermarket the other day to these subliminal messages. It had Meal Solutions above the cabinet. I wasn’t aware it was a puzzle that needed solving.

It’s subliminal brainwashing isn’t it?

If you tell people this, and you convince people…

How many times have you heard: ‘We’re cash rich but we’re time poor’. Who wants you to believe that? I don’t believe that is true. It’s telling us that we’re busy people. We haven’t got time to

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cook and also cookery is a chore akin to ironing so what you should do is treat yourself and spend more money on your food than you would do if you prepped it yourself.

how to cook and are spending far more money than they need to because they’re scared of cooking.

This is highly dangerous and if we carry on going generation after generation of de-skilled people we’re going to be completely and utterly reliant on ready-made foods.

I would love to do a TV programme where I just do cheap, quick, healthy meals. But I don’t know what format to deliver it in rather than just stand their cooking, which I think may be a little bit passé. Every time we do a simple recipe on Eat Well For Less we get inundated with requests for that recipe so I know there’s a huge appetite.

What are your thoughts on 'clean eating'?

I don’t know what that is. It’s the first time I’ve heard that.

It means no refined sugar, no wheat, dairy, that sort of thing.

Urgh, I don’t like the sound of that at all. I want to eat Angel Delight and toast. That’s rubbish. That sounds like an extreme to me, like it would put the majority of people off. I’m talking about the majority of people cooking their dinner, that’s all I want. It can be dirty eating or clean eating. I don’t care. I want you to cook your own dinner.

How can we encourage that?

What I really would like to do, which I think would solve everything, is if I could convince lots of people that time in the kitchen could be their time - and it can be fun time. It’s more constructive than having your bottom on a sofa. That’s what I’d like rather than come home and: ‘Oh I have to do this thing’, I want people to go: ‘I’m looking forward to that’.

When did ready meals start to take over?

We got to this point after the second World War where all the advertising was about labour saving devices in the home. Women had been working during WW2, more so than ever before and it was likely they would want to carry on. You were having less women at home.

I spoke to my grandmother - she was in her nineties when she died - and I talked to my mother about this. Everything was about labour saving and it carried on. The hugely popular Cadbury Smash robots laughing at humans peeling and mashing potatoes. There was a whole generation - my grandmother’s generation - who deliberately didn’t pass on those skills to their children because they thought they were burdening them.

A whole skillset go lost. Now it’s a tricky one.

I’ve had a look at food cultures - my wife’s Italian - and if you look at rural France and the south of Italy, where you’ve got serious quality food culture you’ve actually got a big majority of people still working on the land on food production. You’ve also got a big majority of women not working. Now I don’t think that’s a price that Britain would want to pay so quite what we do I don’t know. I’ve got some ideas but I’m not sure. What that means is huge swathes of the population now who can’t cook, don’t know

That's a real shame...

Even when we do things like cook dry pasta. I really would like to do it in a fun way. I’ve got all the recipes. I’ve been thinking about this now for two years. Not continuously, I’ve been to work in the meantime, but I can’t think of a format.

Every format I think of comes up in a hybrid of MasterChef and Eat Well. You can’t just rip off the people you’re working with. I want to do something other than what the TV people call ‘chop and chat’.

We have got serious problems and I do get nervous of it. I’d like to introduce cookery back into schools. Start off with veg prep, move your way through putting a piece of fish in the oven to bake. Really simple things. Making a pasta sauce with tins of tomatoes. Shepherd’s pie, soups, so that people would leave school with basic cookery skills so they could feed themselves and their families cheap, healthy food. We’re missing out so much by not doing it.

I’m not an expert but I’m sure if we all knew how to do that we’d all eat healthier foods as well.

Could that also help people who rely on food banks?

I don’t know. When we started doing Eat Well For Less people said you should do it with people who really are on the breadline. When we investigated we found out those people had bigger issues than food. We weren’t social services. It would be pointless.You’d be painting over the cracks.

Image: Charlotte Knee Photography www.charlotteknee.com

Gregg Wallace

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Wonderful winter offers at The Roman Baths Kitchen Available daily from 1st January 2018

The story of Saint Valentine The tradition that romantics show their affection by exchanging tokens of love, letters and cards to their 'Valentine' on February 14th has been popular since the mid Seventeenth century in the UK. As many of us start to consider how we to spoil that special someone this year - a romantic meal, city break, an overly affectionate showering of gifts or just a bottle of plonk accompanied by chocolates and wine - have we ever wondered why this ritual exists and how it all began?

Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt.

The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscriptcollection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

Before he died, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed "From your Valentine", an expression that is still used in many Valentine's cards today. Food and romance have been succesful Although there are a number of possible theories of who Saint Valentine was, one of the most feasible is that Valentine was a Roman priest who served during the third century in Rome. The Emperor at the time, Claudius II, decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, therefore, he outlawed marriage for young men so that he had a strong and fulsome Army. Valentine, defi ed the Emperors wishes and secretly performed weddings for young lovers desperate to commit their love to each other.

Imprisoned for his treachery, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl — who many believe to have been the jailer's daughter — who visited him during his confi nement.

Before he died, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed "From your Valentine," an expression that is still used in many Valentine's cards today. Although there are several theories about Saint Valentine, what is apparent in all the accounts of his life is his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure.

Many suggest that the importance of February 14th comes down to the fact that this was the day that Valentine died. Others point to the beginning of the bird's matting season in Europe, adding to the ideal that the middle of February should be the day for romance.

The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of

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bedfellows since the beginning of time. For those who are feeling a little amorous the recipe for a perfect Valentine's Day should contain foods with aphrodisiac qualities:

Chocolate: cocoa contains the chemical phenylethylamine, a stimulant that conjures just the sort of subtle feelings of well-being and excitement that can lead to other things.....

Oysters: It sounds a bit clichéd, but they really can spark randiness. These shellfish are brimming with zinc, a mineral that cranks up the production of testosterone, which has been linked to a higher sex drive.

Red Wine: Red wine contains resveratrol, an antioxidant that helps boost blood flow and improves circulation before, allowing the blood to run faster and enhance the labido.

Champagne: Although there are no known aphrodisiac qualities in Champagne, the fact that you have gone that extra mile and paid that extra few quid to buy a nice bottle of Champagne will at least impress your other half into thinking that you are spoiling them.

And if not, maybe the bubbles will get them!

Although Valentine's Day has become more commercialised and marketable in recent years with pre-written cards and heart emblazoned cuddly toys, make this year special for your Valentine with a handwritten note like our original Saint Valentine.

Two Course Lunch for £15.00

January is all about trying something new, so if you haven’t already experienced The Roman Bath’s Kitchen– why not pop by & take advantage of wonderful winter offers, including two courses for £15.00? Or the Warm Winter Sandwiches & Fries for £9.95?

The menu focuses on delicious seasonal dishes, using locally sourced ingredients, including hearty, British classics that we all love and adore. Try mouth-watering classics like the beer battered haddock served with triple cooked chips & crushed peas or the West Country, premium beef burgers.

For vegetarians a wholesome aubergine, root vegetables & chicpea curry really hits the spot.

Finally, much loved desserts such as dark chocolate brownie or crème brûlée are always firm favourites.

Customers come back time and again to indulge & simply relax in this cozy yet beautifully located restaurant, right in the heart of the iconic Abbey square overlooking the Pump Room restaurant, the Abbey and Roman Baths.

Valentines Dinner at The Roman Baths Kitchen Available Wednesday 14th February.

Four course romantic dinner £32.50 per person.

Reservations are available from 5.00pm.

Valentine’s Day falls on Wednesday 14th February this year, so don’t forget to book something special for your loved one. If you are looking for a real treat, The Roman Baths Kitchen are offering a four course romantic dinner. The sample menu includes such delights as a baked camembert to share, served with apple & cider chutney, walnuts and warm crusty bread. Followed by a champagne fizz sorbet to cleanse the palette.

For the main course, treat yourself to a venison loin served with dauphinoise potato, red cabbage, blue cheese fritter and baby onions.

Finally for dessert, savour the delights of a stem ginger cheesecake served with poached rhubarb and crunchy honeycomb.

Book online: romanbathkitchen.co.uk 01225 477877

Wednesday 14th February 2018

Valentine’s Dinner Enjoy a four course romantic dinner Reservations available from 5.00pm £32.50 per person Sample menu

Starter To Share

Baked Camembert apple and cider chutney, walnuts served with warm crusty bread Champagne Fizz Sorbet

Mains

Venison Loin dauphinoise potato, red cabbage, blue cheese fritter, baby onions

Desserts

Stem Ginger Cheesecake poached rhubarb and honeycomb To book online: romanbathkitchen.co.uk 01225 477877

The Roman Baths Kitchen is managed by Bath & North East Somerset Council and catering is provided by Searcys

food and drink

food and drink book releases

Executive Head Chef David Campbell

Dining in the spectacular surroundings of The Dower House Restaurant Delicious food and a divine setting – that comes as standard.

Our award winning dishes are created with passion and served with pride by our Executive Head Chef, David Campbell.

Overlooking our green and pleasant gardens, hotel guests and non-residents can enjoy a wide range of delicious freshly prepared food from a selection of diverse and creative menus.

This most decadent of British traditions is complimented by a choice of Ronnefeldt teas from around the world, sourced exclusively for our guests.

Then there’s the service – personal and professional, our aim is to provide you with a first class experience – from the second you step into our dining room to the moment we bid you ‘goodnight.’

Add some sparkle to the occasion with a flute or flight of Taittinger Champagne or one of our other spectacular flight options including Sipsmith Gin or Grey Goose vodka. A choice of four different Afternoon Teas as well as a dedicated Children’s Afternoon Tea is served daily between 1.30pm and 6pm. Afternoon Tea is served in The Dower House Restaurant or in our glorious gardens during the summer months.

Come dine with us in the delightful Dower House Restaurant and soak up the relaxed ambiance of this beautifully designed room overlooking our secluded gardens.

Whatever your preferred dining choice, whatever the occasion, we look forward to welcoming you through the doors of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in the months to come in 2018!

David Campbell is passionate about using fresh, locally sourced produce to create a tantalising range of meals to take diners on an unforgettable culinary journey.

Dinner Menus

Combining classic dishes with a unique contemporary twist – you just need to come hungry!

Dinner is served daily between 7pm and 9.30pm in The Dower House Restaurant.

If a mid-afternoon treat is more your thing, Afternoon Tea at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is a total must. Enjoy a selection of delicious sandwiches, cut to mouth-watering perfection.

Then there’s our freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve along with a range of exquisite pastries and cakes – each one dainty enough to eat in one delicious mouthful.

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Gordon Ramsay Ultimate Fit Food

by Gordon Ramsey

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton RRP: £ 22.00 (hardcover) The dream combination - a Michelin-starred superchef who is also a committed athlete.

Gordon knows how important it is to eat well, whether you're training for a triathlon or just leading a busy active life. And just because it's healthy food you don't have to compromise on taste and flavour.and the New Year, with everything you need to enjoy the winter months.

A la carte – From £72 per person 6-course Tasting Menu – From £82 per person

Afternoon Tea

From £37.50 per person

All Day Dining

(Served daily between11am -10pm) All dishes priced individually View all menu options by visiting www.royalcrescent.co.uk/wine-dine Book your table by contacting our reservations team on 01225 823333 or by emailing: info@royalcrescent.co.uk Why not hold a private dining celebration at The RCH? – Find out more by speaking to our wonderful Events Team 01225 823333 or email events@royalcrescent.co.uk

The Fat-Loss Plan

by Joe Wicks Publisher: Bluebird RRP: £ 8.49 (hardcover)

Inside the book is a combination of reduced carb, post workout and snacks and sweet treat recipes – all incredibly tasty and easy to make in 15 minutes flat.

Thanks to sample weekly plans and ingredients lists, Joe makes it simple for you to prep like a boss and eat well every day of the week.

The Dower House Restaurant At The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Come dine with us in the delightful Dower House Restaurant and soak up the relaxed ambiance of this beautifully designed room overlooking our secluded gardens.

Our talented Executive Head Chef, David Campbell is passionate about using fresh, locally sourced produce to create a tantalising range of meals to take diners on an unforgettable culinary journey.

3 course A la Carte Menu From £72

Tasting Menu From £82

Combining classic dishes with a unique contemporary twist – you just need to come hungry!

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS 01225 823333 info@royalcrescent.co.uk royalcrescent.co.uk I #RCHBath

food and drink book releases

The How Not To Die Cookbook

by Dr Michael Greger Publisher: Macmillan RRP: £ 11.89 (hardcover)

Dr Michael Greger, founder of the wildly popular website NutritionFacts, takes his comprehensive, lifesaving science into the kitchen. Why suffer from disease and ill health when the right food is proven to keep you healthy, and without the side effects of drugs? We can avoid heart disease, cancer and our other biggest killers if we use food as medicine, and the How Not To Die Cookbook offers a sustainable and delicious guide to preparing and eating the foods that will prevent and reverse fatal diseases.

The Pump Room January Offer Two Afternoon Teas for £26 Tea for two – This January treat a friend to a traditional Pump Room Afternoon Tea and get yours for free!

This is a fantastic deal not to be missed as the usual price would be £52 for two people, so you are saving £26.00.

Available from 8th – 31st January 2018.

Mon-Fri on pre-bookings only.

The Traditional Pump Room Tea includes a delicious selection of finger sandwiches, a poached salmon shot with crisp breads, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, fruit, lemon and pistachio tart, Battenberg sponge, almond macaroon and chocolate choux bun with white chocolate mousse. All served with one of our loose-leaf house teas or a pot of hand roasted coffee.

A trip to Bath wouldn’t be complete without a trip to The Pump Room, which is world famous for its signature traditional afternoon tea packages, served daily from noon.

Visitors are often captivated by the Georgian splendour of this iconic building, with corinthian columns and crystal chandelier.

Live music is played daily by resident pianist and trio to create an enchanting atmosphere - there couldn’t be a more refined dining experience in town!

Guests can benefit from this two for the price of one offer from Monday 8th – Wednesday 31st January 2018*.

28 inbath

Quote TEA FOR TWO if calling to book.

This offer is subject to availability.

Not valid with gift vouchers or in conjunction with any other offer, discount or promotion.

Visit website for more information: pumproombath.co.ukVisit website for more information: pumproombath.co.uk

Lisa Riley's Honesty Diet

by Lisa Riley Publisher: Michael Joseph RRP: £ 8.00 (paperback)

After years wearing size-30 clothes and convincing herself she was 'fat but happy', Lisa Riley finally took control of her body and shed a remarkable 12 stone.

Significantly healthier, infinitely happier and proud of her slim new figure, Lisa now reveals how she lost all that weight and - more importantly - kept it off.

Tea for two

TWO TEAS F OR

£26.00

THIS JANUARY TREAT A FRIEND TO A TRADITIONAL PUMP ROOM AFTERNOON TEA AND GET YOURS FREE !

Book online: pumproombath.co.uk | 01225 444477 *Valid from 8th – 31st January 2018 only. Offer available Mon-Fri only. Valid on pre-bookings only Quote TEA FOR TWO if calling to book. This offer is subject to availability. Not valid with gift vouchers or in conjunction with any other offer, discount or promotion. Visit website for more information.

The Pump Room is managed by Bath & North East Somerset Council and catering is provided by Searcys

food and drink

food and drink book releases

Lose Weight for Good

by Tom Kerridge Publisher: Absolute Press RRP: £ 11.00 (hardcover)

Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge has been developing top recipes for nearly three decades and knows how to make things taste good. He also understands how much willpower it takes to shift unhealthy excess weight, because he has lost over 11 stone in the last four years by following a low-carb diet.

Now Tom is turning his attention to helping foodlovers who have chosen a lower-calorie diet as their own route to weight-loss.

Five reasons why lunches are the best way to socialise While some people increasingly communicate through the channels of social media, email and skype, there are, thank goodness, many people who still prefer to socialise in person.

These fans of face-to-face contact know how to make the most of precious coffee breaks, drinks, parties, dinners and lunches.

Lunch is a particularly good way to take the time to catch up. Here’s why lunches are still the best way to catch up with friends …

• Great food lifts moods If you want to create a convivial mood for a catch up, book a restaurant known for serving great food. Whether the occasion is relaxed or more formal, good food will set the right tone.

•

It gives you a chance to share your knowledge and enthusiasm

Lunch requires a little planning – it shows friends that you’re happy to make an effort, and that you have great taste and good local knowledge.

•

It’s better for growing relationships – and makes conversation easy

There is something very bonding about a good meal shared with friends or family, and the foods and flavours provide automatic topics for conversation.

• You

can fit it into your lunch break

A city-centre restaurant like Dan Moon at The Gainsborough Restaurant makes it easy to catch up with friends or colleagues in your lunch period. It beats dining over daytime TV or al-desko!

Your table is ready for you now…

What are you waiting for? Make the most of the fresh menus and offers in the new year and book in that lunch!

Three course lunch at ‘Dan Moon at The Gainsborough Restaurant’ costs £34 for two people.

• People

will be more at ease and more forthcoming

Give a person food and wine and they’ll instantly warm up and relax. The comfortable atmosphere of a good restaurant is more conducive to people coming forward conversationally and sharing their thoughts.

The 4-Week Body Blitz

by Chloe Madeley Publisher: Bantam Press RRP: £ 7.00 (hardcover)

Chloe Madeley is a qualified personal trainer who specialises in body shape transformation. In the 4-Week Body Blitz, she lays out the exercises you need to do and the food you should eat every single day for four weeks in order to get yourself in shape. Follow Chloe's instructions and you will see a significant difference in how your body looks. What’s more, you don't need a gym membership or expensive equipment to follow Chloe's plan.

30 inbath

next issue: food and drink With Mother's Day and Easter Sunday covered in the March/April edition, you can guarantee that the cities eatiers will come up with some tempting dishes to welcome in the new season.

We will take a look at our fascination with Afternoon Tea, investigating its origins and finding out about some of the best places to take it in Bath.

For more details, or to promote your restaurant, hotel, cafe or eatery; contact:

craig@inbath.net or call 07966 041054

Booking is advisable. 01225 358 888 thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

2-FOR-1 ON OUR NEW LUNCH MENU

Enjoy a delicious lunch in our stylish, yet informal restaurant. Designed by Head Chef Dan Moon, the menu combines the very best seasonal produce with imaginative cuisine and classic flavours.

Only at The Gainsborough...

12.00 – 2.00pm every Monday – Friday (January and February) £34 for two people for 3 courses

Book now

www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk 01225 35 88 88

www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Beau Street, Bath, BA1 1QY

A lot of fresh organic vegetables and seafood as in the summer i try to work with lighter and fresher recipes .

food and drink

been in many places so i enriched my food knowledge a lot .I love Asian and Caribbean flavours , but here we cook Italian!

fan of Queen , Pellegrino Artusi to show him if i got his teachings in the right way. let's say it would be an interesting table!

'The perfect Alfresco venue' Rustico Bistro Italiano is located in one of Bath's most beautiful streets.

Situated within walking distance of two of the Cities most famous attractions, The Royal Crescent and The Circus, Rustico Bistro offers ahaven of great food for locals and visitors alike.

With freshly prepared, traditional Italian food in a initmate and friendly atmosphere, Rustico Bistro will give you a taste of Italy to remember.

With additional seating outside, Rustico comes alive in the Summer giving your Alfresco dining experience a real Mediterrainean feel.

BAT0711/019

Festive Menu

Midford07/05/2015 Road, 15:07 Midford Road, Midford, Midford Road, Midford, Midford Road, BA2 7DD near Midford, Bath BA2 7DD nearTel: Bath Midford, BA2 7DD832296 near Bath 01225 Midford Road, BA2 7DD near Bath Tel: 01225 832296 Tel: 01225 832296 Midford, Tel:service 01225since 832296 Family andCatering providing quality food and 1985 The Hope and Anchor is set the heartfew ofrun the delightful Cam valley, for partoes ofis 2set -and 100.

BA2 near Bath We are oneinof Bath's remaining independently owned run establishments, been Cam valley, The Hope and Anchor in7DD the heart of the having delightful The Hopemaking andnow Anchor isestablished set inAnchor the heart of the delightful Cam a 10-minute drive familly from Bath or years, alternatively a fairly The Hope and is set in the heart of thevalley, delightful valley, runcity forcentre over 20 it a well favourite among Bath's discerning Tel: 01225 832296 a 10-minute drivefrom from1st Bath city centre or alternatively now Cam a fairly Menu available to preorder 24th December gentle and very scenic cycle ride along the new Colliers Way cycle The Hope and Anchor is set in drive the heart the delightful Cam valley, 10-minute fromof Bath city centre or alternatively now a fairly diners foraconsistently delicious, reasonably priced food in a centre relaxing, a 10-minute drive from Bath city or alternatively now a fairly gentle and very scenic cycle ride along the new Colliers Way cycle path which leads straight into the pub car park (and then on to a 10-minute from city centre or alternatively fairly 2 drive COURSES ÂŁ19 3now COURSES ÂŁ23 the gentleBath and very scenic cycle ride along the anew Colliers Way cycle friendly, professional atmosphere. gentle and very scenic cycle along new Colliers Way The Hope Anchor is set in the heart of the delightful Cam valley, Radstock forand the more energetic). path which leads straight into theride pub car park (and then on tocycle gentle and veryStarters scenic cycle ride along the new Colliers cycle path which leads straight into thestraight pubWay carinto park (and then on to (and then on to Mains path which leads the pub car park a 10-minute drive from Bath city centre orRadstock alternatively now a fairly forthen the on more energetic). path which leads straight into the pub car park (and to Deepfried Camembert with Onion Marmalade Roast Turkey, Cranberry, Chestnut and Pork Stuffing, Radstock for the more energetic).

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Smoked Salmon, andfew Rocket Saladreasonably Roast Parsnip, Walnut,and Cranberry and Chestnut Loaf establishments, this historic country pubrun has been run and

by Richard and among Bath's discerning diners for consistently delicious, The pub is one ofBeetroot Bath's remaining independently owned establishments, this historic country pub has been run by Richard establishments, this historic countryGravy pub has been run by Richard and with Homemade priced food in a relaxing, friendly atmosphere. with Horseradish DressingSmolarek Luci for 19 years now, making it a well established favourite establishments, this historic country pub has been run by Richard and Luci Smolarek for 19 years now, making it a well established favourite Luci Smolarek for 19 years now, making it a well established favourite The pub is one of Bath's few remaining independently owned and run Sirloin Steak,for Stilton and Port Sauce Traditional Polish Pierogi with 19 Souryears Cream - dumpling parcels filled among Bath's discerning diners consistently delicious, TheSmolarek beautiful Cam Valley isBath's the perfect location for a established bike ride or Melting a favourite gentle winter stroll and to reasonably Luci for now, making it adiners well among discerning for consistently delicious, reasonably among Bath's discerning diners for consistently delicious, reasonably establishments, historic country has been by Richard and with Pork and Sagethis panfried with Bacon and Onions Richrun and Mushroom Casserole reward yourself, why not pop infor for consistently apub refreshing drink or twoPancetta and some delicious food. priced food in aVenison, relaxing, friendly atmosphere. among Bath's discerning diners delicious, reasonably priced food in a relaxing, friendly atmosphere. priced food in awith relaxing, friendly atmosphere.

Celeriac Mash Luci Smolarek for 19 years now, making it a well established favourite Pork and Beef Meatballs with Tomato Sauce, melted Cheddar Alternatively,priced if the weather kind, we friendly are just aatmosphere.

10 minute drive to the city centre where you food inisn't a relaxing, served with Roast Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables and Garlic breaddiners for consistentlyAlldelicious, among Bath's discerning reasonably can park up and enjoy our cosy log fire, local Ciders, Ales and delicious home cooked food. priced food in a relaxing, friendly atmosphere.

Puddings Opening hours over the Midford Road, Midford, BA2 7DD near Bath Tel: 01225 832296

Celebrate Chinese New Year

Come in out of and theValentines cold with us: for a warm welcome 01225 466377

hours:Chocolate and Cream Banoffee Pie topped Opening with fresh Bananas, OPEN ALL DAY Pudding AT WEEKENDS FROM Classic Christmas with Brandy Cream 11.30am (closed evening) Chocolate Brownies withSunday White Chocolate Sauce Lunch: 12and - 3pm VanillaDinner Ice Cream6 - 9.30pm

Lemon and Almond Tart with Raspberry Sorbet White ChocolateMonday and Ginger- Friday Cheesecake with Honey Opening hours: OPEN 11.30am - 3pm andMon 6 - -10.30pm and Ginger Ice Cream Lunchtimes: Fri 11:30 - 3pm

Wide rangingFestive menu -Season: all freshly prepared Christmas Eve 12 - 10.30pm Delicious Sunday Roasts Christmas Day: Closed Well behaved children welcome Boxing Day: 12 - 4pm and (Lunchdogs 12 - 3pm) Ample 27th parking for bikes and cars & 28th Dec: 12 - 10.30pm New Years Day: 12 - 5pm (Lunch 12 - 3pm) Snacks, Ice-cream and Cream Teas available the dates weekend Openthroughout as usual on all other

Children welcome Food 12 - 2pm and 6Served - 9.30pm (Lunch 12 - 2pm) Cycle route Sun 11:30 1-2 New Street Fresh Ground CoffeeSat with&Mini Mince Pies- 4pm Ample parking (Lunch Served 12 - 3pm) Kingsmead Square Sheltered Garden Opening hours: Peking Restaurant Bath Evenings: Mon - Sun 6pm - 11pm Opening hours: Bath BA1 2AF Opening hours: Nearby Bed and Breakfasts Opening hours: (Dinner Served 6pm - 9:30) welcome Children Lunchtimes: Mon -01225 Fri 11:30 - 3pm Tel: 466 377 Children welcome Children welcome Lunchtimes: Mon Fri 11:30 3pm Lunchtimes: Mon Fri 11:30 - 3pm Children welcome Lunchtimes: Mon - Fri 11:30 - 3pm www.pekingrestaurantbath.co.uk (Lunch 12 - 2pm) E: info@hopeandanchormidford.co.uk www.hopeandanchormidford.co.uk 832296 Cycle route Opening hours: (Lunch Served 12 -Served 2pm)Served @PekingBath 12T:- 01225 2pm) Cycle routeroute Cycle (Lunch Served 12 - 2pm) (LunchSat Cycle route & Sun 11:30 - 4pm The Hope andAmple Anchor Children welcome Lunchtimes: Mon - Fri Sat 11:30 - 3pm & Sun 11:30 4pm Ample parking Sat & -Sun 11:30 - 4pm parking Ample parking Sat & Sun 11:30 - 4pm Ample parking E: info@hopeandanchormidford.co.uk T: 01225 832296 (Lunch Served 12 - 3pm) Midford Road, Midford Road, Midford Road, Midford Midford Road, Midford Road, (Lunch Served 12(Lunch -Road, 2pm)Served 12 3pm) Cycle route (Lunch Served 12 3pm) Sheltered Garden (Lunch Served 12 - 3pm) Evenings: Mon - Sun 6pm - 11pm Sheltered Garden Sheltered Garden Sheltered Garden Sat & Sun 11:30 - 4pm Midford, Midford, Midford, Midford, Evenings: Mon - SunMidford, 6pm Evenings: Mon--11pm Sun 6pm - 11pmMidford, Ample parking

The Hope and Anchor @Midford

32 inbath

Mike and Maria Invite you to

Sam Weller's

13 - 14 Upper Borough Walls, Bath, BA1 1RH Tel: 01225 474910

Loved by locals and visitors alike!

We are proud to offer freshly prepared British pub food and high quality drinks.

With experienced and friendly staff, whether you are a cask ale fan, love a chilled glass of white wine, we will serve you in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Join us for a classic British dish such as bangers and mash, a juicy rump steak ,burger and chips or a classic British fish and chips. Our pub food is freshly prepared and includes all your favourites.

We also offer a range of sandwiches and baguettes, all served by our welcoming team.

www.samwellersph.co.uk

InBathND17.indd 48

05/12/2017 15:45

inbath 33

food and drink

Ston Easton PARK:

Perfect for any occasion

Great wines from Colli Berici Wine review by Stephen Barrett Like many wine colleagues the utter surprise of discovering a relatively unknown region, its soils, wines, history and its people is I guess why the excitement of this kind of educational trip makes it more than worthwhile.

Having previously tasted just one wine from this district I was eager to absorb all that could be thrown at me. It didn’t take long as we visited the vineyards and tasted the wines from this unique strip of land with conical shaped hills and lush valleys sporting many different soil types.

Nearer to Vicenza than Verona the terrior has all the keys to the winemaking and culture of Colli Berici.The climate might best be described as Continental meets Mediterranean a sort of quiet region boasting quality tourism and pursuits. Mountain bike riders were absolutely everywhere! Our quarry this day was an established estate with a family run business at the helm.

Piovene Porto Godi is the name of this truly beautiful wine estate with 220 ha of land farmed with 28 ha of vines planted for estate produced wines of distinction. This district of Colli Berici is famed for a grape few will have heard of – Tai Rosso which is in fact Grenache in France and Garnacha in Spain. Having slurped my way round several samples of this lovely wine at previous wineries I absolutely melted when I approached Piovene’s exquisite sample.

Generally made as a cash crop with a lighter – easy glugging style – this one was certainly not that. Piovene’s Tai Rosso 2013 Thovara ( Good Earth) £26.48 from Tannico – www.tannico.co.uk is an oak-aged beauty of great import. It is carefully vinified and aged to last. Its potential is obvious and sophisticated.

A white that impressed me was a total surprise as it was Sauvignon Blanc!

Under the name Campigie this 2016 Sauvignon Blanc again from Tannico @ £15.36 for 75cl was produced under IGT (Indicazione Geographica Tipica) or grapes being harvested and allowed to cross regions.

The surprise was the density of the wine, its beautifully crafted ripe fruit profile created with minimal intervention wine making with 6 – 8 month in oak for good measure had created something rather special. Or those who know it, it reminded me of Greywacke from Kevin Judd!

This is a great wine house with parts of the estate’s cellar going back 1000 years and still stuffed to the brim with filled oak casks in their slumber. Attention to detail has created a go – to winery, something all wine lovers crave.

34 inbath

Supper that evening was eagerly awaited at the Castelli di Giulietta e Romeo in Montecchio where we were right royally entertained to a seafood supper hosted by Vitevis a noted cooperative based business supplying wine to over 29 countries – including the UK. Represented by Liberty in London and supplying Marks and Spencer this is a slick operation creating wines from throughout the Berici and Gambellara regions.

Located amidst 36 acres of stunning private west country parkland - it is the ideal place for serene days out complete with casual strolls throughout its grounds, much of which was designed by famous Landscape Gardener Humphry Repton.

Ston Easton’s Head Chef is passionate about developing new seasonal menus for its award winning Sorrel Restaurant using locally sourced ingredients and fresh produce from the hotel’s very own Victorian kitchen garden. There are also many unique private dining areas, such as the grand yellow dining room or historic Edwardian kitchen, for guests who wish to host their own intimate dinner party.

With 75% white to 25% red the accent (amongst other) is on Garganega, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and the for the sparkler, Durella.

For the reds they feature Tai Rosso, Cabernets, Merlot, Corvina and Carmenere.

This was our first introduction to Durella and its inimitable style of fizz. Weightier than Glera (Prosecco) with a stronger fruit – based middle palate, will it take off in the UK? Who knows? It certainly has an inimitable style about it.

Next an impressive LXI Organic Pinot Grigio 2016 (Liberty) showing a full – weight style with its inimitable pear drop nose and citrus finish.

Next up was a Chardonnay from Torre dei Vescovi 2014 with a Lime fruited style. Great with the seafood for supper.

Merlot followed from Torre dei Vescovi 2015 showing juicy plumy fruit styling with a gentle light tannic finish. Good with fish even – it was served cool!

With such a large operation with export as a prime mover we were impressed with the hygiene and pure fruit styles of these regional wines – something for everyone you might say….Go search….

Next week we explore the beautiful Soave region…

As well as delicious lunches and dinners, Ston Easton Park is also renowned for its delectable Afternoon Tea. Guests can sink down into a plush armchair in the antique drawing room, or admire the view from the sunny terrace whilst they enjoy a delicious range of sweet and savoury treats. Champagne afternoon teas and cream teas are also available.

Ston Easton Park is the perfect location for a wide range of family occasions - from grand weddings to intimate family occasions, the hotel’s dedicated team is on hand to ensure every event looks striking and runs smoothly.

The historic house, situated just 11 miles from the city of Bath, also has an exciting schedule of events for visitors in 2018 including, history tours, themed dinners, gardening events and workshops.

Morning coffee at Ston Easton Park is served daily between 10am and 12 noon, Lunch between 12 noon and 2pm, Afternoon Tea between 3pm and 5pm and Dinner between 7pm and 9.30pm.

Stephen Barrett is a Wine, Food and Travel Writer based in Plymouth. Stephen welcomes correspondence via his website www.stephenbarrett.com, Facebook, Google +, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram @BistroWineMan.

For more information please visit www.stoneaston.co.uk or to book please call our friendly team on 01761241631.

Hotel, Restaurant and Gardens

Five Course Tasting Lunch Menu £26.00 per person Coffee and Petit Fours £4.50 per person

New delicious Garden Lunch now available daily

Full Afternoon Full Afternoon Tea Tea

Including a selection of ½RKIV WERH[MGLIW Including a selection of cakes, finger scones,scones clottedand cream and cream cakes sandwiches, clotted .50 £22.50 per £22 person per person

To 241631 book, please call 01761 241631 To book, please call 01761 or email reception@stoneaston.co.uk quoting inbath. or email reception@stoneaston.co.uk

www.stoneaston.co.uk www.stoneaston.co.uk

Ston Easton, Nr Bath, Somerset BA3 4DF

Ston Easton, Nr Bath, Somerset BA3 4DF JulyAug16Draft.indd 19

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01/06/2016 11:59

health and wellbeing

36 inbath

Fitness for life Expert tips for keeping your health and fitness regime throughout 2018

The start of a new year offers up an opportunity to reflect on the year just passed and focus on the year ahead. It's also a chance for us to take stock of our lives. No matter what age we may be, we are all the youngest we will ever be; so why not embrace change and create a more positive, happier, healthier future.

After a celebratory festive period, the new year tends to throw up a number of resolutions that target health. I know you would have heard all this before, but it would be remiss of us not to suggest a healthier regime. This doesn't have to be an all-out attack on the local gym, it could be as simple as a regualr walk or excersise.

No matter what age we may be, we are all the youngest we will ever be; so why not embrace change and create a more positive, happier, healthier future.

Whether you are considering eating less fatty foods, drinking less or maybe quitting cigarettes, there are a number of services and advisers locally that can help you achieve your goals.

Even the smallest changes can have a profound effect on your wellbeing and general demeanour, clearing your systems of toxins that will leave you feeling fresh and ready for some new challenges for the year ahead.

If you want to take your health and fitness that one step further then joining a Gym or Fitness Club will not only give you that impetus to make 2018 a healthier one, but will also open up a new group of friends to boost your social calendar.

If the thought of signing up to a 12 month contract at your local gym seems a little too expensive then there are many other less expensive ways to get healthier and lose pounds in weight rather than financially.

Look out for local running and swimming clubs, inexpensive and possibly the best way to get fit and keep weight off as well as meet new 'like-minded' people. If you feel the need to go that extra mile, then employing the services of a personal trainer.

A Personal Trainer can advise on fitness as well as nutritional programmes and will be there every step of the way encouraging you to achieve your target. Not everybody is the same and therefore a tailored programme that ecapsulates excercise and healthy eating will get the best results.

We speak to a selection of fitness professionals who can offer up some fantastic fitness tips and advice to kick start your new regime.

inbath 37

health and wellbeing

Olly Biddulph Sports Training Village Team Bath Olly is a highly qualified and experienced Personal Trainer who is based at the Sports Training Village at the University of Bath. But there is something different about Olly when comparing him to other PT’s you hear about.

Olly is a Great Britain Bobsleigh Pilot and has been competing on the international stage for over six years, and last year he graduated from the University of Bath with a First class honours degree in Sport. He has competed in events such as the Youth Olympic Games, the Senior and Junior World Championships and on the World Cup series.

What is unique about Olly’s approach to PT is that he uses knowledge, skills and experiences he has seen in elite sport and designs programmes specifically for each client’s individual needs.

38 inbath

About me:

Olly’s Top Tips:

I am personal trainer with the knowledge and drive to apply my extensive academia, enthusiasm and motivation to clients on their fitness journey. My enjoyment comes from seeing other people achieve and reach their goals whether this is big or small. I am a great believer in the way individuals see and feel about themselves, opposed to the number that they see on the scales. Being an elite athlete has given me the chance to experiment in what I believe are the best types of training methods.

My favourite training sessions are based around strength, speed and power, something I believe is crucial for anyone. The days of having to do ‘100’s of sit ups to achieve a stronger core’ or ‘the only way to lose weight is to run on a treadmill’ is defiantly becoming ancient history.

Here are my top tips that I recommend following to ensure a high quality training session:

A typical training session:

• Nutrition and sleep are just as important as training. Consistencies of all three elements are crucial for improving performance and helping you reach your goal. Fuelling your body with the correct nutrients and sleeping for a minimum of eight hours per night will help to enhance energy levels and increase productivity in the gym.

I prefer to complete a ‘whole body workout’ opposed to specific muscle groups, for example; day 1 chest, day 2 legs. Below is a brief outline:

• Compound lift

(Leg press / Squat / Deadlift / Hip Thrust)

• Single Leg

(Step-Up / Split Squat / Bulgarian Split Squat)

• Leg ancillary

(RDL / Glute-Hamstring Raise / Quad Extension / Calf Raise)

• Push

(Shoulder Press / Bench Press / Military Press / Press-Ups)

• Pull

( Lat Pull-Down / Bench Pull / Dumbbell Row / Pull-Ups)

• Core

(Weighted / Isometric holds / Controlled Repetitions)

• Always have a plan when going into the gym – this can simply be planning it on your journey.

• Structure your training to your specific goal – don’t just go on a machine that is free, or copy someone else. You are training to make YOURSELF better.

• Always complete a push and pull (antagonistic pair) to remain balanced.

• Single arm and single leg exercises are very important to retain symmetry for both aesthetic reasons and performance.

• Rest days – this is something I strongly recommend. Your muscles need a break to allow adaptation and a day off helps your body recuperate and re-energise.

Whether you are looking to gain muscle strength and size, lose weight, improve power, enhance running efficiency, or just need someone to help motivate you through the cold winter months, I would love to offer a free consultation where we can discuss your targets. Your goals are mine too.

Why wait?

Pick up the phone and get in touch to start your 2018 with a step in the right direction.

Mobile: 07515 327212 Email: ollybiddulph@hotmail.co.uk

Festive

one month offer RRP: £62 Now only £39!

GYM

FITNESS CLASSES

ATHLETICS TRACK TENNIS

BADMINTON

50M SWIMMING POOL *T&C’s: Last redemption date for this offer is 02/02/2018

#createimpact

health and wellbeing

s

s

ves

r

. nts ey uts y pany

se lified

• Swap the alcohol for water or low sugar squash.

Alcohol is another one of those high calorific treats we have far too much off during the Christmas festivities. So to reach your desired goal we spoke about earlier, the best thing to do is lock these away for special occasions and increase your daily intake of water. By increasing your intake of water daily your body will release water holding fat cells quicker therefore helping the body to tone up at a quicker rate.

• Get yourself a training programme.

Pop into your local BETTER gym and have a chat with one of the many great Fitness instructors that BETTER gyms provide. During these talks our instructors will find out as much as possible about your health, fitness and lifestyle history and start to build you a bespoke training programme to suit your goals.

Exploring the myth of dieting A lot of people get confused with diet so let me just simplify it for you. Diet is just a routine of eating, it can be good, it can be bad, either way it is a diet. When people hear diet they assume restricting foods and all that other waffle you see on the internet.

What if told you that dieting for results is not what the internet makes it seem? You don't have to cut out foods you enjoy, you don't have to starve yourself, and you don't have to slave away on the treadmill 25 hours a day!

A diet for weight loss is simply calories in verses calories out. This means you need to be making sure you are eating the right amount of calories in order to lose weight. Now this doesn't mean you should starve yourself, your body still needs calories in order to burn fat and function properly.

Calories are the most important thing when it comes to controlling your weight. Forget about what foods you need to eat and when you should be eating, this is all minuscule in the grand scheme of things. If you can eat the correct amount of calories then you will see results.

Once you have sorted out how many calories you need to be consuming for results you can then focus on your macronutrients.

Once you have sorted out how many calories you need to be consuming for results you can then focus on your macronutrients. These are carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Your macronutrients are the next piece of the puzzle when it comes to weight management. Sorting out your calories and macros is 90% of the battle, I guarantee you!

Most people will worry about eating certain types of foods and trying to consume their meals at certain times, ever heard someone say don’t eat after 8pm? Meal timing is a very small factor when it comes to weight management, as long as you focus on calories in verses calories out you will see results.

If you’re looking to take your health and fitness to the next level and transform your physique, check out the website below for a diet plan tailored to you and your goals!

40 inbath

• Find yourself a training Buddy.

Daniel Goetz Health and Fitness Product Manager Better Leisure Did you know that it is commonly known that on the 17th January you are likely to be persuaded to give up on your New Year Resolution? It is known as ditch day, where your body wants to fall back into old habits and go against all the hard work you had put in for the first few weeks of the New Year!

Here is a step by step guide on sticking with your news year resolution.

• Make yourself a goal and be realistic.

Training with a friend will massively help to keep you on track and motivated to smash your goals. Training Buddies aren’t just there to train with you; • They help to wake you up on those cold winter mornings.

• They make you train harder, faster, stronger.

• They help to make you more confident.

• Variety is key.

Training doesn’t have to just be in the gym. It’s proven that Cross-Training keeps you engaged and motivated for longer. So mix up those training sessions by incorporating different ways to reach your goals with things such as; Swimming, Badminton, Hiking, Running, Cycling, Sporting activities. The greater the variety, the quicker your body will repay you with the way it looks.

Creating an end goal that is suitable and realistic for you is the key for anybody that has the initial motivation to go on and achieve greater things in the New Year. Creating a short term and long term SMART goal will help keep you on track. By creating short term goals you will constantly have small things to work towards whilst still on route to that long term goal.

• Don’t train for too long.

• Clear the Rubbish from your cupboards.

Nothing beats getting out on those crisp wintery mornings for a nice walk throughout the countryside to liven you up and re-motivate you.

So if you start to feel tired or bored with what you’re doing, go out and get some fresh air to re-light that goal.

The Christmas period is over so there is no excuse to keep eating all the junk food that we have all over indulged in. By clearing those Christmas junk food cupboards it can have positive effects on yourself and your community, First of all you won’t crave those excess calories as they wont be around you, Secondly you don’t have to just throw it away, There are plenty of local charities and shelters that would happily accept donations as Christmas can be financially hard on families within the community therefore these donations will take off that new year financial strain.

• Fill your cupboards with High Protein snacks.

Restock those empty cupboards with high protein based snacks and foods, Protein doesn’t just help the body to repair after exercise but it also helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer therefore stopping you reaching for those high sugar snacking nightmares.

Training for hour’s upon-end will only tire you out and you’ll soon start to resent what you are doing and give up. So keep your sessions short but meaningful thus giving you plenty of time to do other things with your day.

• Get outside.

• Enjoy it.

My final tip is my best, ENJOY what you are doing. If you don’t enjoy the way you’re training or eating, CHANGE IT. There are plenty of ways to reach a goal so if you’re stuck in a rut or bored, again pop into one of out Better gyms for a re-focus session and re-light that goal.

12 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 9.

NOW THAT’S BETTER.

LESS THAN ÂŁ1 A DAY

Our Health and Fitness annual membership is a great way to keep yourself fit and active with a one off payment for the whole year. Join today and enjoy a year of gym, swim and fitness classes and pay for just 9 months.

Join today and save at better.org.uk/join Terms & Conditions: Activities vary by facility. Discount available on Better Health and Fitness annual memberships purchased in Taunton Deane, North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset only. Payment must be made in full at the time of joining. Better reserve the right to withdraw this offer without notice. Full terms and conditions available at better.org.uk/terms. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398.

health and wellbeing focus

A BETTER WAY TO WORK OUT

When you sign up to a Better Heath and Fitness membership, you’ll have a membership that suits you and your needs at all times.

Firstly, rest assured that you’re not tied into a 12 month contract! You can stay active with us for as long or as short as you would like, it’s your decision; we want you to stay with us because you want to, not because you have to.

A Better Health and Fitness membership allows you access to a whole host of facilities and activities across Bath and North East Somerset, not just Bath itself. Take a visit to Keynsham Leisure Centre, Culverhay Leisure Centre, Chew Valley Leisure Centre and Odd Down Sports Ground or for a change of scenery, one of our two golf courses, Entry Hill and Bath Approach.

For those who want an easy accessible leisure centre in the hub of it all, pop down to Better, Bath Sports and Leisure Centre which has recently undergone a £1 million refurbishment on it’s health and fitness offering, so you’ll be working out on top of the range Technogym kit, just like the pros.

The gym consists of over 120 work out stations in a spacious environment, which includes a functional fitness training area, free weights area and cardio area; these boast UNITY™ interactive touchscreens where you can choose from over 60 TV channels, 30 radio stations or you can

For those who want an easy accessible leisure centre in the hub of it all, pop down to Better, Bath Sports and Leisure Centre which has recently undergone a £1 million refurbishment.

42 inbath

even set some new high scores on Angry Birds…

Our friendly fitness instructors are always on hand to help you meet your fitness goals from your initial induction through to refocus sessions; we are here to help you move onto your next goal or set you new targets and programmes.

Plus, you can make the most of our gym based classes, only available at Bath Sports and Leisure Centre; instructor lead sessions in our functional fitness area, not to be missed if you prefer a structured workout in the gym.

We also offer personal training for those who want an extra push to overcome any obstacles (these do need to be booked separately and are charged on top of our membership costs so ask for more details when you enquire).

With two brand-new large studios at Better, Bath Sports and Leisure Centre, we also have a well structured fitness class timetable which is busy with the classes you’ll know and love including: Pilates, Yoga, Total Body Conditioning, Zumba and Group Cycling; the fresh and vibrant environment really does give you great motivation to keep you coming back for more.

Finally, work is progressing nicely on the swimming pool at Better, Bath Sports & Leisure Centre which we hope to re-open early 2018. In the meantime, visit Culverhay Leisure Centre or Keynsham Leisure Centre for a recreational dip, or enjoy some fixed lane swimming to help with those new year goals.

Don’t forget, your membership includes access to other local Better leisure centres too, which includes the fantastic facilities at Keynsham Leisure Centre and Culverhay Leisure Centre, which are only a short drive away.

Here at your local Better leisure Centre, we make sure you’re signing up to a membership that suits your needs, without the contract.

If you’re keen to get your hands on a membership that will give you access to Bath Sports and Leisure Centre plus the local centres in Bath and North East Somerset, simply pick up a Better Health and Fitness Plus membership for just £42 a month! This includes: • Inclusive access to the gyms, fitness classes, swimming, golf and Health suite • Inclusive personalised fitness induction and personal exercise programme • Up to 7 days advance telephone or online booking • Up to 30% off non member prices for other activities There aren’t any hidden costs either, your membership card is free when you sign up and if you’re planning to join us in January, we’ll waiver the joining fee.

If you like to get a workout wherever you go across the UK, then take a look at our regional and UK wide memberships too, with over 300 centres to choose from, you really are spoilt for choice.

PLUS, the membership options don’t stop coming. We have Swim only, Fitness class only and discounts for Students and over 60’s, plus huge savings when you take out an annual membership; only pay for 9 months but sign up for 12!

Here at your local Better leisure Centre, we make sure you’re signing up to a membership that suits your needs, without the contract.

Find out more today by popping into your local Better leisure centre or take a look at the facilities available by visiting better.org.uk/banes.

Alternatively, join today by visiting better.org.uk/join.

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“Friendliest facility in town”.

YMCA member

HE ALT H & WEL LB EIN G Get fit and feel great By being a member of our centre you are supporting our charitable work with young people in Bath and the surrounding area We are different to other health and fitness providers in the market because YMCA Bath is a charity. Whilst we pride ourselves on having exceptional facilities, classes and professional staff, we have a very different ethos to our competitors. As a not-for-profit social enterprise, we reinvest in projects that support local communities.

Therefore, whilst you are getting fitter and healthier you are also supporting local communities, especially young disadvantaged people.

We boast an unpretentious and friendly atmosphere Come and find out more about us and what we do:

www.bathymca.co.uk

Call us today 01225 325913

health and wellbeing

health experts

Exploring the myth of dieting A lot of people get confused with diet so let me just simplify it for you. Diet is just a routine of eating, it can be good, it can be bad, either way it is a diet. When people hear diet they assume restricting foods and all that other waffle you see on the internet.

How to keep motivated throughout your fitness quest!

What if told you that dieting for results is not what the internet makes it seem? You don't have to cut out foods you enjoy, you don't have to starve yourself, and you don't have to slave away on Here are three to help you answer the treadmill 25simple hours tips a day! that question and find your fitness motivation!

A diet for weight loss is simply calories in verses

Susan Phillips Health & Wellbeing Consultant YMCA Bath

Having a good all-round workout plan in your life contributes to many health and wellbeing benefits. These are just a few you can enjoy;

Cardiovascular and Aerobic Conditioning Beneficial aerobic activities are defined as exercises that raise your heart rate to your target heart rate and maintain that level for a minimum of 20 minutes.

Aerobic exercise improves your health by; • Helping you control weight, reducing all the risks associated with being overweight.

• Strengthening your heart so it doesn't have to beat as fast, helping to lower blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart attack.

• Helping to control blood sugar, reducing the risk of diabetes.

Strength Training Strength training is a musculoskeletal exercise type that progressively increases the resistance muscles can overcome. Over time, this enlarges and strengthens the muscles themselves.

Strength training improves your health by; • Increasing your metabolism due to more muscle mass.

• Helping you burn more calories making it easier to control your weight.

• Reducing the risk of injury due to stronger muscles.

46 inbath

• Increasing bone health and density, which reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures.

Stretching Stretching is another important element and should be done along with weight training or aerobic exercise at least three times a week.

Stretching works by increasing the muscles', ligaments' and tendons' ability to elongate, resulting in increased flexibility. It also improves your range of motion, making moving limbs in their joints easier, including ones that could prevent or lessen the severity of falls or accidents.

Flexibility and the elongation of your body's soft tissue will also improve blood circulation.

This, in turn, will keep your muscles, ligaments and tendons supplied with oxygen so that they are able to recover more quickly from workouts or injury. Stretching can also relieve stress by relaxing the tense muscles that often accompany mental tension.

Visit us at the YMCA Health and Wellbeing centre to have your own personalised exercise programme created by one of our highly qualified instructors and experience the benefits for yourself.

calories out.

This means you need to be making Find the time

sure you are eating the right amount of calories Fitting your fitness into your busy schedule is in order to lose weight. Now this doesn't mean always the first step. Take a look at your week you should starve yourself, your body still needs and see what can work. This may be longer calories in order to burn fat and function properly. workouts at the weekend or shorter ones during the week. Remember, simply walking to work or Calories are the most important thing when it the shop occasionally all helps! comes to controlling your weight. Forget about what foods you need to eat and when you should be eating, this is all minuscule in the grand scheme of things. If you can eat the correct amount and of calories thenbe you will motivators, see results.

Friends family can great it’s far easier to do something together! Group fitness classes are a fun and social way to enjoy your workout with others.

Make it Social

Once you have sorted out how many Technology such as fitness trackers are another calories you be new social motivator.

Manyneed have appsto which let you post your achievements to social media so consuming for results your friends can give you that well-deserved pat on the back! you can then focus on your macronutrients.

Have fun

Onceambitions you haveare sorted out howbut many calories Bold admirable, when we you need be consuming for results you can expect tootomuch too soon this often leads to then focus on your disappointment andmacronutrients. ultimately givingThese up when arefall carbohydrates, Your we short. Simplyfats put,and set proteins. yourself achievable macronutrients nextFinding piece ofexercise the puzzle goals and work are fromthe there. that when it comes to weight management. you enjoy is the easiest way to achieve Sorting this. out your calories and macros is outdoors, 90% of thein the Exercise can be done at home, battle, guarantee you! gym or Istudio.

Most people worry aboutdon’t eating types There are so will many options, becertain afraid to of foods and trying to consume their meals at try out different things.

Where I teach at YMCA certain times, everaheard don’t Plymouth we offer wide someone variety of say classes eat after 8pm?

Meal timing is everything a very smallfrom factor throughout the week.

There’s when 30 it comes weight management, long quick minutetoclasses, dance fitness, as strength as you focus on calories in verses calories & toning, to martial arts inspired workouts. out you will see results.

It’s as simple as that! Keep these tips in mind If you’re takeworkout your health fitness and start looking makingto your work and for you. to the next transform your physique, Before you level knowand it, you’ll find yourself motivated check out the website below for a diet plan and looking forward to putting those trainers on tailored to you and your goals! every time.

thekimfitway.com Twitter: @KimFitBath Facebook: ‘KimFitSkeleton’

Your Bath Team is here with your...

Wellbeing Retreat Day 25th February 2017 A 6 hour day of tasters, services, fitness classes and workshops. Pick and choose your day of health.

Get #KimFit in 2018 Personal training and coaching in Bath with a GB athlete

Select your health hero package; from all day fitness package for £5 up to unlimited health classes & workshops for £20 Taking place at The All Saints Community Centre, Weston.

Visit our website for more information www.worldhealthheroesuk.com For all the latest on the heroes watch YouTube Chat Show Every Sunday Night at 9pm.

Your Wellbeing channel - World Health Heroes Find us on Twitter @World_H_Heroes & Facebook @WorldHealthHeroes

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www.getfitinbath.co.uk inbath 47

health and wellbeing

health experts

Simon Darnton Tai Chi Bath Hello, I'm Simon Darnton. I teach Chen-style Tai Chi in Bath. I've been studying Tai Chi since about 2003 when it formed part of my treatment for a disabling illness. I get so much out of it; I know my students do too, so I would like to share the magic of Tai Chi and its benefits with you.

Tai Chi is becoming known as a moving meditation, but it is more than that. It was originally devised as a martial art characterised by soft, gentle exercise that develops strength, stamina and flexibility. It improves posture, promotes relaxation, while nourishing both your body and mind.

Stuart Galise Physioimpulse Founded in 2001 By Stuart Galise, Physioimpulse have been caring for the people of Bath over the last decade with fantastic results.

Stuart has developed a team of specialist Chartered Physiotherapists with expertise in the assessment and treatment of a range of complaints including nerve, muscle and joint related pain, sports injuries, neck and low back pain.

Physioimpulse also provides: Chiropractic treatment:

Expert Manipulative therapy for the treatment of all your spinal complaints.

Gait Analysis and Orthotic Prescription:

Biomechanical assessments using the latest footplate technology are undertaken to provide custom Orthotics for foot, Knee, Hip and Low Back pain.

Clinical Pilates:

Our 1-1 Chartered Physiotherapy led sessions are a great way to maintain the beneficial effects of any treatment programme for spinal conditions and also to improve wellbeing, core strength and flexibility.

Running analysis:

For those looking to run further, faster or in greater comfort and all whilst avoiding injury then these video assessments are invaluable.

Our multidisciplinary team approach means that all our therapists work together to provide the complete package of services for all you physical treatment needs.

Sports Massage:

For anyone who is taking part in exercise on a regular basis our specifically tailored massage with additional dynamic stretching and joint mobilisation is second to none.

Injection Therapy:

Pain relieving injections for chronic joint pain.

48 inbath

Our multidisciplinary team approach means that all our therapists work together to provide the complete package of services for all you physical treatment needs. This puts us in an ideal position to help resolve your pain, prevent future injuries and keep you enjoying life pain free!

For further information please visit www.physioimpulse.co.uk or call 01225 683007

Tai Chi is an effective way to get to know your body in its natural state, to improve awareness, quality of movement, co-ordination, and balance

Because we do not stretch or strain the body in Tai Chi, it is an effective way to get to know your body in its natural state, to improve awareness, quality of movement, co-ordination, and balance.

Mentally you may benefit from better focus, concentration and memory too. Tai Chi also helps to reduce stress, and it can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.

A recent TIME article said: "experts who’ve studied it say its benefits are vast and hard to oversell."

To achieve its benefits, one of my students said: "Tai Chi does require practise, patience, and perseverance."

In addition to many years of practise, I have completed a 3-year Tai Chi instructor qualification which enables me to teach the art at depth.

My classes are beginner friendly. New class members are always welcome.

Come and try it for yourself.

See my website or call me for more information about a 4-class introduction. www.taichibath.co.uk Call: 07970 022 627 Email: classes@taichibath.co.uk

Kimberley Murray Kim Fit This year I urge you to become passionate about your health! Whatever your goals this year, devote some energy to looking after yourself. I am passionate about looking after myself. If my body and mind is 100% then I can go into competitions and an Olympic year knowing that I am in the best position to perform. To turn up to training every day and execute the session a lot of work needs to go on behind the scenes. Being passionate about my sport and the big picture helps me doing to day-to-day, not so fun pieces of my work.

You may not be an elite athlete, or even a regular exerciser. But, cheesy as it is, health is wealth. Given the never-ending list of benefits of exercise, I’d argue that whatever you’re passionate about, being healthy will help you live that passion to the full. What does your body and mind need to live the life you want?

Whatever your goals this year, devote some energy to looking after yourself.

This doesn’t mean making a ‘I must go to the gym three times a week’ resolution that you know you’ll break because you hate the gym. It means seeking out ways to be physically active and eating a nutritious, balanced diet that works for you. If you need some extra help getting started get in touch!

Based in Bath, KimFit is a personal training and coaching service. Run by a GB athlete #TheKimFitWay is a goal focussed approach to fitness, health and performance. We want you to enjoy working out and take pride in your health; and we’ll find a way to make this happen.

Follow me on social for offers, tips and advice: T: @KimFitBath IG: @KimFitBath FB: ‘KimFitSkeleton’ YouTube: ‘Kimberley Murray KimFit’ E: thekimfitway@gmail.com www.thekimfitway.com

Natasha Lewis Get Fit In Bath At Get Fit In Bath we understand why the New Year brings a renewed focus on your health and fitness. Whilst we are always keen to promote healthy routines the year around, the New Year is an excellent time to start a renewed exercise focus and healthier eating plans.

We have some very basic core principles at Get Fit In Bath that we use to help our growing community be the best versions of themselves. Why? Because we can PROOVE they work. How?... read on…

Our community is the backbone of what we do; therefore, firstly we’d advise you to find a workout buddy or group.

It’s the reason why our group ‘Complete’ block sessions work so well. A commitment to others in your group is a hugely motivating factor, helping each other on those days when it isn’t so easy. Plus, it’s much more fun.

We are always planning! Both with your food prep and your exercise schedule. Sit down at the top of the week and decide where you can find an hour to run, go to the gym, or use our free HiiT app for a 7 minute high intensity workout if times are really tight.

And plan those meals a whole week in advance too. It’ll mean you won’t grab at all the unhealthy stuff because you know what’s sat in your lunchbox waiting for you.

And our last easy tip for a successfully healthy 2018 would be to hydrate regularly & get more sleep. By making these two easy changes you’ll be maximising your workout time too.

Want to know more? Get Fit In Bath are centrally based Personal Trainers Natasha & Dave; offering professional, bespoke, and affordable personal programmes, Bath Half marathon training and group environments for all abilities.

Get Fit In Bath Unit 8, Ferry Court, Ferry Lane, Bath, BA2 4JW Tel: 07855 284 590 www.getfitinbath.co.uk

inbath 49

health and wellbeing

3 Simple Tips to keep that New Year Resolution

It’s that time of the year again where you are most likely thinking of new year’s resolutions relating to your health and wellbeing. You join the gym and go all at it 100% for the first couple weeks and then it tends to die down for a few months and then yet again summer approaches and you’re filled with regret that you didn’t stick to that New Year’s plan.

Well this time if you’re new year’s resolution is to lose weight or improve your fitness you need to set realistic goals for yourself. Here are 3 big tips on how you can really stay dedicated this time round.

1) Sustainability.

Set small targets at first such as attending the gym a minimum of 3 times a week. If you go all out and go gym every day for the first week or two these are not sustainable. You must be realistic with your lifestyle so it’s best to take small steps which you can abide by then see if you can progress from there.

This also relates to diet as people tend to go on these crazy plans they see online or hear from a friend and they can either go from one extreme to the other such as cutting out good foods they enjoy and replacing them with boring and foods they dislike.

This is far from sustainable and people always fall off the wagon. It’s best to learn how diet works and how you can enjoy good foods and still get results.

2) Consistency.

Results take time and by achieving results you must stay consistent. A simple slip up can be detrimental to your goals so it’s best to stay focused and keep that consistency throughout the duration.

Regain your confidence and smile with JB Denture Clinic I am a GDC registered clinical dental technician.

Originally from the South West, I trained at Cardiff University and then in Canada and the Royal College of Surgeons in London.

After working for many years in Taunton, Bristol and London I decided that I wanted to relocate to the Bristol/Bath area where I knew that prosthetics clinical dental technicians are scarce and our services would prove invaluable, so in 2013 we opened JB Denture Clinic in Bristol and in June of 2017 we opened our new clinic in Bath.

I have been working in dentistry for over 20 years and I am highly experienced in tailoring dentures for patients who have often struggled to wear them comfortably in the past and I take great pride in seeing the difference my work makes to my patients’ lives so that they can eat, smile and feel confident again when they go out with family and friends.

When a patient tells you they now feel happy again about themselves and tell you about the struggles they faced before, it makes the challenges and long hours all worthwhile.

When a patient tells you they now feel happy again about themselves and tell you about the struggles they faced before, it makes the challenges and long hours all worthwhile.

3) Mindset.

At the end of the day as everyone’s mouth is different and dentures are a very personal matter it is very important to spend a lot of time with our patients. Everyone’s perception of how they should or would like to look will differ from person to person, so by telling us what they are looking for we can advise on what we can do for them.

It could be for yourself or it could be for others just never forget why you started and also remember anything is achievable with the right guidance and knowledge provided.

We provide custom-made private dentures of the highest quality, we spend time with the patient before, during and after the treatment and nothing is ever rushed with us. We make everything ourselves in our on-site laboratory and this means we get a better fit and better overall results.

Once you start seeing progress it’ll all make sense why you’re doing this and it will be worth it.

Positive thinking and believing you can do it is the most important of all and remembering why you’re doing this.

50 inbath

It is important to realise that a denture replaces your natural teeth and gives support to your cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person look older and you will find it harder to speak and eat properly.

Nowadays the technology behind dentures has become so advanced that dentures can be made to closely match your natural teeth so that your appearance isn’t altered. This will help with chewing your food better thus improving your quality of life and overall making you a happier person.

Not happy with your dentures?

Are your dentures loose or painful?

Jaime Brain: Dip CDT RCS (Eng)

We can help regain your conďŹ dence and your smile

WE OFFER FREE Consultation New Dentures direct Flexible dentures Denture repairs Saturday appointments

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health and wellbeing

Golden

Girl

Amy Williams became Britain’s first solo Winter Olympic champion in 30 years (and the first by a woman in 58 years), when she won gold in the Skeleton at the 2010 Vancouver Winter games. Later in 2010, Amy was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2010 Birthday Honours as well as being installed as an Honorary Freeman of the City of Bath.

Having retired from the sport in 2012, she has since been a regular on our TV screens, presenting Ski Sunday and The Gadget Show from 2014-16. In 2018, Amy will also be spearheading the BBC's Winter Olympics coverage in Pyeonchang, South Korea and talks to us exclusively about her dedication to the sport, setting goals to achieve your fitness targets as well as getting back into shape since having her son Oscar in March 2017.

Hi Amy, the last time we spoke you had just won your gold medal in Vancouver and had been projected overnight into the public eye.

You will be covering the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea in February. Are you at all envious of those taking part?

It’s always an incredible experience being at an Olympic Games. In Sochi 2014 I was commenting with BBC Sport and it was very emotional as I really wanted to be competing, and believed I could have medalled again.

However I retired because I couldn't put up with the pain I was in & my ongoing injuries. It was there 4 years after Vancouver when it really hit me that every athlete there was after a Gold medal and that I was lucky enough to have one. It was very emotional and I’m sure PyeongChang will be no different!

When you look back at the dedication of 16 sessions of training a week, 40 weeks of the year, what kept you motivated?

Ultimately it was the constant internal drive I had inside of me to always be the best athlete I could be. I would strive to improve every day, in even the tiniest way, and every day mounts up until you’re reaching personal bests in either an exercise in the gym, or sprinting on the track or then on the ice.

For anyone who is starting a new fitness regime in the New Year, how do you keep the motivation?

First thing is to set a goal – figure out exactly what you want to achieve and when by, but keep it realistic, and write it down as a constant reminder. Then work out step to step mini goals each day and each week so you can keep on track.

If you can buddy up with a friend and work together then it will be easier as you can encourage each other!

I know you kept a diary when you were training, did you find this beneficial, especially if you were injured?

For me it is so important to have a healthy lifestyle, whether that is spending time outside playing in a garden or park or going for walk each weekend. Sport is also such a great way to teach children life skills, such as how to respect one another, discipline, challenging yourself and working as a team, as well as keeping health and fit.

If you could become Sports Minister, what would you change or implement to create a much healthier Britain?

I would make all sports centres in every town & city offer a wider range of facilities and be much more affordable, with free child care to make it easier for parents to keep fit. I would also ensure they had partnerships with local schools with dedicated sessions 2-3 times a week to help children to stay active.

Having recently had your first child (congratulations), how easy/ difficult was it to get back into shape?

It’s been a slow process, and I had a lot of healing to do post birth so I had to take it very steady to begin with. In the first 6 weeks I walked every day, even if it was just to the end of the road, then I increased this to 30/60mins a day. Then from about week 10 post birth I started to jog a little and do some simple core exercises and pelvic floor. When Oscar was about 5 months old I joined a baby bootcamp class where I could bring him along with me and it was tailored for new mums, and I now do HIIT style of sessions which I try and do a few times a week.

I would strive to improve every day, in even the tiniest way, and every day mounts up until you’re reaching personal bests in either an exercise in the gym, or sprinting on the track or then on the ice.

Yes I really believe when you write things down you can see how far you have come and how much you have improved. When you’re injured you are in a negative place especially when you see other athletes around you training hard, so having these notes to look back on does really help.

So do smaller, more achievable goals become important?

Having achievable goals are important as they need to be realistic for you to aim for. You want to have a big end goal such as doing a half marathon or doing a triathlon and have that date in the diary. Then you need to work backwards and break it down into monthly, weekly and daily goals.

The tiny ones all add up and before you know it you are completing your challenge.

Since retiring in 2012 you’ve been very busy with presenting, and being an ambassador for the Youth Olympics (to name a few).

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How important is it to get children into a healthy lifestyle early in life?

What tips do you have for any new mothers out there?

Not to rush things and you need to listen to your body and do what feels right for you. Some weeks I have felt great and I’ve managed a few walks, a jog and a few classes, but other weeks I’ve been working lots and have been up a lot in the night with Oscar and I have had no energy to do anything!

Also remember not to compare yourself to others - it takes nine months to grow a child so you can’t expect to get back into your original shape much before this too.

We are looking forward to seeing you our TV’s again soon. Along with the Olympics, what else do you have planned for 2018?

I will be part of the BBC commentating team for the PyeongChang Winter Olympics in Feb 2018, which I’m getting very excited about as we have a lot of medal hopes this year, and there are lots of other exciting projects in the pipeline so watch this space!

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health and wellbeing

TAKING TO Soaking in 'thermal waters' is certainly not a recent discovery. Throughout the ages, the interest in 'taking to the waters' for health and medicinal purposes has intrigued nations for centuries.

There are many theories to the origins of the word 'Spa'. Some of the more favoured are that the word originates from the Latin word “spagere” (to scatter, sprinkle, moisten) or may

be an acronym of the phrase “sanitas per aquas” (health through water). Another theory comes from the Belgian town, Spa, who gained its name from its fountain ('espa') were, In the 14th century, a thermal spring was discovered

Ancient Greece:

In ancient Greece, taking to the waters was considered a popular treatment for a wide range

Throughout the ages, the interest in 'taking to the waters' for health and medicinal purposes has intrigued nations for centuries.

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of diseases. Although, the Greeks preffered to bathe in fresh water, from natural resources, they also bathed in the sea. Private baths were confined, initially, to the wealthy but soon public baths opened and considered sacred places.

The Greek physician, Hippocrates, proposed the hypothesis that the cause of all diseases lay in an imbalance of the bodily fluids. To regain the balance a change of habits and environment was advised, which included bathing, perspiration, walking, and massages.

It was common place that baths were combined with sports and education, the precursors of the gymnasium.

Romans:

Influenced by the Greeks, the Romans built three different types of baths: baths at home (balnea),

Over the years the Roman bathing culture gradually changed towards a place for relaxation and pleasure. private baths (balnea privata), and public baths (balnea publica).During their heyday, the inhabitants of Rome used 1400 litres of water per person per day.

originally use the waters to help heal afflicted parts of the body, and to immersion of the whole body in the water (especially for rheumatic and urogenital diseases).

With the help of aqueducts, which would bring water from natural sources into cities, public baths developed into large, imposing buildings (thermae) with the capacity to hold thousands of people.

Over the years the Roman bathing culture gradually changed towards a place for relaxation and pleasure, rather than for medical treatment, although this was still provided.

Unlike the Greeks, who took the waters after intensive physical exercises, the Romans would

Fall and Rise:

As the Roman Empire fell and Christianity took

a firm grip in Britain, the bathing culture was officially prohibited. It wasn't until the early 19th century that interest in the health benefits of bathing grew once again.

Improvements in medical practices, and a greater understanding of how natural resources can benefit the human body, encouraged more people to try hydrotherapy.

As natural springs became more popular, so to did the development of hotels and resorts, directing more attention towards leisure. Steam baths, saunas, whirlpools, and solariums; the main objective being to relax and strengthen the body and mind.

We take a look at some of Bath's best Spas and how they can offer the perfect remedy for 21st Century living.

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Image courtesy of The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel

THE WATERS

NEW FOR 2018

THERMAE TEN At £250 for 10 spa sessions, the new Thermae Ten offers great value and is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to anyone who visits Thermae on a regular basis.

The Thermae Ten is valid Monday – Friday for 12 months from the date of purchase.

The voucher is transferrable and enables you to redeem up to two spa sessions per visit.

Thermae Ten gives full use of: • Indoor Minerva Bath • Wellness Suite • Springs Restaurant • Open-Air Rooftop Pool

The Thermae Ten can be purchased in our shop, by calling 01225 33 1234 or online at www.ThermaeBathSpa.com

Immerse yourself in luxury with a Spa Day

Our award-winning Spa crafts the perfect escape, offering guests a day of luxuriating in Bath’s natural thermal waters, a range of sumptuous spa treatments and a fine spa lunch or afternoon tea.

Only at The Gainsborough...

Available Monday - Friday

Book now

www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk 01225 355 320

www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Beau Street, Bath, BA1 1QY

health and wellbeing

WELCOME TO SPA VILLAGE BATH Tapping into the original thermal springs, Spa Village Bath offers a contemporary perspective on the city's thermal water heritage. Coupled with the historic use of aromatherapy in Great Britain, this spa, set beneath a glass atrium within this Leading Hotel, gently supports the brand's philosophy of honouring the healing traditions of the region. In recognition of its spa heritage, the award-winning spa group with its Malaysian origins also presents select signature therapies from the original spas in its collection.

The Bath House experience enables guests to "take the waters" in luxury. Guests will begin their visit with a spa circuit that includes dipping in two natural thermal pools of varying temperatures, traditional and infrared saunas, a steam room, an ice alcove and elegant relaxation areas.

Spa Village Bath integrates the treasured waters of Bath with private aquatic body therapies and classic spa treatments that focus on personalised aromatherapy.

The serene environment of the spa is bathed in natural light emanating from the four-storey glass atrium perched above the Bath House. Located over two levels, Spa Village Bath also features 11 treatment rooms which include a couple's room, a VIP Suite with private natural thermal waters, two tatami rooms designed especially for the award-winning Asian therapies, and a beauty salon. Guests can satisfy their daily workout needs in the 24-hour fitness room.

Should guests wish to extend their experience beyond their time at Spa Village Bath, choose to indulge in one of the hotel's exclusive spa rooms; the only guest rooms in the United Kingdom to offer guests in-bathroom access to the thermal waters.

In-house guests have complimentary access to the Bath House facilities daily between 7am to 9am and 8pm to 10pm. Guests who book a spa treatment are entitled to complimentary use of the Bath House facilities at any time between 7am – 10pm. Please note children under 16 are not permitted to use the Bath House facilities.

To make a booking, please contact us at: Telephone: 01225 358 888 or go online: www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

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The Spa & Bath House: A haven of tranquillity, set in Bath’s most spectacular landmark building.

Happy 2018 from The RCH team.

With many of us over-indulging during the festive period, we turn our attentions to The Spa & Bath House to help us relax, rejuvenate and concentrate on our well-being throughout January, February and over Valentine’s Day. To help aid well-being, plunge headlong into paradise with the ultimate Spa experience.

Book a ticket to tranquillity with a rejuvenating day retreat in The Spa & Bath House or enjoy a relaxing treatment with one of our highly skilled therapists.

Chill out and catch up with friends over a glass of Champagne in The Montagu Bar & Champagne Lounge during your day- the strong Wi Fi signal means you’ll always be connected – wherever you are.

The Spa & Bath House lets cares and worries fall away, leaving behind the crazy every day.

Embrace tranquillity and spoil yourself with a treatment – there’s lots to choose from, we offer relaxing massages, manicures, pedicures and so much more.

Our therapists work with luxurious holistic brands such as Elemental Herbology which contain the highest quality ingredients to make sure your skin is well and truly cared for.

Everything we do is based around the Five Element Theory from traditional Chinese medicine; everything in life needs to work in harmony in order to achieve perfect equilibrium.

Elemental Herbology products relate to each element, wood, fire, earth, metal and water and we believe that a balance of all the elements is needed depending on your skin type, environmental factors, lifestyle and the seasons.

The skin is our largest organ and reflects any imbalance internally as well as external factors such as stress, the weather and pollution. We believe that working on the inside-out as well as the outside-in are both essential for a happy and

healthy life. Exercise and nutrition are just as important as a good skincare regime to improve your overall wellbeing.

The Spa & Bath House lets cares and worries fall away, leaving behind the crazy every day.

Made in England, Elemental Herbology support the responsible harvesting and production of all raw materials from the world’s most reputable suppliers, working with projects that regenerate the environment and local communities such as Phytotrade Africa. Elemental Herbology are proud of everything that they put into their products, and proud of what they leave out. Elemental Herbology products are 100% free from synthetic fragrance, artificial colour, sulphates, paraben preservatives and mineral oils to ensure your skin is cared for from the inside out.

Download a full treatment menu by visiting www.royalcrescent.co.uk/the-spa/treatments Choose your perfect Day Retreat by visiting www.royalcrescent.co.uk/the-spa/dayretreats/ We look forward to welcoming you.

Book your spa treatment by calling us on 01225 823367 or email: spa@royalcrescent.co.uk and feel relaxed and rejuvenated with one of our soothing therapies or Day Retreats.

Simply Divine Day Retreats at The RCH

What better place to catch up with precious friends and family than in the luxurious,

tranquil surroundings of The Spa & Bath House. If it’s a special occasion, then celebrate in style and massage the years away with a rejuvenating Elemental Herbology treatment.

A lternatively, you could slip into the exceptional Bath House relaxation pool and let the healing power of the water do the rest.

Day Retreats from ÂŁ130 per person

All retreats include use of all the Spa facilities, bathrobes, towels, footwear and complimentary herbal tea.

To book your luxurious retreat, call The Spa & Bath House Reception 01225 823367 or email spa@royalcrescent.co.uk Day Retreats are subject to availability.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS 01225 823333 info@royalcrescent.co.uk royalcrescent.co.uk I #RCHBath

.. .

The 11th National Apprenticeship Week (NAW 2018) will take run from 5 to 9 March 2018.

During the week employers and apprentices from across England will come together to celebrate the success of apprenticeships whilst encouraging even more people to choose apprenticeships as a pathway to a great career.

National Apprenticeship Week is coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service and is designed to celebrate apprenticeships and traineeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

The objective of National Apprenticeship Week is to increase awareness and take-up of apprenticeships and traineeships.

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16, living in England. There are different entry requirements depending on the sector and job. Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to work for a real employer, earn a real salary and gain a real qualifi cation whilst gaining valuable workplace skills and experience.

All apprentices should work for at least 30 hours a week, apart from in exceptional circumstances.

What are the benefits?

Apprenticeships are now available up to degree level and beyond. Over 50 national universities are currently offering a range of degree apprenticeships with more to be confirmed throughout the year.

The objective of National Apprenticeship Week is to increase awareness and take-up of apprenticeships and traineeships.

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Earning a salary and paid holiday; Excellent progression opportunities, whether looking to study further or climb the ranks within the workplace; Increased future earning potential – apprentices enjoy marked salary increases on finishing their training and those completing a higher apprenticeship could see increased earnings of an estimated £150,000 over their lifetime.

What levels are there?

There are various levels of apprenticeship to apply for depending on current skills and qualifications. Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels: Name Intermediate Advanced Higher Degree

Level 2 3 4, 5, 6 and 7 6 and 7

Equivalent level 5 GCSE passes 2 A level passes Foundation degree and above Bachelor’s or master’s degree

All apprenticeships include elements of on the job and off the job training leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. Some apprenticeships will require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess the apprentice`s ability and competence in their job role.

Some apprenticeship vacancies will display the `Positive about disabled` logo meaning the employer has agreed to take action to meet five commitments regarding the employment,

Current apprenticeships vacancies in, and around, Bath Nursery Apprentice Snapdragon Nurseries Ltd

Apprentice Commis Chef University of Bath

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate to join our friendly team at the Weston nursery.

The nursery is registered for 128 children between the ages of 0 - 5 years and opens from 7.30am - 6.30pm daily, 51 weeks of the year.

Come work for us as an Apprentice Commis Chef and see how exciting and varied our food is... you won't find any school dinners here! You will be preparing food, assisting with stock control and follow all health and hygiene procedures.

Weekly wage: £155.40 Working week: 30-40 hours a week Monday-Friday Total hours per week: 37.00 Apprenticeship duration: 12 months Possible start date: 22 Jan 2018 Apprenticeship level: Advanced Level Apprenticeship

Weekly wage: £301.00 Working week: 36.5 hours a week 7am - 11pm, 5 out of 7 days. 36.5 hours Apprenticeship duration: 12 months Possible start date: 22 Jan 2018 Apprenticeship level: Intermediate Level Apprenticeship

Your mission is to provide exceptional early years care in a safe, nurturing and fulfilling environment whilst inspiring children to unlock their full potential through key skills and values which will establish them as gifted citizens of the world.

For duties, please see: www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/ apprenticeship/-196388

Apprentice Nursery Nurse Alice Park Nursery retention, training and career development of disabled employees. Any disabled candidate applying for vacancies showing this logo will be guaranteed an interview as long as they meet the requirements for the job being applied for (these policies have recently changed (July 2017)).

Salaries

The minimum wage for apprentices has recently risen to £3.70 per hour (as of Nov 2017), but many employers pay more than this. The rise will commence in April 2018. This will be the second raise in a year, after the wage went from £3.40 per hour to £3.50 back in April 2017.

For 18- to 20-year-olds, the increase is from £5.60 per hour to £5.90, while 16- to 17-yearolds will see their minimum wage go up from £4.05 per hour to £4.20.

And for 21- to 24-year-olds, it is going up from £7.05 per hour to £7.38.

This is dependant on the sector, region and apprenticeship level e.g. some higher apprenticeships pay up to £500 per week.

Future commitments

During last summers Queen’s speech (21 June 2017), the government renewed its commitment to “ensuring people have the skills they need for the high-skilled, high-wage jobs of the future”.

New apprenticeships minister, Anne Milton, is focused on creating three million apprentices by 2020.

An exciting opportunity to train as an apprentice to train to be an Early Years Practitioner.

You will contribute to a high quality caring environment for children Weekly wage: £122.50 Working week: 35 hours a week Monday-Friday Total hours per week: 35.00 Apprenticeship duration: 12 months Possible start date: 18 Jan 2018 Apprenticeship level: Intermediate Level Apprenticeship Key areas: To work with children To attend training To complete all assignments set To work as part of a team To attend associated training To liaise with mentor

Apprentice Commis Chef Bailbrook House Hotel Ltd An opportunity has arisen to join the talented brigade of chefs at Hand Picked hotels via their Chefs Academy.

Weekly wage: £200.00 Working week: 40 hours a week 8am - 9.30pm Total hours per week: 40.00 Apprenticeship duration: 13 months Possible start date: 31 Jan 2018 Apprenticeship level: Intermediate Level Apprenticeship As a Commis Chef you will be part of a team in food preparation and organisation within the kitchen.

Nursery Practitioner Buttercup Barn Day Nursery Ltd At Buttercup Barn we understand that choosing childcare is one of the hardest and most important decisions you will ever have to make, which is why we do our best to make sure we employ the best staff for the job!

Weekly wage: £208.13 Working week: 37.5 hours a week Monday-Friday Total hours per week: 37.50 Apprenticeship duration: 12 months Possible start date: 5 Feb 2018 Apprenticeship level: Advanced Level Apprenticeship At Buttercup Barn we understand that choosing childcare is one of the hardest and most important decisions you will ever have to make, which is why we do our best to make it as easy as possible for you.

Martial Arts Instructor Tiger Martial Arts Ltd Taekwondo/Kickboxing/Martial Arts apprentice required for children's Taekwondo classes in and around Bath, Wiltshire, Somerset and surrounding areas.

Annual wage: £10 -16,000 Working week: 36 hours a week Apprenticeship duration: 12 months Possible start date: 15 Jan 2018 Apprenticeship level: Intermediate Level Apprenticeship The apprentice will be working alongside the Director and/or Team Leader providing class support in the initial instance, with the view of the apprentice becoming a full-time martial arts instructor with Tiger Martial Arts. The apprentice will be instructing mostly children aged 4-14.

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apprenticeships

Bath College: Producing award-winning apprentices Bath College is the largest provider of apprenticeships in the Bath and North East Somerset area and works with over 260 businesses, who employ over 500 apprentices.

The college offers value added courses, with the opportunity to get involved in community projects and study for extra qualifications. As a result, apprentices pass at a high standard and thrive in their careers.

In November, the college celebrated a successful three days at the SkillBuild 2017 National Final.

Stonemasonry apprentice Josh Underwood did exceptionally well, coming second out of eight finalists to win a silver medal.

At the same time, painting and decorating student Ollie Takhar was selected by judges to train with the WorldSkills UK squad over the next year.

The college was also pleased to see IT apprentice Cameron Wallace named outstanding apprentice of the year in the financial and business services category at the Bristol Post and Bath Chronicle Apprenticeship Awards 2017

An apprenticeship at Bath College could be the start of a wide-ranging and varied career. We have a wide range of apprenticeships available, from animal care, business administration, construction and childcare, to engineering motor vehicle maintenance and teaching.

Apprentices gain professional qualifications, as well as hands-on work experience, making them more attractive to future employers.

Once qualified, Level 2 apprentices can expect to earn 11 per cent more than people without training and Level 3 apprentices could earn 18 per cent more.

Just recently, Bath College has risen 50 places in a national league table, published by leading industry newspaper FE Week.

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“To appear 17th on the overall college league table is a testament to their hard work and determination, and reflects a desire from staff and students not just to achieve, but to surpass expectations.

“Bath College produces confident and competent apprentices year on year, because of the time our staff spend developing learners and supporting each employer’s objectives.

“The college continues to evolve, keeping up to pace with changes to national guidelines while remaining true to its original goals and values, which is to deliver the best possible learning experience for all its students.”

The college was ranked as 17th in the country out of over 200 FE Colleges, and is top in the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) region covering Bath, Bristol and Westonsuper-Mare.

The college offers value added courses, with the opportunity to get involved in community projects and study for extra qualifications. .

Within the league table, Bath College scored highest in employer satisfaction, demonstrating its good relationship with businesses who choose the college as their preferred training provider.

Rob Aldous, Apprenticeships Manager at the Bath Business Training Hub, said: “We have an outstanding apprenticeships team at Bath College.

For more details on Apprenticeships at Bath College call: 01225 328687, visit the website www.bathcollege.ac.uk You can also keep up-to-date with everything at Bath College via Facebook: BathCollege and twitter: @BathCollege

Sponsored by:

FUTURES APPRENTICESHIPS AND JOBS FAIR The perfect place to start planning your exciting career

Wednesday 7th March 2018 at Bath Leisure Centre 12:00 –15:30 • Open to Schools 15:30–18:30 • Open to parents, young people and the public

Meet over 60 local employers with job vacancies For more details and to preregister visit our Eventbrite page: https://goo.gl/si5J5Y Contact us on 01225 328 687 or email futures@bathcollege.ac.uk

Free Entry www.bathcollege.ac.uk

/bathcollfutures

@BathCollFutures

apprenticeships

Don't just take our word for it........

Matt Rose

Level 3 Refrigeration and Air conditioning

Refrigeration apprentice Matt Rose was 18-years-old when he started studying Level 2 refrigeration and air conditioning at Bath College.

After working for five years, he has returned to college to study for a Level 3 apprenticeship, which may help him to secure a promotion and a pay rise.

Hajraah Qureshi Level 3 Business Administration

Hajraah Qureshi is a Level 3 business administration student studying at Bath College and working within the Faculty of Engineering and Design at the University of Bath.

Thanks to her apprenticeship, Hajraah, who is just 18-years-old, has already built up an impressive CV, as she’s had the chance to work in a number of departments around the university.

At the moment, Hajraah is based with the faculty’s marketing team working on news

Matt’s apprenticeship is with TH White Agriculture, working in the dairy department to install, decommission and repair milking equipment. articles, running social media competitions and updating website content.

She said: “Some of my friends are still doing their A-levels and then they will go to university, so I do feel as though I have had a head start in terms of gaining experience.

“The most important thing was having the opportunity to be paid while I learn. You get a qualification which is the equivalent of your A-levels and it feels more professional.

“Being here is like being on a work placement, you’re meeting new people all the time. It’s nice going into work in the morning knowing you have projects you need to work on and people you need to talk to.”

For him, the best thing about his apprenticeship is the opportunity to travel to new places and deal with a different challenge every day.

He said: “The best thing you can do for your career is to find yourself a decent apprenticeship and get yourself enrolled on a course.

“What I say to people is ‘yes the wage is lower, but you’re learning and you don’t have all the knowledge you need for the job yet’.

“It’s been a good route for me. If I wasn’t doing this I don’t know what I would be doing, but now I have a trade for life.

“Air conditioning and refrigeration is everywhere, so there’s a demand for skilled workers.”

Veronica Savaia Level 2 Hairdressing

Studying as a hairdressing apprentice was a natural choice for Veronica Savaia, who started her apprenticeship at Figo Hair in June.

Veronica has always wanted to be a hairdresser, and has opted to work at the salon near the Royal Crescent alongside her studies at Bath College.

As part of her job, she takes responsibility for hair up hairstyles at the salon, and has the opportunity to work on hairstyles for weddings and proms.

Veronica said: “Even when I’m at home, I’m practicing and watching videos so I know how to do different styles. I also have my family and friends in the salon to do their hair.

“You might want to start a career in hairdressing, but you need to find somewhere you enjoy working and somewhere you’re able to grow.

“Studying for a hairdressing apprentice takes two years, instead of one year on a full-time course, however you’re earning money and you’re gaining work experience. I already have a job and they want me to stay there when I’m qualified. At college we have practical sessions in the morning and theory in the afternoon. It’s been good to meet other students who are at the same level as me.”

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OPEN EVENTS AT BATH COLLEGE BE EXTRAORDIN A RY

Somer Valley Campus

Wednesday 17th January • 4pm –8pm Saturday 21st April • 10am –1pm

City Centre Campus

Thursday 1st February • 4pm –8pm Wednesday 2nd May • 4pm –8pm

www.bathcollege.ac.uk Tel: 01225 328 720 Email: enquiries@bathcollege.ac.uk Visit: Bath College, Avon Street, Bath, BA1 1UP

/BathCollege

@bathcollege

case studies

Catering student starts dream apprenticeship with Michelin star chef When Jamie Gay started his career in catering, he couldn’t have dreamed that within a few years he would be working for a Michelin star chef.

He said that also gave him the opportunity to work with different chefs, which he believes is a positive in the catering industry.

“I’ve been making stocks ever since I started catering, but Guy has a different way of doing his and so I’ve had to learn that.”

The 18-year-old apprentice has been working as a trainee chef at the Red Lion pub in East Chisenbury since September alongside owner Guy Manning and said: “I couldn’t not take this amazing opportunity and even though I’ve only been here a short amount of time, it has been fantastic!”

“Every chef has their own way and that was one of my reasons for wanting to do an apprenticeship, so that I could work with a different chef as well as further the knowledge I learned on the Level 1 and 2 courses, he said.”

Guy and his wife Brittany, who is a pastry chef, have been running the pub for the past nine years, and were thrilled that he was awarded a Michelin star in 2013, which they retained ever since.

A typical day for Jamie, who is the first to study a Chef de Partie Advanced Apprenticeship through the College, begins at 7.30am when he will check the orders, make stocks and help the other chefs in the kitchens.

“I’ve spent nine years and won’t compromise.

Jamie joined Wiltshire College straight from school in 2015, where he studied the Level 1 and 2 courses in Professional Cookery.

“I really enjoyed my time at the Trowbridge campus.

“I learned so many skills and being able to work in the White Horse Restaurant was an added bonus as it gave us all real life experience preparing and creating dishes and also serving to customers.

“I was also able to work part time alongside the course so on the days I wasn’t in college I was at my local pub, The Kings Arms, in All Cannings.

Jamie joined Wiltshire College straight from school in 2015, where he studied the Level 1 and 2 courses in Professional Cookery.

“I really miss my lecturer Steve and also Helen, the technician, they were so knowledgeable and experienced, I learned so much from them.”

Whilst working at The Kings Arms, Jamie said he enjoyed the opportunity to devise a menu for some of the music industries stars during Catering for the Kings, a charity event often described as ‘the biggest small festival in the world’.

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“I want perfection but you never stop learning and that’s what makes it interesting.

Jamie said: “The hours for a chef are long, so it needs to be something you love doing like I do, but Guy has shown me the importance of preparation, which is absolutely critical.

“We are almost working two days in advance here.

“One of the other things that is completely different is how we make stocks.

“That’s why I also want to help train the next generation of chefs.

“It is definitely an investment of my time as I am teaching him but it is also very rewarding and Jamie has a great attitude.

“It’s quite inspiring for him to work alongside other youngsters in the kitchen and I think what he has learned already is that it is about repetition here to be the best you can be.

“One thing I did notice straight away about Jamie was his knife skills and that is a compliment to the college.”

“The industry is at a critical point and we have struggled to get people who are committed, but we have a great team and Jamie is part of that.”

For more information about apprenticeships visit www.wiltshire.ac.uk . And, if you fancy eating in a Michelin star pub visit www.redlionfreehouse.com.

There has never been a better time to employ an apprentice or start an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship participation now stands at a record level - there were 491,300 apprenticeship starts in the 2016 to 2017 academic year of which 121,250 (24.6%) were under 19.

There are, on average, 23,000 apprenticeship opportunities listed on find an apprenticeship every month.

There were 1,656,630 online apprenticeship applications made in 2015 to 2016.

Employers are designing new high-quality standards to replace frameworks to ensure apprenticeships are more responsive to their needs.

Over 520 apprenticeship standards have been published or in development, with over 200 that are approved for delivery.

There were 23,700 starts on apprenticeship standards in 2016 to 2017.

There were over 1,670 degree level apprenticeship starts in 2016 to 2017, including foundation degrees, HNDs and full honours degrees. These include job roles ranging from legal services to banking and engineering.

Wiltshire College landscaping apprentice wins gold at national skills final A Wiltshire College Hard Landscaping apprentice is celebrating after winning gold at the most prestigious vocational education and skills excellence event in the world.

presented with their medals and many will now have the opportunity to be considered for Team UK selection and take part in the international finals in Budapest and Kazan in Russia.

Adam McGarry said he is absolutely thrilled to have won WorldSkills final after completing a gruelling 16 hours challenge to create a garden from scratch.

Adam joined the College in 2012 and after completing the intermediate apprenticeship progressed onto the Advanced Apprenticeship working with Turner Landscapes in Calne.

The 21- year-old was the only Landscape Gardening finalist from the South West at the competition which took place at the NEC in Birmingham from Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th November.

He said: “I was really surprised and excited to make the final, but to win, is absolutely amazing!

Earlier this year he won Horticultural Apprentice of the Year at Wiltshire College’ s annual Apprenticeship Awards for his hard work and effort.

It hasn’t really sunk in yet, it feels very surreal, but at the same time I am so happy to think I am currently number 1 in the country. I was really pleased with my completed garden, but didn’t think for one minute I would win.Landscaping was the second to last category at the medal ceremony so it was a long wait to find out, and when they called my name to go up on stage, I just couldn’t believe it.”

Adam, was one of more than 500 young tradesmen and women to compete in 55 disciplines in everything from aircraft maintenance to 3D games design, beauty therapy and cyber security.

The interactive show is also open to the public to attend and over the three days, attracted a record 80,000 spectators.

All the winners were invited to an awards ceremony at the Hilton where they were

Since progressing through the WorldSkills competition, Adam who completed his apprenticeship over the summer, has been back to the Lackham campus, where he studied on several times to further his landscaping skills, working alongside head gardener Anthony Cockell.

Jennifer Mellows, is Head of Land-based at Lackham. She said: “We are absolutely thrilled

by Adam's success at WorldSkills."

“Adam demonstrated his determination and passion to succeed early on in the competition and his hard work and effort has really paid off.The horticulture department at our Lackham campus is thriving as we continue to deliver study programmes that equip our learners with the skills and abilities that the industry wants."

“We are very proud of Adam's success and grateful as well to Adam's employer for his continued support for both Adam and Lackham.” www.wiltshire.ac.uk

Nearly all apprentices feel that they acquire or improve their skills as a direct result of their apprenticeship.

89% of apprentices are satisfied with their apprenticeship; 97% of apprentices said their ability to do the job had improved, and 92% of apprentices said their career prospects had improved.

Over 90% of apprentices currently go into work or further training.

Higher apprentices could earn £150,000 more on average over their lifetime compared to those with level 3 vocational qualifications.

On average, achieving a level 2 or level 3 apprenticeship boosts earnings by 11% and 16% respectively. Although there is variation by subject, most subjects deliver a return of around 10%.

Nearly 9 out of 10 (89%) apprentices were satisfied with their apprenticeship overall, and 97% of apprentices said their ability to do the job had improved.

The majority (92%) of apprentices in work felt that their apprenticeship had had a positive impact on their career.

Apprenticeships are more likely to be undertaken in small (0 to 49 employees) and large-sized employers (250+ employees), with 44% of apprenticeship participation within small employers and 41% of apprenticeship participation in large employers, in 2014 to 2015.

87% of employers said they were satisfied with the programme, 76% say that productivity has improved and 75% reported that apprenticeships improved the quality of their product or service.

11.2% of apprentice starts in 2016 to 2017 were from a BAME background, we are working to increase this by 20% by 2020.

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property

insider

#trending So what will the home of 2018 look like on the inside?

We speak to some of the cities most respected voices to ďŹ nd out what they feel will be trending in 2018.

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Image courtesy of Kersfield

V E S TA D E S I G N

Beautiful Interiors for Town and Country kate@vestadesign.co.uk | 07519 513 773 www.vestadesign.co.uk

property

Internal Affairs A Room-by-Room Look at the Latest Trends in Interiors for 2018 by Kate Howard of Vesta Design

Living Room Metallic Neutrals - Pantone’s colour trend forecasts are always a key indicator of things to come.

For 2018, they have launched a home and interiors book with 8 colour palettes for the year ahead.

One of these palettes is a range of metallic neutrals. Iridescence and pearlized finishes are key, as shown here in Vesta Design’s scheme for a Regency Townhouse living room, which uses cushion fabrics with shimmering textures and designs in metallic thread, as well as the reflexive qualities of the chandelier and wall lights and textured metal detail on the coffee table completing the look.

Dining Room Organic Lighting - There is a leaning towards the use of unusual and natural materials for lighting pieces, creating designs that are delicate, have a natureinspired earthy feel and fixtures are made from organic materials.

These can be perfect for use in a dining room, such as these handmade leather urchin chandeliers by ME Collections, created by the intricate application of individual cut leather strips and giving a beautiful ambient light perfect for creating the mood for an evening dinner party.

Study Statement Artwork – The gallery wall is out this season!

Create a more curated look in your home with statement art pieces that fill the wall space.

Oversized artwork creates the “wow factor” and demands attention – perfect for drawing your eye towards a focal point in the room.

In the study, classic architectural pieces can work well, creating a timeless feel.

This Dome VIII giclee photographic print from Trowbridge Gallery is a great example.

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Kitchen Colour Combination Cabinets – Using different colour finishes on your kitchen cabinets creates a more eclectic, interesting aesthetic and gives your kitchen the designer edge. An island in a contrasting colour to the rest of the units can be a striking focal point, as shown in this classic shaker kitchen by Bath-based kitchen design company, Patrick Porter Kitchens.

To take this look to the next level, mixing materials as well as colour (e.g. painted main cabinets, wooden finish island units) will give a stylish feel and add that one-of-a-kind personality to this important room.

Family Room Textures and Layers – A neutral palette with layered textures is a great look for any room, however the family room particularly lends itself to this application as it creates an inviting, warm feel perfect for the family to all cosy up together on the sofa.

A combination of throws and cushions in various fabrics – linens, textured weaves, velvet, leather and fur can all be combined to great effect - add to the inviting feel of the space.

Natural colours are also in with a palette of greys, muted blues and earthy tones, as used in this family room by Vesta Design.

Bedroom Monochrome - Perfect for creating an impact, the classic monochrome look is set to be a hot trend for 2018. This contrasting palette is the epitome of chic, is a versatile design option and can also be used with accent colour if desired. The addition of accents in brass, gold, timber and marble create additional interest and help bring this look right up to the moment. If pure black and white is too bold, you can soften the look by using pale neutrals and charcoal as in this masculine master bedroom scheme by Vesta Design.

Bathroom Metallics – Nickel is still a firm favourite and a classic colour, however for up-to-the-minute, on-trend bathroom design, other metal finishes such as brass, champagne and matt black are very much in vouge.

Samuel Heath do several ranges of bathroom fittings in various metal colours. Shown here is their Style Moderne “Luxe” basin filler in nonlacquered brass which is hand polished and, if cleaned regularly, will maintain a pure brass finish.

Alternatively, it can be left to develop a natural patina with its own individual character.

Kate Howard is the owner of interior design studio, Vesta Design.

After re-locating from Surrey to Wiltshire, Kate set up Vesta Design to provide a design service which meets the needs of clients in both country and city locations.

Based near Bath and offering a full range of services, Vesta Design creates beautiful interiors for town and country. www.vestadesign.co.uk

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KITCHEN TRENDS 2018

property

What's Cooking?

It has become the social hub of the house; a place to eat, socialise and work. Vicky Elmore of Elmore Kitchens takes a look at how the kitchen of 2018 will look.

#1 Grey is the new white While white cabinets will never go out of fashion, grey is the shade kitchen designers are betting on to break white's top spot.

#2 Deep Drawers

#3 Industrial Surfaces

Oxidized worktops, concrete cabinetry and copper accessories - pay tribute to beautiful imperfections of metals and stone in all their stages of ageing.

Extra-deep drawers make cooking and storage effortless. They're more accessible than typical base cabinetry and so simple to integrate into a beautiful kitchen design. Add-ons, like pegboard and drawer organizers help keep drawers tidy.

#4 Dramatic Colour Splashback Add colour with a dramatic Splashback in a modern or traditional kitchen.

#6 LED Lighting

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#5 Induction Cooking

Fast, safe, and aesthetically pleasing -- there are many reasons to love induction cooking. Because induction burners utilize little heat, even cramped kitchens stay cool while cooking, and surfaces remain safe to touch.

LED lighting has lost its chilly, unfriendly look and can be combined in innovative ways. Highlight an island, brighten work spaces below the wall units and lighten up the inside of cabinetry. Modern lights are more efficient and last longer than halogen and florescent bulbs.

how to maximise SPACE IN YOUR CLOA K ROOM

GIVE A COMPACT CLOAKROOM A FEELING OF LIGHT AND SPACE WITH THESE CLEVER DESIGN TRICKS FROM NEIL CURTIS (DESIGNER AT RIPPLES BATH).

01

TAKE IT TO THE WALL

At Ripples, we have a variety of compact basins that are ergonomically designed in a smaller size and it goes without saying that wall-hung is the way to go. As well as creating an illusion of added floor space, it also makes it easier to clean around.

02

MIX IT

To complement the basin look for smaller than standard basin mixers, which are in proportion to the basin itself. A single-lever tap keeps things simple but if you want to keep the basin surround completely clear, go for a wall-mounted mixer with a good spout reach over the basin.

03

BIG IS BEST

When it comes to flooring, a pale, neutral coloured tile will open up the space. Large format ceramic or porcelain tiles have fewer grout lines, which makes the room feel larger.

For walls, keep it simple with a fresh lick of paint in a lighter shade and add interest with a feature tile area behind the basin. If you don’t mind bringing a splash of colour into the room, this is your chance to be brave with a bolder shade.

It’s not a room that’s always on show but friends and family will be utilising it, so be brave with

a “wow” colour and bring some personality into the space.

04

MIRROR IMAGE

Other clever design tricks include the use of mirrors and lighting. A large mirror hung over the basin will bounce light back into the room and instantly add a light, bright look. Go as large as you dare! Lighting is another useful feature. Consider LED tape strips mounted beneath basins or shelves to give them a floating effect and install halogen downlights or spots into the ceiling for a layered lighting finish.

05

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Whilst the cloakroom is a smaller space, you still want some decent storage for spare loo roll and soap, so look at compact vanity units with the basin on top and ample cupboard or drawer space below. Simplicity is key so avoid fussy finishes and extraneous detail.

06

HAVE FUN

And last but not least, think outside the box – literally – and use every inch of space. It’s not about creating clutter but more about being creative.

Ripples Bath, Chelsea House, London Road, Bath BA1 6DB Tel: 01225 447971 Ripples Bristol, 88 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QN Tel: 0117 973 1144

www.ripplesbathrooms.com

What the best dressed bathrooms are wearing this year.

Ripples Bath, Chelsea House, London Road, Bath BA1 6DB Tel: 01225 447971 Ripples Bristol, 88 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QN Tel: 0117 973 1144

www.ripplesbathrooms.com

BEDROOM TRENDS 2018

property

One the hunt for a new stylish bedroom?

It doesn't matter if you have a one bedroom apartment or country pile, whether you dream of a calm and restful sanctuary or a luxurious hotel-style bedroom; we take a look at some of the eye-catching trends that will shape the bedroom of 2018.

#1 Four-poster beds:

A way to give a romantic air to the bedroom is the inclusion of a FourPoster bed. Todays cleaner and simpler designs are less cumbersome and give a colonial feel to the bedroom.

#2 Metal and Pendants Lamps:

Copper was one of the new trends that we saw in the bedroom of 2017, and although this will continue in 2018, look out for gold accessories especially with lighting. Metal lamps on bedside tables and hanging wall lights will be a must.

#3 Lilacs and Teal:

Last years greens and blues are replaced by lilacs and teals. These colour trends are making a splash in the home of 2018 and can either used on statement walls or in the form of accesorising the bedroom bedding, cushions, carpets etc

#5 Chill Out: #4 Unique bedside tables:

In the age of upcycling, look out for unique bedside tables! Anything can work from an old chair to a suitcase, stool to a metal structure with a flat top. Let your imagination run riot.

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The bedroom should be your ultimate chillout zone. Whether you relax by listening to music or reading a book; let your bedroom reflect your personalilty. Gallery style artwork dripping from the walls, or a feature wall turned into a library – whatever helps you relax and unwind.

BEDROOM RANGES IN ALL STYLES & TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS

SALE REDUCTIONS THROUGHOUT THE STORE

DINING ROOM • LIVING ROOM • BEDROOM • BEDS & MATTRESSES Many leading brands on display

TR Hayes • 15-18 London Street • Bath • BA1 5BX Tel: 01225 465757 • www.trhayes.co.uk

Customer Car Park • FREE Local Delivery inbath 77

property

Lasting relationships and customer service gives Clearglaze an enviable reputation Since 1980 Clearglaze have been providing high quality home improvements in the beautiful city of Bath and the surrounding areas. Over the years Clearglaze has cemented it’s reputation for being the number one go-to company in the area by ensuring it’s customers are supplied with the very best products available, fitted by highly trained and professional installers, all backed up with industry leading warranties and a second-to-none customer support service.

What makes this all the more impressive is that Clearglaze aren’t one of the nationwide companies with unlimited budgets and resources, they are a locally established business whose entire ethos is based on building lasting relationships with their customers. They have however recently become a part of the Thermaglaze family, based in Sutton Veny, Wiltshire. Thermaglaze - also an independently owned company - have been established since 1987 and have grown into one of the southwest’s premier independent home improvement specialists, with over 20,000 happy customers and an enviable reputation for customer care, support services and extremely high quality work.

Becoming a part of the Thermaglaze family has benefitted Clearglaze immensely, access to Thermaglaze’s vast array of products and resources has allowed Clearglaze to explore a much wider range of opportunities in and around Bath than previously. Their recently refurbished showroom in Oldfield Park is beautifully fitted out with stunning displays, product samples, brochures and a sensationally good coffee machine!

This little gem of a showroom is testament to Clearglaze’s intentions to become the undeniable number one home improvement company in this beautiful city of ours.

Thermaglaze’s vast array of products and resources has allowed Clearglaze to explore a much wider range of opportunities in and around Bath than previously.

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Long gone are the days of offering only white or woodgrain uPVC with either white or gold fittings, thanks to modern technological advances today’s product offerings have evolved in so many ways and in every conceivable direction - not only in terms of the quality of material used in the products but in the huge choice of finishes, styles and options that are available. The current trend is for Aluminium as the material of choice for so many projects these days and Clearglaze are perfectly positioned to satisfy the demand, from windows and doors through to conservatories and solid roof extensions, Clearglaze are able to offer solutions for bringing any dream project to fruition.

From initial contact through to final sign-off, Clearglaze ensure the entire experience is handled in a friendly and sensitive manner by applying a considerate, zero-pressure approach to their business.

During the first consultation great care is taken to ensure that the customer’s exact requirements are fully understood in order to be able to make the appropriate recommendations and suggestions with regard to product, pricing and timescales. At no point during the process will Clearglaze ask for any form of deposit or

Where required Clearglaze are able to offer full support with design, project management and planning services - with close to 40 years experience in the industry there aren’t many situations that Clearglaze are yet to encounter. up-front payment, and the customer can always be confident of receiving the very best and most accurate information, empowering them to make absolutely the right decision for themselves.

Site surveys are undertaken at the discretion and convenience of the customer once a fully detailed and written quotation has been supplied for consideration and acceptance. The Clearglaze staff are always on hand to answer any queries and at no time during the process will any pressure be applied in order to close the sale, there is actually no need, Clearglaze’s pricing structure is more than a match for their competition and more often than not the business is won based on their professional and considerate attitude toward their customers - the price is guaranteed to be a pleasant surprise but it really is all about the Clearglaze experience.

Where required Clearglaze are able to offer full support with design, project management and planning services - with close to 40 years experience in the industry there aren’t many situations that Clearglaze are yet to encounter.

No problem is too great and no project too big.

As a result of detailed planning and preparation the installation process is a smooth and efficient one, the installation teams are courteous, considerate and impeccably tidy - and of course, local. Unlike many of the national companies the Certass approved Clearglaze teams aren’t dragged in from all over the country and as such

are able to dedicate the time and care required to ensure the work is undertaken to the highest possible standards - without the pressure of thinking about the drive back to Liverpool during rush hour!

Whether it’s a simple door or window installation or a stunning orangery extension, the finished product will be immaculately presented and covered by a full 10 year no-quibble guarantee.

It’s only by virtue of their long history that Clearglaze can be confident of delivering the very best experience possible, this is a very precious commodity that few companies are able to enjoy and it has been earned through extremely hard work and dedication to their cause. Bath is such a beautiful city, it’s culture, heritage and architecture are unique - and so are it’s people. Clearglaze and it’s staff are firmly rooted in the city, they understand exactly what it is that makes Bath so very special, and they love being a part of it.

Clearglaze have been enjoying some exciting enhancements and upgrades to their business in recent years, the newly refurbished showroom truly is a refreshing and enjoyable place to be, the products on display have been sympathetically selected to complement the individuality of Bath and the staff are warm, friendly, professional and knowledgable. There is a stunning new website currently under development and is due to go live sometime

early in the New year, which will further demonstrate Clearglaze’s commitment to continuing it’s highly successful journey so far and promoting the Clearglaze experience to it’s ever expanding customer base.

The showroom at 32 Shaftesbury Road, Oldfield Park, Bath, is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm every day and all are welcome to call by anytime, enjoy some beautiful coffee and see what’s on offer.

If it’s awkward to make it down to the showroom then please feel free to call on 01225 425211 to discuss any requirements you may have or to arrange an appointment for a pressure free home visit.

EST. 1980

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property London market holds the key to continued growth for Bath properties.

The Bath property market, on the whole, is faring well compared to other areas of the UK, largely down to the ability to draw in interest from far and wide, being the cosmopolitan city that it is.

With Brexit uncertainty still in the air, Stamp Duty burdens, the largest amount of new homes to be built in the city for some time and wavering property reports, we still continue to achieve good levels of interest.

The main worry for Bath is the slowdown in the housing market in London. London buyers have, in the past, accounted for as much as 30-40% of our buyer source for the city, wanting to move west and take advantage of the multiple benefits we take for granted every day. This, added to the lack of investment and high end property impact from stamp duty, will of course have an effect and it is now more prudent than ever to listen to the advice given to you by your chosen estate agent.

David Mackenzie Carter Jonas

The reason you pick a certain agent to act for you over another, should of course be your ability to trust that the advice they are giving you is right, correct and ultimately timely – keeping you one step ahead of the crowd. Your agent is on hand to answer questions, allay your fears and keep you in the know. It is therefore paramount that you get this right the first time around. Make sure, when you are deciding who to choose,

that you get more than two opinions, that you visit their office and see their shop window and meet the team to see what impression you get – as this will be the one that buyers get and is therefore very important. A lot of people say they do not have time to do this, but believe me, it can cost you £100,000’s if you get your choice wrong.

The reason you pick a certain agent to act for you over another, should of course be your ability to trust that the advice they are giving you is right, correct and ultimately timely.

We are seeing a large amount of buyers return from oversees, expats from the far and middle east in the main and this will plug the gap of the smaller amount of buyers from the city, so making sure that viewings are able to be done at short notice is key, as they tend to drop in at the last minute! If you would welcome some advice on your property move for the New Year, please get in touch and we would be delighted to help.

Correct pricing and broad marketing remain the keys to your success as a seller.

The second half of 2017 in the Bath property market saw a continued gradual price growth across the board but also a long awaited rise in in supply levels of available properties from a low mid year point (14% up May to Nov ).

Average selling times became marginally slower up to November, as is often typical for the approach to winter. The average number of price reductions also increased (in November, Rightmove suggested 37% of properties on its site had been reduced at least once) and the Bath apartment market showed the least movement in sale terms with an 8% increase in available properties vs other property types.

The 2017 autumn RICS survey data anticipates most regions displaying a flat to negative trend over the next three to twelve months but there will of course be significant variations even within regions and the Bath market has often outperformed regional averages, due in part to its relative size vs desirability but also the strong rental market and commuting links to London.

From a hyperlocal viewpoint, our 2017 experience was that correctly priced properties in the low to mid range Bath market sold strongly and quickly – often with multiple interested parties – and we would expect this to continue into the New Year. The average viewing to offer ratio remained around the expected 10 – 1 and early seller entrants to the 2018 market should receive a great deal of activity. Particularly active markets for us right the way through to Christmas included HMO investments, BA2 family homes

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Despite recent building in the city, there remains an unfortunate gap in supply of affordable houses for first time buyers and also appropriate homes for upsizing local families and Victorian terraces. Despite recent building in the city, there remains an unfortunate gap in supply of affordable houses for first time buyers and also appropriate homes for upsizing local families. Villages and towns to the south will therefore continue to attract a great deal of relocators.

As to advice for selling in 2018, correct pricing and broad marketing remain the keys to your success as a seller. Focus on achieving the best price from the best buyer – its not always the first person or even sometimes the highest offer.

Take time to do your research on sale values, agent capabilities and also set up a framework of professional advisers (solicitor, mortgage broker, surveyor etc) before putting your property on the market. If you’re realistic and prepared, you’ll always see the rewards in speed of sale and the success rate of the transaction.

Carey Gilliland Madison Oakley

Bath named as the top city for central London leavers.

Bath market avoids cliff edge with levelling off of prices Over the last year our largest buyer group was downsizers.... these buyers are used to planning ahead and often would buy off plan to secure the right property, freeing up much-needed family homes.

Francine Watson Knight Frank Reflecting on the Bath housing market in 2017, we were comforted somewhat by a smooth levelling off of prices rather than the cliff edge some had predicted following the Brexit vote.

Over the last year our largest buyer group was downsizers, moving from family homes into smaller more manageable properties whilst at the same time becoming mortgage free and releasing capital to supplement retirement needs; or in some cases, to help fund their children on to the property ladder. These buyers are used to planning ahead and often would buy off plan to secure the right property, freeing up muchneeded family homes.

A recent Department of Education study found that house prices close to good primary schools are around 8% higher, and 6.8% higher near high-performing secondary schools. This demonstrates the power behind good family

housing in the right locations. For our local market, Abbot Alphege Academy School is the highly anticipated and newly opened primary school in Lansdown, close to Lansdown Fields – a stunning development of four and five bedroom homes. Lansdown Fields is also well-located for the respected Kingswood School and Royal High School. In addition, rated Outstanding by OFSTED, the Bathampton Primary school is on the doorstep of our fabulous Tyning Meadows development, with 10 five bedroom family homes each with large gardens.

The mood is still positive for 2018, but where does this leave the first time buyer market?

Whilst the Budget announcement, providing stamp duty relief on the first £300,000 for first time buyers, is of course welcome news, this will be unlikely to have a significant impact in higher priced areas such as Bath where house prices are amongst some of the highest outside London. Indeed, our recent Knight Frank UK house price forecast for 2018-22 predicts an increase of 14.2% for the Southwest region. If the government’s promise to build significantly more home comes to fruition, there is a possibility that more starter homes will be built, but until then it is likely that, in areas like ours, new build homes that offer ‘Help to Buy’ and ‘The Bank of Mum & Dad’ will be the main drivers of this crucial first time buyer market.

There are many reasons as to why home buyers are attracted to Bath; its Independent, creative, style, its elegant Georgian architecture, growing retail credentials, outstanding museums and art scene and its long established reputation for good food and excellent hospitality.

You could easily be describing London life when talking about the many benefits of living in Bath, but whereas our nations capital can be crowded, noisy, polluted and painfully expensive, Bath offers London leavers more space, a sense of community along with good schools and an excellent commuting network.

It is no surprise that Bath has become the number one choice for central London leavers with one in five homes sold in Bath going to Londoners.

Bath offers London leavers more space, a sense of community along with good schools and an excellent commuting network.

By London standards, Bath is affordable with the average price of a home standing at a lofty £421,500. This may sound like a King's ransom to most of us but that is more than £200,000 cheaper than London’s current average. And although house prices have tended to stagnate over the last year, Bath has seen 36% growth over the past decade.

One of major benefits to London leavers are the excellent transport connections between the two cities. Sometimes referred to as “west west London”, Bath is just a 20-minute drive to the M4 junction and just a 90 minutes train journey from Bath Spa to London Paddington.

This means buyers can still work in the city, or even better, from home but for a city firm and earn London wages, whilst living in Bath.

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Carter Jonas is experienced in selling and letting property in busy cities and thriving towns, charming villages and the tranquil countryside.

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We have tenants and buyers searching for properties just like yours, so if you want a better price than you thought Grittleton,Down, South Gloucestershire Guide price £895,000 possible, we would be delighted to offer Combe Bath - Guide– Price: £ 695,000 our advice. uare, Bath – 3,250,000 Guide priceSquare, £1,950,000 Road, Bath -Sydney Guide Price: 3,250,000 ice £1,950,000 Queen Bath Larkhall, – Guide p B Royal Cr de Price: Road, Bath -Hill Gui Princes Princes Stree Str Sion Sion Hill Pl Guide uide e Buildings, price price £1,350,000 £1,350,000 Bath Devonshire –899,950 Guide price Buildings, £1,350,000 Bath – G 50,000 Lower Nor Ashton, e Guide Guide Wiltshire Price: Price: Steeple 925,000 925,000 Guide Ashton, Price: Wiltshir 925,0 Sydney P ath – Guide price Kelston, £1,150,000 Bath – Guide price £1,1 Guide Price: Crescent, Bath Belgrave - Guide Crescent, Price: 899,95 Bath Bath 01225 747250 bath@carterjonas.co.uk carterjonas.co.uk/bath

Bathford, Bath–-Guide Guide Price: £ 725,000 Lacock, Wiltshire price £1,250,000

ice £1,950,000 Larkhall, B Royal Cr de Price: uare, Bath – 3,250,000 Guide Queen priceSquare, £1,950,000 Bath – Guide p Road, Bath -Sydney Guide Price: Road, 3,250,000 Bath - Gui e Buildings, Bath – Guide price £1,350,000 Ashton, Wiltshire - Guide Price: 925,0 Princes Str Sion Hill Guide price £1,350,000 Devonshire Buildings, Bath – G e Guide Price: Steeple 925,000 Ashton, Wiltshir ath 50,000 0,000 – Guide price Kelston, £1,150,000 Bath – Guide Lower Lower price North £1,1 Sydney Sydney Pla P price £750,000 Swainswic Crescent, Guide Guide Price: Price: Bath Belgrave 899,950 899,950 - Guide Crescent, Price: 899,95 Bath Wookey de Price: 765,000 d, Wiltshire – Guide Thickwood, price £750,000 Wiltshire – Guide p Down, Bath Combe Guide Price: Down, 765,000 Bath - Nor Gu

property Michael Cook

The Romans are coming to Bath

The town might be famous for its Romans Baths, but it will soon be welcoming some more Romans to the town as Bath Property Letting announce that they will become part of The Romans Group, a diverse and multiaward winning, independent property services company.

Marcus Arundell of HomeLets

Let’s stay calm Marcus Arundell of HomeLets takes a look at how a year of deepening national uncertainty has affected the city’s lettings market.

Bath, as I’m sure you don’t need reminding, is not your typical UK city. Its buildings don’t look like those in most of the country. Its house prices don’t look like those in most of the country. But even Bath can’t be an eternal growth market.

Can it?

Well, so far it can. Or at least the growth boom that’s been running all this millennium is still going. But it’s most definitely slowing.

Slowing growth Take house prices. By November 2017 annual growth was around 3 or 4%, according to Rightmove and Zoopla. That’s about half what it was a year earlier. Now that’s hardly surprising given national uncertainties. But the wider UK housing market is still climbing, so the difference between Bath and the rest of the UK has shrunk.

We’re growing, yes, but we’re not so far ahead of the rest right now.

When it comes to rents, they too keep growing, and growing ahead of most of the rest of the UK. In fact, whereas UK rents appear to have stopped increasing and, according to Rightmove, have slightly dropped in the last quarter, rents in Bath have risen by nearly 8% in the last year.

That’s far higher than retail price inflation and it’s higher than increases in house prices. But the fact is, it’s lower than previous years.

A number of factors have combined to make new investments in buy to let properties less attractive. There’s the general growing political and economic uncertainty, combined with first the expectation and then the reality of an interest rate rise. And all this on top of the regulatory changes that have made things more complex and less profitable for landlords.

As a result, many landlords have put their investments on hold. You’d expect that this might, if anything, put some upward pressure on rents, and indeed it could be a factor behind the continuing growth in rents.

New accommodation is arriving all the time However, there’s another factor working in the opposite direction. In several parts of Bath building work continues, and completely new rental accommodation is becoming available in places like the Riverside development and Mulberry Park. Over the years to come more homes will be finished along the Lower Bristol Road corridor, between the road and the river.

All these new homes are a positive thing for Bath. They help keep homes affordable here, both for buying and renting. And they bring new energy into the city.

So what can we conclude about Bath’s rental market in 2017? Rents kept going up, as you would expect in a city that’s brimming with confidence. But the growth in rents slowed. And that’s good news for all the people renting out there.

“Business continues as normal for Bath Property Letting’s customers with just one transformation - the business name will change to Romans". comments, David Marquiss, Lettings Manager of Bath Property who will now be joining the Romans family.

“We’re delighted to have collaborated with such a highly regarded business” explains Michael Cook, Managing Director of Lettings at Romans.

“We will be investing significantly in the agency’s marketing, infrastructure, service delivery and team training, in order to deliver clients a seamless experience.”

In the New Year, customers in Bath will be offered a whole host of new and innovative letting services which are exclusive to Romans and promise to offer landlords even more protection. Tenants will see their expenses decrease and their benefits soar thanks some exclusive deals we’ve secured with third party providers.

In addition, Bath Property Letting’s customers can benefit from the dynamic results and exceptional service that forms the foundation of Romans. The group have adapted their services to landlords over the years to ensure that their needs are met. Some of the most recent changes which will benefit our new customers in Bath are; extended opening hours - we’re contactable until 10pm on weekdays, open at the weekend and available on Bank Holidays so we’re always here when you need us. And, our innovative website which offers landlords an online account allowing them to edit their records, see their invoices for easy tax returns, and access property visit reports in just a few clicks.

Watch this space for more exciting updates and innovative product launches which are going to turn lettings on its head!

Cooling enthusiasm among landlords So what’s going on? Clearly nothing too dramatic. Landlords, however, are a little less keen than they have been to jump into the market.

84 inbath

To successfully let with Romans Bath, or to find out more about the changes, contact the team on 01225 314055 or visit romans.co.uk.

Which Estate Agent is right for you?

Dick Jenkins, Chief Executive, Bath Building Society

The house price puzzle

decent, diligent professional people, a long way

awayitfrom ‘spivvy’that, stereotype least, until wasthe revealed basedofonpopular the imagination.

I’d probably invite a few over to experience of the stamp duty “holiday” a few if it wasn’t inevitable that dinner party years dinner back, this might not benefit the people it conversation would turn to that old cliché of was designed to help. The argument runs that house prices! that if first time buyers don’t have to pay stamp duty, vendors believe first timeI’d buyers But, to be seriousthose for a moment, rather hear estate agents talk than most could afford to pay a bitabout morehouse for theprices house.

So, otheralready people that pontificate on the subject for people on the eve of becoming first because they do actually know what they are time buyers, this might be of real benefit because talking about. Maybe the pariah status drives the deal is done, but in next to no time house them to talk to each other, but collectively the pricesagents will rise again.seem to know what’s going on; always their finger is on the pulse. And despite their

reputation flowery of drab There’s nothing for new aboutdescriptions this problem. miniscule, “charming”= Thoseproperties of us of a(“compact”= certain vintage remember with chaotic, “in need of modernisation” buyer pained expressions when interest rates=topped needs to have more money than sense!) they out at over 15% at the end of the 1980’s. If we are a reasonably honest and hardworking bunch. had interest up atdifferent, that level today’s Dick Jenkins Maybe rates you know butwith I speak as I find! house prices the UK consumer economy would When it comes to the occupational pariahs, be carnage.

Just youragent headtoaround Choosing anget estate market that yourfor a estate agents are often considered right down property quite an important and moment; your is mortgage paymentsdecision 4 or 5 times there with lawyers, politicians and double trickier you’d think. It would be easy to arethan now! glazing salesmen. Of course, in recent years what they imagine that because serious buyers will usually

Dick Jenkins have nestled nicely into the bottom slot, get property details from all of the agents, it Chiefbankers Executive massive reduction of interest rates we that a position they look likely to occupy for some But the doesn’t much matter which one you choose, considerable time. Lenders, solicitors and estate have seen in the last 25 has coincided with they are all much of years a muchness.

Bathagents Building Society are all pretty important in the house a period of ballooning house prices. process so it is not so surprising that Not so.

It looks asbuying if the Chancellor managed to walk the some regard dealing in the property market as Many peoplebut setting outit’s to no market their property tightrope in hisofautumn budget, giving a little to I say “coincided”, to me coincidence. axis evil. get two or three agents round to give them those he’d like to win back from Labour, whilst It’s thewill same logic as the stamp duty argument; an appraisal. The most flattering agent who rates are lower, then vendors assume not letting Iup (much) onquite the monumental task in my if interest come across a few estate agents suggests the highest price will often win the line to of repair work and the risk of disappointing of continuing theatpublic finances.

After their buyers can pay particulars a bit morewill for be theprepared property. pitch, attractive you; I’d have to say that most of them are Asking(“courtyard prices risegarden” and sure enough within time, a dreary speech it livened up right at the end = concreted over), the when he saved his best shot until last, with his house prices spiral upwards. Between 1993 and It would be easy to imagine that because measure to abolish stamp duty on all properties 2007 interest rates fell sharply. House prices rose just asget sharply. for first time buyers belowbuyers £300,000. serious will usually property details

from of who the agents, it doesn’t matter When we get to the much financial crisis prices Now, I never heard ofall anybody didn’t resent paying stamp duty so I one suspect you this wentchoose, down inevitably not toall the level that which that dropped, they but are much you might have imagined. Instead, the Bank well with everybody. For an hour or two, at a muchness.

of England rode in to the rescue by slashing interest rates to 0.5% in March 2009. In doing so, they may well have prevented a catastrophe of one kind in the housing market, but in a sense property the marketothers. and then …..nothing. they have hits exacerbated I now worry about So then the estate agent suggests a price thereduction fact thatbecause we are “the locked into a dependency on market’s gone quiet” ultra-low interestwhen ratesstress for ever andinathe day. and eventually, levels selling household have risen to Defcon 4, the property

finally It’s the oldest estate agent trick in Pity the sells. poor saver!

Asthe webook. all know too well, the root problem is the fact that we are not building enough houses in By all means get two or three agents round.

Britain. I give some credit to this government; Try to pick agents that deal with the kinds of more so than I canAsk remember, property thatany you government are trying to sell. friends trying do would something about this and earnestly family whoto they recommend.

Choose problem and a get lot of an agent you onnot-so-eye-catching well with, someone on your wavelength.

At recent the endbudget of the day you need in measures in the announced who will communicate with you, who thesomeone duller stretches of the Chancellor’s speech can see things from your perspective and give actually should go some way to helping. But sound advice. Imagine them showing your letproperty us not kid ourselves; buyers. it took us decades to to prospective get into this pickle and doubtless it will take us decades to haggle get outon ofthe it. fee up front. Mostly It’s OK to agents work on round figures like “1.5% of the

selling There’s nothing sacred aboutneeds Not leastprice”. because the average developer numbers.

The last time I sold my house, to round maximise the value of the houses they are we settled on 1.37% of the selling price. selling. And that developer is very well aware that if their buyers no longer have to pay stamp But in my experience, estate agents are pretty duty….. much like other things in life. The more helpful you are to them, the more helpful they are to you.

them awith respectparadox and that in faith almost SoTreat we have beautiful thewill housing alwaysWhatever be repaid.you If you with the attitude market. dostart to make house prices that they’re all charlatans, I can guarantee affordable, somehow ends up making them less that you will find them so. If you go looking for affordable.

It’s will a puzzle for policy makers witches, you find them!

of

inbath 85

new homes

Who benefits from the abolishment of Stamp duty for first-time buyers?

Britain's housing crisis has been the subject of much consternation over the past 5 years.

From the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne's, 2013 budget speech where he introduced the 'Help to Buy' scheme as "the biggest government intervention in the housing market since the Right to Buy scheme" of the 1980s, to the current Chancellors scrapping of Stamp duty for first-time buyers in the recent Autumn Budget of 2017, the vision to get 'Britain Building' again has been one that has divided opinion.

Several schemes have been introduced over the years:

Help to buy equity loan.

Buyers contribute a minimum 5% deposit of the property’s value and the Government offer an interest free loan for 20% and the remaining 75% will be covered by a standard mortgage.

Help to buy ISA.

Designed to boost first-time buyers saving pots, for every £200 saved, the Government will add £50 up to a maximum of £3,000 (which would apply to £12,000 savings).

Lifetime ISA.

Savers aged 40 or under can put away up to £4,000 each year. The Government then boosts returns by 25p for every £1 saved and pay the bonus directly into the account at the end of each tax year.

Shared Ownership.

Shared Ownership schemes allow you to purchase just a share of a home (between 25% and 75%) from a local Housing Association and pay an affordable rent on the part you don't own.

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Right to Buy.

Council tenants with at least three consecutive years’ tenancy will have the potential to buy their home at a significant discount under the Right to Buy scheme.

Coming soon in 2018, Starter Home Scheme!

Under the starter home scheme, the government has given 30 local authorities including funding for starter homes. First time buyers, aged between 23 and 40, will be able to get a 20% discount off the asking price of a home in this scheme.

All of these schemes have had their successes, but still the housing crisis continues to grow, resulting in the Prime Minister, Theresa May, stating that it is her “mission” to tackle the Housing problem once and for all.

In the recent Autumn Budget 2017, Chancellor Philip Hammond, aimed to address what the government felt was the root of the problem by immediately abolishing Stamp Duty for first-time byers on homes up to £ 300,000.

For properties costing up to £500,000, no stamp duty will be paid on the first £300,000, meaning 95% of first-time buyers would see stamp duty cut, while 80% would pay none at all.

Although this new policy will cost the Treasury a reported £ 3.2bn over the course of the next five years, Hammond was quick to point out that he was making good a promise: "This is our plan to deliver on the pledge we have made to the next generation that the dream of home ownership will become a reality in this country once again," For many, the abolishment of Stamp Duty is a welcome start to solving the housing problem but has this new policy missed the mark?

For all first-time buyers, the deposit is a bigger up-front cost than Stamp Duty. The average deposit across the UK is a little under £ 33,000 compared to the average Stamp Duty charge of just over £ 1,500. Therefore, despite the saving on Stamp Duty the biggest issue for many firsttime buyers remains the inability to afford the initial deposit.

It is the belief of many experts that 'affordibility' is the root of the problem. Despite the many incentives offered by the government, house prices are now almost seven times people’s incomes. It is becoming more and more difficult for first-time buyers to save up and buy a home of their own – no matter how hard they work.

Also, home builders who own land must be pressured to build. According to the Valuation Office, the average price of agricultural land in England is £21,000 per hectare, while land with planning permission for housing is around £6m per hectare. It is no wonder that availabe plots will exchange hands numerous tmes before a house is even built, driving up the potential cost of each home built.

Some housing market experts predict that house sellers, knowing first-time buyers will no longer have to factor stamp duty into their costs, will be more bullish when pricing their own home and negotiate harder. It could also fuel demand in places where first-time buyer properties are already scarce – forcing house prices upwards.

For those selling homes to potential first-time buyers may now find it easier to move as they could have a wider choice of buyers. But housing market experts have said that people higher up the housing market chain, such as those looking to downsize, may still struggle to move as they will still have to pay the usual stamp duty rates.

KERSFIELD COMPLETES WESTGATE BUILDINGS DEVELOPMENT Local property developer, Kersfield, has completed its development at Bath’s Westgate Buildings, in a move that will bring 17 new luxury holiday apartments to the city centre.

The former commercial premises at 4-5 Westgate Buildings has been transformed

by Kersfield into a combination of studio and one-bedroom apartments, arranged over three floors. Every property is finished to the high standards of quality and attention to detail expected of a Kersfield development, with builtin bespoke media units to selected apartments and an air of contemporary luxury throughout.

Luxury Apartments and Townhouses with Exceptional Views A collection of luxurious new apartments and townhouses on the lower slopes of Lansdown, Bath, are now available to reserve.

The townhouses benefit from private gardens and most of the apartments will feature balconies, terraces or roof terraces.

The 58 one to four bedroom new homes form part of the prestigious Hope House scheme, in the grounds of the former Bath Royal High Junior School.

Set in six acres of private parkland, the development boasts extensive open space and a tennis court, while preserving the picturesque woodland. The development will also boast a concierge service, from 9am to 5pm five days a week.

The development, led by Acorn Property Group in partnership with Galliard Homes, features the refurbishment of the historic Grade II listed Hope House, a beautifully proportioned building which sits in an elevated position to the north of the city, commanding exceptional views over the centre of Bath and beyond.

Giles Harling, from the residential development sales team at Savills Bath said: “Hope House offers the opportunity to benefit from a home in the city yet with the outlook and surroundings rarely found outside rural locations.”

Built from Bath Stone, the properties are designed to respect the city’s predominantly Georgian architecture, preserving the character and appearance of the conservation area.

A series of houses and apartments will be formed in terraces immediately to the south and east of Hope House. Built from Bath Stone, the properties are designed to respect the city’s predominantly Georgian architecture, preserving the character and appearance of the conservation area.

The interiors feature a blend of classic and contemporary that varies to suit the different buildings within the development. The luxurious specification includes underfloor heating to the houses, contemporary fitted kitchens with granite worktops and integrated appliances, engineered wood flooring and timber sliding sash windows.

The first completions of this phase are due towards the end of 2018/ early 2019 and are priced from £375,000 for a one bedroom apartment.

For more information, contact the residential development sales team at Savills Bath on 01225 474591.

The development was sold off-plan by Savills to the Charities Property Fund, represented by Savills Investment Management. The Fund, which already has a significant investment within Westgate Buildings, has acquired the long-leasehold interest of the 17 apartments, which have the benefit of a ten-year lease to Hiding Space – a short-term let and holiday rental operator.

Every property is finished to the high standards of quality and attention to detail expected of a Kersfield development.

“Having initially managed the sale of the site to Kersfield for development, I’m delighted to have witnessed its transformation from obsolete office space to boutique rental accommodation,” said Ben Taylor, Development and Valuation Director at Savills.

“The finished accommodation looks fantastic and I would expect Hiding Space to experience high demand for these properties.”

David Newton, Chief Executive at Kersfield, added: “Within such easy reach of Bath’s restaurants, bars, shopping, theatre and cinemas, the apartments are in an ideal location.

We’re excited that the addition of these properties to the city centre will encourage more visitors to Bath, with all the benefits that brings to the local economy.”

Visit www.kersfield.co.uk or call 01225 904 646. Find Kersfield on Twitter: @Kersfield

inbath 87

new homes

DOORSTEP LIFESTYLE AND A FRESH START CLOSE TO BATH CITY CENTRE Always viewed as a great opportunity to start afresh, the New Year often encourages those considering to move home the chance to reflect on what they want in life and perhaps where they might want to live.

In Bath, the relatively small city centre when compared to its West Country neighbour of Bristol, presents those looking for more of a doorstep lifestyle the perfect opportunity to move somewhere where they can fully enjoy the eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, shops, historic buildings and outdoor spaces.

From almost anywhere in the city, after a few minutes’ walk, residents find themselves amongst the wide variety of attractions that has made the world heritage city one of the most popular places to live in the UK. This is especially true from what has become the most talked about new building the city has seen in a generation.

So whether you’re a young professional couple, mid-life downsizers looking for a change in direction or empty nesters, the luxurious selection of two-bedroom apartments currently for sale at Royal View are the ideal base to enjoy everything Bath, and the surrounding area, has to offer.

Both the Upper and Lower Bristol Roads are super close and the car-free level pedestrian tow path is a great, hassle-free way to get into the centre. The wide mix of cafes, fine dining as well as host of mid-range eateries, artisan shops, boutiques and entertainment venues, means there’s always something to do.

Surrounded by the beautiful Somerset countryside, those who enjoy getting out and about can make the most of the famous bath Skyline walk and the six miles of footpaths that’s managed by the National Trust.

While those who enjoy cycling can get to Bristol or follow the River Avon and Kennet & Avon canal out towards Bradford-on-Avon and beyond using the designated cycle paths.

Having taken the Bath property scene by storm, the Royal View sales team at Bath Riverside are now expecting the final 10 or so two-bedroom apartments to be snapped up by those keen for a change in lifestyle in the New Year.

The aesthetics of Royal View has pulled in many admirers, particularly its curved design and stunning central atrium which includes columns of greenery that stretch from the ground floor all the way up to the glass ceiling on the eighth.

From almost anywhere in the city, after a few minutes’ walk, residents find themselves amongst the wide variety of attractions that has made the world heritage city one of the most popular places to live in the UK. 88 inbath

And being completely brand new and built to today’s stringent regulations means it helps tremendously in terms of running costs - which are significantly lower when compared to some of Bath’s more historic and older properties.

Danielle Simpson, newly appointed Sales Manager for Bath Riverside said: “The convenience of having everything right on the doorstep cannot be understated and anyone wanting to kick start 2018 with new horizons should take time to look around.

“To visit also presents that last real chance to see inside Royal View and in particular the beautiful atrium which has just wowed all those who have seen it.

“We’re here to help. If someone is serious about buying then we can always look at options which will make the move not only a reality but as hassle free as possible.”

For further information on current availability or to see the new show apartments please call 01225 463517 or visit www.crestnicholson. com/bathriverside The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10 am to 5pm.

Alternatively www.crestnicholson.com/ bathriverside provides is a great way to find out more, including including virtual tours of the stunning show apartments.

Imagery includes optional upgrades at additional cost.

Start the New Year in style

These stunning 2 bedroom apartments, overlooking the River Avon, are available for immediate occupation so you don’t have to wait to get 2018 off to a flying start!

Just a short level walk from Bath city centre, the homes in this iconic building offer unrivalled views of Bath and the surrounding countryside.

Don’t miss out!

Call our Sales Advisors to see our Show Homes today!

75-76 Palladian | Victoria Bridge Road | Bath | Somerset | BA2 3FL

www.bathriverside.co.uk Show Home Photography.

01225 979021

new homes

Bellway releases new selection of homes at Mulberry Park Five-star housebuilder Bellway has released a new selection of homes for sale at one of its most popular developments in the South West.

A range of two, three and four-bedroom homes are now available to buy at the development, which is being built at Combe Down, less than three miles from the centre of Bath.

“We will be opening a showhome at Mulberry Park in the new year and hope to welcome even more visitors to help them find their dream home.”

Homes currently available to buy now include a mixture of houses and apartments in a range of sizes and styles.

Bellway has been named as a five-star housebuilder by the Home Builders Federation (HBF) after more than 90 per cent of its customers said they would recommend the housebuilder to a friend. The award was made following the National New Homes Survey, which measures customer satisfaction.

Sales manager for Bellway South West, Rachel Way, said: “Mulberry Park has been incredibly popular so far and we’re delighted to be in a position to release these new homes for sale to provide even more choice.

Two-bedroom apartments and houses are now available to buy at Mulberry Park with prices from £305,000, while three-bedroom homes are available from £395,000 and four-bedroom houses start from £540,000.

Mulberry Park has been incredibly popular so far and we’re delighted to be in a position to release these new homes for sale to provide even more choice.

“The variety of homes on offer here has attracted interest from all corners of the market.

The two-bedroom homes are ideal for young professionals commuting into the city and firsttime buyers, while the larger homes are perfect for families looking to upsize or for those who enjoy hosting family and friends.

“Bath is a special location which is incredibly sought after among home-hunters in the region.

It is steeped in history and tradition and has rich architecture and enviable character. The location of this development with its semi-rural setting and its proximity to the city centre has been a major factor in many people’s decision to move here and it is easy to see why.

92 inbath

Each of the homes can be purchased with a five per cent deposit and 75 per cent mortgage under the Help to Buy Scheme. The remaining 20 per cent is provided as a government-backed equity loan which is interest-free for five years.

Help to Buy is available to first-time buyers and to people who already own a home, but is not applicable to second homes or investment properties.

For more information on homes at Mulberry Park call 07779 413537 or see www.bellway.co.uk.

Mulberry Park Combe Down, Bath BA2 5DR

Fabulous 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes with 3 superb schemes to get you moving.

Express Mover*

Help to Buy** ...how it works

Part Exchange†

You agree the selling price of your existing home

You pay a 5% deposit

A fair offer for your current home

20% interest free equity loan is provided by the Government

No Estate Agent fees

You only need to secure a 75% mortgage

Stay in your existing home until you are ready to move

We will work with a local agent to market your home Your home will be featured in our Sales Office

Stress-free move

Make your move by calling 07779 413 537 Sales Centre open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10.00am – 5.00pm Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm and Saturday & Sunday 11.00am – 5.00pm

www.bellway.co.uk

Computer generated image is indicative only. Specification on site may differ. *Terms and conditions apply. **YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Help to Buy is subject to the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) terms and conditions and is available on new build homes up to £600,000 to customers where the property represents their only residence.

Not available on second, additional homes, buy-to-let or let-to-buy properties. HomeBuy agent eligibility check required. The equity loan is interest free for the first five years and needs to be a minimum of 10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of 20%. After five years, an annual fee of 1.75% of the outstanding equity loan is charged. This is increased annually by RPI plus 1%. The equity loan must be repaid after 25 years, or earlier if you sell your home.

A monthly management fee of £1 is payable by the equity loan borrower by direct debit, from the start of the loan until it is repaid. The management fee and interest fees are not capital repayments to the equity loan and do not reduce the amount owing. Help to Buy operates under terms and conditions imposed by the HCA and may be subject to change. Please visit www.helptobuy.gov.uk for further information. †Bellway reserve the right to refuse a Part Exchange, terms and conditions can be found at www.bellway.co.uk

new homes

Beautiful quality new-build ‘contemporary country’ homes Award-winning developers, Whitecroft Developments Ltd, are creating 18 new homes at Dilly Meadows, West Harptree, near Chew Valley lake and the scenic Mendip Hills.

These high-quality homes are all unique, with features such as double height voids in halls, galleried views of kitchen spaces and large glazed doors providing strong visual connections to the countryside beyond. The design of the properties can be described as ‘contemporary country’ with clean-lined modern design successfully mixed with more traditional elements.

Homes with character and style

Whitecroft Developments has a reputation for building stylish, character homes and for paying close attention to build quality and design details.

Green space is retained to the front of the development to provide a discreet enclave within the picturesque village of West Harptree, which is surrounded by unspoilt Mendip countryside.

The design of the properties can be described as ‘contemporary country’ with clean-lined modern design successfully mixed with more traditional elements.

94 inbath

These new homes will benefit from a 10 Year New Home LABC Warranty. Phased completion of the development will see all homes finished

by Autumn 2018 with various properties being released for sale ahead of this date.

Homes will be available for reservation from plan.

Location

West Harptree is a village in the Chew Valley, North Somerset and is an easily commutable 13 miles from Bristol and 15 miles from Bath.

The village lies on the north side of the Mendip Hills and is only a mile or so from the picturesque Chew Valley Lake, with its incredible bird life and renowned fishing. At the heart of the village lies the pretty Church of St Mary, with its 12th century origins. The village has a thriving shop with post

The village lies on the north side of the Mendip Hills and is only a mile or so from the picturesque Chew Valley Lake, with its incredible bird life and renowned fishing. office, doctors surgery, dentist, beauty salon and two public houses.

Prices range from ÂŁ449,000 upto ÂŁ710,000.

Every home at Dilly Meadows is unique and benefits from a standard specification which includes Valentino Kitchens with integrated Bosch appliances (oven, hob, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, washing machine and tumble dryer) and a solid quartz worktop. All bathrooms are Villeroy and Boch with Porcelanosa Tiles to walls and floors.

Floor finishes are also included as standard and vary depending on room type, generally first floor bedrooms are carpeted and ground floors are finished with engineered wood and tiles. All new homes have underfloor heating as standard.

Full specification information for each new home at Dilly Meadows is available upon request.

For further information contact Gabriel Hirst 01761 490092 sales@gabrielhirst.co.uk www.gabrielhirts.co.uk

new homes

Enjoy a hassle-free move to Crest Nicholson’s Vicarage Fields with VIP Part Exchange Lying in the picturesque heart of England’s smallest city is Crest Nicholson’s rural haven, Vicarage Fields. Offering a traditional collection of three and four bedroom homes, Vicarage Fields is perfect for growing families looking for their next home.

With Crest Nicholson’s VIP Part Exchange scheme, buyers at Vicarage Fields can enjoy a stress-free move to their new home. Crest Nicholson becomes your chain free cash buyer offering you full market value for your current home and guiding you every step of the way, with regular updates and professional guidance throughout. With VIP Part Exchange, Crest Nicholson will even pay your agents’ fees and cover the cost of your removals.

Three and four-bedroom homes at Vicarage Fields offer luxurious comfort, yet remain architecturally mindful of the rural surroundings.

Each home is fitted with a beautiful Moores Definitive Kitchen, complete with integrated Bosch appliances. The interior décor is impeccably designed, with sleek, sophisticated features ideal for modern living.

The four-bedroom Monksfield at Vicarage Fields offers families generous living space with patio doors leading onto the garden.

A spacious kitchen and dining room is perfect for entertaining guests, while the four bedrooms and master en-suite make this house a home for the whole family.

With views of the rolling Somerset countryside, Vicarage Fields is well placed for residents to enjoy the great outdoors in rural Wells.

Keward Brook runs through the development and a wildlife corridor winds across the site, home to otters, kingfisher birds and greater horseshoe bats.

Vicarage Fields benefits from superb local amenities just a short and level walk away.

Residents can wander into nearby Wells in ten-minutes, a city home to several excellent schools. Wells Cathedral School, Stoberry Park and St Cuthbert’s Church of England Infant and Junior School are all close by, making this a fantastic area for growing families.

Crest Nicholson becomes your chain free cash buyer offering you full market value for your current home and guiding you every step of the way, with regular updates and professional guidance throughout.

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The charming city of Wells has a brilliant community feel, and is a popular tourist attraction due to its historical character. With a magnificent Cathedral, a medieval palace and traditional narrow cobbled streets, Wells has an abundance of attractions to keep the family entertained.

The bustling city centre, just a short walk from Vicarage Fields, has a wide range of shops, restaurants and other amenities.

Three and four bedroom homes are available at Vicarage Fields now from £320,000.

Pop in to the Sales & Marketing Suite to visit the show homes, open daily 10am to 5pm for more information, visit www.crestnicholson. com/developments/vicarage-fields, email: Vicaragefields@crestnicholson.com or call 01749 600864.

Let us do all of the hard work for you...

Our VIP Part Exchange* scheme at Vicarage Fields will take all the stress out of moving.

We’ll become your guaranteed cash buyer, so there’s no complicated chains or estate agent fees to pay, and you can stay in your existing home until your new Crest Nicholson one is ready. What’s more, we’ll pay your packing and removal costs!

Downsizing? Find out how our SmoothMove** scheme can help with a hassle-free move.

Our stunning homes on the edge of historic Wells in Somerset are just a short level walk from the City Centre and many are available to move into now.

3 & 4 bedroom homes priced from £315,000

VICARAGE FIELDS WELLS , SOMERSET

www.crestnicholson.com/vicaragefields

01749 600864

Terms and conditions apply. Please speak to a Sales Advisor for more information on Part Exchange. One incentive per purchase.

Terms and conditions apply. Please speak to a Sales Advisor for further details on SmoothMove. Pricing correct on 01.12.17.

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