The Bristol Magazine March 2016

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THE

ISSUE 141 I MARCH 2016

BRIST O L MAGAZINE

THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

£3.95 where sold

FIERCE FASHION LOCAL DESIGNER ON FIRE

TAKE YOUR

SEATS AT THE BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL

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CATCH A BREAK ON A TRIP TO ST IVES

T H E C I T Y ’ S F I N E S T M O N T H LY G U I D E T O L I F E A N D L I V I N G I N B R I S T O L

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THE | CONTENTS

MARCH 2016

52 26 78

72

36 14 ZEITGEIST 16 THE CITYIST

All aboard the Insight tour bus

Andrew takes a stroll through Marshfield

52 JENNY DARES

My Bristol, book review and the buzz

18 BARTLEBY

84 INTERIORS SPECIAL

To spend a day as a chocolatier

Bring some light into your home

54 FOOD & DRINK NEWS

Goes a-wandering

Tasty titbits from local restaurants

24 HYSTERICAL HISTORIES Amusing anecdotes from times past

26 FACE THE MUSIC Pee Wee Ellis picks his top ten tunes

28 WHAT’S ON

86 THROUGH THE KEYHOLE Take a peep at a TV worthy kitchen

88 GARDENING

56 BRISTOL UPDATES News and views from across the city

62 WRITTEN IN THE STARS What is the vernal equinox?

Get some green fingered inspiration

91 CITY PROPERTIES The best Bristol homes to buy or rent

64 FAMILY FUN

Buy your tickets now

Keep the kiddies amused over Easter

36 BEHIND THE LENS The city transformed by Bristol Film Fest

42 MEOW!

66 FREELANCE MUM Learns first aid for little ones

72 BEACH BREAK

Meet catsuit designer Robyn Lythe

44 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS What’s on at the city’s galleries

46 BRISTOL YOUTH Behind the red doors of The Station

Even more great content online: thebristolmag.co.uk 4 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

82 OUT AND ABOUT

48 BRISTOL AT WORK

5 things to do this month in Bristol

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MARCH 2016

Get away from it all in idyllic St Ives

74 FIT & FAB Spring into the new beauty season

78 WORK UP A SWEAT At hot yoga studio Yogafurie

Follow us on Twitter @thebristolmag

Like us on Facebook.com/ TheBristolMagazine

ON THE COVER

Popcorn at the ready – we can’t wait for Bristol Film Festival from 11– 13 March. To find out more, turn to p. 36

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HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £2,250,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Clifton An elegant listed townhouse (5,200 sq ft). 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms (2 ensuite). Self-contained 1/2 bedroom apartment, cellars, garden, off-street parking, communal gardens.

Guide price £1,420,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price: OIEO £545,000

Leigh Woods

Clifton

Superb family house (3,344 sq ft). 3 reception rooms, kitchen, integral double garage, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite), shower room.

Delightful gardens and terraces, car port, further parking. EPC D.

Spacious garden maisonette in the heart of Clifton village. Open-plan kitchen/sitting/dining room, study, 2 beds, utility, cellar. Courtyard, garden and communal garden, storage. Garage available via separate negotiation.

Knight Frank March.qxp_full page 17/02/2016 17:29 Page 2

HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £1,295,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Sneyd Park Immaculate period family home (3,716 sq ft) with gardens and parking. 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (2 with ensuite), family bathroom, 2 bed self-contained apartment, gardens and studio. EPC D.

Guide price £385,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price: £1,350,000

Clifton

Leigh Woods

Immaculate two bed garden apartment with courtyard and private gardens.

Drawing/dining room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, study, bathroom, utility cupboard and communal garden. Parking for 2.

Substantial family home (3,384 sq ft) enjoying distant views. 4 reception rooms, kitchen, utility room/2nd kitchen, 6 bedrooms (3 en-suite), bathroom, integral double garage, parking and enclosed gardens. EPC E.

Knight Frank March.qxp_full page 17/02/2016 17:30 Page 3

HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £1,450,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Stone Allerton A stunning 5 bed house (4,351 sq ft) with countryside views. Kitchen/breakfast, 3 reception rooms, gym/study, 5 beds (one ensuite). Tennis court, 11 stables, manege, paddocks and level gardens.

About 10.7 acres. EPC D.

Guide price £1,750,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price: £2,250,000

Clifton

Rowberrow

Substantial house close to Clifton Village (5,268 sq ft). 3/4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room. 6/7 beds, 3 baths. Separate 3 bed apartment, gardens, double garage, off street gated parking. EPC E (Flat EPC C).

A Grade II listed property (5,716 sq ft). 4 reception rooms, kitchen /breakfast room. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Outbuildings, garages, 2 bed annexe, pool. Stabling, agricultural, gardens, pasture. About 5.12 acres.

Knight Frank March.qxp_full page 17/02/2016 17:30 Page 4

HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £975,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

East Harptree A pretty country house (2,933 sq ft) on the edge of the village with elevated rural views. 3 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Stabling, outbuildings. In all about 1.36 acres. EPC G.

Guide price £625,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price: £950,000

Chew Stoke

Rugby House

An attractive family house (1,948 sq ft) situated in the desirable village of Chew Stoke. Sitting room/dining room, study, kitchen/breakfast 4 bedrooms (one ensuite), bathroom. Enclosed gardens, double garage. EPC D.

A charming detached period family house (5,017 sq ft) with 3 reception rooms and 5 bedrooms in the prime area of Walton Bay, Clevedon, with enclosed gardens and off street parking. EPC F.

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THE | EDITOR

THE

BRISTOL MAGAZINE

Contact us: Co-Editor Jenny Hayes Tel: 0117 974 2800 Email: jenny@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Co-Editor Sam Coleman Tel: 0117 974 2800 Email: sam@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Web Editor Demelza Durston Email: demelza@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Publisher Steve Miklos Email: steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Production Manager Jeff Osborne Email: production@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Production Assistant Jessica Hope Email: jessica@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

from the

EDITOR

Advertising Sales Kathy Williams, Sue Parker, Louise Harrold, Liz Grey For advertising enquiries please contact us on: 0117 974 2800 Email: sales@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

“And suddenly you know... it’s time to start something new and trust in the magic of beginnings” – Meister Eckhart

Financial Director Jane Miklos Email: jane@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

I

t’s official, spring has sprung – and not a moment too soon, in my opinion. It’s been a long, wet winter, and I think we’re all ready to cast off our coats and feel that first delicious tingle of warmth from the sun on our skin.

And, as the weather improves, we all start to feel a little bit more motivated again. The getup-and-go that got-up-and-left somewhere in that bleak grey area between Christmas and New Year has returned with gusto, which is why this issue is all about leaping forth from your couch and embracing the new season.

If you need a bit of convincing, then there are three fab festivals taking place this month to tempt you up and out – Bristol Film Festival (p. 36), Bristol Jazz & Blues Festival (p. 26), and Taste Chocolate (p. 52). Or perhaps it’s time to turn over a new leaf when it comes to exercise, in which case look no further than Yogafurie (p. 78) which combines heart-pumping heat with calm-inducing postures to give you inner wellbeing and a fab body to boot. And what better way to show off the new you than in a daring catsuit from bold Bristol brand Burnt Soul (p. 42)? Meoooow!

It’s also a time of change here at The Bristol Magazine, as both Sam and I have decided to hang up our editors’ hats and venture forth on paths of fresh adventure. Before we go, though, we’d like to thank everyone we’ve worked with and who has supported us over the years, as we certainly couldn’t have done it without you.

We’d also like to thank you, the people of Bristol, who make this city such a brilliantly diverse and exciting place to live. You’ve been a constant source of inspiration to us, and will continue to be as we go on to contribute to the magazine in the future.

So, this isn’t the last you’ll be hearing from us. But, until then… happy reading!

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The Bristol Magazine is distributed free every month to more than 20,000 homes and businesses throughout the city. We also have special distribution units in Waitrose, John Lewis and Harvey Nichols as well as many stores and coffee shops, hotels and convenient pick-up points.

THE

BRISTOL MAGAZINE

Bristol and Exeter House, Lower Approach, Temple Meads, Bristol BS1 6QS Telephone: 0117 974 2800 www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk © MC Publishing Ltd 2016

JENNY HAYES & SAMANTHA COLEMAN CO-EDITORS

@thebristolmag

The Bristol Magazine is published by MC Publishing Ltd. An independent publisher.

www.thebristolmag.co.uk

Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Bristol Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers.

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ZEITGEIST

The top

5

things to do in MARCH © Colin Thomas

FIND INSPIRATION

SMOOTH MOVES Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival is back from Saturday 18 to Monday 20 March with a stellar line-up featuring James Brown’s former right-hand man, Maceo Parker, Grammy nominated songstress Melody Gardot and UK jazz legend Courtney Pine. Now in its fourth year, the festival is expected to attract around 14,000 people to over 50 free and ticketed events this March. The festival takes place across three main venues – Colston Hall, St George’s and the Folk House – with a line-up dedicated to the incredible musical legacy of jazz and blues, from swing to funk, bebop to blues, Gypsy jazz to Gospel, soul to rock ‘n roll. This year will also see the return of The Big Swing – a mini festival dedicated to all things swing, featuring the biggest swing dance in the south west. So what are you waiting for? Don your dancing shoes and head down. Ticket prices vary, for more information call the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500, or visit: www.bristoljazzandbluesfest.com

With a trip to our neighbouring city of Bath, where a host of literary heroes are descending to take part in the annual Bath Literature Festival, which runs from Friday 26 February to Sunday 6 March.

Among them is popular comedian Ben Miller, as well as other famous names including Bonnie Greer, Brian Blessed, Joan Bakewell, Jonathan Dimbleby and Celia Imrie. Top novelists Sebastian Faulks and Tracey Chevalier will be giving talks, as will chick lit fave Marian Keyes. There’ll also be the chance to join in with intelligent debate on the EU question and British popular culture, and to catch American feminist, journalist, and social and political activist Gloria Steinem on her first visit to the UK in over 20 years. www.bathfestivals.org.uk

EASTER ART At the University of Bristol Botanic Garden Easter Sculpture Festival, you’ll find palatial ceramic bird houses by sculptor Peter Garrard, aristocratic Trojan horses’ heads by Philip Thompson, and captivating fountains by blacksmith Joanna Williams.

In addition, several other exhibitors are showcasing the versatility of glass using a variety of techniques, and visitors will be able to create their own pots on Tez Roberts’ potter’s wheel. There will also be other demonstrations including creating botanical art and batik printing. Visit: www.bristol.ac.uk/botanic-garden

ON THE RECORD To celebrate legendary artist Lee Scratch Perry’s 80th birthday, The Cube is screening Vision of Paradise on Wednesday 16 March. The movie covers the past 15 years of Perry’s life, during which director Volker Schaner followed him on a spiritual and geographical journey that takes in Jamaica, Ethiopia, Switzerland and London.

Over this period, Volker has earned Perry’s trust, resulting in a never-before-granted level of access and insight into the musician’s fantastical, spiritual world. Tickets: £6, visit: www.cubecinema.com

MAMMA MIA, HERE WE GO AGAIN! Yes, that’s right, the fabulous Mamma Mia! is returning to Bristol Hippodrome from Friday 25 March to Saturday 7 May. Set on a Greek island paradise, this sunny, funny tale offers sidesplitting fun and heart-wrenching moments. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. Set to a soundtrack of ABBA’s timeless songs, this is an enchanting story of love, laughter and friendship. Tickets: £15 – £59.50, available from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com

© Fufoo Film

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ist

THE CITY THE BUZZ

My

BRISTOL We ask Joel Macey, a graduate actor performing with Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory, what he’s doing this month...

What brought you to Bristol?

I trained at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in 2013, graduating in June last year, and now I’ve been lucky enough to join the Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory season.

What are you reading?

Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts; it’s an incredible book based on a true story in the early 80s about a man who escaped from an Australian jail to India and lived in the Bombay slums.

Music fundraiser Thekla will be hosting a Mod-themed live music event to raise funds for Teenage Cancer Trust this month. It is the second time that Bristol has been involved in this nationwide event called March of the Mods. Local bands already confirmed are: Joe James & The Pariahs and The Kite Collectors supporting Big Boss Man. There will also be top DJ’s from three of the most respected club nights in the country coming together. The event is being held on Sunday 6 March and doors open at 4pm and close at Midnight. Tickets £10 in advance or £15 on the door. For further information visit: www.marchofthemods.co.uk

A perfect day for live music Tom Jones is the latest act to be announced to play at Westonbirt Arboretum’s Forest Live outdoor concert series this summer. Performing on Sunday 19 June, he joins a line-up that includes Rudimental, Kaiser Chiefs and UB40.

Tickets are on sale now from the Forestry Commission box office on tel: 0300 068 0400 or visit: www.forestry.gov.uk/music

16 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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What’s on your MP3 player?

Ah! So much… Muse, Billy Joel, Adele, Gregory Porter, The John Butler Trio, Queen, Michael Jackson to name a few.

Which café or restaurant takes your fancy?

Primrose Café in Clifton has to be one, and also Lounge in Southville.

Film or performance?

Well I’ve heard there’s a couple of brilliant Shakespeare plays going on at Tobacco Factory Theatres… but asides from them, I’d like to see Pink Mist at Bristol Old Vic, and I still haven’t seen The Danish Girl, so I need to watch that.

Which museum or gallery will you be visiting?

I’d like to see John Akomfrah’s video

installation Vertigo Sea at The Arnolfini.

What hobbies or interests will you be pursuing?

I like going to they gym, reading, walking and keeping social really.

What local event will you be attending?

I saw the other day something called Locked In A Room in Bristol, where you get locked in a room and have to escape in 60 minutes by solving clues and puzzles. That sounds like a LOT of fun.

Favourite local walk?

I love the walk from Clifton to Southville by the river.

Any projects/work in progress?

I’m currently having a brilliant time in rehearsals for Hamlet and All’s Well’s That End’s Well with Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory. We’re at Tobacco Factory Theatres until 30 April, and then we tour the shows around the country, and also abroad to the Craiova International Shakespeare Festival in Romania and the Neuss International Shakespeare Festival in Germany, so lots to look forward to.

For further information visit: www.stf-theatre.org.uk

BOOK OF THE MONTH...

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith Review by Charlotte Pope of Foyles bookshop, Cabot Circus Though I am a great lover of English literature, I have never quite clicked with Jane Austen. The Georgian setting with its large stately homes, carriages and young women preoccupied with marriage never really spoke to me. Until now. Seth Grahame-Smith has taken Pride and Prejudice and given it an overhaul. Using text from the original novel, he has carefully piece by piece tweaked and reconstructed this great English novel into a thrilling adventure story. In an alternate version of Austen’s England, stricken creatures known as “unmentionables” roam the countryside. Elizabeth Bennet and her four sisters live with their parents: while their mother anxiously tries to pair them off with eligible suitors, their father trains the girls to be fearsome warriors to fight the zombie foe. When attending a ball, the sisters meet eligible bachelor Mr Bingley and his monster-hunter friend Mr Darcy before defending Netherfield from an onslaught of brain-hungry undead. This was the Jane Austen that I had been waiting for: insightful characterisation and the fluency of Austen’s writing accompanied with the satisfying action and gore of a zombie apocalypse. With the film adaptation in cinemas now, I urge you to pick up this brilliant read: it will change the way you view Mr Darcy and Miss Bennet forever.

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A Bristol gem

H

aving a dog has had one unforeseen benefit: I’ve got to know Ashton Court Estate much better. If I were trying to encourage someone to leave London and come to Bristol I would list this fantastic park in my top ten of Bristol’s everyday wonders – an estate laid out by 18th and 19th century aristocrats over a medieval landscape, left to deteriorate for decades and now sensitively managed by the council.

There are so many things to like about Ashton Court that it’s hard to know where to start. I love the fact that people manage to whack golf balls around the pitch and putt course without injuring the dog walkers and small children wandering between the greens. I enjoy the sounds of industrial activity from the quarry beyond the fence at the top end of the park – a giant hole in the ground that you can’t see from any direction. Most of all, though, I get a kick out of walking around a landscape that has been designed and redesigned, lovingly laid out and then neglected, over centuries.

We used to spend a lot of time exploring with the kids when they were little.

A favourite spot was a grove of ancient chestnut trees on the ridge above the mansion itself. Among the massive twisted trunks was one that had toppled over, so that the roots formed a ready-made climbing frame and the main body of the tree a fabulous castle or pirate ship; in the autumn the light, spiky chestnuts made great ammunition for sea battles. Chestnut trees aren’t native to Britain so these marvellous old specimens must have been planted, perhaps under the supervision of landscape designer Humphry Repton when he laid out the estate in the early 19th century.

❝ THE IMPACT OF THIS GESTURE ON GENERATIONS OF BRISTOL PEOPLE HAS BEEN IMMEASURABLE

❞

It’s fun to wonder what people like Repton would make of today’s Ashton Court, once a private estate and now a place for all of us to enjoy. I don’t know what prompted the Smyth family to donate the estate to the city after World War II (although sizeable death duties probably had something to do with their decision), but the impact of this gesture on generations of Bristol people has been immeasurable.

The house itself is, behind its elegant if architecturally jumbled façade, in a state of gradual decay that the city is unlikely to halt, given the costs involved.

Meanwhile the park evolves as tastes and enthusiasms change. At the moment the curious masochistic activity known as mountain biking is all the rage, and as a consequence semi-engineered trails criss-cross the woodlands at the top of the park. I had the misfortune one day, when taking a short cut across Ashton Court on my humdrum road bike, of straying onto one of these tracks, and as I lurched and scrambled among the tree roots I feared for my safety.

Still, it is an inventive use of the landscape, and one that doesn’t interfere with non-riders’ enjoyment.

There are rare plants growing here and there, and more skylarks per square foot than you’ll find in much ‘proper’ countryside. I wonder how they manage to breed with so many dogs, kids, golfers and so on running around – how they manage to keep their nests concealed.

The terrain is so varied that the earth changes in colour from rich red to jet black in no time at all. The black earth reminds me of the local coalmines that made the Smyth family rich in the 19th century and allowed them to keep working away at the landscaping. But then being reminded of things is one of the joys of a walk around Ashton Court. From the medieval deer park to the massive old oak stumps, the past is always present. A track could be an old road; a tangle of ivy all that remains of a cottage. Many hands have shaped this landscape over centuries, and will continue to do so, I hope, long after we are gone. n 18 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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Cartier Brooch, sold for £2,950

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Architect of the Circus and Royal Crescent The Architect’s circa 1754 silver drawing set bearing name and crest)

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20 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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Beautifully crafted engagement rings, wedding rings and fine jewellery designed and traditionally handmade on the premises. All types of jewellery remodelled.

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GIFT | IDEAS

SHOW MUM

SOME LOVE

4

Sunday 6 March.

Time to say so many thank yous to the first person in your life

F

rom mothers who desire makeup to the fashionistas who would enjoy something new and stylish – or even those who enjoy a new jewel or two – Cabot Circus is the place to go for top gifts to make Mother’s Day one your mum will never forget.

Take Harvey Nichols for instance; where you can pick up something ultra glamorous like: 1) perfume by Want, £56, or 2) makeup from Tom Ford, £108, or 3) a set of Glorious Glow creams from Elemis £25.

With a choice of homeware, beauty and more, House of Fraser will make shopping easy; there are plenty of special gifts on offer to suit all tastes. Spoil her with indulgent beauty gifts like 4) Bobbi Brown’s brightening brick in pastel peach, £34, 5) Clarins double serum, £56, or 6) Aveda stress-fix crème cleansing oil, £22. For those mums who love to bake, serve them this stylish Biba Gold Rim optic cake stand, £60 (7).

A piece of jewellery never disappoints, so head to Pandora, which has a wide selection of jewellery for mums who deserve something extra special this year.

Check out the stackable rings and the plethora of charms: 8) make her feel loved with either the sterling silver nostalgic roses Murano charm, £30, or the two tone bound by love charm (9) £70. The sterling silver mother heart charm 10) with pink cubic zirconia (£35) or 11) the sterling silver entwined love charm (£45) are sure to put a smile on her face.

8

9

11

10

6

With over 100 stores and over 30 cafes and restaurants, Cabot Circus is your one stop shop for all your Mother’s Day needs. ■

1

2

7

5

3

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l a c i r e t s y H

HISTORIES

Washington’s Breach Historian Julian Lea-Jones shows us an imagined side of Bristol’s history

R

obert Dinnwiddie was a former Customs Officer for Bermuda, Surveyor General and sometimes controversial Governor of Colonial Virginia. However, in his wildest dreams he couldn’t have envisaged the outcome of his promotion of a young soldier in the war against the French, or else he might have shared the embarrassment of his young protégé’s collateral ancestor.

The ancestor in question was Col. Henry Washington, who was in Bristol as a member of Prince Rupert’s army attacking Cromwell’s Parliamentary forces on Brandon Hill. They say that history is written by the winners, probably because the losers are no longer around to write it. This was never more so than at the top of Park Street, just outside Bristol Museum and Art gallery, where history records that Henry led an attack on the Parliamentary defences on 26 July 1643. He managed to break through Fairfax’s lines, which allowed him to enter Bristol and force its surrender to the Royalists.

However the nearby plaque recording his historic achievement is incorrectly named. Yes, the recording of the military account is true, but exhaustive research reveals that the incident was originally known to all as ‘Washington’s Breeches’. It was only after many years when his aforementioned collateral descendant became President of the United States of America, that a name change was requested to save embarrassment to his family. It was probably then that the name was changed to ‘Washington’s Breach’. However another less deferential explanation was that the name change was only due to a typographical error on a subsequent broadsheet.

But what was it about the event that was so embarrassing that history had to be rewritten? Apparently at a crucial moment in Washington’s attack over the rough ground of Brandon Hill, his breeches got caught on the briars. In an attempt to free himself, they split and amid jeers and laughter of the on-looking Parliamentarians he had to make a hasty retreat to his campaign tent. There was consternation amongst his troops – none could sew! Nevertheless the opposing forces were so busy laughing, (it is believed that this is where the expression for extreme mirth, ‘splitting ones sides’ originated), they missed a small party of Washington’s men making their way up the hill. The outcome of this wardrobe malfunction, recorded here by the winners, can be seen on the wall plaque before you.

Footnote: As a result of this event Henry’s tailors improved his trouser design, thereafter securing them with a sealed knot, a name adopted by secret Royalists at the time of the Protectorate and adopted by his fan club ever since. n

Image © Temple Local History Group

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Leadership Skills for Tomorrow’s World University of Bristol offers scholarships for part-time Masters in Strategy, Change and Leadership for senior professionals

The University of Bristol is offering scholarships on its Masters in Strategy, Change and Leadership. This part-time programme is for aspiring senior managers and is designed to fit around the demands of a busy job.

Today’s leaders are facing the most challenging operating circumstances for a generation. The necessary skills and competencies have shifted from the motivation of employees in a buoyant economy to change management and strategic leadership in this landscape of budget cuts, increased hours, more sophisticated technology and leaner workforces. Few organisations have escaped these changes whether they are in the private, public or not-for-profit sectors.

The University of Bristol has recognised this and designed a bespoke Masters degree in Strategy, Change and Leadership aimed at providing senior managers with the tools and techniques they require in order to navigate their organisations through such demanding times.

Programme Director Helen Ballard says “I am delighted we have the funding available to offer scholarships on our parttime Masters programme. Excellent leadership is critical in this challenging climate, and high performing organisations are recognising the need to further develop their managers.

This practical Masters degree will offer a return on investment from day one.”

To find out more about the programme and the scholarship places available, come along to an open evening at the University on Wednesday 20th April from 6pm – 7.30pm.

Contact Cheralyn Dark for details: efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk

For further information about the course please visit www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/2016/ssl/msc-strategychange-leadership

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Join us on Tuesday 19 April at ‘Bath in Fashion 2016’ Magical Millinery - Exclusive make your own headpiece workshop, given by our expert tutors Stitch in Fashion - Lecture by the RSN Chief Executive Venue: The Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath

Canvas Stitches by Sara-Jane Dennis

RSN Bristol: Day Classes for beginners to advanced and the Certificate & Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery throughout the year visit www.royal-needlework.org.uk or call 020 3166 6932 The international centre of excellence for the art of hand embroidery Registered charity 312774

Engagement Rings Wedding Rings Wedding Gifts

Stunning Engagement rings, Wedding bands and tailor-made rings Beautiful Gift Ideas for the bridesmaids, mother of the bride and for the groom A 10% discount on any pair of rings purchased & off any further gifts for your wedding when you mention The Bristol Magazine We also offer Bespoke Jewellery • Silver Jewellery • Watches Jewellery & Watch Repairs • Gold purchased (old jewellery & coins)

History, Tradition & Quality the only Kemps Jewellers since 1881 9 Calton Court, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3DF

www.kempsjewellers.com

0117 950 5090 THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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A JAZZ LEGEND Ahead of his appearance at The Bristol International Jazz Festival, James Russell speaks to legendary saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis about his past and present contribution to the jazz world

T

here’s a long and lively jazz tradition in this music-loving city, and, with the Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival now in its fourth year, the scene is as vibrant now as it has ever been.

The calibre of the festival is reflected in the standing of its patrons, who include the city’s own international jazz star Andy Sheppard, celebrated New Orleans singer Lillian Boutté and legendary saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis.

The status of ‘legend’ is often accorded to veteran musicians, but in this case the epithet is fully deserved. In the late 1960s, when this writer was still learning to crawl, Pee Wee was playing the funkiest saxophone known to man as part of the horn section that gave ‘Godfather of Soul’ James Brown’s songs their irresistible groove. As Brown’s bandleader he co-wrote hits like Cold Sweat, a tune revolutionary in its simple, driving rhythm, and credited by some as the first true funk song.

Born Alfred Ellis in wartime Florida, Pee Wee moved as a boy to Lubbock, Texas, where his stepfather managed a jazz band featuring travelling musicians from New York and Chicago; as a 12 year-old he was often drafted in to play piano when the regular pianist drank too much wine, but from early on his true love was the saxophone. His passion took him to New York, where he studied alongside saxophonist and master improviser Sonny Rollins.

The ability and willingness to improvise is what makes the best jazz musicians so exciting, but Pee Wee does not only experiment on stage and in the studio; he has exhibited the same hunger for change in his life and career, and continues to reinvent himself today. For a long period in the 1980s he worked with Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison, providing tenor sax, flute and backing vocals on the seminal 1984 album, Live at the Grand Opera House Belfast.

Van the Man had a recording studio in the south west and Pee Wee fell in love with the area, eventually setting up home in Wiltshire, where he continues to live today. Don’t for a minute think that he is living the quiet country life, however. When we spoke to him and asked him to share some of his favourite tunes he had just come back from Japan, playing with one of his numerous jazz combos. Though well into his seventies his appetite for musicmaking and collaboration is undiminished, with recent projects including the delightfully named Ginger Baker Jazz Confusion, a four-piece featuring the equally legendary drummer of 1960s supergroup Cream; he played sax on Baker’s 2014 album Why?.

Watch one of the many Youtube videos of Pee Wee in concert and you will see a musician in love with his craft. Better still, go along and see him playing live at Colston Hall with his old friend, trombonist Fred Wesley. The pair both played with James Brown, later forming their own band, the JB Horns, but for this year’s festival they are going back a little further in time. The history of jazz is the central theme of the festival this time around, from the birth of jazz in New Orleans and the great blues men of the Mississippi Delta, through the wartime swing era and the lively experimental jazz scene of the beat generation. With 50 concerts, there’s time to explore the evolution of jazz-funk in the 1960s and bring things up to date with performances by contemporary exponents of this ever-changing musical form. Pee Wee Ellis and Fred Wesley will be exploring the jazz standards and be-bop classics that first inspired them.

“It’s a trip back into memory lane,” says Pee Wee, “with arrangements of some of our favourite music. It’s gonna be cool.”

(he was my teacher in the late 1950s) and his amazing catalogue of songs.

His music has a fat tone, while still being very precise, and more often than not his tunes will leave you smiling. This particular song is one I like to play because of its endearing repetitive form, and its lighthearted melody.

As well as being a jazz standard, St Thomas still manages to capture elements of the Caribbean, reflecting Sonny’s West Indian heritage.

The Bristol International Jazz Festical runs from 18 – 20 March. For full details and a programme of events, visit: www.bristoljazzandbluesfest.com

❾ Art Blakey: Moanin' This is a really good example of the call and response concept which has been widely used in all kinds of music, not only in jazz, where of course Art Blakey was an iconic drummer and band leader. It’s one of those tunes that everyone knows even if they don’t realise it.

Pee Wee’s top ten tracks: ❶ Sonny Rollins: St Thomas Sonny Rollins has been a great influence on me, both through his playing

❷ John Coltrane: Giant Steps John Coltrane, one of the giants of jazz saxophone, could not fail to be in my top ten. In the song Giant Steps he created a new way of thinking about how a song is put together and changed the face of jazz. This is always a demanding tune to perform, but however long you have been a professional musician its always good to challenge yourself and find new inspiration. ❸ Ray Charles: Hallelujah, I Love Her So Another giant of music from the 20th century. I first heard this in my parent’s living room on a Victrola and it reflects the gospel music that was such an influence on musicians of my generation that were raised in the church. Ray Charles, along with Sam Cooke, brought music out of the church on Sunday right into our homes, and this became an underlying thread that we then took into our creative process. ❹ Van Morrison: You Make Me Feel So Free It was my privilege to work with Van Morrison for 20 years. I love his songwriting, and having the opportunity to play this song (and many of his other hits) with him every night and arrange the horns for them is one of the highlights of my career. Van is a hugely creative songwriter and it was hard to pick a favourite song for this top ten. I chose this one because it has stuck with me over the years. ❺ Sting: Stolen Car I like Sting’s approach to weaving a story and adapting the music to make the two gel together as a song. I like the rhythmic dynamic in his songs – they carry you along and keep you involved. ❻ Nat King Cole: Mona Lisa I love the haunting melody of this song and Nat King Cole is masterful in portraying its inner beauty. His dulcet tones fit the song perfectly and it is one of my all time favourites. ❼ Dizzy Gillespie: Con Alma Without Dizzy Gillespie there is no BeBop period. This is an outstanding example of how a song moves through a set of chord changes while still maintaining its tonality and of the relationship between jazz and classical music. ❽ Bob Dylan: Hurricane and Everything is Broken Two for the price of one! Bob Dylan is the ultimate storyteller and you always feel his songs are rooted in the truth or you could have been there – that’s why I like Hurricane. Everything is Broken is a fine example of his way with words and the simplicity with which he expresses an idea without losing any if its impact.

❿ James Brown: Cold Sweat What can I say? (The song I wrote with James Brown in 1967 that has been hailed as the foundation of funk). n THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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CULTURE BOOK There’s lots to look forward to in March

For more information or to book, call the box office on tel: 0117 987 7877 or visit: www.bristololdvic.org.uk

FROM MARCH 01 1 – 5 MARCH, 8PM

A Game of Scones, Alma Tavern Theatre

5 MARCH, 7.30PM

When murder sweeps through the parish of Jowlhurst, the members of Jowlhurst Parish Council scheme and vie against one another for absolute power. A seedy vicar, NIMBY farmers, the Countryside Alliance and the National Trust are at war with a circle of debauched bohemian aristocrats and the internally divided, frightened villagers for supremacy over the local countryside. In this Machiavellian struggle, with betrayal around every corner, only one faction can rule the Parish Council once and for all… Tickets: £10, £8 concs from the book office, tel: 0117 973 5171 or visit: www.almataverntheatre.co.uk

Bristol Bach Choir, Bristol Cathedral Liberty Brass Ensemble perform alongside Bristol Bach Choir in the magnificent surroundings of Bristol Cathedral. From the majestic pomp of Rutter’s exuberant Gloria to the intimacy of Poulenc’s sublime setting of the Mass, this is music that expresses the full range of human emotions.

Finally, Finzi’s Lo, the Full Final Sacrifice is among the finest 20th century sacred choral compositions. Tickets: £10 – £17, students and under 25s £5, tel: 0117 214 0721 or visit: www.bristolbach.org.uk 5 MARCH, 7.30PM – 11PM

Backwell Festival, Backwell School Theatre

4 – 12 MARCH, 2PM & 7PM

The Trojan Woman, Bristol Old Vic The Trojan Women is one of the most powerful indictments of war ever written. In this new adaptation, Brendan Kennelly gives Euripides’ classic play a 20th century edge transforming it into an active, modern drama exploring the complexities of women and defining the nature of their courage. Directed by Sally Cookson. Tickets: £15, £10 concs.

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Gorge-ous Geology, Bristol Zoo Gardens

Hairspray, Bristol Hippodrome

Oh, Whistle..., Tobacco Factory Theatres

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Let’s dance and sway, and be kings and queens for just one day!

Celebrate the creative genius of David Bowie at this evening dedicated to this musical hero.

Fantastic costumes are optional, but this is a chance to dress as a space man or martian... there’ll even be facepainters on hand to complete your look. Music from The Fantasy Orchestra and The Ambling Band. Tickets: £12 advance, £15 on the door, visit: www.backwellfestival.co.uk

MARCH 2016

6 MARCH, 2.30PM & 7.30PM

8 MARCH, 7PM

Oh, Whistle..., Tobacco Factory Theatres

British solitary bees, Bristol Zoo Gardens

This month, Robert Lloyd Parry brings a shiver to Tobacco Factory Theatres with his retelling of two of the greatest tales by M R James, the master of the English ghost story. Oh, Whistle, and I’ll Come to You, My Lad – a tale of nocturnal horror on the Suffolk coast – is considered by many to be the author’s masterpiece. It is beautifully complemented here by The Ash Tree, a story of witchcraft and vengeance down the generations. Tickets: £12, £8 concs from the box office on tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com

Ninety per cent of Britain’s 270 bee species are solitary. Join Rhian Rowson for a fascinating introduction to these amazing insects. Learn about the lifestories of a variety of species, be wowed by some mind blowing behaviour and discover the art of being a successful cuckoo bee. Tickets: £4, book with the Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project, tel: 0117 903 0609 or email: mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk

FROM MARCH 07 7 – 12 MARCH, 2.30PM & 7.30PM

Hairspray, Bristol Hippodrome It’s Baltimore 1962, where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her newfound fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way. Starring Tony Maudsley as Edna Turnblad, Claire Sweeny as Velma von Tussle, and Peter Duncan as Wilbur. Tickets: from £17.90, call the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com

12 MARCH, 6PM

Bach: St Matthew Passion, Colston Hall The pre-eminent Bach Evangelist Rufus Müller and the period instruments of Music for Awhile lend added authority as Bristol Choral Society scale the Everest of Bach’s great Passion; a work fusing then and now with searing immediacy. Tickets: £10 – £25 (£5 for under 25s, 10% discount for senior citizens), from the box office on tel: 0845 652 1823 or visit: www.bristolchoral.co.uk 13 MARCH, 10AM – 12.30PM

Gorge-ous geology, Bristol Zoo Gardens Discover the geology of the Avon Gorge and Downs with local geologist Andrew Mathieson.

Exploring rocks and fossils, we’ll learn about coral reefs, dinosaurs

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and Bristol diamonds. Tickets: £5, Downs Wildlife Project, tel: 0117 903 0609 or email: mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk 13 MARCH, 8PM

Nincompoop, The Wardrobe Theatre Join your effervescent host Deirdre Me, and let your Nincompoop loose on the stage or off as we get ready for some of the newest, nakedest, gorgeousest, wonderfully ridiculous, often heart-warming, sometimes, side-splitting offerings, performed live in front of your eyes. Nincompoop is a monthly night where brave people try out new ideas on other brave people to see if they are good ideas or bad ones. And as we all know, sometimes the worst ideas are the best ones of all. Tickets: pay what you decide... tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: www.thewardrobetheatre.com

FROM MARCH 15 15 MARCH, 8PM – 10PM

Star Party on the Downs, Bristol Zoo Gardens Wrap up warm for a night of stargazing with the Bristol Astronomical Society and Shaaron Leverment from Explorer Dome.

Be amazed as you look at the surface of the moon, the planet Jupiter and the Orion Nebula through a large telescope. Learn how to spot the main spring constellations and enjoy hearing the stories written in the stars.

Tickets: £6 (includes a hot drink and cookie), book with the Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project, tel: 0117 903 0609 or email: mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk 23 MARCH, 7PM

Ahoy! Sing for the Mary Rose, Colston Hall Ahoy! is a work written specifically for adult and children’s choirs by Alexander L’Estrange. It tells the story of the sinking of Henry VIII’s battleship on 19 July 1545. The music fuses Tudor

songs with well known sea shanties, producing a show that will be great fun to watch.

At just under an hour, it will appeal to families and anyone interested in both the history and the music of this era. Bristol Choral Society Education and Outreach is working on this project in partnership with Bristol Sings Music and Orchard School Bristol. Tickets: £5, visit: www.bristolchoral.co.uk 24 MARCH, 7.30PM

What the Frock! Comedy, Bristol Improv Theatre Bristol’s award-winning all-female comedy night is back with a fantastic line-up. Your compere for the night is the hilarious Cerys Nelmes, while your headliner is the fabulous Harriet Kemsley.

There’s also have a host of up and coming acts to whet your comedy whistle. In addition, there will be a superb prize raffle with all money going to Bristol charity One25.

Ticket: £10, £8 concs, visit: www.wegottickets.com 27 MARCH, 2PM

The Manxman, Curzon Cinema Clevedon Alfred Hitchcock’s last silent film portrays an evocative love triangle, filmed on the windswept Cornish coast and accompanied by Elizabeth Jane Baldry – the world’s only silent film harpist.

For details and tickets, tel: 01275 871 000 or visit: www.curzon.org.uk

Star Party on the Downs, Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project

improve your linguistic skills than by extending your gastronomic repertoire? Suitable for adults of all ages. Tickets: £30, tel: 0117 906 7660 or visit: www.ihbristol.com

Antiques Fair, Ashton Court

BOOK NOW FOR...

3 APRIL, 10AM – 3.30PM

Antique and Vintage Fair, Ashton Court Mansion Come along and have a rummage for treasures at this fab antique and vintage fair. There will be 40 stalls all offering quality antiques and collectables, as well as a café serving tasty cream teas. And it’s all indoors, so there’s no need to worry about those pesky April showers. Tickets: £2 on the door, under 16s free. Car park at the Kennel Lodge Road entrance.

What the Frock! Comedy

16 APRIL, 7.30PM 29 MARCH, 6.30PM – 9.30PM

Speak and Cook Italian, Al Bacio Restaurant International House Bristol is proud to present the first Italian cookery workshop in Bristol run entirely in Italian. International House Bristol and Al Bacio restaurant are putting their skills together in order to offer this exceptional workshop bound to be of interest to anyone learning Italian or with a love of Italian cuisine. What better way to

Bristol Phoenix Choir, St George’s Bristol Bristol Phoenix Choir and Orchestra perform Mozart’s Requiem and CPE Bach’s Magnificat. Conducted by Paul Walton. Soloists: Elinor Cooper, soprano; Emily Topham, alto; Nils Greenhow, tenor; and Dan Robson, bass. Tickets: £10 – £15, under 16s free with an adult.

Available from the box office on tel: 0845 402 4001 or visit: www.bristolphoenixchoir.org.uk

EDITOR’S PICK...

29 MARCH, 7PM

Michael Kiwanuka, The Lantern, Colston Hall Often compared to the likes of Bill Withers, Randy Newman, Terry Callier, and Otis Redding, vintage-soul musician Michael Kiwanuka gained widespread critical acclaim with his debut album, 2012’s Home Again, and in the same year won the BBC’s Sound of 2012 poll. Since the album’s release, Michael has toured the globe extensively, guested for friends Mumford & Sons, and toured alongside the likes of Alabama Shakes, Adele, Stevie Wonder, and Jake Bugg. Tickets: £15.05, from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org

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BRISTOL CONCERT ORCHESTRA Stefan Hofkes conductor • You-Chiung Lin piano

SATURDAY 12 MARCH 2016, 7:30pm St George’s Bristol • Tel: 0845 40 24 001 Book online: www.bristolconcertorchestra.org.uk Tickets: £15, £13, £10, £8 (conc. £13, £11, £8, £6), children £1 plus £1 per transaction booking fee (additional fees may apply when buying at St George’s)

Retiring collection for the British Red Cross

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LOSE

YOURSELF in BRISTOL

FILM

FESTIVAL

Our roving reporter, Helene Edwards, finds out more about this newcomer to the city’s cultural calendar

W

hat links Palestine, surfing, radicalism, bikes, slapstick, gay pride and animation? The connection is closer than you might think… they’ve all had dedicated film festivals in Bristol. From the political to the sublime to the really rather random, Bristol has, over the years, been awash with gloriously niche and intriguing film festivals. So have we reached saturation point? Do we really need another one?

Well yes is the answer, because somewhat surprisingly we haven’t ever actually had a film film festival. A ‘something for everyone’ kind of affair. And for Owen Franklin this proved to be too much of a glaring omission – the elephant that wasn’t in the room, if you will.

Owen explains: “I’m a first generation Bristolian and my background is in film production. When I was making my first feature length I was looking into distribution and where I could release it locally, and I was quite surprised to find that there wasn’t actually a film festival I could have entered it in to.”

So Owen decided to entice elusive Nellie into Bristol and organise our very own, real life film film festival. The inaugural three-day event will take place from Friday 11 – Sunday 13 March in venues peppered across the city, providing a movie-based seasoning that aims to add a new flavour to our cultural scene. With the festival just round the proverbial corner, Owen is finding himself obliged to be in a million places at once, but was still willing and able to find the time to discuss his plans. He explained how the whole thing has evolved from a twinkle in his eye to a city full of screen stars: “As soon as it started developing I thought rather than do the traditional film festival model where people submit indie movies, I’d do something a bit different. It’s more akin to a film-based arts festival – we’re trying to encompass film and all aspects of the moving image in relation to modern life. It’s definitely looking to push the boundary of what we consider when we say a film festival.”

Turns out it might just be more than just a film film festival after all. Through immersive screenings and pop-up cinemas, Owen hopes the festival will encourage audiences to interact with films and appreciate them in new ways. And then there’s the other side – the behind the scenes one – which will explore and give insight into film production and the wider industry, and will hopefully help inspire Bristol’s next generation of film makers.

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So what’s going on then? All good film festivals start with a trip to the zoo… don’t they? Well this one does: folk young and old are invited along to a special screening of Madagascar at Bristol Zoo Gardens. Tickets also include the opportunity to visit the zoo at any point over the weekend and ‘meet the cast’ of Dreamworks’ anthropomorphic animation classic. Autographs are presumably not on the cards.

Paul Pritchard, marketing manager for Bristol Zoological Society elaborated on the somewhat unusual combination of film and, errr... fundraising for giraffes: “Bristol Zoo Gardens is such a unique location; full of history, heritage and home to over 400 animal species. Anyone attending the Madagascar screening will not only enjoy the film but can then see the zoo’s lions, Kamran and Ketan, along with many of the other main animals in the film, such as lemurs, penguins and hippos. At Wild Place they can also visit our zebra and find out about our exciting fundraising project to bring a giraffe to The Wild Place Project.”

Other pop-up screenings will look at things from a different angle, like boozy road trip Sideways which will be screened at Avery’s wine cellar and accompanied by some highly suitable wine tasting. And Night at the Museum will be screened at… well, no prizes for guessing where. Yes, it will be shown out of hours and yes, viewers will be able to explore the otherwise 38 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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visitors-less exhibits.

All of the alternative-location screenings promise to add an extra dimension to watching the films. Owen explained the thinking behind pop up cinemas: “That immersive experience?

It’s difficult to say what it’s about but it adds something to a film you’ve seen before – having that sensation of not just watching it on a screen but getting involved in it.” Others involved in the festival agree. Simon Pearce, co-creator of Bristol-based sci-fi web series Horizon (more on that in a bit) added: “The pleasure of film is escapism, so anything that makes us feel like we’re more involved with what’s happening on screen is only going to heighten the reason we go to watch it.”

Taking the immersive experience to the next (underground) level is Horror in the Caves – a series set to take place deep inside the dark Redcliffe caves. The surprisingly expansive maze of tunnels was formed and used for a fair few different reasons including mining the cliffs for red (huh! The name makes sense now) sand to make glass; and storing goods, hidden treasures and possibly even slaves. From smuggling to slavery, the folklore of the Redcliffe caves has left them full of stories. And never more so than now. Using the unique space to its full advantage, Horror in the Caves will be based on pure terror. If films like The Blair Witch Project, Alien, and The Ring are your thing then the caves will be the place for you. And there’ll be unprecedented

Main image, previous page: Amélie is just one of the films on offer as part of the Global Cinema series This page, clockwise from top: The Motorcycle Diaries; Diva; The Ring; Night at the Museum

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Above: There’s no better setting to watch the hilarious Madagascar than surrounded by wild animals at Bristol Zoo

opportunities to see locally produced horrors too, like Dark Vision which was filmed right there in the caves themselves.

For Stray Spark Productions’ co-producers and writers Bernie Hodges and Darren Flaxstone Dark Vision’s homecoming is like a dream (or nightmare?) come true. They’re appreciative that, according to Darren: “Nothing beats watching the film in the actual location it was shot.” Both Darren and Bernie recognise the amazing opportunity the film festival is providing for them, and will be in the caves on the night to introduce the film. Bernie says: “We had always talked about a screening in the caves as it’s such a great environment to immerse yourself in.” For some, the idea of watching a new wave gothic horror about paranormal activity in cavernous darkness may well be their idea of living hell. Others won’t be able to keep themselves away. Most will agree, though, that having the option is pretty special.

If subterranean scream screenings really aren’t your thing, there is a delight at the end of the tunnel. From the otherworldly to the rest-of-the-real-worldly, Redcliffe Wharf will be transformed into the Global Cinema Village. Must-see-and-dos include the music tent in collaboration with Thekla, mouthwatering street food, a mobile cinema campervan showing local short films (all free to visit), and screenings of 12 highly acclaimed international films including the Sicilian movie homage Cinema Paradiso; The Raid (all the way from the tropics of

Indonesia); the magical French romance of Amélie; and Bollywood blockbuster Saawariya. The Global Cinema Village will be, in Owen’s words, “the festival within a festival.”

Back to that food for a moment... get ready for some serious lip smacking. We’re talking culinary delights from places including Ah Ma’s Dumplings, The Original Goodfillas, Leckerbissen, Soviet Kitchen and La Bonne Crepe to name but a few. There’ll be coffee to quaff from Into Coffee, and Beerd will be providing local and world beers from artisan and independent breweries. The Global Cinema Village aims to celebrate Bristol’s multiculturalism, but given the multi-sensory treats on offer most people may well end up celebrating the art of celebration itself.

So we’ve ticked the exotic animals box (who knew a film festival would have one?). We’ve ticked the films-in-a-cave box (again, bit of a surprise). We’ve ticked the international films box.

And from far away to right here on our doorstep, the Made in Bristol series will tick the homegrown talent box. The clue was in the name, really. This aspect is a key part of the film festival.

Owen explained: “One of our core aims is to promote Bristol as a film making destination and celebrate what’s going on in the city.” He elaborated further that the festival hopes to “plug the fact that Bristol is a very hot destination for all types of filming.

People don’t realise how much is going on. I definitely think it’s something exciting. My personal opinion is that I think we’re on

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AT THE | MOVIES

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AT THE | MOVIES

Bristol Film Festival takes place across some wonderful venues in the city, including Bristol Cathedral (opposite), Redcliffe Caves (above) and Avery’s Wine Cellars (right) Far right: Owen Franklin, founder of Bristol Film Festival

the crest of a wave in terms of a real movement back towards Bristol as a destination.”

Highlights of Made in Bristol include Student Wildlife Filmmaking at Arnolfini, plus there’ll be screenings of recent local independent feature films like The Fold, and Horizon – remember the sci-fi web series mentioned earlier? It’s time to explain. The creators have combined the series, which was filmed and produced in Bristol, into one very special film for the festival.

Although they had previously shot films in Bristol, Simon Pearce – one of the writers – explained: “What we hadn’t necessarily done before was have Bristol be a featured part of the story. So we thought why not do that this time around? Instead of just making it a random city that happens to be Bristol, let’s really show it off and make it a point of the story.” Horizon elevates Bristol from being a generic backdrop, to a city of distinctive glory. And so it should be.

Made in Bristol will also give festival goers the opportunity to see local producers deconstruct and reconstruct a film to demonstrate the film making process in Short Film Anatomy at the Arnolfini. There’ll also be assorted workshops and seminars covering topics including how to get into film industry, microbudget film making and making a film in a day, plus input from film courses at UWE and Bristol University, and a film music composition session with the inimitable Ilan Eshkeri.

Film and music! Let’s not forget about the Film and Music series. Compose yourselves, because there’s a sound selection to choose from including an opening night concert at St George’s.

And as with most of the other events at the festival, it’s really not what you might expect. All-girl group The Buttercups and all-guy group The Buzztones will perform Music from the Movies Goes A Capella. Pure vocal chords and iconic movie scores – but of course. Bristol Cathedral is the blessed venue for Saturday night’s concert: a collaboration between the pop-up cinema and Music and Film series – where The Bristol Ensemble will play a semiimprovised score to Sherlock Junior. So if you really don’t know what to expect from this kind of thing then don’t worry – the musicians won’t either.

Owen’s decision to start a new, all-encompassing film festival in Bristol is many things. It’s much welcomed, it’s highly

anticipated, it’s inspiring, and it’s necessary. Because although the momentum behind Bristol’s creativity is gathering force, some involved in the industry believe that it could do with more help.

Darren points out that with Dark Vision: “It would’ve been good to have had more support and advice from some of the larger arts bodies in the city, not just for the process of filming but also getting the finished product ‘out there’, so to speak.” Bernie agrees: “There are lots of independent film makers here so it's strong in some aspects. But I think support for these filmmakers is distinctly lacking. We should be doing more to nurture the UK film industry particularly at lower budget levels.”

Hooray for Owen then, who has taken Bristol’s cinematic bull by the horns and now has the matter firmly in his own hands.

The festival will celebrate all that is motion picture-based and good in the world, and the local industry is already starting to appreciate the extra support for local productions: “Bristol having its own film festival is a good start – it’s great local film makers now have a platform like this to show their work,” says Bernie.

With such an abundance of local talent and dedication, Owen recognised that although Bristol wasn’t actually overly saturated with film festivals, it still felt important to secure his own dry land. Turns out he needn’t have worried: “One of the things I was worried about when I started was stepping on other people’s toes.

I was quite cautious to make it clear that we weren’t doing anything that other people were already doing. But everyone’s been so supportive, which is fantastic. It’s a very close-knit community and everyone’s really been very enthusiastic about the project.”

The Bristol Film Festival will give us an opportunity to see films we have and haven’t seen in places we have and haven’t been. Short ones, long ones, fat ones, thin ones, some as big as your head… there’ll be a movie, concert, workshop, snack, drink or moment to have a think for everyone. The festival works towards the paradigm of “Moving image, moving beyond.” And it seems Owen and his team are going above and beyond to make this happen. n Bristol Film Festival runs from Friday 11 March to Sunday 13 March. For full details, visit: www.bristolfilmfestival.com

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CREATIVE | BRISTOL

GIRL ON FIRE

Deadly is the female in a catsuit, especially one designed by Bristol fashion graduate Robyn Lythe. Samantha Coleman paid a visit to her home studio in south Bristol to discover more about her business, Burnt Soul Clothing

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Opposite, fashion designer and founder of Burnt Soul Clothing, Robyn Lythe, wearing one of her creations. Photo © Sophia Spring This page, clockwise from top: Marina and the Diamonds in a blue Burnt Soul catsuit; Ella Eyre in a sparkly gold catsuit; 8,000 mirror tiles were used to create a disco ball catsuit for Miley Cyrus, shown left; and one of Robyn’s body designs

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he thought of squeezing into a catsuit may send shivers down your spine, but Robyn Lythe, founder of Bristol-based Burnt Soul Clothing – a company that makes eye-catching bodies (leotards), catsuits, leggings and meggings (leggings for men) – emphatically expresses to me that all women can wear one to enhance their shape and show off their curves.

“Made from Lycra, my catsuits and bodies suit all shapes and sizes,” says Robyn. “Lots of women have been amazed by the result. I position the lines and fabric panels in such a way to make the garment flatter the female form perfectly. For example, on my catsuits, the panels are shaped like an arrow so as to draw the eye down and create an elongated sense of the body. There’s also a panel at the side that pulls everything in for a sexy silhouette. Every detail is considered in a way that makes it easier to wear Lycra.”

You may still be thinking ‘not for me’, but when you see Robyn’s fabulous designs in a range of bright colours and fun prints, you can’t help but want to try one on and give it a whirl. “People have bought my catsuits to wear at festivals and parties, and also for yoga too,” says Robyn. “And the bodies can be worn lots of ways; they look great with a highwaisted skirt or under a pair of jeans – you can dress them up or down and it’s a great way to inject a bit of colour and sexiness into everyday wear.”

Before Burnt Soul Clothing was born, UWE fashion graduate Robyn had previously worked at the heart of the fashion industry in London, which she admits that she found “too pretentious and more about who you are rather than your creations.” So she moved back to Bristol and set up a business designing and making bespoke wedding dresses, working with delicate fabrics such as satin and lace. A far cry from her fierce catsuits, you may say, but Robyn’s love of dressingup, fun and making an exhibition of herself was just waiting for an outlet – and that opportunity presented itself when Robyn and her friends were planning what to wear at a festival.

Having failed to find anything to suit their style, Robyn decided to make some eye-catching catsuits for them to wear, which gained lots of attention. Thanks to word of mouth and social media, Robyn’s figure-flattering, playful designs quickly caught on and soon after, she realised it was time to make the switch to a new business. Driven by the demand for all things sparkly, shiny and stretchy, she entered in to the world of Lycra with Burnt Soul Clothing in January 2015. “My heart was in this a lot more than wedding dress designs,” says Robyn. “It’s who I am.”

And things have got bigger, busier and more thrilling for Robyn ever since, with the likes of Ella Eyre, Marina and the Diamonds, Poppy Delevingne, DJ Tigerlily and Lion Babe all rocking her catsuits and bodies.

But Robyn enjoyed the opportunity of her career last November when she was contacted by controversial US singing

sensation, Miley Cyrus, and her stylist team in Los Angeles. They had seen the work she had done for Marina and the Diamonds on Instagram and asked her to create a disco ball style catsuit for Miley’s new club tour, Miley Cyrus and Her Dead Petz.

Robyn described her excitement on the Burnt Soul Facebook page, saying: “After five days and nights of work, 8,000 mirror tiles, £70 worth of glue, watching a whole season of The Hills, 10 plasters used, 60+ cups of coffee, four Harry Potters and one hand super glued into the catsuit, it finally happened! IT’S MILEY!!!!!”

Miley herself took to Instagram to thank Burnt Soul for her dramatic mirror encrusted outfit, which gained Robyn even more attention. “It’s great to have a celebrity following,” she says.

“It gives the company a bit of clout and helps get it into the public eye.”

The Burnt Soul collections feature bold prints and colours and come in different ranges – Limited Editons; Disco, which features lots of glitter and wild prints; and Luxe, sexy and structured. The catsuits are also available in reversible designs and backless numbers too, to add extra sassiness.

“Wearing one gives you the excuse to unleash your inner wild child,” says Robyn.

“Women will look good wearing them and I want them to feel good – and confident – too.”

Robyn has always been fascinated by the shape and structure of the female form and has been interested in fabrics and making her own clothes from an early age: “I was given my first sewing machine when I was eight years old and my mum’s friend showed me how to cut patterns out of fabric and sew them together. I was so inspired that I decided to get stuck in and make a coat – it didn’t look half bad either! Then when I was 18 and started going out to parties, I used to customise my clothes and make my own outfits to stand out from the crowd. I’ve always been a bit of an exhibitionist,” she admits.

These days Robyn designs from her home studio near North Street, where she also makes bespoke-order garments. And she has no plans to move away from the city: “I love it here in Bristol – there’s a great vibe and it’s full of creative people – we tend to rub off on each other,” she says.

But with the company growing all the time, Robyn now has London-based business partners who concentrate on the management, allowing her to stick to unleashing her creative juices. In fact, as we speak, Robyn is currently in the process of designing a catsuit for a musician to wear on an upcoming tour, as well as looking at doing a kidswear collection too, so keep your eyes peeled on social media for the latest news. n For further information visit: www.burntsoul.com or follow @BurntSoulTweets on Twitter.

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CITY GALLERY Still, Rainmaker Gallery, 15 March – 28 May Fine art photographer Cara Romero heads a line up of Indigenous American artists featured in this year’s spring photography show at Rainmaker Gallery. Cara’s underwater images expose the fragile and essential relationship that exists between people, water and life. A tranquil panoramic self-portrait captures Navajo artist Will Wilson making a prayer offering in a vast waterscape. Robert Mesa’s richly coloured fancy dancers, concealed in fringing, are frozen in a fleeting moment of pure pow-wow. Kali Spitzer’s experiments with the wet plate process of tintype are magical and magnificent, while Zoe Urness mesmerises with her series: Keeping the Traditions Alive. The standard of work in this exhibition is astounding and announces boldly that Native Americans are still dancing, still praying, still creating and still here.

Rainmaker Gallery, 123 Coldharbour Road, Redland.

Tel: 0117 944 3101, www.rainmakerart.co.uk

Pictured: Oil Boom by Cara Romero

Workshop: needle felt butterfly, Bristol Zoo, Saturday 5 March, 10am – 3pm

Affirmative Painting, Bristol Folk House Cafe, until 10 March This exhibition highlights a group that come together weekly at the Bristol Folk House to experiment and develop their practice, under the guidance of tutor Marguerite Knight.

The results show an interesting variation in style, content and media. Bristol Folk House, 40a Park Street.

Tel: 0117 926 2987, www.bristolfolkhouse.co.uk

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Discover the joys of needle felting with artist Helen Taylor. After hearing about the butterflies that live on the Downs, create your own needle felted butterfly brooch. This fun and informal workshop is an ideal introduction for beginners. Cost: £30 (includes materials). Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on tel: 0117 9030609 or email: mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk

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ARTS | & EXHIBITIONS

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Spring Exhibition, Lime Tree Gallery, 19 March – 19 April

The Red Studio by James Bland

A mixed exhibition featuring new work by James Bland, Ed Hunter, Jane Kite, Sylvia Paul and Emma Williams.

James Bland is an English figurative artist who exhibits frequently in fine art galleries and major art fairs in London. In January 2015 he was elected a member of the New English Art Club, a London-based exhibiting society.

Jane Kite graduated from Bath Academy of Art in 1979. An accomplished painter, she has exhibited in the RWA, but she is most well-known for her work in film and TV, where she is a very respected prop and costume designer, in particular associated with Aardman.

Sylvia Paul studied painting at Colchester School of Art and exhibits widely across the UK. Sylvia’s Japanese inspired abstracts have attracted particular interest, one of them being hung in The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2009. She has held two solo exhibitions in Japan.

Lime Tree Gallery, 84 Hotwell Road. www.limetreegallery.com

Inquisitive Eyes: Slade Painters in Edwardian Wessex, 1900-1914, RWA, until 12 June Featuring artists including Augustus John, William Open, Philip Wilson Steer and Vanessa Bell, Inquisitive Eyes reveals for the first time the importance of Thomas Hardy’s Wessex landscape at a pivotal moment in British art. Roaming the rolling hills and dramatic ancient coastline of Wessex – described by Augustus John as ‘lovely beyond words’ – a group of early 20th-century artists associated with the Slade School of Art and New English Art Club explored and expanded the boundaries of art. The work they produced offers a riveting new insight into a period in which Purbeck played host to an informal artists’ ‘colony’, evidently as significant as St. Ives or Newlyn, but hitherto unrecognised. RWA, Queens Road. www.rwa.org.uk

Don’t miss these exciting exhibitions in our neighbouring city of Bath...

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● New paintings by Stewart Edmondson and new sculptures by Anthony Scott, Beaux Arts Bath, until 2 April

Bres by Anthony Scott

Teeming with feeling for the natural world around his Devon home, the new collection of paintings by Stewart Edmondson herald the beginning of spring at Beaux Arts. Also on display are the wonderfully tactile sculptural takes on the wild-eyed beasts of Irish Mythology by Anthony Scott. Beaux Arts Bath, York Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 464850, www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

● Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences Victoria Art Gallery, until 10 April The Vanity of Small Differences, a series of six large scale tapestries by Grayson Perry, were created alongside the award-winning Channel 4 series, All in the Best Possible Taste. The tapestries chart the class journey made by young Tim Rakewell and include many of the characters, incidents and objects Grayson Perry encountered on journeys through Sunderland, Tunbridge Wells and the Cotswolds for the series. This is the third occasion the Victoria Art Gallery has displayed works created and selected by the former Turner Prize-winner. In 2009-2010 the Gallery hosted the Perry-curated Unpopular Culture exhibition, then just last year it acquired his ‘Map of Days’, a self-portrait in the form of a walled city, for its permanent collection.

Tickets: £4 for adults, £3.50 for seniors and full-time students, and free for children and Discovery Card holders. Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 477233, www.victoriagal.org.uk Pictured left: Grayson Perry, The Annunciation of the Virgin Deal, 2012, (detail) Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre London and British Council. © Grayson Perry. Photography © Stephen White

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YOUNG | BRISTOL

ALL FIRED UP Jenny Hayes steps through the red doors of The Station

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e’ve probably all strolled past the big red doors of the old fire station that lies on Silver Street, right in the heart of the city, but not so many of us are aware of the fantastic things that are going on behind them.

Creative Youth Network, a Bristol charity for young people, took over the building in 2012, working with its partners to raise the £6 million required to buy the disused fire station and transform it into a hub for the younger residents of the city. For the last four years, The Station has provided teenagers with a place – and the space – to try different things, take a break from the pressure of life at home, get advice, and meet new people.

The Station is home to a variety of organisations that offer support and learning opportunities for young people. Among them is Bristol Nightstop – a vital service that finds safe accommodation for vulnerable teenagers, and The Kitchen – a YMCA initiative that not only gives Bristol a café that serves great food, but also provides youngsters with vocational training and apprenticeships. I spoke to the people behind these initiatives to find out about their work, and also caught up with Emily Bull from Creative Youth Network to learn more about this important charity.

EMILY BULL Programme manager at Creative Youth Network Tell me a little bit more about Creative Youth Network, and how The Station fits in…

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Youth Club, Hanham Youth Club, The Stokes Youth Club and The Station – a city centre hub that is ‘owned’ by young people, and provides a one-stop shop for all their needs.

Why did you become involved with Creative Youth Network?

At the age of 15 I started to use the arts as a way of communicating with the world around me, and ever since then I’ve had a passion for providing access for other teenagers to do the same. Life as an adolescent is hard work and art is a really good method to help explore, question, challenge and resolve issues.

The work Creative Youth Network does fills me with pride every day. We work with a huge range of young people – from those that are at a very serious risk of disengaging from society, to those who are setting themselves up as professional artists. We provide a safe and nurturing space that allows every young person we work with to be themselves, to build their selfconfidence, and to work with inspiring and creative people.

They’re the reason I come to work every day.

What does the future hold for The Station and Creative Youth Network?

At the end of 2015 we launched a three year artistic strategy for Creative Youth Network. This lays out our aim to establish studio spaces at The Station to support emerging young artists working in all disciplines by 2018. Artists will work alongside youth workers and young people in the communities of Bristol and South Gloucestershire to make new and interesting work through an inspiring variety of courses.

We are also hoping to have The Station set up as an events space by then too, hosting a programme of touring theatre, dance, visual arts and music by new artists – especially for young people.

Main image: The Station is a central creative hub and relaxed space for the young people of Bristol

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YOUNG | BRISTOL

This page: Dance classes are held in the bright studio; there are also places where young people can enjoy some downtime; The Kitchen is a firm favourite on the Bristol foodie scene

JULIA CLAPP Host co-ordinator at Bristol Nightstop What does Bristol Nightstop offer young people?

It offers vulnerable young people emergency accommodation in a volunteer’s home, which can range from a few nights up to a couple of weeks, and includes dinner, breakfast and transport.

We also undertake key working to help find longer-term housing solutions and provide the people we look after with support in whatever way they need – from registering with a GP to having a gym session.

Aside from the practical help, we have a way of working that is flexible and friendly. Because it is volunteers who house the young people, it means they are being helped by sheer kindness by those outside the profession, which many really appreciate.

Our hosts are average people, who don’t work in the field but who care about the city, who are prepared to do something very basic but brave to make a real difference to someone’s life.

How did you become involved, and what does your role entail?

I heard about the project when the community house I was living in decided to apply to become a host household for Bristol Nightstop. I loved the ethos of ‘a community response to a community issue’, so applied for a job.

My role as host co-ordinator means I’m always on the lookout to recruit more volunteers, and then I’m in charge of training and supervising them. I also have a key work element to my job, directly supporting the young people we host.

Bristol Nightstop has provided many young people with a safe haven and helped them get back on their feet. Daniel was kind enough to share his story…

“I was homeless for about two months. I slept under a bridge, and then in a tiny shed for some weeks. I tried everywhere in Bristol to get some help being housed, but it appeared that Nightstop was the only place that would actually help prevent me from sleeping rough. I’ve never met people so kind and caring in my life. If it wasn’t for Nightstop and the kind volunteers, I’d still be on the streets now.” Daniel has gone on to get a job and his own place, and he still remains in contact with his hosts.

BEN SILVEY Café manager at The Kitchen, and director of YMCA Bristol Where did the idea for The Kitchen come from?

Having worked in youth charities in the city for a long time, I was looking to develop something that provided opportunities for young people. I wanted to get away from council or government funding and be independent, so running the café was a great opportunity to do this while at the same time offering training, employment and volunteering options to young people who have faced difficulties in life. We don’t have any complicated programmes, we just invite them to come in and help out, and through that help them develop confidence in their own abilities, and gain a sense that they are valuable and can be part of a community.

We also teach them basic skills like getting to work on time, customer service, how to make a great coffee, and communicating with other people – all the things that help them go out to find, and keep, jobs. We take risks on young people who might struggle in more commercial places, and we believe in giving people lots of chances.

Are there any particular success stories you can tell us about?

We’re really proud of all the young people who come and work with us. They all have their own story, and getting involved at The Kitchen is a big step for them. It could be the young person that works with us for just a few weeks, and when they start they don’t look anyone in the eye and barely say a word, but by the time they finish they are able to speak confidently with customers. Or it could be the young person who has been with us for a year who successfully completes their apprenticeship and is able to run a busy lunch service – even though they are also a carer for their parent at home and need to rush back to do the grocery shopping and put food on the table.

And what does The Kitchen give to the wider city?

We provide the people of Bristol with a great place to come and eat! We were Highly Commended by the Bristol Good Food Awards for best café food in 2014, and we were runners up in the south west for best cheap eats in the Observer Food Monthly Awards in 2015. We always set out to be good at what we do and earn a reputation for that – rather than being known as a charity or community café. We are also becoming more popular as an events space, and have been proud to host a really diverse range of occasions – from wedding receptions, to festivals such as Mayfest and The Rooms, to corporate parties and VIP dinners.

Bristol is a fantastic, diverse city that prides itself on its creativity and its food scene. But the challenge is how you make these things accessible to everybody. In a very practical way The Station, The Kitchen and the YMCA help to do this, by creating opportunities for young people and supporting their access to them. And we’re not unique – we work alongside a whole load of other amazing organisations that are also doing the same thing. It’s what helps people to feel part of something, to be healthy, to express themselves and to feel valuable, and stops them feeling lonely and isolated. n For further information visit: www.thestationbristol.org.uk

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BRISTOL AT WORK Our series of photographic portraits by Charlotte Stone shows Bristol people at work

All aboard a city tour with Bristol Insight

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s residents of beautiful Bristol, we’d be justified in assuming we know our city pretty well. But that’s just the problem – we are so used to going about our daily lives here, we can sometimes forget to look up and take in the incredible sights that surround us. So this spring, why not step aboard a Bristol Insight tour to find out about the parts of Bristol you might have forgotten. From hidden history, to meaningful monuments, with the odd cheeky story squeezed in between – it’ll really open your eyes. And, if you’re very lucky, you might even end up on head guide Pete Hayes’ bus…

“I trained as a guide six years ago,” says Pete. “I have always been interested in local history, events and architecture – everything that makes Bristol tick. I enquired about the possibility of guiding with Bristol Insight, and was soon on a course organised by the company.

I later studied for an NVQ in Customer Care (Tourism) through the company at City of Bristol College, and went on to undertake the Bristol Welcome Host Gold Award.

“Each day at work varies, so the job is always enriching and different. Today, I went out with a driver to show him the new route, mentored a guide through the new route and then attended to some company management and administration, as I’m also the transport and operations manager here at Bristol Insight. After that, I facilitated a guide meeting with the guide trainer and am finishing off on the bus for the last two trips of the day, proudly showing Bristol off to visitors and locals alike.

“I know lots about Bristol. I love the city and county, and am always reading, researching and listening to establish what is what and where it’s at. Bristol is so diverse and exciting that I could never remember everything about it – all its secret nooks and crannies – so travelling round is exciting and exhilarating as it reminds me of clues and reminders that prompt my memory.

“That’s why guiding is never repetitive. And our audience is always lovely, interested and positive, which makes for lots of memorable moments. I’ll never forget the time in 2011, before Shaun the Sheep and Gromit, when the Wow!Gorillas were dotted around Bristol to celebrate Bristol Zoo’s 175th birthday and raise awareness of the extinction crisis facing primates. I was lucky enough – if lucky is the correct term, perhaps I should say gullible enough – to be dressed as a gorilla, and I went on the bus wearing my guide’s uniform over the hairy suit to wave farewell to the 61 gorillas on their last weekend in the city before they went off to auction.

“It was also a real honour to be personally presented with two Customer Service Awards in 2013 and 2014, the first by Destination Bristol and the second by South West Tourism Awards.

“Here at Bristol Insight, we provide specialist tours to suit all needs, including The Brunel Bristol Connection, Festive Twilight and Cream Tea Trips. There are unparalleled views from the top of our busses and our tours cover all the best things about the city – large and small.” n For more information about Bristol Insight tours, or to book your tickets, tel: 0117 403 1994 or visit: www.bristolinsight.co.uk

Supporting disabled children, young people and their families.

www.time2share.org.uk

Reg Charity No: 1068862

Could you spare 2 hours a week to Have FUN Make a DIFFERENCE SUPPORT a disabled child and their family We run social groups and a 1:1 befriending service which links disabled children and young people with a volunteer. Both services enable young people to develop friendships, feel less isolated, undertake fun activities, learn new skills, build confidence and develop independence.

We need people with a passion for supporting young people’s development to volunteer 2 or more hours a week with us.

“We truly are very grateful Time2Share exists and the wonderful people who dedicate their time voluntarily to help our kids flourish and grow in confidence” Parent

Time 2 Share, Unit 35 Easton Business Centre, Bristol, BS5 0HE Tel: 0117 9415868 hello@time2share.org.uk Time2Share is a Limited Company registered in England and Wales Company no.3424738 Charity no.1068862

www.charlottestonephoto.com

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READ IT | AND EAT

The Diner’s Digest

SIX OF THE MOST CHILD-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN BRISTOL Bristol offers a whole host of restaurants and cafés that your children will love – from soft-play areas to piles of board games; salted caramel brownies to lunchbox favourites, there’s lots of fun for all the family

CAFÉ AT-BRISTOL At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5BD Tel: 0117 915 1000 The At-Bristol café has plenty of child-friendly amenities, including: high chairs, a small soft-play area, good pram access through double-doors, babychanging facilities and a microwave for bottle/food warming. Not to mention that it’s attached to a superinteractive, hands-on science centre with something for all ages, and under 3s go in for free. The menu offers a range of children’s lunchbox choices, with five items for £4.95 (including sandwiches, yogurt, cakes, juice and fruit options), as well as a hot children’s options from the main café menu (including main meal, a drink and yogurt or fruit for pudding, for £5.95), which is all homemade, organic and Fairtrade.

The café can also cater for allergies and dietary requirements, plus babycinos and homemade cake-pops, biscuits and cakes are also available – perfect for a playful snack time!

Favourite place around Bristol to take the kids? I’ve been taking my daughter to the M-Shed since she was tiny (she’s almost five now), and it’s perfect for every age – great chocolate muffins in the café, a brilliant little play area, and of course, a fantastic, engaging exhibition space with lots for little explorers to do – Jen Forster, PR manager

BOCABAR Unit 3.1, Paintworks, Bath Road, Arnos Vale, Bristol, BS4 3EH Tel: 0117 972 8838 Bocabar has been a go-to place in the local area for over ten years, and in that time has successfully established itself as a firm favourite among Bristolians as a place where everyone is catered for and made to feel welcome.

It has become particularly popular with families due to the extensive room the gorgeous redbrick warehouse provides. Inside you will find space galore, with plenty of sofas and tables to cater to larger groups, and a dedicated childrens menu offering a mix of healthy salads and mezze items, homemade pizzas, Sundays roasts, and the ever-popular Bocaburgers which are always a hit with the older kids.

With as much of the produce sourced as locally as possible, and the kitchen open all day and evening, it is a great option for parents looking for a place to meet.

Drawing packs and books are always on hand to help keep the children entertained, which is an especially useful and thoughtful touch. Bocabar also provides a great option for family celebrations with the casual dining and sofa areas able to accommodate up to 100 people for larger gatherings.

Favourite place to take the children? The Wild Place Project is my favourite place to take kids; you can get up close to the animals and they have an amazing cheetah enclosure. Perfect for day out with a picnic! – Mel, co-owner

PLAYGROUND COFFEE HOUSE Playground Coffee House, 45 St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1TP Tel: 0117 329 0720 Playground Coffee House is the old city’s hidden gem for those of us who want to have a proper well-made coffee and keep the little ones busy while we enjoy it. With swings instead of chairs, and over 100 board games to choose from, you will discover your inner child alongside your toddler.

Don’t be fooled though; this is not a kids’ playground as the place is designed mainly for adults to have fun. Homemade cake, loose leaf tea and, of course, many types of coffee both from espresso and filter – as well as the board games – will make sure there is something to make everyone smile.

Favourite place around Bristol to take the kids? Although we don’t have children ourselves, we love going out with our friends to Chew Valley Lake and Ashton Court for picnics – Lilly, co-owner

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READ IT | AND EAT

CAFÉ RETREAT Café Retreat, Stoke Road, Durdham Downs, Bristol, BS9 1FG Tel: 0117 923 8186 Café Retreat is small, but uniquely situated next to the water tower on The Downs, making it an ideal meeting place for everyone.

Especially popular with families, the café opens every day from 8am, with closing times varying depending on the time of year and weather, but not usually before 4pm.

Wherever possible the produce is sourced from local suppliers, with all food prepared and cooked onsite at the café.

WINDMILL HILL CITY FARM Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip St, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 4EA Tel: 0117 963 3252 If you are looking for a feel-good day out with the kids, then what better than a visit to Windmill Hill City Farm? This independent community project, founded by a group of volunteers, celebrates its 40th birthday this year. It's the oldest city farm outside London, and remains free to all visitors.

The cosy café, winner of Best Family Friendly Bristol Good Food award in 2015, offers delicious food and an appealing array of cakes, and you can feel good knowing that you are helping the Farm to continue running just by enjoying a much-needed cup of tea.

The Farm aims to bring us all closer to where our food comes from, whether that’s the farm-reared meat and freshly harvested produce on the café menu, volunteering opportunities in the garden, or the range of outdoor children’s activities they run during the school holidays.

Stroll around the gardens and meet all the farmyard animals, go on one of the pretty nature trails, visit the wildlife garden, enjoy the play areas and much more besides.

Favourite place around Bristol to take the kids? Arnos Vale Cemetery is a great place to take the children because of its lovely grounds – Simone, events and marketing co-ordinator

The café has a variety of foods to cater for everyone’s tastes from all-day breakfasts, brunches, home baked cakes and cookies, sandwiches to eat in or take away, hearty soups served with homemade bread rolls and changing lunch specials.

The café offers a large selection of hot drinks, soft drinks and ice cream, which you can enjoy there or take away for a brisk walk around The Downs.

You can also sit and enjoy a drink with your food as they now have a selection of alcoholic beverages for you to enjoy.

As well as a collection of newspapers, books and magazines available for customers to read, the café also offers free Wi-Fi. Favourite place around Bristol to take the kids? It would have to be to one of the many parks that Bristol is blessed with. Free, and with beautiful walks, they are a great option for families – Gayle, co-owner

BUBBAHUB Bubbahub, 20 North Street, Bristol, BS3 1HW Web: thebubbahub.co.uk Situated just south of the Avon New Cut in fashionable Southville, Bubbahub is a uniquely family-friendly café and meeting space. Established for nearly five years, it is now an integral part of North Street’s vibrant social culture. It has been described as a hidden gem, and its preciousness lies in its cosy and welcoming front-room-ambiance. It is after all the only café where sitting on the floor with a home-made salted caramel brownie and a latte while playing with your baby is the norm.

Bubbahub is designed to be a gentle and reviving place – a real tonic for sleep-deprived grown-ups, who need to pause and relax while the bubbas play in a safe and stimulating space. The little kitchen serves up a delicious range of light foods suitable for the little ones – and the big ones. They have plenty of comfy sofa space, walls adorned with affordable art, pre-loved clothes and a gift shop. Bubbahub is a wonderful versatile space which hosts an eclectic mix of child and adult-centric classes/services throughout the week that are designed to support and delight new parents and their little ones.

Favourite place around Bristol to take the kids? I would say Tanpit Woods in Lower Failand. It is the most wonderful woodland area with a stream running through it – perfect for welly boot playtime. It is not a place for prams, and it is wild and muddy at times, but it’s a place that all children should have in their childhoods – Andrea, Bubbahub

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JENNY | DARES

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JENNY | DARES

CHOCOHOLIC HEAVEN In her quest to uncover exciting things to do in and around the city, Jenny Hayes indulges her sweet tooth making chocolates at Cocoa Libre

R

Opposite page, clockwise from top: Getting those chicks to stick on the Easter scene is tricky; Cocoa Libre goodies all boxed up and ready to go; my attempt at the Easter scene; my slightly wobbly knackalis; boxing up my Easter scene; Louise’s neat knackalis; ooops... spilt a bit, all by Will Dodd

eaders, it’s time to rejoice. Because here in Bristol, March is officially the month of chocolate. Not only is there the heavenly eggstravaganza that is Easter to look forward to on Sunday 27, but we also have the devilishly indulgent Taste Chocolate Festival to tempt us that same weekend.

As a journalist with a nose for a story – and a woman capable of eating her own bodyweight in chocolate – I decided it was time to get to the bottom of just why we Bristolians are so hooked on this tasty treat. And what better way than to visit one of the city’s top chocolatiers, Cocoa Libre, to try my hand at a bit of chocolate making?

But what’s this? Do I detect a slight grumble out there in the crowd? A rumble of protest that this month’s feat isn’t as daring as some of those in previous months? Well, doubters, let me tell you this… resisting the temptation to climb headfirst into a vat of warm, silky, tempered chocolate was one of the most challenging experiences of my life – not least because the chocolate I tried at Cocoa Libre was the scrummiest thing that’s ever passed my lips.

So much so, I was astounded to learn that these chocs, handcrafted by owner Louise Harrison and her talented team of six, are dairy, wheat, gluten and nut free. How could anything so sinfully decadent be so deceptively pure? Well, it appears that, even when it comes to chocolate, sometimes less is more. But what drew Louise to this market in the first place?

“When my son was about three years old, he developed a bad tummy,” she explains. “We went to see various doctors and consultants over several months, but it wasn’t until he naturally cut dairy out of his diet that he got better.

“That’s when I started to look in supermarkets for good dairy free products, and found that there aren’t very many inspiring chocolate products out there. Coming from a graphic design background, I particularly noticed that the ‘I really want that’ factor was missing.

“So I went on a chocolate making course with the excellent Chocolate Tart in Congresbury back in January 2014, which completely inspired me. I converted a back bedroom in our house into a workshop and started experimenting with different dairy free chocolates until I found one that tasted really good.

“As I learnt more about the free from market, I realised that there was a lot more to it than just dairy free. One in 70 people are now coeliacs, and many more are nut allergists, so I decided to ensure all the ingredients I use are free from wheat, gluten and nuts. I went on a course so that I could attain the highest food standards, and also got all my products sent off to be lab tested to make sure they were free from everything I claimed.

“Over the next year the business grew and we moved to our current premises here in Yatton in June 2015. Shortly after that we got our first order from Holland and Barratt, making dark mint chocolate penguins for Christmas, and things have just taken off from there. We now make lots of different products – from cute animals, to chunky slabs, to elegant knackalis – in dark mint, dark orange, rice milk honeycomb, rice milk with orange, and plain rice milk flavours.”

I’m sure just reading that glorious list of temptations made your mouth water, so perhaps now you’re starting to see just why

my willpower was so sorely tested when I visited Cocoa Libre headquarters. Still not convinced? Well let me set the scene. After donning our rather glamorous plastic overshoes, white coats and hairnets, Louise led me into the preparation room where I was quite overwhelmed by the heady, melty, marvellous sight, smell and sound of molten chocolate. A faint whiff of orange oil caressed my nasal passages as I stood by the tempering machine, chomping at the bit to wave my mould beneath the velvet stream of chocolate that flowed forth from a nozzle at the top.

Louise carefully showed me how to move the mould so that the chocolate would pour in neatly and with minimal drippage, but of course I lost my head with all the excitement and ended up covered in the stuff. Not wanting to waste a moment traipsing across the room to rinse it off under the tap, I bravely attempted to lick up the overspill myself, and darn near managed it before I was gently reminded that a good wash with soap and water would be preferable for reasons of hygiene. Well, you can’t blame me for trying…

Despite this early deviation from the path of professional chocolatiering, I did manage to get back on track and concentrate on filling various shaped moulds – including a bunny, chicks and two eggs – with chocolate, as opposed to my mouth. Then Louise sensibly removed them from my clutches and locked them away in the fridge to harden up before assembly.

While they cooled, she taught me how to make knackalis – a divinely delicate disk of chocolate topped with a beautiful sugar work pattern. Now of course, Louise made this look simple, dipping a tablespoon into a bowl of tempered choccy and then tapping it out into a perfect sphere on the sheet of sugar work.

Unfortunately, my attempts were less impressive, but I was still proud of the line of wonky ovals I managed to produce.

Although I can’t imagine they made it past the tight quality control department of Cocoa Libre.

Then it was time to get the moulds I’d made earlier back out of the fridge, and for Louise to show me how to assemble them into a gorgeous little Easter scene. There was a bit of a knack to getting the chick to stick to its base, and poor bunny looked a bit worse for wear, but overall I was rather proud of my creation.

So much so, I took it home with the full intention of giving it to my lovely little niece for Easter. Needless to say, it didn’t last that long. But don’t blame me, that Cocoa Libre is just too tasty to resist! n

If you’d like to find out more about Cocoa Libre, or purchase some of the mouthwateringly moreish products mentioned above, visit: www.cocoalibre.co.uk. You can meet Louise and the talented Cocoa Libre team at this year’s Taste Chocolate Festival, which is taking place on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 March at Waterfront Square on the Harbourside. There you’ll find a host of local chocolatiers and other artisan food and drink producers, as well as cooking demos, live music, and a whole lot more to tickle your tastebuds. Tickets: £3 in advance or £4 on the day, under 13s go free. For more information, visit: www.tastechocolate.co.uk

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FOOD & Drink

TASTY TITBITS FROM THE CITY’S TOP RESTAURANTS

ALWAYS STAY GROUNDED

Food for thought

Grounded is one of Bristol’s best foodie success stories. Founded in 2008 by Tobie Holbrook, the independent café bar group now has seven branches dotted in and around Bristol. It’s no wonder it’s proved so popular, as each café bar has a warm, inviting atmosphere that isn’t far from the comfort of sitting in your own living room – just with much better coffee. If you’re feeling peckish there’s a new spring food menu to try – which includes dishes such as sea bass with chilli and ginger butter, and a delicious goat’s cheese salad – that goes well with one of the Bath Ales craft beers on offer.

What’s also evident in each café bar is the importance placed on creating a community space – from the friendly staff, to the themed food weeks and live music events. Work by local artists is also exhibited on the walls, further adding to each branch’s individual character. To find your local branch, visit: www.cafegrounded.co.uk

The delicious goat’s cheese salad at Café Grounded

WE ALL SCREAM FOR...

ITALIAN GELATO A new independent gelato bar has opened its doors on College Green. Swoon serves true artisan gelato, which is made daily on the premises, all year round. In addition to the gelato, the 30 seater bar serves a range of handmade Italian treats, including stecchi (gelato sticks dipped in chocolate), sorbetti (a range of fruit or chocolate, dairy free ices), monoporzioni (small but perfectly formed puddings), as well as coffee from local roasters Extract and pastries from local bakeries. Swoon in the brainchild of Bruno Forte, the latest generation of a family who have been making gelato for 120 years. Visit: www.swoononaspoon.co.uk

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YURT LUSH MOVES HOUSE Everyone’s favourite food yurt is on the move... but fortunately it’s not going too far. Yurt Lush has left it’s home at Creative Common to set up house just down the road next to the distinctive Boxworks container project behind the Engine Shed. Expanding to incorporate a third yurt in its structure, the new Yurt Lush will be bigger and better, boasting an expanded seating capacity so more people can enjoy its field to fork ethos.

Visit: www.eatdrinkbristolfashion.co.uk

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A quality local independent Italian that's family run and well established.

WWW.PIAZZADIROMA.CO.UK 178 WHITELADIES ROAD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2XU OPEN 6PM TO 11PM TUESDAY TO SUNDAY (AND BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS)

T: 0117 973 4183

FROM A ROMANTIC MEAL TO A PARTY BOOKING, YOU WILL BE WELL LOOKED AFTER

THE MENU

SPECIAL OFFERS PICTURES & REVIEWS

ON OUR FACEBOOK &WEBSITE

15% off your food bill (eat in or takeaway) You must have the voucher with you, voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher must be presented before ordering drinks or food, only one voucher per group or table, management reserves the right to modify or cancel this offer at any time, applies to main menu only not specials board, please let us know that you are using the voucher at the time of booking to avoid disappointment.

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BRISTOL UPDATES NEWS FROM THE BUSINESSES ACROSS THE CITY

BRISTOL’S FLYING HIGH

Record breakers

Renowned Russian adventurer, Fedor Konyukhov visited Cameron Balloons to see the hot air balloon he will use in his solo attempt to set the world record for flying around the world. The world’s largest hot air balloon manufacturer, based in Bedminster, were contracted in 2014 to develop a unique vessel for the famous 64 year old daredevil, who plans to circumnavigate the globe later this year. If successful, Fedor will become the second person to fly a balloon around the world after the late American, Steve Fossett, became the first man to complete the journey in 2002. The Russian adventurer hopes that developments in technolgy and design since then will mean he is able to set a new world record and complete the journey faster than Fossett, who took 15 days. We’ll be keeping our fingers crossed here at TBM – good luck Fedor!

Visit: www.cameronballoons.co.uk

Renowned adventurer Fedor Konyukhov visits Cameron Balloons

Michelle Ovens, MBE

VINTAGE AT ST PETER’S HOSPICE

STYLISH AND ETHICAL

BRAVE, BOLD AND BONKERS!

ST WERBURGHS GOES GREEN

Local charity St Peter’s Hospice has launched its first ever vintage room within its Portishead shop, giving customers the chance to get their hands on high quality vintage items at a fraction of the price. Stocking accessories, crafts, homeware and small vintage furniture as well as retro designer clothing, the specialist room will help to generate vital funds for Bristol’s only adult hospice. The charity has also opened its second specialist bridal room, also within the Portishead store. Visit: www.stpetershospice.org.uk

Opening on Tuesday 1 March, independent lifestyle boutique Movement will bring quality ethical and sustainable brands to Clifton. The boutique stocks women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, apothecary and homeware. Many of the labels have wonderful stories behind them, so customers can buy items for themselves, or presents for friends and family, knowing they are making a real difference to people’s lives. Brands include: House of Wandering Silk, Hiro and Wolf, and HW2. Visit: www.movementboutique.co.uk

This International Women’s Day, Freelance Mum is hosting four inspiring women who will speak about the virtues of making brave, bold, and sometimes slightly bonkers choices in life.

The speakers are Michelle Ovens, MBE, National Campaign Director for Small Business Saturday; Helene Jewell of Jewell Facilitiation; journalist, media consultant and tv producer Fiona Scott; and regional champion from Enterprise Nation, Alison Edgar. Tickets: £17. For more information or to book, visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk

St Werburghs Community Centre, one of Bristol’s busiest and most loved community buildings, has achieved Silver status in the Green Tourism Awards. Offering a range of meeting rooms and event spaces within the beautiful Victorian building and its modern, eco friendly annexe, the centre was applauded for its strong overall commitment to sustainability across a range of areas, including intiatives to improve the energy efficiency of the old building and the new annexe. Visit: www.stwerburghs.org.uk

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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Network Rail is taking another significant step towards electrification of the Great Western Mainline with work planned 2nd April – 10th April 2016 overhead electric equipment to fit under and through. As you might expect, this involves completing a number of complex work streams to create what we call the space envelope.

Can you give us more details of what you are doing this April?

During the time when the railway line between Bath and Bristol is closed, Network Rail’s orange army will be undertaking a range of work at Keynsham station, which includes track lowers, platform alterations, the replacement of waiting shelters and the installation of parts of the overhead line equipment.

W

e spoke with Andy Haynes from Network Rail, programme director West of England, to find out more about the Great Western Route Modernisation programme and the electrification works planned this April.

So, Andy, what are you doing and why?

As part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan, we are modernising and transforming Brunel’s railway from London Paddington to Swansea to make it fit for the 21st century. Part of these works is the electrification of the line which will pave the way for a fleet of brand new greener, quieter trains with more seats.

Following on from the successful programme of work around Bath last summer, this April we will be working at Keynsham and Oldfield Park stations to prepare the line for electrification. The benefits of this programme will be seen for generations to come.

What do you need to do to electrify the line?

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We encourage everyone to stay on public transport as it will still be the quickest way to get to between Bath and Bristol.

It is important for people to know that Bath Spa and Bristol Temple Meads stations will remain open throughout the nine days. We realise that this work will cause disruption to rail users, but we have been working closely with all the relevant parties to minimise that disruption.

I would encourage everyone travelling between 2nd and 10th April to check before they travel.

Information is available both at www.nationalrail.co.uk or www.gwr.com/bristolbath2016 For more information about the programme do have a look at these dedicated websites: www.networkrail.co.uk/great-western-routemodernisation/banes and www.networkrail.co.uk/great-western-routemodernisation/city-of-bristol ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Between Bath Spa and Oldfield Park stations we will be replacing crossing and switching equipment and carrying out preparatory activities in readiness for further work on the line during April next year.

What effect will this have on people living in the Avon valley?

During the period of work, both Keynsham and Oldfield Park stations will be closed and a comprehensive rail replacement service will be in operation. This service was very successful last summer and will keep you moving, whatever your reason for travel.

CONTACT DETAILS: Network Rail, 1 Eversholt Street, London NW1 2DN Web: www.networkrail.co.uk/great-western-routemodernisation Tel: 03457 11 41 41 Twitter: @networkrailgwrm

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CHANGES TO THE TAXATION OF DIVIDENDS Tom Ogden of Hollingdale Pooley considers the substantial changes to the taxation of company dividends.

Dividends received from companies are subject to tax differently to other sources of income.

Companies pay corporation tax on their profits, with the shareholders also liable for personal tax on profits distributed to them by way of dividends.

For a basic rate taxpayer, the effective rate of personal tax on dividend income is 0% compared to 20% on other sources of income, whilst a higher rate taxpayer pays 25% on dividend income compared to 40% on other sources of income.

From 6 April 2016, new rules will come into place increasing the effective rate on dividends for both basic and higher rate taxpayers by 7.5%, with new rates of 7.5% within the basic rate tax band and 32.5% within the higher rate tax band.

There is some good news, in the form of a £5,000 dividend allowance, exempting the first £5,000 of dividend income from income tax.

The new rules create winners and losers, with most paying more tax under the new rules but some will pay less, as considered below.

For business owners, many of whom will take the majority of their remuneration by dividends it is likely that their tax liability after 6 April 2016 will increase. They should consider now whether they can declare a dividend before the end of the current tax year to take advantage of the lower current rates of tax.

In addition, looking further ahead, those affected will also need to consider the potential increase in their future personal tax liabilities, on top of their company’s corporation tax bill, and will need to plan their cash flow accordingly to ensure they are able to settle their tax on time.

On the other hand, an investor who has a salary above the higher rate tax band and receives dividend income from investments of say £4,000 would currently need to pay £1,000 of higher rate tax on dividend income they receive. From 6 April 2016, the dividend income would be covered in full by the new dividend allowance and so no higher rate tax would be payable.

For advice on how the changes to the taxation of dividends could affect you, please contact our tax manager, Tom Ogden or one of our partners to arrange a meeting.

Hollingdale Pooley Bramford House, 23 Westfield Park, Clifton, Bristol BS6 6LT Tel: 0117 973 3377 www.hollingdalepooley.co.uk

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THE IMPORTANCE OF HONESTY IN FINANCIAL NEGOTIATIONS DURING DIVORCE Alison Dukes, a Family Law specialist with AMD SOLICITORS, comments on the proper approach to financial disclosure if parties to a divorce want any agreement they reach to be final.

When a marriage breaks down and the parties are attempting to reach a financial settlement one of the first steps that they need to take is to exchange financial disclosure. Quite often this will be within what is known as a Form E which is quite a lengthy form prescribed by the court for use in Financial Remedy Proceedings, which are issued where parties are unable to reach an agreement through negotiation, mediation or using the collaborative process.

The end of the form includes a “Statement of Truth” and a warning that “Proceedings for contempt of court may be brought against a person who makes or causes to be made, a false statement”.

Clearly parties need to be able to rely on the information that their former spouse discloses and to make an informed decision about any settlement offer that is made. What happens then when parties reach an agreement after one of them has deliberately hidden or undervalued one or more of their assets?

In 2015 the Supreme Court considered two cases brought by ex-wives to reopen their claims for financial provision against their husbands because they had been misled by them at the time that they reached their financial settlements.

In both these cases the amounts involved were substantial and the Supreme Court found that the husbands had both been misleading and fraudulent in their approach to financial disclosure and that this had been material to the outcome of the respective settlements.

In one of the cases the court set aside a previous financial consent order and in the other a draft order agreed between the parties was not sealed by the court.

All parties involved in divorce proceedings have a duty to make a “full and frank” disclosure of their financial circumstances. If they deliberately mislead their former spouse then a court will consider the non disclosure to be material and it will be presumed that proper disclosure would have led to another outcome unless the party at fault can show, on the balance of probabilities, that it would not have done so.

The test when non disclosure is inadvertent is different. There is no presumption that the failure to disclose is material and it will be up to the other party to show that proper disclosure would, on the balance of probabilities, have led to a different order.

In order to ensure that the terms of settlement on divorce are final, it is essential that there has been honesty on both sides. Otherwise, a court order based on fraudulent misrepresentation is likely to be set aside if evidence of the fraud emerges later. Parties to a divorce should be careful to ensure that their financial disclosure is accurate, as even an inadvertent failure to disclose an asset or its real value can lead to the terms of a previously agreed order being set aside.

For advice on divorce, financial provision or any other family law issues contact Alison Dukes on 0117 9621205 or email alisondukes@amdsolicitors.com. Alison is based at our office at 100 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4JZ.

© AMD Solicitors

A local award winning law firm

Telephone us on (0117) 9621205 or visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com

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SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY

WRITTEN IN THE STARS Jenny Hayes visits At-Bristol Science Centre to find out more about the spring equinox

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SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY

Main image: The blue planet in space, an artist’s impression © Denis Tabler This page: An eruption of heat and radiation from the surface of the sun © NASA

H

urray! It’s that time of the year when we can cast off our coats, scrunch up our scarves and step out in shirtsleeves because spring is all set to arrive on Sunday 20 March. Why this date, I hear you ask?

Could it not show up a little sooner? Saturday 5 March would be more convenient… Well no, I’m afraid not, because you see a very special event marks the arrival of spring each year, and that is the vernal equinox. This phenomenon only ever takes place between 19 and 21 March, when the sun is directly over the earth’s equator resulting in an equal amount of day and night.

This wasn’t always the case, however. When Julius Caesar established his calendar back in 45 BCE, he decided that 25 March should be the date of the spring equinox. Unfortunately, because he has miscalculated the length of the solar year – by just a teeny tiny 11 minutes – the date of the spring equinox began to drift on his calendar. By 300 CE it had retreated to 21 March, and was all the way back on 11 March by 1500 CE. Irked by the effect of such inconsistency on the date of Easter, Pope Gregory XIII set about creating a more accurate calendar in 1582. To conform with the edicts of the Council of Nicea of ADE 325, which stated that Easter must always fall on the Sunday after the spring equinox, the Pope wanted to ensure the spring equinox fell on the same date each year. It was nigh on impossible to ensure this level of accuracy given the complexity of the solar cycle, but clever Italian scientist Aloysus Lilius did develop a calendar system for Pope Gregory that balanced common years with leap years to ensure the equinox would always fall between 19 and 21 March, thus ensuring Easter Sunday could be celebrated shortly afterward. Thus the Gregorian calendar was born, which we still adhere to today.

So, in Christianity the vernal equinox carries with it great significance. As light begins to win the battle over darkness in the sky, and life emerges from death as the earth reawakens from winter, the tableau of the Passion, Crucifixion and Resurrection plays out. A similar story can be found in ancient Egyption mythology, where the spring equinox marks the day that Osiris – god of the dead and ruler of the underworld – rose again to bestow the gift of fertility on the land. The Great Sphinx of Giza was stationed to watch out for him rising as the Sun on the horizon, a duty she still performs to this day.

One of the most famous ancient festivals was the Mayan sacrificial ritual at the great pyramid in Chichén Itzá, Mexico.

The pyramid was built to honour Kukulcán, the divine creator and god of resurrection and reincarnation who took the form of a plumed serpent, and every year at the spring equinox it performs its own miracle. As the sun of the late afternoon falls in the sky, it creates the illusion of a snake creeping slowly down the northern staircase, as if the god himself is descending to walk again among his people.

The Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century ADE, is also constructed around the celestial phenomenon of the equinox.

The main tower of the complex symbolises Mount Meru, home of the gods, and each year at the spring equinox the sun rises to crown the tower to show that the Hindu god Indra has once again ascended into the sky and returned to his rightful place as King of Heaven. Elsewhere, the perpetual battle between light and darkness is illustrated in a giant stone mural that depicts devas (angels) and asuras (demons) locked in an eternal tug of war.

A famous reminder of the importance of the equinox to people in pre-Christian England exists not far from us here in Bristol, in the form of Stonehenge. Whatever religious, mystical or spiritual are hidden within this Neolithic site are still open to speculation, but there are clear indicators that the arrangement of the stones served as a celestial observatory. For thousands of years, druids and pagans have gathered at this site on the vernal equinox to celebrate Eostre, the Saxon goddess of fertility and new beginnings.

But the spring equinox isn’t fun and games for everyone here on Earth. At the south pole, it will be the day on which the sun

sets for the first time in six months, and the start of the slow descent toward 24 hours of darkness three months later. Closer to home, some of us may experience a complete communication breakdown – in the astronomical as opposed to astrological sense. For a few days around the equinox, all the geostationary satellites that orbit the Earth will be disrupted as the Sun passes directly behind each for a short period each day. When this happens, solar radiation swamps the signal from the satellite causing an outage that can last anything from a few seconds to an entire hour.

There’s no doubt that this can be irritating in the extreme if you happen to be in the middle of a call on your mobile, but when you stop and think about what’s happening, it’s also completely amazing. After all, there’s something rather wonderful in knowing that the equinox still has the power to interrupt our lives and make us pause for just a moment to reflect on the wonders of our solar system, just as it did our ancestors. n With thanks as always to Lee Pullen for sharing his time and knowledge. If you’ve been inspired to learn more about the stars then book your tickets for the new Spring Stargazing show in At-Bristol’s incredible 3D Planetarium – from Tuesday 8 March.

For more details, tel: 0117 915 1000 or visit: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Look out for...

There’s loads to see in our skies this month, including: ● Jupiter in opposition, Tuesday 8 March – the mighty gas giant takes its position directly opposite the Sun, at its nearest to Earth and brightest in appearance in our sky. It will rise in the constellation of Leo as the Sun sets, and then disappear below the horizon again at dawn. Don’t forget to get your binoculars out to spot the Galilean moons. ● The Pashcal Full Moon, Wednesday 23 March – this is the first full moon after the vernal equinox, which sets the date of Easter. It will rise in the constellation of Virgo and, although it’s later in the month, you’ll still be able to see Jupiter shining brightly to the right of it.

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WHAT’S ON | FOR KIDS

FAMILY FUN Keep all ages entertained over Easter with the help of our guide to what’s on around the city for little ones and big ones alike Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales, Bristol Old Vic, 10 – 12 March Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-loved titles: Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze. Funky moves, toe tapping tunes and giggles are guaranteed in this delightful production by the award-winning Scamp Theatre, directed by Sally Cookson.

Suitable for ages 3+. Book tickets from the box office on tel: 0117 987 7877 or visit: www.bristololdvic.org.uk

Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales © Steve Ullathorne

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WHAT’S ON | FOR KIDS

DON’T MISS...

Brilliant Brain Week, At-Bristol, 14 – 21 March Meet Bristol neuroscientists and take part in hands-on activities all to do with your brain.

Make your own model brain cell, take a swimming cap brain map and chat with researchers to discover why we still have so much to learn about what happens inside our heads. Drop-in sessions throughout the day, free after standard admission. For further information visit: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Family Storytelling, Arnolfini, Tuesday 15 March, 10.30am – 11.30am Join in an interactive morning of stories inspired by the sea that will amaze you and make you giggle. Suitable for under 5s. Free but numbers are limited. Book tickets at the box office on tel: 0117 917 2300 or email: boxoffice@arnolfini.org.uk to reserve your places.

Star Party on the Downs, Tuesday 15 or Wednesday 16 March, 8pm – 10pm Wrap up warm for a night of stargazing with the Bristol Astronomical Society and Shaaron Leverment from Explorer Dome. Be amazed as you look at the surface of the moon, the planet Jupiter and the Orion Nebula through a large telescope. Learn how to spot the main spring constellations and enjoy hearing the stories written in the stars. Cost: £6 (includes a hot drink and a star-shaped cookie). Book in advance with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on tel: 0117 9030609, and pay on the night. Please make sure you are free for both evenings in case the weather is unsuitable on the Tuesday.

Nature Lab, At Bristol, from 22 March Celebrate nature’s party season by exploring the science of living things. Discover the natural world around us and find out how to do your own wildlife survey. Drop-in sessions throughout the day, free after standard admission. For further information visit: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Victorian Explorers and Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, Tyntesfield, 25 March – 17 April, 10am – 4pm Become a Victorian explorer and uncover ancient relics, mysterious creatures and fascinating geology. Throughout the Easter holidays there will also be a special Easter egg hunt, as well as games and activities. For further information visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield

Hop to It – Easter at Bristol Zoo, 25 March – 10 April, 10am – 4pm This Easter, hop along to Bristol Zoo for lots of eggs-tra activities. Child entry is only £5 when accompanied by a full paying adult. For further information visit: www.bristolzoo.org.uk

Enchanted Easter at Wild Place Project, 25 March – 10 April, 10am – 4pm There’s lots of family fun to be had at Wild Place Project this Easter, including a fairy trail in the enchanted woodland. For further information visit: www.wildplace.org.uk

Much Ado About Puffin, The Wardrobe Theatre, 26 March – 2 April, 11am & 2pm Join Open Attic, a theatre company comprised of Bristol artists, as they traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you this funny tale about a

man all alone, a friendly puffin, and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Using puppetry, music and storytelling, Much Ado About Puffin is about old habits, new friendships, and stepping out into the unknown. Suitable for ages 4+ and their families. Tickets: £7 from the Tobacco Factory Theatres box office on tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com.

Holiday Club, Leigh Woods, Wednesday 30 March, 10am – 3pm In this special Easter holiday club for 8-12 yearolds, discover your artistic flair by creating some take-home art in the woods using the woodland resources around you. And use your senses to the full to experience the natural world. After lunch make a woodland shelter with teammates then learn to light a fire without matches and cook camp bread and marshmallows over it to finish off your day. The aim of this day is to be outside in natural surroundings, however there is a large barn shelter if the weather is poor.

Cost: £27 per child. For more information and to book visit: www.mygreenworld.co.uk or contact info@mygreenworld.co.uk

● If you have missed the presence of Aardman’s loveable pooch around the streets of Bristol, fear not, as you can see an exhibition of Gromit Unleashed sculptures – never seen before in the UK – at The Grand Appeal’s shop at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway until 10 April. The 16 designs were created as part of The Greatest Dog Show On Earth exhibition in Hong Kong in July 2014, which saw similar success as The Grand Appeal’s Gromit Unleashed trail in Bristol in 2013. For the Hong Kong exhibition, the Gromit sculptures were displayed on a specially-built twotiered carousel, with an enormous, four-metre-high Gromit as the centrepiece. At the end of the exhibition, the sculptures were auctioned to raise funds for The Grand Appeal and children’s art programmes in hospitals across Hong Kong. Just like the Bristol trail, the Hong Kong sculptures were created by an array of well-known artists and designers, including several home-grown talents.

The exhibition will be open from 9.30am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm on Saturday and 10.30am to 5pm on Sunday and is free to enter.

Gromit sculptures in Hong Kong

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Mum, voiceover artist and BBC Radio Bristol presenter, Faye Dicker, meets the Bristol businesses that make family life easier...

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or many mums, when weaning begins it opens up a whole new world of problems – from ‘will they ever eat from a spoon’ to ‘what if they choke’? It’s one of the more serious aspects that doesn’t dawn on you until you’re watching your baby get to grips with eating. And it’s typically the point that lots of mums get in contact with Zoe Hunt from Mini First Aid. Mini First Aid was born in 2014, when mum Kate Ball wanted to bring a range of classes to parents and grandparents specifically geared to treating infants and young children. Of course, there are some elements that are universally the same, but the nuts and bolts are aimed at dealing with tots.

As an old school friend of Kate’s, Zoe was so inspired by the business she was the first person to snap up the franchise and bring it to Bristol. As a mum of two herself, and previously working as cabin crew, she’s had first hand experience of real life emergencies. Whether they’ve been 30,000 feet up, or on ground level – she’s got the practical skills to deal with them. Plus she has the ‘mum factor’, so knows just how easy it can be to panic when it actually happens to your child.

Chatting to Zoe, I was impressed at her enthusiasm and genuine desire to help people. Her classes are designed to fit in with busy parents, priced at £20 and lasting just two hours so they fit in with the busy world of looking after little people. They’re held in child friendly venues, such as play cafés, across Bristol – after all, it makes life that little bit easier if you can bring your pre-crawling baby with you. Or if you can’t find a class to suit you, Zoe can run one in your own home, providing there’s a minimum of six people, making it hands-on and accessible.

While Mini First Aid doesn’t pretend you’re going to leave with a qualification, it gives you the confidence to deal with some of the medical emergencies you might be faced with. Zoe and her team aren’t there to assess you, but to guide you when it comes to dealing with some of those scenarios.

The two hour class covers choking, CPR, burns and breaks, bleeding and bumps, febrile seizures and meningitis awareness. As Zoe explained, there’s more to meningitis than just the rash, which is typically the symptom that most people look out for.

These classes are a little bit different as they are all run by mums, who not only know what it’s like to experience that rising panic when you can see your child has hurt themselves, but also know how concentration levels dip when you’re sleep deprived. Zoe is quite happy to respond to emails and go over subject matter again, if attendees have‘missed a bit. There’s also a chance to practice on one of their baby or child manikins, all under the watchful eye of a trained first aider.

As a mum of two little ones, I’ve seen my fair share of bumps and bruises.

Not to mention one sickening break on a bouncy castle. I’ve been promising myself for too long it’s time to get up to speed with first aid and gain the practical know-how to deal with things. With Mini First Aid that’s one less thing to worry about – thanks Zoe, for bringing it to Bristol. n www.minifirstaid.co.uk www.freelancemum.co.uk

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A Stitch In Time The Bristol schools’ sewing bee returns to John Lewis Cribbs Causeway

By Dr Andrew Daniel, Headmaster of Monmouth School

BOYS WILL BE BOYS ‘Smart apart, but clever together’ has become somewhat of a mantra at the Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools.

It used to be a taboo to suggest boys and girls learnt differently, but here we know that each sex benefits immensely from learning environments which are specifically tailored to suit their needs.

Across the UK in 2015, there was a difference of 8.4% between the number of girls achieving A* - C grades in GCSEs (73.1%) and boys earning the equivalent results (64.7%).

However, at Monmouth School and HMSG there was a different story, with a gap of only 4.3% occurring between the genders.

Over at HMSG, 99.6% of girls earned A* - Cs, with 95.3% of the boys here mirroring their success.

At A level boys performed better in some areas, with 22.6% achieving A*s while 17.1% of girls at our sibling school were awarded A*s.

Nationally, 25.9% of all pupils were awarded A* - As, while 43.4% of boys earned the same grades at Monmouth.

Of course we understand the importance of children learning to socialise comfortably with members of each sex, and so we organise mixed activities, music, drama and foreign trips.

But we passionately believe the reason our pupils excel is down to the carefully crafted lessons at Monmouth, specifically designed to inspire and motivate boys.

Here are my top strategies to promote boys’ learning, adapted across the whole of Monmouth School: 1. Boys are motivated when learning objectives, with a “real-world” context, are clearly defined at the start of the lesson; 2. A summary at the end of each lesson is important for boys 3. Boys like a mix of different learning styles, including visual (images), auditory (listening), and kinaesthetic (movement); 4. They like ‘chunked up’ information: complicated tasks broken down into stages, and a fast pace with targets, short instructions, and immediate rewards; 5. Group work can be very effective for boys; 6. Praise: boys are motivated even more highly than girls by praise 7. To channel boys’ energy use physical activities in lessons, such as soft ball games for question-and-answer; 8. Boys are motivated by friendly competition in lessons; 9. Assessment for boys should focus on attainment rather than effort, and focus on quantitative targets; 10. Self-assessment: there is clear research to show that giving boys the opportunity to assess or mark their own work can raise their attainment. *The Schools have an established bus route covering the Thornbury area.

For more information, visit habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710433 for Monmouth School or 01600 711104 for HMSG. 70 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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All images © Dave Betts

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he ever popular Bristol schools’ sewing bee has returned to John Lewis Cribbs Causeway for it’s third year. This annual competition sees GCSE, AS or A-level art and design students from across local schools submit prom outfit designs, from which an expert panel of judges select seven finalists. This lucky seven are then invited into the store, where they can create their dream design under the guidance of the skilled sewing team at John Lewis, using luxurious fabrics and accessories from the haberdashery department.

This year’s finalists are Lilly Mai Cole, Shannon Locke, Tierney Mannion, Talia Hacker and Lucy Tiley from Bradley Stoke and Patchway Community School; Olivia Cushley from Chipping Sodbury School; and Zoe Roberts from Castle School. Over the February half term, they went behind the scenes at John Lewis Cribbs Causeway for three days of one-onone tuition and help in turning their beautiful designs into reality.

The girls will have the opportunity to model their creations during a special charity prom event at Old Down Estate on Monday 21 March.

They will have their hair styled by professional hairdressers Em², and their makeup for the evening applied by Clarins at John Lewis. Guests at the event receive a goody bag and drink on arrival, and can then spend an enjoyable evening finding out about the latest prom fashions at John Lewis, as well as hair and make-up tips and demonstrations on how to get the perfect look for that extra special occassion.

Head of branch, Lucy Ramseyer, said: “I have been really impressed by the designs submitted this year. They are stunning and made the final selection process extremely difficult. We are delighted to be able to offer students this opportunity and I am looking forward to seeing their ideas come to life in the reveal in March.” n

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BEACH | BREAK

REVIEW

SAIL AWAY Jenny Hayes immerses herself in the coastline and culture of St Ives

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Images, clockwise from top left: Get a good night’s sleep in the luxurious bedroom at Blue Moon; Porthmeor Beach is just round the corner; the stylish lounge and wellequipped kitchen; a separate dressing room with space to work; a snapshot of bustling St Ives Harbour all © Tony Timmington

here’s something about the light in St Ives that gives you a new perspective on things. Apparently it’s down to the purity of the air, the idiosyncrasies of the surrounding landscape, and the reflection from the water of the mighty Atlantic Ocean, all of which combine to provide the observer with a unique outlook on life.

It’s a phenomenon that has drawn artists to the area since the early nineteenth century, when both Whistler and Turner were spotted taking a turn around the town in search of inspiration. By the 1930s a thriving community of artists had settled in St Ives, including the fantastic Barbara Hepworth and her second husband, the abstract painter Ben Nicholson. This creative crew set about transforming the abandoned fishing net lofts along picturesque Porthmeor beach into light-filled studio space, breathing new life into the area and establishing it as the town’s arts quarter.

Although I personally had no intention of picking up a paintbrush during my weekend away with my other half, there’s no denying that I was in dire need of a dose of this famed St Ives clarity. So it seemed rather fitting that our holiday home was nestled right in the very heart of this artistic hub, where so many people – past and present – had found inspiration.

Blue Moon is one of three luxury Beachspoke properties in St Ives, and it’s a bite-size taste of heaven situated just a stone’s throw from Porthmeor Beach. Converted from what was once a fisherman’s cottage, it offers cosy yet extremely stylish accommodation. Think nautical stripes and driftwood sculptures juxtaposed with modern art and all the latest gadgets, of which my particular favourites were the iPod doc and Nespresso machine. Most impressive of all, though, were the thoughtful personal touches that really made us feel at home – the snuggly bathrobes hanging on the bedroom door, the carton of milk in the fridge and the chilled bottle of bubbly waiting patiently in the wine cooler, just begging to be cracked open.

So we did. And, braving the elements, took our glasses of Prosecco out onto the beach to watch the winter sun set over the Atlantic. Sure, there was a touch of drizzle in the air, but that didn’t mar the beauty of the scene, or dampen the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks. In fact, as we tucked ourselves away beneath the balcony of one of the aforementioned artist’s studios, huddling together for warmth, I realised that this moment was a perfect memory in the making.

It was also the moment it dawned on me that, perhaps in St Ives, there is no such thing as low season. Whatever the time of year, the beauty of the landscape and the bustle of the town remain undiminished. As does the local spirit…

Let me explain. On our quest for hearty pub grub and a pint later that evening, we ventured into The Sloop on the harbour side. Having partaken of some good food and a snifter or two of ale, hubby and I were pleased to learn that there’d be some live music taking place that evening. But we had no idea of the party we were in for. Local legend Bob Love, armed only with his guitar and an impressive repertoire that spanned everyone from Johnny Cash to Dizzy Rascal, proceeded to whip the crowd into such a frenzy that I found myself dusting off my dancing shoes and taking to the floor – at which point hubby very sensibly escorted me home.

Needless to say, the following day found me enjoying a muchneeded lazy morning watching telly in the superking-size bed.

Before long, though, the lure of the sea proved too strong to resist, so I treated myself to a rather decadent half hour under the

waterfall shower in the bathroom before wrapping up in my woollies for a bracing coastal walk.

It was well worth the effort. The previous day’s rain had evaporated under the bright rays of a golden sun, and an invigorating sea breeze blew away any lingering residue of the night before as we set off round The Island and on to traverse St Ives’ other three beaches, all of which proved to be as pretty as our own Porthmeor. Everywhere we looked, we saw families building sandcastles in the pristine sand, dogs leaping joyfully into the sea, or couples standing hand-in-hand as they gazed out on the azure ocean. As our path moved up from the beach and began to climb into the cliffs above, these idyllic scenes gave way to the craggy rocks and tumultuous waves of a landscape whose raw beauty I’d defy even Turner himself to improve on.

Perhaps a trip to Tate St Ives would have settled that wager one way or another, but unfortunately it is closed for building work until Saturday 21 May. Nonetheless, there are plenty of other things on offer for culture vultures like myself – not least the Barbara Hepworth Museum, which offers visitors the chance to see her work in situ in her own studio and garden. Whether you’re a fan like me, or a newcomer to her sculpture like my husband, there’s real pleasure in wandering around the subtropical garden where you are able to walk right up to each piece, absorb its presence in the setting for which it was made, and even reach out to take in its tactile qualities.

Food for the eyes and for the mind, but not for the stomach, and as you can imagine after all that art appreciation, we were peckish to say the least. Luckily my forward-thinking hubby had booked us in at one of the restaurants recommended in the handy guide booklet the owners had made for us at Blue Moon. A quick change back at the cottage, and a delightful stroll through the meandering cobbled streets of St Ives later, we arrived at Porthminster Kitchen – where the delicious dishes are only equalled by the glorious views out over Porthminster Beach and St Ives Harbour.

I couldn’t resist trying the seafood curry, and was delighted by the super fresh mussels, giant prawns and succulent cod I found paddling in the pool of delicately spiced sauce, and my husband’s slow cooked pork belly was equally scrummy, the soft meat topped with a crisp crackling and accompanied by a sweet and sour treacle and ale gravy. Our appetites were satiated, but we felt justified in sharing a dessert after all that walking earlier in the day. And for once I’m glad I agreed to share, because the portion of sticky toffee pudding that came out was so generous, and the pudding itself so gooey and rich, even I might have struggled with one to myself. But then again, it was so darn good, I’m sure I could have powered through.

With full bellies, we wandered back to spend our final night in the charming surroundings of Blue Moon cottage. And I’ll admit that when we left the next day, it wasn’t without a pang of regret that we weren’t staying for another day, or week, or year. But if there’s one thing I’ve learnt from my time in this beautiful corner of Cornwall, it’s that all things are a matter of perspective. So, now you know all about my view of St Ives, I suggest you go there and find your own. n Blue Moon, as well as Beachspoke’s sister properties Moon Shadown and Black Moon, offer couples the perfect place for a romantic getaway in St Ives. Prices are £595 – £2555 per week, and shorter two or three night breaks are also available. For more information, tel: 0208 740 3097 or visit: www.beachspoke.com

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HEALTH | & BEAUTY

FIT & FAB

A RUNAWAY SUCCESS

The latest health news and beauty product reviews

Mum’s the word Tell her to cast off the Marigolds, put her feet up and enjoy a bit of pampering with the help of these products on Mother’s Day – she deserves it

A Bristol mum-of-two who started a Facebook page aimed at finding other local mums to run with has launched a business after the online community became such a success.

Mel Bound first created the page This Mum Runs in September 2014 to reach out to other parents who were struggling to find the time and confidence to get into fitness after having children.

Within days, hundreds of mums had joined up and there are now more than 1,300 members in Bristol alone. This Mum Runs has also recently launched a group in Bath with more imminently planned across the West Country in Somerset and Devon.

Mel has been able to make the jump to founding This Mum Runs as a business after she successfully secured funding from Run England and BANES Council, enabling her to scale quickly and build a team of coaches.

Mel, who is a qualified personal trainer, said: “I have been blown away by the response to This Mum Runs. The community continues to grow every day and there are so many amazing stories of personal achievement and new friendships that have developed.

“In 2015, the group became involved with the Bristol Girls Can campaign, part of Sport England’s ‘This Girl Can’, that was all about engaging with real women.

“It was around about then that I realised there was genuine enthusiasm for grassroots organisations to help people – and women in particular – so they could take a bit more control of their own fitness. Running is particularly good because all you need is a pair of trainers and a sports bra and you’re off.”

The vision for the newly-formed business is to remove the many barriers for women to start running and inspire and encourage them to get their trainers on and head out the door.

This is done through a combination of free social runs and paid-for programmes and coaching, including a ‘Couch to 5K’ for beginners – all at times that fit in with a busy mum’s day. And Mel hopes that the concept also goes beyond running. She said: “The whole community, while based around running, is also one that creates headspace and time for women to put the worries of the day to one side. It also creates friendships and encourages a freedom and confidence that helps people to believe they can achieve what they want – all they need to do is take that first step.” For further information visit: www.thismumruns.co.uk

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1. They say that beauty is skin deep, and that’s why Bobbi Brown – superstar of good quality makeup – has launched a range of face masks to add to its collection. Choose from Radiance Boost, Instant Detox or Skin Nourish, depending on the care that your skin needs, for a custom rejuvenation regime. They are packed with ingredients including Amazonian white clay, coral grass and orange oil, designed to remove impurities and help reset, restore and re-energise the skin’s appearance. Each mask costs £33 (available from House of Fraser) or you can buy a pack of mini versions of all three for £10 – perfect for travel.

2. In support of International Women’s Day on 8 March, L’Occitane has launched a limited edition ultra-soft balm (£4, from L’Occitane, Park Street) that should live in every woman’s handbag. This shea butter balm is a rose scented multi-purpose moisturiser that you can use on your lips, body and hair. This handy product is great for dry hands and cracked lips in the winter and when you’re on the go.

3. If you’re looking for a super-indulgent bath cream to treat mum with, look no further than M&S. The Fleurs de Mimosa Bath Cream from La Maison De Senteurs (£7.50) is truly luxurious with a delicate floral fragrance, including mimosa extract to calm and unwind.

4. Give hard working hands a break with Origins Make A Difference Hand Treatment (£19.50 from House of Fraser). Thanks to its natural ingredients, it helps skin recover from dramatic dehydration, minimises the appearance of UV damage and leaves a softer, more youthful look and feel. Just the ticket.

5. For a total mind and body rejuvenation, try The Body Shop’s Dead Sea Salt Scrub (£20). Packed with sea salt from the Dead Sea, known for its high mineral content, it helps stimulate circulation when massaged onto the skin and leaves it looking revitalised and fresh – and you’ll feel instantly re-energised.

P75.qxp_Layout 23 19/02/2016 09:22 Page 1

“I can’t believe it was so quick and easy...

I only wish I’d had done it sooner” Cosmedics Skin Clinics’ doctors and surgeons have treated literally thousands of patients for common skin lesions and blemishes over the years and wishing they’d done it sooner is a very typical reaction.

Advanced Treatments For Skin Blemishes: • Latest skin treatment techniques – face & body • Pain-free treatment – and minimal scarring methods • Mr Daniel Thio and Dr Sarah Thio - qualified and experienced team

‘SEE & TREAT’ SERVICE FOR SAME DAY TREATMENT

Mole removal • Cyst and lipoma removal • Wart and verruca treatment • Skin tag removal Look Great and Feel Fabulous As well as treating unwanted skin blemishes, we offer advanced cosmetic and anti-ageing treatments - including the 8-point face lift for effective and flattering results without surgery.

10 Years’ Experience Established 2003, we offer over 10 years’ experience in offering the very best in aesthetic, surgery, dermatology and beauty treatments.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics, Litfield House Medical Centre, 1 Litfield Place, Clifton Down, Bristol, BS8 3LS Telephone: 020 7386 0464 • Email: info@cosmedics.co.uk • Website: www.cosmedics.co.uk

THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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MARCH 2016

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 75

Beauty Style March.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2016 09:00 Page 1

CITY | BEAUTY

Beauty

NOTES BENEFIT GIMME BROW VOLUMISING EYEBROW GEL £18.50 Benefit's Gimme Brow Volumising Eyebrow Gel is an innovative brush-on fibre gel that adheres to skin and hair to create brows where before there were none. Available in two shades, a tapered brush helps to blend whilst the precision tip helps shape; it builds easily for thick, lush arches.

LAURA MERCIER LIMITED EDITION EYE COLOUR COLLECTION £45.00 A gorgeous palette with eight matte and multi-chrome finishes with endless eye look possibilities, Laura Mercier’s Limited Edition Eye Colour Collection allows you to create an array of looks from subtle to stunning.

BARELY THERE BEAUTY

TOM FORD TRACELESS FOUNDATION STICK £64.00

Fashion and beauty go hand in hand and this season designers have gone back to basics with subtle slip dresses in soft hues taking centre stage. Emma Hollingworth, Beauty Manager at Harvey Nichols Bristol, picks the perfect beauty products that will complement this season’s lingerie inspired trend.

Tom Ford's Traceless Foundation Stick is rich in hydrants, and its unique cream formula creates a flawless and smooth finish. Portable and precise, it achieves versatility of sheer, medium or full coverage, always beautifully natural and undetectable

NARS BLUSH – RECKLESS £23.00

All products are available from Harvey Nichols Bristol or via Collect in Store from HarveyNichols.com

The ultimate authority in blush, NARS offer the industry's most iconic colours for cheeks. The silky texture with micronised powder ensures soft, blendable application, while the subtle my-cheeksbut-better shade of Reckless delivers a natural-looking flush to enliven and boost your complexion.

NAILBERRY NAIL LACQUER HONESTLY £14.50 A daytime dark-beige, Nailberry’s Honestly Nail Lacquer is your new staple shade. Free from formaldehyde, toluene, DBP and camphor, and cruelty free.

CRÈME DE LA MER LIMITED EDITION THE ILLUMINATING POWDER £70.00 Crème de la Mer's Limited Edition Illuminating Powder is a lightweight, shimmering pressed powder infused with brightening gemstones, illuminating pearls and colour true pigments that gives all complexions a healthy, luminous glow.

SHU UEMURA SPECIALISTS CHEEK BRUSH NATURAL £42.50 Made with pony hair, Shu Uemura's 20H Specialists Cheek Brush is ideal for powder face colour application. The soft, flexible bristles are ideal for sharply defined cheeks and precise, delicate shading. It is also suitable for applying clear face powder.

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SHU UEMURA LACQUE SUPREME LIP GLOSS, PINK, £20 SHOW BEAUTY GROOMING BALM £35.00 SHOW Beauty’s sublime moisture– rich Grooming Balm calms and controls fine hair to maintain an immaculately smooth and sophisticated look. Its weightless texture leaves hair residuefree and full of shine.

Complete with a new and innovative formula, Shu Uemura’s Lacque Supreme Lipgloss creates a statement lip with high impact colour and exquisite shine

B. BALENCIAGA SKIN EAU DE PARFUM 30ML £48.00 B.Balenciaga Skin presents a more sensual interpretation of the original fragrance with addictive floral woody notes that are both elegant and enveloping. As the fragrance develops, peony reveals a silky, powdery essence before drying down with warm notes of vetiver and cashmere woods.

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 77

BEAUTY REVIEW.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2016 13:29 Page 1

THE HEAT | IS ON

BEAUTY

WORKING UP A SWEAT Jenny Hayes finds inner calm as she flexes her muscles at Yogafurie

D

id you realise there’s a revolution happening in Bristol? Drop the words ‘hot yoga’ into a conversation over the next week, and I guarantee you’ll meet someone eager to tell you all about the fitness movement that is sweeping the city.

It all started back in 2011, when former commercial IT worker-turned-yoga-teacher Ed Wood established Yogafurie, which offered hot yoga classes in several venues along the Gloucester Road. He soon gained a devoted following and, as word got out, more and more people flocked to attend his classes and taste first hand the benefits of hot yoga.

Once I got wind of it myself, I couldn’t help being a little curious. Especially when a quick Google revealed that the movement has a myriad of celebrity followers – apparently everyone from Andy Murray to Gwyneth Paltrow is at it. And frankly, if it’s good enough for goddess Gwynnie – it’s good enough for me.

So I bit the bullet and enrolled in my first class, via Ed’s supersmooth and easy online booking system – and hot-footed it over to the beautiful new Yogafurie studio on Ashley Down Road.

Purpose-built for hot yoga practice, the studio is a masterclass in elegant, eco-friendly design. It is powered by 100% sustainable energy, all of which is generated in the Bristol area, and is also a wonderfully bright, airy and welcoming space.

I arrived for my first session, a little apprehensive as a newbie, to smiles from Ed and Sinead – who would be taking the class that evening – which immediately set me at my ease. Sinead then showed me the changing rooms, complete with showers if you need to freshen up before you head off after class, and then took me through to the hot yoga studio itself.

And this was where my journey began. Honestly, before I walked through that door I had no idea what to expect, although I did harbour a fear of finding myself in a room full of tiny, tanned women who could bend themselves into the shape of a pretzel without breaking a sweat.

Happily, the reality couldn’t have been further from the truth.

The class contained about 30 people –women and men – of all different ages, shapes and abilities. Not only that, but the atmosphere itself was one of calm concentration, not competitive

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compulsion, and as I spread my towel out over my mat and settled down to wait for the class to start I began to relax into my surroundings – enjoying the feel of the warm air around me, and breathing in the gentle scent of eucalyptus that diffused through the room.

That peaceful feeling stayed with me throughout the entire class. As Sinead took us through gentle stretches to start with, and then into more challenging postures as the class progressed, I felt very centred and in control throughout. This is a direct reflection of the hot yoga practice created by Ed, which is rooted in the deep traditions of yoga, yet adapted to respond to the needs and stresses of life in the modern world.

Having only ever taken about four yoga classes before in my life, I really appreciated the way Sinead talked us carefully through each pose – providing gentle reminders about alignment and body position, and occasionally stepping over to members of the class to make small adjustments to their position. Her thoughtful approach to teaching meant I never felt lost as to what I should be doing or the stretches I should be feeling through my body, ensuring I was comfortable in each posture while also gaining full benefit from the class.

I was also impressed by the emphasis on taking the class at your own pace – I never felt pushed into trying a pose that didn’t feel secure, and Sinead demonstrated alternative options to some of the more tricky manoeuvres so that everyone could work at a level that suited them.

But that doesn’t mean Yogafurie is a walk in the park – far from it. After about 40 minutes I was pouring with sweat and starting to feel that satisfying burn in my muscles that meant they were really getting a workout. It’s a strange combination, to feel your heart pumping while maintaining an innate sense of inner calm, but it’s one that instils a real and lasting sense of wellbeing.

As you may be able to tell, I’m a convert. And although I still have a way to go before my physique is transformed from brittle and lumpy to lissom and lithe, I know that the team at Yogafurie can get me there! n Yogafurie offers membership options to suit all needs. For details, tel: 07807 789 875 or visit: www.yogafurie.com

Images, The classes at Yogafurie attract a range of participants, and are always intense but fun © Freia Turland

Nuffield fp.qxp_Layout 1 15/02/2016 10:40 Page 1

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

‘IBS can affect up to 20% of us, research shows’ I

rritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition and research shows that up to 20% of us will be affected by it at some point in our adult life.

It is one of the most frequent causes for patients to visit their local GP. Whilst the condition does not cause serious complications in the long term, the symptoms can be both distressing and socially embarrassing.

❝ HOWEVER, ONCE A DIAGNOSIS OF IBS IS ESTABLISHED THERE ARE A VARIETY OF TREATMENTS TO SUIT ALL INDIVIDUALS

However, once a diagnosis of IBS is established there are a variety of treatments to suit all individuals. There are some known triggers for IBS such as stress, certain foods, caffeine and alcohol and keeping a food diary is often a useful way of identifying these triggers. Dietary and lifestyle interventions can result in significant improvements in symptoms. Some patients may require treatment with medications and there are several different classes of drugs available which can be tailored to the needs of the individual.

If you would like further information on IBS and other conditions including Crohn’s Disease and Reflux, the Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital, The Chesterfield, are holding a free education evening with talks from some of their specialist Consultants including Dr Creed, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Dr Portal Consultant Gastroenterologist, and Mr Titcomb, Consultant Upper GI Surgeon on Monday 14th March from 18:30 until 20:00. Spaces are limited so please call 0117 405 8978 to book your place or visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol/events/

❞ The cardinal symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain, bloating, and a change in bowel habit (constipation or diarrhoea). Dr Tom Creed, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital, The Chesterfield sees many patients who have suffered from IBS and other gastrointestinal conditions including inflammatory bowel diseases. “Whilst IBS symptoms are common, it is important not to ignore a persistent change in bowel habit as there can be other causes, and so if concerned you should always seek advice from your doctor. They may recommend tests to exclude other causes of these symptoms such as blood tests, stool tests or a colonoscopy before confirming a diagnosis of IBS.”

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital The Chesterfield, 3 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1BN Tel: 0117 405 8978 • www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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MARCH 2016

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 79

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College of Naturopathic Medicine March.qxp_Layout 1 15/02/2016 10:37 Page 1

Coming soon: Special Events with CNM Bristol Four Secrets for Superhealth Tuesday 8th March 2016 6.30pm-8.30pm In this seminar, leading nutrition expert Patrick Holford explains how to tune up your diet to boost your energy, burn fat and prevent diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.

Uprooting the UK’s Leading Causes of Death Friday 29th April 2016 7.00pm-8.00pm Dr Michael Greger will present the latest cutting-edge research exploring the role diet may play in preventing, arresting, and even reversing the UK’s leading causes of death and disability. (In association with VIVA!)

Vaccination: The Question Thursday 19th May 2016 6.30pm-8.30pm Dr Jayne Donegan, was a former strong supporter of the UK’s Universal Childhood Vaccination Programme. Find out why her subsequent research led her to change her opinion.

Is Food Medicine? The Scientific Evidence Friday 10th June 2016 6.30pm-8.30pm Is an uncooked, organic, plant-based diet the most effective path to superior health? In this seminar, Brian Clement will look at the latest scientific data on the subject, in addition to observational studies.

Entry: £15 per person per seminar For more info and to book visit:

www.naturopathy-uk.com CNM is the UK’s leading training provider for careers in a range of natural therapies

Attend a FREE Open Evening to find out about part time training with CNM Bristol for a career in Naturopathic Nutrition or Naturopathic Acupuncture.

Thursday 17th March 7pm-9pm Please book online for this free event at www.naturopathy-uk.com

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OUT | AND ABOUT

A SPRING IN YOUR STEP Andrew Swift takes us on a gentle stroll through the beautiful town of Marshfield

T

his month we head east of Bristol, to where the breezy Cotswold plateau tumbles southwards, for a short but scenic country walk, followed by a stroll through one of Gloucestershire’s most historic villages.

Marshfield lies just off the A420, 11 miles east of Bristol. As you approach the village along the A420, turn right, immediately after the 50mph signs, into a parking area (ST770737). Leaving the car, carry on to the end of the parking area and continue along a road for a few metres, before turning right by an old tollhouse along Green Lane (ST772737). The lane soon degenerates to a rough track winding downhill. At the bottom, follow it as it bears right, with views down St Catherine’s Valley. This section is likely to be muddy, although a stone causeway has been laid alongside the worst section. ● Carry on as the green lane climbs up to a tarmaced lane (ST769727) along which you turn left. After a few metres you will see a pillar on the right. It dates from the 18th century and bears an inscription – now very worn – reading ‘TO BEEKS HOUSE/Turn on the right track/Over the down/Drivers of carriages are desired to keep the road made/Over the down’.

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● Continue along the tarmaced lane for 1000m, turning left at

the end and then right along Sheepfair Lane (ST776734).

After 200m, turn right along Weir Lane. The weed-choked pond you pass on the left was used for washing carts and carriages and for soaking their wooden wheels in water. The buildings behind it once formed part of the Marshfield Brewery, which closed in the 1880s. The fascinating range of old buildings on the right includes a former malthouse. Malt, made from barley grown in fields around the village, was once Marshfield’s staple industry, with as many as 80 malthouses supplying breweries in Bristol and Bath. ● At the top, turn right by the old school and right again into the Market Place, passing an old sundial on the left. The building with a large sign bracket in the far corner of the square was the Codrington Arms, also known as the King’s Arms, which closed in 1931. The magnificent Georgian mansion facing it is the old vicarage. ● Carry on along the lane curving out of the Market Place, with views southward towards Wiltshire. After passing 17thcentury Pitt Farm, bear left at the fork and then double back along a path on the left to walk through the churchyard.

Main image: There’s plenty to see and do on Marshfield High Street

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OUT | AND ABOUT

This page: One of the charming old milestones you’ll see en route

Carry on along Church Lane, passing the entrance to the manor house on your right. At the Market Place turn right and head along a narrow street. After 50m, look to your right across a yard to see a 16th-century dovecote in the grounds of the manor house. ● At the end, you can turn right to see the range of barns and other outbuildings – all now converted – which once belonged to the manor house, along with the village pond and an old milestone.

From here, retrace your steps and carry on past the Lord Nelson Inn, following the road as it curves right along the High Street. ● Until the bypass opened in 1967 this was part of the main road from London to Bristol, as it had been since coaching days – hence the number of inns. The two most important were the Crown, open by 1650 but currently closed, and the Catherine Wheel, built as a private house around 1690 and converted to an inn about 50 years later. The Lord Nelson came along somewhat later, probably opening soon after Nelson’s victory and death at Trafalgar. ● Next to the Catherine Wheel is the Tolzey Hall, built in 1690 for the people of Marshfield, and now housing not only the village hall but also its public conveniences. ● Marshfield High Street is a delight, lined with a superb array of buildings. Weavers’ cottages rub shoulders with elegant town houses, butchers’ shops with old garages and chapels. ● Several houses were originally farms, as their names still indicate.

The elaborate shell porches above many of the doorways are a sure sign of former wealth, much of it generated from malthouses extending behind the properties. The Malting House at No 78 has another claim to fame, as the home of Dylan Thomas and his wife Caitlin from July to November 1940. ● Largely unspoilt and in many cases painstakingly restored, the High Street is worth taking time to explore. It ends at the 17thcentury Crispe Almshouses, beyond which the parking area where you started is just a short walk away. n

FURTHER INFORMATION...

■

Distance: 3.5 miles

■

Time: Two hours

■

Level of challenge: Easy; pavements and metalled footpaths

■

If you’re peckish: Sweetapples Teashop, High Street, open daily to 5pm; Lord Nelson and Catherine Wheel pubs.

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 83

Interiors.qxp_Layout 2 15/02/2016 12:44 Page 1

GARDENING INTERIORS

LET THERE BE LIGHT Local interior designer, Katherine Ogilvie, shares her tips on how to breath life into your home as we step into spring

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INTERIORS

S

itting on a roof terrace in Marrakech in February (as you do), I started talking to a Norwegian woman who was proudly showing me her market purchases, including a gorgeous brass washbasin and colourful blankets with pompoms. Clearly ‘on trend’ and into interiors, I thought I’d ask her if Scandinavians really change all their home accessories each spring? “Oh, absolutely!” she laughed. “In fact,” she went on, “not only do lots of people change their accessories, but when I was growing up, many people also had sets of curtains just for Easter.” Easter curtains? Now that is true dedication to the cause of refreshing your home.

Back in Bristol, I’m finding that the only problem with heading away for some winter warmth is that when you return from sunny climes, with all that light and colour, you see just how tired your own house looks. The good news though is that breathing some light and life into your home for spring doesn’t mean having to spend lots of money, make dramatic changes or take constant trips to a certain DIY store. So here are some simple tips for you to bring some brightness into your home – and don’t worry, none of them involve buying Easter curtains!

BHS

● FLOWERS AND FOLIAGE Nothing brings the outdoors in more than bringing the outdoors in. Adding plants and flowers to your home is such an easy, but important, way to add colour, texture and, possibly, scent to a room without any fuss. Tulips, pussy willow or branches of apple blossom will shout out spring, or make a statement with cacti, banana leaves or palms. If you’re not green-fingered, like me, go faux. There are some incredibly realistic fake flowers and plants, and – best bit – you can use them next year as well.

● THE WORLD AROUND US

From global influences to our own back gardens, spring is all about the world around us. With everyone more conscious about their local environment, there is also a great demand for handmade artisan goods and a clear sense of being connected to the craftsman – so take inspiration from the artists, designers and makers of Bristol. Look for statement pottery in a dramatic shape or with a lively folk-inspired pattern. Geometric, ethnic and Middle Eastern patterns all have a role in bringing a global influence to our interiors this year and can give a tired room an instant lift. Think Moroccan rugs and throws, macramé plant hangers and patterned tiles. The boho influence creates a warm and comfortable look, adding texture, colour and history.

House of Fraser

● TEXTILES AND TEXTURE

Spring is the time of year to showcase breezy fabrics, so swap the wool and fur for linen and cotton to lighten things up. The influence this year is tropical motifs – palm fronds and exotic plant patterns are everywhere – as well as geometric prints. But if neither of those are for you, add a splash of colour in a more pared back way. A large stack of towels in an invigorating colour is an easy and thrifty way to brighten up your bathroom. New cushions and a soft throw will give armchairs and sofas a cheerful, easy facelift; or treat yourself and buy some new bedding to freshen up your bedroom. Layer things up and create interest by introducing a variety of textures. What to look out for at the moment? Rattan. The 70s are back and they’ve brought updated rattan. You’ll be seeing it everywhere.

Next

● COLOUR

Such a scary word for so many but, with more of us staying in our homes for longer, there has been a real shift from inoffensive neutrals to homes with attitude and personality; and isn’t that what it’s all about? It’s actually really simple to add some colour to your home. First, don’t overdose: limit your colours; your home isn’t a wok – you don’t have to throw everything into the mix. Just use different combinations of the colours you like in each room and then layer up on texture and pattern. Of course, nothing freshens up a room more than a fresh coat of paint. Greys aren’t going anywhere and make a great base shade for walls, suiting both period and contemporary schemes. Farrow and Ball recently launched their new colour range, which included Peignoir, a colour that has been created by giving the softest of pinks a big dose of grey; so you can have two trends (pastels and greys) for the price of one.

Why not be brave though? Try painting a small room in a dark hue or painting those boring doors black. Don’t forget about adding colour through your accessories: interesting objects (put almost anything under a cloche and it suddenly looks artistic), bright vases or colourful books can brighten up your coffee table or hall console table in minutes. Try flashes of colour via wallpaper in the back of a bookcase, on your wardrobe doors or inside your kitchen cabinets. And if you’re a lover of the Scandinavian look and the thought of colour makes you feel ill, try adding a hint of sunshine with a bright yellow vase, lamp, cushion or flowers. It will surprise the eye and look fresh and modern against all your greys, blacks and whites. n

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Bristol based Katherine Ogilvie is the owner of BS9 Interior Design. An interior design graduate and DIY enthusiast, Katherine’s aim is to inspire everyone to make their house their home with inspirational interiors, DIY ideas and emerging trends (and where to shop for them), while sharing her own personal design trials and successes. She offers a personalised service for any interior design help you need. Visit: www.bs9interiordesign.com for more information and to read her blog (she also now sells a range of Moroccan accessories).

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 85

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GARDENING INTERIORS

STAR OF THE SHOW

Bradburys – The Alno Store in Bristol has recently fitted a bespoke kitchen in a house in Clevedon as part of a building project that was documented by More 4. We speak to store manager Phil Harflett about this exciting opportunity

A

plot of land in Clevedon where a run-down 1970s bungalow stood, was recently given a new lease of life thanks to a couple who saw a potential opportunity to make their ideal home a reality. After 26 years in the planning, Antony and Hayley Wild decided to embark on this new adventure in 2013 and their project was followed by More 4 for its programme Building the Dream, presented by Charlie Luxton. The episode aired on Wednesday 7 January and we can now reveal that Bradburys – The Alno Store in Bristol installed one of its high-tech kitchens, with the brief that it was to have maximum storage and a clean, sophisticated and contemporary feel, to fit in with the style of the rest of the house.

“The main focal point of the kitchen is the island unit,” says Phil Harflett, store manager, who meticulously planned the design and installation to every last detail. “What’s great about the island is that it enables someone to cook while talking to friends and family. It is a light and airy kitchen that is well connected to the rest of the living area and the outside space, which makes it the hub of the house.”

Other highlights of the kitchen include: a Quooker boiling water tap, Fisher and Paykell double door fridge with a drawer freezer which allows access to everything easily; a Miele steam oven; a pull out drawer for the food mixer so there’s no awkward lifting out of the cupboard; a slide-out larder and a sink that is hidden when you walk into the room, meaning that any dirty pans are not immediately on show.

Client Hayley says: “As we were self building our house we were able to start planning our kitchen at a very early stage; in fact we had started working with Phil Harflett before the

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foundations were even dug! The kitchen was a key part of the overall design, and at every step of the way nothing was too much trouble for Phil. He spent many hours with us ensuring that his design totally met our brief and helped us to incorporate everything we wanted within our budget.

“The day before the kitchen was due to be fitted we had a problem with the kitchen floor which led to the actual fitting having to be delayed by six weeks but Bradburys could not have been more accommodating. When the floor was finally ready, Dez, the kitchen fitter, was efficient and friendly and nothing was too much trouble. We now have a kitchen which totally works for us and has the sophisticated look we wanted.”

To get a kitchen like this, or to talk about options to design your own, pop in to Bradburys – The Alno Store Bristol, 1 Bond Street South, Cabot Circus or visit: www.bradburysltd.co.uk for further information.

Main image: the contemporary kitchen is the hub of the house Inset, the finished house

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MARCH 2016

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 87

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GARDENING GARDENING

NEW BEGINNINGS The scent of spring is in the air this month so our garden expert, Margaux Speirs, is starting to think about choosing shrubs for the year ahead

A

s long as the ground is not frozen, March is a good time to plant evergreen and deciduous shrubs, fruit trees and roses (as well as summer flowering bulbs).

Shrubs (and trees) are the main framework of the garden design and give it height and solidity but do you wander about the plant nursery at a loss as to how to choose the right things? It really pays to make a plan before you set out – especially if you are planting a new area rather than just filling gaps. Here are a few tips about choosing a selection of beautiful, enduring shrubs for a new border: First, know what sort of soil you are going to plant into, the aspect – i.e. sunny, shady – and for what times of the day. Most nurseries sell soil testing kits and it’s quite fun taking spoonfuls of soil from here and there, mixing them up in a little test tube with some chemicals and watching the colour change depending on the alkalinity of your soil. If you love Rhododendrons or Camellias, for example, they will not thrive in most soils in the Bristol area so you will have to grow them in pots filled with acidic (ericaceous) soil. We are fortunate in having a mild climate in Bristol, meaning we can grow plants from all over the world but you still need to match the conditions in which you intend to plant your shrubs to the conditions of their native habitat. As a rough guide, plants with greyish, tiny or hairy foliage are indicating they come from hot, sunny places (lavender for instance) and they won’t thrive in shade; plants with fleshy leaves have lots of moisture within their leaves and indicate they don’t want to dry out: large, thick, leathery leaves 88 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

| MARCH 2016

indicate the plant can photosynthesize in shadier areas. The blooms on some winter flowering shrubs will survive frost but only if they go from being frozen to defrosting slowly – Camellias are a case in point: they should be put where they get sun only late in a winter’s day (west or north-facing) otherwise their frost bitten blooms look brown and damaged. If you want roses, there are many to choose from to suit almost every soil and aspect – you just need to select carefully rather than set off to the nursery thinking ‘I want a pink one’!

Second, have in mind your chosen effect and colour scheme. If you are looking for a contemporary look or formal symmetry, choose plants with dense foliage which can be clipped (eg. box, pittosporum, yew) and/or with strong shapes (e.g. New Zealand Flax or dwarf fan palms). Do you want a lush jungle look?

Choose evergreens with big shiny leaves (e.g. Fatsia japonica, Camelia or Choisya). Do you prefer informal or natural designs?

Use plants with looser shapes (e.g. Buddleja), layering them so taller, arching ones hang over smaller shrubs, and group them in descending order from the back to the front of the border. Do you like pale, discreet colours or warm reds and oranges? I like to have one colour range for spring and another (focusing on warm colours) for autumn. You may have noticed that native British spring flowers tend to be largely yellows and bright blues (think daffodils and bluebells) so I use these colours in the spring garden (choosing e.g. Forsythia, Witch-hazel, Wintersweet, Ceonothus) but I would rarely choose yellow blooms for later in the year. I also tend to avoid yellow foliage

Main image: Nurture your seedlings now, and reap the rewards throughout the year © Baramee Thaweesombat

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GARDENING

as it commits you to designing with yellow for the entire year.

Third, select a dazzling performer for each season so even with just four shrubs the border will be interesting all year. The plants which have won Awards of Garden Merit (AGM) are a useful guide for selecting a good variety within a plant family. If your garden is small choose shrubs with more than one season of interest, e.g.

Acer palmatum Sango-kaku, an excellent small deciduous tree with beautiful pinkish yellow leaves in spring which turn green in summer and yellow in autumn and its coral red stems look great all winter.

Fourth, don’t just think about flowering but also leaf shape and colour and plant profile: make sure you include some evergreens.

Assuming you are not intending to make a hedge, a row of shrubs all the same sort of shape and size is much less interesting than a varied collection even if they are all individually lovely plants. Aim to include some plants with variegated leaves but ideally not more than one within a limited area as they will detract from each other.

Choose some focal plants with eye-catching shapes: it is quite common these days to have topiary features within a mixed border but you can achieve a similar effect for less work by choosing plants which naturally have strong geometric shapes. Dwarf conifers are really useful in bringing shape to a border as well as being evergreen. There are many to choose but I especially like those with blue tinged foliage, for example Picea glauca var. albertiana ‘Conica’ or the ferny looking Cryptomeria japonica ‘Elegans Compacta’.

Finally, be practical. Unless you are buying them specially to clip to shape, don’t choose plants which are ultimately going to be large if you don’t have a large space to fill as you will find yourself constantly battling to keep them in check. If, for instance, the plant’s ultimate size is 1.5m, allow it this space in your design even if it is going to take a few years to get to that mature size. n Margaux Speirs is a pre-registered member of the Society of Garden Designers and runs her business, Margaux Speirs Garden Design, from her home in Bristol. For further information, tel: 07903 779910 or visit: www.margauxspeirsgardendesign.co.uk

PLANT OF THE MONTH: A shrub which looks great in March, but which has another season of interest with its edible fruits in autumn, is the ornamental quince. If you like strong, bold colours Chaenomeles x superba ‘Crimson and Gold’ is, as its name suggests, very regal looking and it flowers for ages throughout spring and early summer. I think the Apple Blossom’ quince, Chaenomeles speciosa ‘Moerloosei’ has the loveliest flowers of any ornamental quince – quite large white blooms, tinged with dark pink, which also continue to appear over many weeks. It has attractive glossy green leaves and its fruit look like yellow/green apples. It’s fast growing and not very fussy about soil or location (although it flowers best in sun) and it can be trained to climb a wall. The only real downside is that it’s prickly so you need to wear thick gloves when pruning it.

Classic landscapes

email: info@classiclandscapesandecopools.co.uk

For all gardening and landscaping needs

James: 07940261734

Call us today to build your dream garden.

www.classiclandscapesandecopools.co.uk Gardening Services, Landscape Design and Installation.

Bradford On Avon, Wilts.

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MARCH 2016

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 89

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90 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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MARCH 2016

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BRISTOL PROPERTY | IN FOCUS

N

umber 3 Broadoaks is believed to have been built around 1954 and has been occupied by the current owners for over 20 years. Located within a quarter of a mile of both Clifton Village and Ashton Court the property is well situated for making the most of everything that Bristol has to offer. The house has been carefully extended from its original footprint with the addition of a lovely beamed garden room and above this a superb bedroom with en suite bathroom. The original ground floor comprises a spacious and welcoming entrance hall, large drawing room adjoining a formal dining room, beautifully fitted kitchen/breakfast room by Smallbone of Devizes, a utility room, bathroom and cloakroom. All three reception rooms have doors out into the gardens. Upstairs there are five bedrooms, many with lovely distant views across to Lansdown above Bath. Two of the bedrooms have en suite bathrooms and there is a good sized family bathroom. Parking comes in the form of an integral double garage and additional undercover spaces as well as driveway parking. The gardens are beautifully landscaped and incorporate a vegetable/kitchen garden, summer house and terrace. This spacious and well cared for family home is brought to market by Knight Frank Clifton.

3 BROADOAKS NORTH ROAD LEIGH WOODS

Knight Frank, Regent House, 27A Regent Street, Clifton, Bristol. Tel: 0117 317 1999

Overs over £1,420,000

• Five bedrooms • Three bathrooms / two en suites • Beamed garden room • Lovely landscaped gardens • Summer house and vegetable plot

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MARCH 2016

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 91

Fine & Country March.qxp_Layout 1 15/02/2016 10:20 Page 1

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Sneyd Park | Bristol

Guide Price ÂŁ1,150,000

An exceptional detached family home, recently refurbished and sympathetically extended to provide exquisite accommodation over two floors, complete with planning consent for a (two bed) loft conversion. Open plan kitchen / family room, sitting room, snug / study. Utility & separate cloakroom. Four bedrooms, family bathroom and two en-suite shower rooms. Spacious loft with planning consent for two further bedrooms and a bathroom. Superb gardens, off-street parking and single garage. EPC Rating: D

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AN ELEGANT GEORGIAN ‘HOUSE’ IN A TRANQUIL SETTING CLOSE TO PARK STREET ONLY £500,000……

This is a very rare opportunity to purchase a complete Georgian townhouse in a highly sought after location just off Park Street.

Burston Cook are shortly to be offering to the market this wonderful Georgian Period property forming part of a terrace of similar residential properties in a tranquil city location.

22 Orchard Street has until recently been occupied by a firm of solicitors and is the last property in this attractive Georgian cul de sac to be converted to residential use.

The accommodation has been well maintained, retaining many original Georgian features and can be readily adapted and converted to provide a stunning city residence.

Listed building consent has been granted for the conversion to a single dwelling house.

The accommodation will provide four bedrooms, one with a dressing room, two shower rooms and a bathroom with an attractive ground floor wood panelled sitting room, snug room and a good sized modern kitchen/breakfast room with concertina doors to a rear courtyard garden. In addition, there is a large full height basement, which could also potentially be converted to a media room or additional reception space.

Finola Ingham, Associate Director Burston Cook comments “This is potentially city living at its best being situated in a most attractive tranquil position, yet close to Park Street, The Waterfront, The Brandon Hill Nature Reserve, The University and an array of high quality shops and restaurants leading from Park Street up to Clifton, including Jamie Olivers, Browns, The RWA, Bristol Museum and St Georges Hall. A purchaser can fit out the accommodation to meet their own style and layout.

For anyone seeking to purchase this wonderful property forming part of Bristol’s Georgian Heritage, 22 Orchard Street should be the property for them” The freehold interest is available at a guide price of £500,000.

Viewing arrangements strictly through Julian Cook or Finola Ingham at Burston Cook.

(0117) 934 9977 www.burstoncook.co.uk

Burston Cook March.indd 1

17/02/2016 10:20

MAKE A STATEMENT… WITH THESE FANTASTIC STUDIO STYLE OFFICES Church Court offers a business the rare opportunity to occupy contemporary studio office space, providing a fabulous working atmosphere with very good on site parking.

Standing in its own sizeable 0.25 acre plot, Church Court was the subject of a complete refurbishment approximately 10 years ago and has since been maintained to provide open plan studio offices over ground and first floors, totalling approximately 234 sq m (2,522 sq ft). There are 12 marked on site car parking spaces, which is a higher ratio then an occupier would find even in the out of town business parks.

Finola Ingham, Associate Director of Burston Cook further comments “The property is situated on the north eastern outskirts of Bristol on North View, Soundwell, serving the densely populated east Bristol area and yet within easy driving distance of the 4174 Ring Road leading to Emmersons Green and on to the M32.

The office accommodation is mainly open plan linked via an attractive spiral staircase and apart from more traditional office occupiers, will ideally suit design / creative companies seeking a bright friendly working environment away from the feel of more traditional office space”.

Finola continues “We are aware that the very style and nature of the property may well also suit other uses, which would also be considered by our clients. The rental we are quoting is very competitive and we will offer flexible lease terms”.

For businesses seeking statement offices with a fantastic working environment then Church Court is the place for them…

For further details please contact Finola Ingham MRICS or Tom Coyte BA Hons at Burston Cook on 0117 934 99977

(0117) 934 9977 www.burstoncook.co.uk

Burston Cook March.indd 3

17/02/2016 10:20

RLY NG A ED E WI D N VIE MME CO E R RARE

FOR SALE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

THE COURTYARD, 120 HIGH STREET, NAILSEA, BRISTOL, BS48 1AH Comprising a fully fitted restaurant/bar plus separate retail and office units and currently designed as 10 en-suite bedrooms plus a 1 bedroom flat (with potential to convert back to three 2 bed flats plus a single 1 bed flat).

• COMPRISING A GOOD QUALITY WELL MAINTAINED MODERN PROPERTY DEVELOPED AROUND 1990 AND SUBSEQUENTLY RECENTLY REFURBISHED • SITUATED WITH ACCESS ONTO NAILSEA HIGH STREET AT THE HEART OF THIS POPULAR AND THRIVING TOWN WITHIN EASY COMMUTING DISTANCE OF BRISTOL • CURRENT CONSENT IS FOR THE EXISTING RESTAURANT/ BAR ON THE GROUND FLOOR WITH CLASS C1 (HOTEL) FOR 12 EN-SUITE BEDROOMS WITH EXCELLENT POTENTIAL TO CREATE A STRONG RENTAL INCOME AND INVESTMENT EITHER AS EXISTING OR ON CONVERTING THE EN-SUITE BEDROOMS TO 4 FLATS. • TO BE SOLD WITH VACANT POSSESSION • FREEHOLD OFFER SOUGHT – PRICE ON APPLICATION

For further information or to view, please contact Julian Cook FRICS or Tom Coyte BA Hons

(0117) 934 9977 www.burstoncook.co.uk

Burston Cook March.indd 5

17/02/2016 10:20

Bristol & Clifton’s premier Commercial Property Agents Keep up-to-date with our latest news and market comments at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk

(0117) 934 9977

FOR SALE

QUEEN SQUARE – BS1

A complete Georgian Townhouse close to Park Street –

Modern open plan office suite in prime city location…

In a tranquil residential setting –

2,506 sq ft – New lease – competitive rent

PP for residential & offices £500,000 COLSTON AVENUE – BS1

FREEHOLD FOR SALE, HEANLEAZE, BRISTOL

Prominent A2 office unit / showroom on ground floor – Busy pitch

Prominent A5 unit plus 5 bed maisonette –

1,657 sq ft – High quality

Great investment –

Fit out –

Price on application

To rent – O/A CLIFTON OFFICE UNIT

WHITELADIES ROAD CLIFTON

Superb high quality ground floor office unit –

1,000 SQ FT office suite over a single floor refurbished to a contemporary standard – 2 car spaces.

700 sq ft – Flexible lease – Rent on application

New Lease – Rent on application

Only £160,000 to buy…

CHURCH CRT, SOUNDWELL

Rare chance to purchase your own offices in Bristol City Centre, close to Queen Square –

Contemporary studio offices – Superb space for creative / design based occupiers –

1,005 sq ft open plan office unit!

2,522 sq ft –

NORTH ROAD, BISHOPSTON

BEDMINSTER – TO LET

3,875 Sq ft office building.

Mainly open plan. To be refurbished –

Good quality offices –

New flexible lease – Rent O/A

C 3,500 sq ft + stores of c 3,500 sq ft –

New flexible lease – low rent.

New lease – Rent on application

Julian Cook FRICS

Burston Cook March.indd 6

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

Tom Coyte BA Hons

• • • • •

Sales / Lettings Acquisitions Valuations Landlord & tenant Auction Sales

• • • • •

Rent reviews Property Management Investment Sales / Purchase Development & Planning Dilapidations Advice

17/02/2016 10:21

www.maggsandallen.co.uk

0117 973 4940

Commercial Agency

22 Richmond Hill, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1BA

NE

0 00 M 5, £4 MIU E PR

SOUTHVILLE

W

£18,000 p.a

Fully fitted restaurant situated in a prime position in North Street. Premium to include fixtures and fittings. An assignment of the current lease is offered.

BISHOPSTON

£14,000 p.a

Very well presented shop of approximately 772sqft (Gross Internal Area). Offered for let on a new Full Repairing and Insuring basis.

LE

00 ,0 M £3 MIU E PR

CLAY BOTTOM

£7,200 p.a

Unique industrial unit with parking currently run as a car repair garage with fitted ramps and tools.

CITY CENTRE

£25,000 p.a

Corner shop benefiting from A3/café consent situated in Bristol City Centre. A new Full Repairing and Insuring lease is offered together with all fixtures and fittings.

NE

0 00 M 5, £3 MIU E PR

W

Commercial

£6,500 p.a

Newly renovated café available by way of a lease assignment. Ingoing premium to to includes the fixtures and fittings.

0 00 M 0, £2 MIU E PR

UN OF DER FE R

0 00 M 0, £4 MIU E PR

T

NE

0 00 M 5, £1 MIU E PR

OLD MARKET

UN OF DER FE R

0 00 M 0, £1 MIU E PR

HANHAM

W

£12,000 p.a

With the benefit of a new lease with terms to be negotiated. Premium to include all fixtures and fittings.

Sales & Lettings Freehold & Leasehold Properties

Licensed Premises & Cafes

Lease assignments with premiums paid

A3/A4/A5 Premises urgently required

0 00 M 5, £5 MIU E PR

RE PRI DU CE CT IO N

Contact us today to arrange a free, no obligation valuation

Urgent requirement for D1/A1/B1 space for lease in the BS6/BS9 locations

YATE

£24,000 p.a

Restaurant of approximately 1,035sqft (gross internal area). Fully fitted and includes the first and second floor maisonette. A new Full Repairing and Insuring lease is offered.

£21,500 p.a

Extended ground floor fully fitted and trading Indian restaurant and integral 3 bedroom maisonette. Ingoing premium to include fixtures and fittings.

Estate Agents

Lettings & Management

Maggs & Allen Commercial March.indd 1

HENLEAZE

STOKES CROFT

LE

£12,000 p.a

Opportunity to lease this ground floor coffee/ sandwich shop in Stokes Croft. Available by way of lease re-assignment. Ingoing premium include fixtures and fittings.

Auctioneers

0 00 M 5, £2 MIU E PR

T

LE

000 ,,00 UM M 605 ££3 EMMIIU E PPRR

EASTON

£25,000 p.a

Large, spacious trading Car Repair Garage, MOT station, Tyre Bay and Spray Booth available to let on a new FRI lease with fixtures and fittings included in the premium.

Commercial Agency

£25,000 p.a

Extended ground floor fully fitted and trading Indian restaurant of circa. With an integral 3 bedroom maisonette. Premium to include fixtures and fittings.

Commercial Team: 0117 973 4940 0 00 M 5, £1 MIU E PR

0 00 M 5, £6 MIU E PR

KEYNSHAM

We have an urgent requirement for a unit within the ‘Paintworks’ Development for lease or similar within close proximity.

Chartered Surveyors

SOUTHVILLE

T

£17,500 p.a

Well presented restaurant (just under 1,000sqft gross internal area). Premium to include all chattels and fixtures and fittings (subject to some personal belongings).

Land/New Homes

Energy Assessors

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www.maggsandallen.co.uk

0117 973 4940

Bristol’s Leading Property Auctioneers

22 Richmond Hill, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1BA

COLLECTING NOW FOR AUCTIONS THROUGHOUT 2016

*Source: EI Group 2015 statistics, based upon percentage of properties sold and number of lots sold.

There has never been a better time to sell by Auction Contact us today to arrange a free, no obligation valuation and you could take advantage of: An exchange of contracts at the Auction

Completion within 28 days

Over 94% of all lots sold in 2015

No renegotiation on price

Excellent prices achieved through competitive bidding in the Auction Room

NEXT AUCTION: 21st April 2016 Estate Agents

Lettings & Management

Maggs & Allen Commercial March.indd 2

Auctioneers

Commercial Agency

Chartered Surveyors

Land/New Homes

Energy Assessors

15/02/2016 11:37

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Westbury-on-Trym

Westbury-on-Trym

Westbury-on-Trym

Well cared for 1930’s four bedroom semidetached family home, living room with opening to dining room with original style feature fireplace and double glazed sliding patio doors leading to a 20m south westerly facing garden, separate kitchen, off street parking and single garage. Marketed with no onward chain. EPC E.

Offered with no onward chain is this two bedroom cottage in close proximity to Westbury-on-Trym village and the shops and amenities of Stoke Lane. Large bathroom, living room with archway to dining room leading to kitchen/breakfast room and an impressive established rear garden measuring in excess of 145ft.

EPC D.

Marketed with no onward chain and located within the oldest part of Westbury-on-Trym village is this delightful period cottage offering two double bedrooms to first floor, spacious lounge, fully equipped kitchen and contemporary shower room. There is also a charming courtyard garden with stone outbuilding to rear.

EPC D.

Price Guide £575,000

£375,000

£310,000

Henleaze

Henleaze

Henleaze

A substantial detached 1920’s family home positioned with level access to Henleaze shops and amenities. The property offers four bedrooms, modern bathroom, three reception rooms and a 23m established rear garden. Further benefits include many original features such as coving, dressers and servants’ bells, garage and ample parking.

EPC E.

An extremely well presented and beautifully decorated substantial detached home with four family-sized bedrooms, two bathrooms, two receptions; lounge with inglenook style fireplace and coal effect gas fire, Boulevard kitchen/breakfast room and double garage.

Landscaped front and extensive rear garden, double width brick paved driveway.

EPC D.

A well maintained and extended detached family home offering three receptions, kitchen/diner, central lobby/study leading to garden, three family-sized bedrooms, bathroom, separate WC, garage and driveway.

Fully maintained throughout including modern windows, facias, gutters and solar panelling, creating an efficient, up-to-date property but with character throughout.EPC D.

Price Guide £750,000

CJ Hole March.indd 1

Price Guide £725,000

Price Guide £600,000

15/02/2016 10:18

Clifton t: 0117 923 8238 (sales) t: 0117 946 6588 (lettings) clifton@cjhole.co.uk

www.cjhole.com If you are thinking of selling or renting your home this Spring then it’s worth considering the Red Adair quote, ‘If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.’ There will always be firms offering fees and deals that seem too good to be true. And the truth is, in business, they almost certainly are. Entrusting your most valuable asset to a cut-price agent could be a costly decision. Like choosing a broker, lawyer, dentist, surgeon or parachute manufacturer it’s advisable to choose a sales or letting agent on the basis of great contacts, extensive marketing, well-developed negotiating and management skills and

long histories of success. You know you’re getting expertise, security and the best price for your property. Letting and renting or buying and selling can be extremely complex and stressful. I may be biased but I have been around a long time and have seen what happens when it all goes wrong. Our team at CJ Hole Clifton is industry trained, industry accredited and has a proven track record in Bristol.

We’re here to help in any and all property matters - just give us a call on 0117 923 8238.

Howard Davis M.N.A.E.A Managing Director - CJ Hole Clifton

CENTRAL LOCATION LAST REMAINING WITH PRIVATE TERRACE – This apartment is on the first floor with a large sun terrace overlooking Castle Park perfect for your alfresco dining or just relaxing with a glass of wine after a hard day’s work. It has three double bedrooms, two with en suite, as well as a light and spacious open plan living/dining/kitchen and additional bathroom. Parking is available by separate negotiation. For more information contact us on 01179 238238. EPC B

£450,000

SOLD

REDLAND MORE PROPERTIES LIKE THIS REQUIRED – There is a great demand for family homes, buyers waiting! If you are thinking of selling your property and would like a free no obligation Market Appraisal please contact us on 01179 238238.

£1,000,000

CJ Hole Clifton March.indd 1

15/02/2016 10:17

Clifton £575,000

Alma Vale Road – Four bedroom house

ila

ld quire Sor Re

m Si

Clifton Office 0117 946 6007

SOLD, SIMILAR REQUIRED. Ideally positioned for the amenities of Whiteladies Road and Alma Vale Road. Attractive living room, and dining room opening to separate kitchen. First floor offers two bedrooms with the top floor housing bedroom three. EPC - F

d

Stoke Bishop £550,000

Westbury-on-Trym Office 0117 962 1973

Glen Drive – Three Bedrooms

oceanhome.co.uk

Located in a prestigious Stoke bishop cul-de-sac, 23 Glen Drive has been lovingly cared for and offered to the market for the first time in many years. Tastefully decorated throughout with newly fitted kitchen.

Retaining many original features, including lead inset windows to surrounding the front door. EPC - D

Redland £450,000

Hampton Park – Three bedroom flat Three bedroom garden maisonette in Redland. All of the bedrooms are on the hall floor level, the master has an en-suite shower room. The lower ground floor is a spacious and bright living area opening onto the kitchen. No chain. EPC - C

Westbury-on-Trym £310,000 Trym Road – Two Bedrooms

31 Trym Road is the mid terrace in a charming and handsome row of period cottages that almost caress the historic River Trym from their elevated position, with a leafy and green open front aspect.

Located at the foot of Chock Lane where it weaves onto Trym Road.

EPC - TBC.

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

City Centre

Guide Price £340,000

An executive two-bed apartment nestled in the heart of the city with stunning water and city views, balcony and secure parking. EPC: C

SALE AGREED

Redland

Guide Price £350,000

This two bedroom Grade II Listed Georgian courtyard apartment is steeped in elegance and period charm.

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £325,000

An attractive and well proportioned split level apartment occupying the top floor of a period residence.

EPC: C SIMILAR REQUIRED

SALE AGREED

Sneyd Park

Clifton

Sneyd Park

Guide Price £425,000

Two bedroom garden apartment with parking. EPC:E SIMILAR REQUIRED

Long Ashton

Guide Price £450,000

An elegant Georgian Grade II Listed hall floor apartment offering an array of character features together with a walled garden.

SALE AGREED

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £1,375,000

Clifton

Clifton

Guide Price £545,000

An exquisite 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Grade II listed penthouse apartment occupying the top floor of this impressive converted semi-detached Victorian townhouse. SIMILAR REQUIRED

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £749,500

Alveston Guide Price Offers over £695,000

Set in just under half an acre, this distinguished 6 bedroom home exudes quintessential 1930s elegance and charm. EPC:E SIMILAR REQUIRED

Alderbrook is a 5/6 bedroom period home positioned in a discrete location in the heart of this much sought-after village. EPC:D SIMILAR REQUIRED

Manor Farm is a unique and interesting Grade II Listed family home on the outskirts of the market town. The property enjoys two additional paddocks.

Cotham

Langford

Winford

Guide Price £825,000

An elegant and stylishly presented Victorian family home. Tucked away from view, this 5 bedroom family house has many period features. EPC: E

Guide Price £769,995

Tucked away and surrounded by open countryside this former B & B provides a perfect family home with annexe and paddocks. EPC: D

OIEO £800,000

A spacious 4 bedroom family home with detached 1 bedroom annexe and 1.39 acre paddock. Positioned on the outskirts of Winford. EPC: E

Hamptons Bristol

Sales. 0117 322 6362 | bristol@hamptons-int.com

Hamptons March.indd 1

15/02/2016 10:21

Burrington

Guide Price £1,350,000

A stunning and recently renovated period gem nestled beautifully in the sought after village of Burrington, a true village complete with primary school, beautiful church, and excellent local facilities. EPC: E

Tormarton Guide Price £1,500,000

A handsome period village home comprising six bedrooms and three reception rooms which flow effortlessly to provide the perfect layout for the growing family. The attractive façade faces a level walled garden which wraps around to the side and in all is just over 2.5 acres with outbuildings. EPC: E

Cadbury Camp Lane

Guide Price £2,499,000

Detached 6 bed house offering an exceptionally generous footprint of about 9685 sq ft, over 3 floors. EPC: E

Hamptons Bristol

Sales. 0117 322 6362 | bristol@hamptons-int.com

Hamptons March.indd 2

15/02/2016 10:21

~1455192885~Richard Harding March.qxp_Layout 6 18/02/2016 10:00 Page 1

Richard Harding Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Auctioneers • Valuers

STOKE BISHOP guide £1,850,000

An incredibly rare opportunity to purchase this handsome large detached family residence of circa 5,500 sq ft, set within magnificent well-stocked gardens of just over 3/4’s of an acre. Planning permissoin granted to build a good sized and completely separate two storey detached family home.

A once in generation opportunity to acquire and refurbish one of Stoke Bishop’s finest houses.

Viewings and access to the property strictly by appointment.

Professional, Reliable, Successful

0117 946 6690 www.richardharding.co.uk 124 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RP

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Richard Harding Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Auctioneers • Valuers

REDLAND guide £950,000

A handsome large 6 bedroom, 3 reception Victorian period semi-detached family house (circa 3,300 sq ft) with ample off street parking for 2 vehicles and town garden in a coveted location close to Redland Green School & Redland Girls’ High School. Offers lots of light and space with generously proportioned rooms, high ceilings and some fine period features. Well cared for & an ideal opportunity to personalise and update in the fullness of time. A fine family house whose reassuring and understated Victorian external appearance disguises the extensive flexible character accommodation within and the scope to create an impressive family house by adapting and updating to suit ones’ own requirements.

CLIFTON guide £645,000

A stunning and exceedingly spacious, 2 double bedroom, 2 bath/shower room Victorian period garden apartment, of circa 1536 sq. ft., with a private entrance, separate kitchen/dining room (19ft x 12ft), 22ft reception hall, generous sized drawing room (18ft x 16ft), separate study, private 55ft south facing garden and the rare benefit of a 50% share of a large garage suitable for a family car. A most impressive and stylish apartment with high ceilings and an abundance of period features combined seamlessly with an array of high quality contemporary additions. An elegant garden and bright apartment of particularly grand proportion in a prestigious and highly prized location with the immense benefit of a private entrance and charming south facing garden. To be sold with no onward chain making a prompt move possible.

Professional, Reliable, Successful

0117 946 6690 www.richardharding.co.uk 124 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RP

Clifton - Guide Price £350,000 Occupying the entire second floor of this grade II listed Georgina townhouse situated in the beautiful Vyvyan Terrace in central Clifton this superb one bedroom apartment offers style and character in abundance for the discerning buyer. An attractive communal hallway opens into the hallway which has cloakroom and coats cupboard. To the front of the flat and overlooking the beautiful private residents gardens is a light and airy sitting room with adjoining kitchen with separate utility area. The bedroom is positioned to the rear of the property and has steps down to a luxurious bathroom with bath and separate walk in shower. All in all an extremely high quality recently refurbished apartment in this most civilised location within a few minutes’ walk of the hustle and bustle of Clifton village.

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Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £750,000

Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £825,000

A classic 1930’s double bayed semi-detached family house offering 5 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, a lawned rear garden, integral garage and off street parking. The house is situated in a quiet horseshoe shaped road in a very convenient part of Stoke Bishop. EPC - E

A detached 1930’s family home offering 2 reception rooms, large kitchen/breakfast room & 4 large bedrooms.There are lovely maintained gardens, parking and integral garage.The house is positioned in a lovely quiet cul-de-sac which has a strong family community spirit. EPC - E

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £525,000

Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £385,000

This is a charming 1930’s semi-detached family house situated in a lovely quite road in Westbury-on-Trym. It offers 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, a good size rear garden laid mainly to lawn, a detached garage and plenty of off-street parking. EPC - E

A 1950’s 3 bedroom semi-detached house with 2 reception rooms and a lovely size rear garden including a fantastic tree house. The house is located on a highly sought after road within walking distance of Stoke Bishop primary school and local shops. EPC - E

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Thinking Of Moving in 2016?

The property market is moving at a fast pace already this year.

Our experienced directors and senior estate agents can provide you with an appraisal of your property and guidance on the best way forward for you individually.

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £575,000

Multiple offers received. Sale agreed over the guide price. Similar properties required in Elmlea School catchment area to meet significant demand. Please call the office in confidence if you are contemplating moving.

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With over 150 years’ experience between us we provide a sensible, balanced and professional service throughout north-west Bristol.

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