Bath Life – Issue 388

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

OUR REVIEW OF MANTRA INDIAN

SCHOOL OF INTERIORS

ISSUE 388 / 29 MARCH – 12 APRIL 2019 / £3

ISSUE 388 / 29 MARCH – 12 APRIL 2019 / HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS

KEEP CALM & CURRY ON

OUR BIGGEST ISSUE OF THE YEAR

LARGEST EVER INTERIORS SECTION

THE BEST OF SS19 TRENDS: FROM THE DEEP BLUE TO THE TROPICS

INDIE CITY

A SPOTLIGHT ON INDEPENDENT TRADERS

ANY EGGSCUSE

OUR LOCAL EASTER GIFT GUIDE

© TR HAYES

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: It’s not easy being green; here’s how to

nail this season’s interior trends (page 36)

BELOW: The power of flowers; our edit of floral

buys (page 112)

W

elcome to our biggest issue of the year; well, actually, it’s our biggest issue since 2017, so we’re rather excited. Whenever we have an interiorsthemed issue, we always go overboard – we can’t help ourselves, it’s just such a beautiful topic – and we’ve hunted through local shops, for many, many hours, to find some of the most striking accessories, furniture and artworks for the home.

Starting on page 36, you’ll find our whopping new-season interior trend guide – think blue planet, tropical, colour riots and plenty of fringing – which features a huge array of local makers and creatives (including Bath-based artist Jess Hughes, whose 3D wall art features on our front cover).

The shopping spree doesn’t stop there: just because it’s spring, we’ve put together an edit of floral-themed buys (page 112); on page 119, hear from local traders who run some of the longest-standing businesses in the city; and turn to page 201 if you’ve got a casual £4.5m burning a hole in your pocket, because one of Bath’s finest Georgian villas is on the market.

As ever, we have plenty more for you than that, including must-see events; book, film and restaurant reviews; and the need-to-know news bites from around the city.

Enjoy!

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

Issue 388/29 March – 12 April 2019

© SAM JELBERT / VISIT BATH

COVER Inspired by happy memories of fishing on family holidays, artist Jess Hughes, of Jess Hughes Designs, has been making and hand-painting 3D mackerel wall art sculptures at her kitchen table in Bath for over three years. For more, see page 36.

INTERIORS

36 The décor looks making an impact this season

THE ARTS

ARTS INTRO Photography of the dancing world WHAT’S ON All the cultural events across the city BOOKS A nostalgic look at children’s books FILM Indie films and live stream events coming to

the city

© MANUEL HARL AN

79 80 91 93

FOOD&DRINK

94 RESTAURANT We tried out Bath’s latest

Indian restaurant

101 FOOD & DRINK NEWS New openings, vegan

festivals and more

103 TRY 5 Family-friendly cafés

SHOPPING

119

111 INTRO Gorgeous accessories for your locks 112 EDITOR’S CHOICE Fall in love with these

floral gifts

114 EASTER GIFTS Oh-so-pretty eggs and bunnies 119 INDIES Meet the cool, quirky traders in the city

114

80

94 © NICK COLE

103

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

Issue 388/29 March – 12 April 2019

LIFESTYLE

31 INSIDE STORY The joy of timeless interiors 194 GARDENS The low-down on the Prior Park

Landscape Garden transformation

218 LIVES The Britain’s Got Talent star on her imminent

BUSINESS

133 BUSINESS INSIDER Movers and shakers in the

corporate world

145 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES We shine a light on

the local businesses in Bath

PROPERTY

201 SHOWCASE A £4.5 million Georgian bombshell of

a property

201

DEPARTMENTS 13 SPOTLIGHT 19 SOCIETY 29 A MAN’S WORLD

133

© CL ARE GREEN PHOTOGR APHY

performance at Bath Comedy Festival

© K ARL A GOWLET T

218

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Editor’s Photo Bonnie Rose Contributors Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Philippa May, Sophie-Claire McLeod and Nick Woodhouse Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Justine Walker justine. walker@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Louis Grey louis.grey@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Bradley Lye bradley.lye@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash. co.uk Deputy Production Manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production Designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane. ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag). Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

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

r o t c a r T e h t t u o g n i Try

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e g or g e th of w ie v t ea r g A ! t s a f k a e r b y t r A hea

Inside the tent

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Inside the

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WARREN FARM Welcome to Warren Farm, just 45 minutes from the centre of Bath. A working family farm of over 1000 acres, nestled in the heart of the Mendip Hills, Overlooking the World Famous Cheddar Gorge. We have five well appointed canvas lodges and two log cabins.

An ultimate escape from everyday life. Collect fresh eggs from our chickens or spend time with the goats. Life slows down with log burners to cook on and time to spend with loved ones. Ideal for families, groups, get togethers or even weddings.

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SPOTLIGHT Theatre

AND THE NOMINATIONS ARE…

The Royal Crescent will be a kind of magic

The Theatre Royal Bath has secured a trio of nominations for the 2019 Olivier Awards. The nominations are for The Price, which was produced by Theatre Royal Bath, and is currently running at Wyndham’s Theatre in the West End. The play has been nominated for the Best Revival Award, with a further two nominations for its leading cast members, including

David Suchet for Best Actor and Adrian Lukis for Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

The 50th anniversary production of The Price, directed by Jonathan Church, played to huge audience and critical praise when it opened in Bath last August.

The star-studded Olivier Awards ceremony will take place on Sunday 7 April at the Royal Albert Hall.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

The nominated play was a big hit when it was performed in Bath last summer

Cinema

The open-air cinema makes a welcome return to Bath this summer with a trio of favourite flicks, perfect for an evening out under the stars with friends and family. Movie-goers can bring snuggly attire, and a blanket or two, and enjoy either a homemade picnic, or buy food and drinks at the The Luna Bar on site.

The films showing are: A Star is Born – 27 September Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again – 28 September Bohemian Rhapsody – 29 September For more: www.thelunacinema.com/bath-royal-crescent

© NOBBY CL ARK

MOVIE MAGIC

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET 2018 IN NUMBERS Over 400,000 – number of people who attended Over £7 million – the direct spend at Bath Christmas Market Over £30 million – the total associated spend in the market and across the city during this period Over £10,000 raised for local charities (there was a dedicated chalet given to a different local charity per day for the duration of the market.

Bigger and better

Tourism

STAY THE NIGHT

The Bath Christmas Market in 2018 saw the biggest increase in staying visitors in its 18-year history. This is the news from a recent survey that showed that 27 per cent of visitors stayed rather than visiting for the day – this is a four per cent increase since 2017, and an eight per cent increase since 2014.

“Visitors’ satisfaction levels for Bath Christmas Market remain high, and the event continues to be of huge economic benefit to Bath,” says executive chairman of Visit Bath, Craig Jenkins.

“Over half of the people surveyed were returning visitors from previous years so we are building a dedicated following for this event, putting it firmly in many people’s social calendar.

The market’s extension into Milsom Street received lots of positive feedback from residents, visitors, stallholders and local retailers. We are delighted to see that more visitors are staying in the city for longer, as this is one of the primary focuses of our marketing activity.”

For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT Brock Street has never looked so colourful

Art

WORK OF ART

Leisure

EVENING BATH Visitors will be able to see the historic site illuminated by flaming torches, and there will be live music from Elysium Brass on Monday and Friday, and Bath Spa Quartet on Saturday and Sunday.

The Natural Theatre Company’s costumed characters will give impromptu performances and the museum will also remain open for visitors to explore after hours.

Locals will be able to enjoy fizz “The Roman and live music at the Baths Baths are wonderfully atmospheric in the evenings, and it’s great that visitors over Easter will be able to stay later and enjoy music and entertainment beside the Great Bath,” says Stephen Bird, head of heritage services at Bath & North East Somerset Council.

“I hope that lots of residents will use their Discovery Cards to come along to Easter Evenings for free.”

For more: www.romanbaths.co.uk © BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL

Those wanting to soak up the atmosphere of The Roman Baths away from the daytime crowds, will be pleased to learn that the popular tourist hotspot will stay open until 8pm (last admission 7pm) every day over the Easter weekend, with live music, entertainment and a prosecco bar beside the Great Bath.

Culture

CHATTY MEN

The Holburne Museum recently held an event which saw director and activist Ken Loach in conversation with Holburne-exhibiting artist and Turner-Prize nominee George Shaw.

They discussed the links between their works; Loach’s work has inspired Shaw, whose retrospective at The Holburne focuses on the suburban Tile Hill council estate where he grew up. Afterwards, guests were invited to join in the discussion and ask questions.

For more: www.holburne.org

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

Art, wine and good conversation – what more could you want?

Year five artists at King Edward’s Junior School are very excited, having found out that their work, depicting Bath’s Brock Street, will be exhibited at the National Gallery in London later this year, as part of the Take One Picture initiative, the National Gallery’s flagship scheme for primary schools.

Each year, the Take One Picture scheme focuses on one painting from the gallery’s collection to inspire crosscurricular work in classrooms.

This year, children across the UK were asked to respond to an 18th-century painting, An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump, by Joseph Wright of Derby. The artist lived in Brock Street for a period, which inspired the children to create relief prints of each building on this street. Each print was then assembled to create a long streetscape. The exhibition runs from at the National Gallery from 9 May – 11 August.

For more: www.kesbath.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A vision of style Say hello to the spring season with a new pair of sunglasses from BRAD ABRAHAMS Optometry

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pring is here and as the days get warmer surely it’s time to think about a new pair of sunglasses.

So why not pop into the practice and take a look at our extensive range? We’ve got it covered from the big names to the smaller niche brands you may not have heard of before. And with a huge number of frames to choose from we believe there’s something here for everyone.

We’ve got the best frame styling team around; Agnes, Ahsaan and Trish have decades of experience between them, and bags of talent, and will help you find the perfect frames.

Our friendly team will spend all the time you need to choose the exact look to suit your style and budget, ensuring you have fun in the process.

If you’re looking for the most thorough eye examination in the region, you’ve come to the right place. At Brad Abrahams Optometry you’ll get the best of everything – state of the art technology, expert advice and attention to

detail from start to finish.

We’re also doing our bit for the environment. Drop off any used or unwanted contact lenses and blister packs at the practice and we’ll recycle them for you.

It’s all part of the service.

So do come and see us and have a browse.

You are assured of a warm welcome from all the team here at Brad Abrahams Optometry. n

“AT BRAD ABRAHAMS OPTOMETRY YOU’LL GET THE BEST OF EVERYTHING – STATE OF THE ART TECHNOLOGY, EXPERT ADVICE AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL FROM START TO FINISH”

2 Upper Borough Walls Bath BA1 1RG 01225 444321 team@bradabrahams.uk.com www.bradabrahams.uk.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 17

SCENE T H E L AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H Alessandra Tarquini and Flavio Bellomi

Appreciating the art takes concentration Eleanor Chapman, Sophie Erin Cooper and Nicola Johnson

Ellis Reed and Rhian Wirtz

Dave Ford and Stephanie Howell Sam Smith, Nella Aarne and Louis Mason

HART OF THE MATTER

Kamila Szczesna and Sarah Parkes

An exhibition preview took place at arts venue The Edge, to celebrate the opening of a new body of ceramic works commissioned by Emma Hart. The sculptures placed visitors and their families in a world of windscreens, road signs, car bonnets and steering wheels, looking at how we navigate the world and understand ourselves within it. The preview coincided with the revealing of The Edge’s new open-plan event space adjacent to the gallery.

Photos by Anna Barclay

Visitors were cautious of the road signs

Yanki Keles and Livia Klimaj

Priscila Buschinelli and Ryan Simmonds

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

SOCIETY

Helen Collingborn and Pete Helme

Anita Jaynes and Stephen Derrick Jake Nash-Wilson and Ben Green

SPIN THE WHEEL

Karen Walker and Benice Hampton Katja Kammerer and Gareth Hopkins

S.P. Green, the recently opened jewellers in Bath, recently collaborated with Century Casino Bath to have their launch party.

Stephen Green, the jewellery designer and creator of all the pieces, attended to give a talk about the company and its collections.

The event saw a fun, free roulette competition where everyone started off with £100’s worth of fake money and one lucky person won a pair of diamond earrings.

Photos by Imogen O’Brien

Rongen Xu, Sihe Feng, Shane Carnell-Xu and Jake Xu

Alison Curtis and Richard Chapple

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

Bruce Coram and Angela Coram

Vicky Lopez-Thirsk and Dom Higham

Ella Carter and Jodie Tyley

hobsons|choice Kitchens | Bath rooms | In te ri o r s

London Road, Bath BA1 6AJ Customer parking behind showroom 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com

SOCIETY

Bianca Eccles and Charlotte Dooling

Clare Young, Kat Hardill and Tamara Spurway

SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THESE

Mum Club host Luisa Fisher recently held an event at the Sweet Little Things cafĂŠ on Lower Borough Walls.

The guest speaker was Michelle Long, founder of Dream Sleepers, who was on hand to give expert advice to tired mums on sleep routines, cues and problem solving.

Guests enjoyed homemade cupcakes and drinks, such as turmeric lattes and and peppermint tea. They also received goodie bags with gifts including personalised silk eye masks from Jessica Russell Flint, stylish teething bangles from local company Mammas Little Treasures, and an ultra low alcohol G&T. Floral arrangement were provided by The Secret Gardens.

Photos by Jess Cheetham

Gemma Honeybun and Stacey Ryder

Michelle Long and Luisa Fisher

Danielle Huxley, Jenna Haskins and Lizzie Pike Selfies and smiles and splendour for the mums

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

Deborah St John Gray and Hannah Whitney Santana Little and Alina Narnicka

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TRADITIONAL SUNDAY ROAST, SERVED NOON – 6PM

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WHAT’S ON IN APRIL

Century Casino Bath Visit us for three floors of fabulous entertainment Cocktail lounge with terrace overlooking the Theatre Royal.

For information about our private suite, parties, functions and packages, please contact: bathevents@cnty.com Saw Close Bath BA1 1EY 01225 308 990 Know your limits! For more information go to: BeGambleAware.org – DrinkAware.co.uk

www.cnty.com/bath Come for the Action, Stay for the Fun!

Beth Somerset, Abi Bateman, Aurore Coatantiec and Hayley Hopton

Ollie Sacco and Dave Dixon

Zac Fennel and Josh Hayden

CUT ABOVE THE REST

The launch party of Eddie’s Street Cuts was held recently at BA1 Hair salon. Guests enjoyed ďŹ zz and nibbles while Eddie, who recently won the Bath Life Civic Award for his role in the community, gave a speech about his homeless haircutting mission, and plans for 2019.

Photos by Nick Cole

Julie Ilic, Eddie Ilic and Philip Ilic

Alexander Robbins, Rachel Robbins and Giles Robbins Aiden Archer, Henry Blackaller, Ollie Curtis and Tom Minty

Chloe Harvey, Kate Prescott, George Redman, Susie Puddephatt and Abbie Rose Nick Parish and Greg Hughes

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

Demi Spatchurst and Jack Moore

Lee Bryant, Surrinda Dhalivaal-Elmes and Kirsty Barter

SOCIETY

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands

Alan Smith and Jerry Gill Beryl Friday and Rachel Shaw

Ben White

BE A SPORT

Children’s Hospice South West hosted a lunch recently to raised funds for Charlton Farm hospice.

Olympic gold-medallist Amy Williams MBE hosted a Q&A with a panel of sporting guests, including Team Bath netballers Beryl Friday and Rachel Shaw; professional surfer Laura Crane; first team manager for Bath City Football Club Jerry Gill; and Alan Smith, former Leicester, Arsenal and England Footballer and now Sky Sports presenter.

The event included a drinks reception, a twocourse lunch, a raffle and an auction, with prizes including a round of golf with professional Chris Wood and a night out with David Flatman. The day raised over £5,000 for the hospice.

Photos by Katie Forshaw at Make Me Magical

Laura Crane and Amy Williams

Alison Miles-Manning

MOVING ON UP

Zest Bootcamp celebrated 10 years of running its group outdoor exercise classes recently. Over 50 guests enjoying a delicious hot, oriental buffet at at Bonghy-Bo restaurant, followed by a DJ duo who got everyone dancing, showing how keeping fit and healthy gives you the energy to party all night. The beautiful celebration cake was made by a Zest member, and Zita Alves, who founded the business in 2009, thanked everyone for their support over the last decade.

Photos by Roy Newport

Fiona Haser Bizony and Piers Bizony Lesley Watkinson, Carole MacDonald, Alison Miles-Manning, Vicki Smith, Susan Fletcher, Lorraine Pyles and Carol Lacey

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

Gill Kenny and Zita Alves

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Let there be rock AC/DC’s drummer, Chris Slade, is coming to Bath to rip it up for a night in June. Here, Flats tells us why he’s particularly in the mood to rock on

© TAKING PICTURES

Y

“It’s a properly original idea, but mainly it will be rip-roaring fun”

ou know what it’s like, the charity thing.

Another email arrives and, trying its best not to be just like all the others, it opens with something original like, “This, June, I’m climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for…”, and we know how that goes. I mean, I’m well up for helping and donating, of course, but there are limits, both to my financial clout and my boredom threshold. Last week, having received another reasonably-tough-walk-forcharity email, I attempted to tot up how many people I know have climbed Kilimanjaro alone. Sixtyeight. Sixty-eight people. And they’re just the ones my buddies and I could think of.

As cool as I’m sure it is, come on, guys. It’s time to think a little harder. My dad, for example, is in his mid-70s and is built like the former prop forward he is, yet he grinds his way up Mont Ventoux every year in homage to his late brother. He doesn’t ask for any money, but he should, because it is a herculean challenge for a man who was born large and never slowed down. Oh, and he works seven days a week, so practice is minimal. This is original; his age makes it so.

Otherwise, though, it’s hard to think of much beyond the standard ‘click and donate’ jobbies. Every now and then, mind you, an email can catch one’s eye. Obviously I like the Bath Rugby Foundation as I’ve seen first-hand just what those folks do, and it’s life changing.

Dorothy House, too, is one of my favourite charities. It was the

venue for my first ever contracted appearance as a Bath Rugby player, and I’ve been going back ever since. They are just the most wonderful, kind bunch.

But how to raise money for them in an exciting way?

Well, how about some proper rock music at Komedia in Bath?

I don’t use this column for advertising, and I’m not doing so now. I just think this event will be something special. AC/DC are, as you well know, gods of rock.

Well, their drummer, Chris Slade, is coming to Bath to rip it up for a night on 13 June. In his spare time (presumably as well as seeing if Rolls-Royces can swim), he bashes drums for an AC/DC tribute band. Said band will put on a full set to the screaming masses at Komedia, and all of the money made will be split equally between the two aforementioned charities.

On top of this, Slade will be at The Bird, Bath, the night before for an intimate evening of tour stories and rock and roll tales.

All I’m saying is that I’m all in, and that I think you should be, too. Partly because it’s a properly original and exciting idea, but mainly as it will be rip-roaring fun. Rock on, and all that.

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman AC/DC’s Chris Slade will be at Komedia on 13 June.

For more, see www.komedia.co.uk/bath

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

INSIDE STORY PHILIPPA MAY

GOOD PURPOSE As far as interior trends go, Philippa’s done with following them to the letter, and is now only focusing on what’s timeless and thoughtful

E

very year, we talk about what’s trending and how we can bring new interior concepts into our own homes. There’s just no escaping trends, and I’m always excited to read about anything new, but this year I’m starting to look at them in a different way. Less of ‘what’s in and what’s out’ and more of what’s fresh but timeless. More than ever I think it’s important to evolve a trend rather than change with it completely, as quite often they’re all shifting at different paces; some are popular for years and some are a flash in the pan.

Take the Scandinavian trend for example, it’s been with us for a few seasons now, but with small adjustments it continues to surprise and delight us with new concepts. Being purposeful and thought-out when grabbing at a new trend is key to a sustainable home. I’ve scoured the local

“It’s important to evolve a trend rather than change with it completely”

haunts to find out what timeless pieces work with the spring trends to highlight how you can easily adjust your look without overhauling your entire scheme.

Pieces made using sustainable and natural materials are definitely in right now, and this is an ethos that is here to stay as more brands emphasise the deeper meanings of the mediums they’re working with. Earthy accents made from jute, wicker and clay are grounding elements to any home, with both Brissi and Graham & Green capitalising on the current love for woven wood.

Graham & Green’s Nelson wicker chair is bohemian with its wicker finish, timeless with its midcentury shape, and yet undeniably cool; pairing this low seat with a shaggy reindeer rug from Toast will make for the perfect comfy reading retreat. Whether you pop it in the corner of a living room or a bedroom, it’s a piece that would look natural in any setting and is definitely on my list as the perfect accompaniment to our new crittall windows.

This earthy trend isn’t just for your furniture, either; it’s ingrained in the colours of 2019, where warm hues and feminine neutrals are updating our walls and floors.

Soft plaster-like pinks have been broken up by expanses of taupe wicker furniture to modernise the feel of any room, and suddenly light, woody floors are making a

comeback like never before.

Light oak or birch floors look airy and bright and can still feel more luxurious than casual when paired with the correct wall colour. I’ve been eyeing up the Lelauzes Versailles panel flooring from Boniti to update our kitchen flooring, it’s the ultimate neutral base for pairing with Neptune’s ‘walnut’ paint which I’ve been dying to try, to instantly update a tired room without sacrificing that timelessness, meaning you won’t be redecorating anytime soon.

Bold walls are adventurous and yet have been a common sight for hundreds of years, proving their endurance, and this dark walnut shade is dramatic, moody and perfectly complements the natural material tokens I’ve mentioned, especially when accentuated with a Moiré Kelim rug from Hay, and a vintage fish cage pendant from Homefront Interiors. The best bit about mixing these natural neutrals with a dusky scheme is that it works in any kind of house, whether it’s a loft-style living room or a Georgian bedroom; you simply can’t go wrong with this ageless combination.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and head of brand for the Bath-based loungewear label Laze Wear. Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_

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

IN MY ROOMS

We always say trends aren’t for following and we should ignore them and only buy what we will love forever, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a look. The trick is knowing how to interpret the styles into something that works for you, and not just slavishly adopting them. Here are seven of our favourites for the new season...

By Lisa Evans

Looking sharp: cacti, petals and all things green are in right now.

Sanderson wallpaper, £79 per roll, Dible & Roy, Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; www.dibleandroy.co.uk

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

INTERIORS 1

GOOD NATURE

It’s the combination of colour, vibrancy and the natural world that keeps the botanic and tropical themes popular, says Vanessa Clark of Homefront Interiors on Margaret’s Buildings, Bath. And Lara Willmore, design consultant at Dible & Roy in Bradford on Avon, agrees, adding that foliage is still present in wallpaper and fabric designs, with deep earthy colours in paint complementing this.

There’s a happiness inherent in this motif, says Jo Wright – who runs Ginger & Tweed, in Box, with her partner, Rob Summerfield – because the prints are a reminder of holidays, summertime and the outdoors, they make people smile.

When designing her collections, Jessica MorganHelliwell, of JMH Textiles, whose studio is based in central Bath, likes to visit The Botanical Gardens at Royal Victoria Park for inspiration; she sketches the plants during her initial exploration, and later translates these onto items such as cushions, lampshades and totes.

John Law, the director of Woodhouse & Law on Bathwick Hill, says the love for all things botanical was huge at Maison & Objet this year, with vast foliage print wall coverings and house plants of every description proving perennially popular among the stands.

“Whether it’s hanging a fresh bunch of eucalyptus in the shower, making your own terrarium, or injecting your interior with some well-placed tropical print textiles, bringing the outside in is an easy way to lift your living space and your mood.”

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Olisippo dining table, POA, 6 Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 2. Tray table, £36, Avenida Home, Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com 3. Lampshade, £85, The Lux & Bloom Studio, Wellow Road, Bath; www.luxandbloom.com 4. Door wedges, from £7.95, Ginger & Tweed, Box; www.gingerandtweed.com 5. Circu wallpaper, £55 per metre, Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 6. Tropical tiger print by Eleanor Bowmer, £24, Leak, Larkhall Square, Bath 7. Parrot Ottoman, £79, Ginger & Tweed, Box; www.gingerandtweed.com 8. Velvet chair, £485, Dible & Roy, Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; 10 www.dibleandroy.co.uk 9. Basin, £2,496, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 10. Mug, £14.50, Homefront Interiors, Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 11. Vanilla Fly cushion, £42, Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com 12. Seletti Rose Chair, £890, Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com 13. Paradise Found, by Ruth Thorp Studio, £24, Leak, Larkhall Square, Bath

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

INTERIORS 1

BLUE PLANET

Dive into the ocean theme, which features sea creatures on surfaces, scalloped-edged furniture, blue everything, and all things curved, wavy and marine-inspired.

But with any theme you introduce into the home, there’s a danger of going overboard, as Michelle Sames, director of The Salcombe Trading Company on Broad Street tells us, “In our hometown of Salcombe, homeowners can go full-on nautical. Not every single product needs a boat or a fish on it, particularly if you have the sea right outside your window. It’s sometimes hard to hold back once you have a theme in your head, but, if in doubt, let the Scandinavians influence your way – with layers, textures and natural materials.”

Emma Sims-Hilditch, the founder of SimsHilditch in Cold Ashton, says she faced this exact dilemma when completing a seasidethemed interior recently, “Instead of being too literal, we focussed on course seaside textures – like sandy shores and crackly driftwood – along with the smooth, reflective quality of water. When it comes to colour, blue seems obvious, but a whole range of colours will work – from rich, chocolatey browns to crisp greens and hints of coral.”

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TOP TIP

“Bring the seaside inside your home by collecting pebbles from the beach and popping them in a little container as an ornament.

I like to bring home one pebble each time I go to the coast; they are a much better souvenir than something made of plastic.”

Emily Oliver, the owner of Mebyl on Cleveland Terrace, Bath

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1. Octopus tray, £36, Avenida Home, Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com 2. Driftwood art, £490, Bigfabdesigns, Midsomer Norton; www.bigfabdesigns.etsy.com 3. Cabinet, POA, Bath Kitchen Company, North Parade Buildings, Bath; www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk 4. Ariel velvet chair, £795, Graham and Green, Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 5. Cereal bowl, £22, Libby Ballard Ceramics, Corsham; www.libbyballard.co.uk 6. Cushion, from £35, Blue Women and Home at The Loft, Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 7. 3D mackerel wall art, from £15, Jess Hughes Designs, Newbridge; www.jesshughesdesigns.com 8. Boat bath, £1,509, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com

INTERIORS 3

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LESS IS MORE

Minimalism has re-emerged as a defining trend, but this time it’s all about substance, quality and appreciation for materials and owning things that are built to last.

“Marie Kondo has introduced a whole generation to ‘less is more’, sparking a counter-culture of anticonsumerism,” says Ruth Wood, the founder of Urban Editions based just outside of Bath. “Her approach to downscaling unnecessary possessions focuses on enjoying the things you keep. This puts the emphasis on appreciating the quality and the meaning in the things we own.”

Jo at Ginger & Tweed agrees, saying that simplicity in design, having less in your home, and having a focus on your favourite key pieces is the rising trend of the year, and their handmade products echo this theme.

Vanessa Sayce, the owner of The Marmalade House, based in Kelston, has always had a focus on the paredback look. For people who want to test-drive the trend, she says to start with the basics, “Focus on what your main feature is in the room – whether it’s bespoke wallpaper, or a rug you can’t live without – and carefully build layers around it. Keep things simple and do away with ornaments and junk.”

If you cringe at the thought of throwing out your ‘junk’ items just to create a trendy space, though, Emma at Sims-Hilditch suggests tweaking your rooms so that the clutter of life is hidden away, and the room seems calm and tranquil. “We start by stripping back as much as possible in order to get a sense of the bones of the space,” she says. “This allows us to discover nooks and crannies which can be utilised as clever storage solutions.”

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Dining room design, Hawker Joinery, Queen’s Parade Place, Bath; www.hawker-joinery.co.uk 2. Shower set, £816, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 3. Skon Nordic parquet, £88.40m2, Broadleaf, Walcot Street, Bath; www.broadleaftimber.com 4. Bathroom design, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 5. Sideboard, £1,250, Blue Women and Home at The Loft, Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 6. Milking stools, £21.95 each, Ginger & Tweed, Box; www.gingerandtweed.com 7. Vinyl storage cabinet, from £555, Urban Editions, based just outside of Bath; www.theurbaneditions.com 8. Illustrated pillow, JMH Textiles, Crescent Gardens, Bath; www.jmhtextiles.etsy.com 9. Nkuku table, £120, Homefront Interiors, Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 10. Vase, £40, Libby Ballard Ceramics, Corsham; www.libbyballard.co.uk

Go back to basics with Ercol furniture, available at TR Hayes, London Street, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

INTERIORS 1

ON THE FRINGE

If you just make one small change to your home this season, add embellishments, advises Lara at Dible & Roy. “Try adding some fringing or tufting to existing soft furnishings in your home – such as tassel tiebacks on curtains or tactile surfaces on upholstery, cushions or throws,” she says. “Rugs are also a great way to add some contrasting texture to a room.”

“We love that fringing is back in vogue,” says Vanessa at The Marmalade House. “It’s a designer’s dream component to use and, in the simplest way, can sex everything up – from a cushion, to a complete room scheme – and it makes things individual and fun. I have drawers full of many colours of linen trims, pom poms and tapes to add to pieces we have made for our clients.”

And Nahla Robinson – the founder of Nala Lighting, which has a pop-up shop running in Milsom Place until the start of June – says fringing can create an effortless, ethnic vibe to give a modern and classic feel to the home.

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1. Mirror, £120, Nala Lighting, Milsom Place, Bath; www.nalalighting.com 2. Tibetan cushion, £89, Blue Women and Home at The Loft, Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 3. Recycled rug, £12, Rossiters of Bath, Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 4. Cushion, £55, Blue Women and Home at The Loft, Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 5. Fringed stool, POA, Etons of Bath, 108 Walcot Street, Bath; www.etonsofbath.com 6. Liv rug, from £69, Blue Women and Home at The Loft, Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 7. Tasseled mirror, £172, Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com

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

Nยบ Twelve Queen Street Bath, Somerset BA1 1HE

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EMAIL interiors@twelvedesign.co.uk WEB: www.twelvedesign.co.uk

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SUSTAIN AND GAIN

The shift toward sustainable and ecofriendly designs means that people are no longer looking for mass-produced furniture, they are instead in search of one-of-a-kind makes, offering unique interior character.

“Customers are increasingly seeking a backstory to their purchases,” says Monty Saul, the queen of home and lifestyle at Kilver Court in Shepton Mallet. “They want to know how and where a product has been created and produced.”

Ruth at Urban Editions adds, “We can choose to replace plastic kitchenware with natural wood, ceramic or stone, to invest in solid wood furniture that’s built to last, and to purchase natural wool and linen fabrics – all materials that age gracefully and don’t need replacing so often. This is minimalism with soul and purpose.”

Sustainability is at the heart of Mebyl’s offering, too; at the Bath-based store you’ll find vintage, salvaged and reclaimed furniture that’s ready for customers to relove and upcycle themselves. “Saving the planet, updating your interiors and being creative – what’s not to like about this trend?” says owner Emily Oliver.

Vanessa at Homefront Interiors agrees,

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adding that part of her ethos is to find products that are from sustainable sources – including products made by small producers which have been ethically traded – and to ensure that the producers and their local community benefits.

“This is a theme that is going to continue to grow as we try and help the environment and small producers to thrive,” she says. “We also like to find local artisan makers, thereby reducing miles the products travel and helping the environment.”

Jonathan Rigg, the owner of Jonathan William Designs, Bath, creates all of his work with the material in mind, allowing the warmth and character to determine the final piece. “Reusing materials is far better for the environment than recycling,” he says. “My materials are either saved from the skip or bonfire, so they may have otherwise be left to rot or burn. This can bring problems when working, as you are never sure how the wood will behave, but I find the finished individuality of the furniture and the fact it is eco-friendly makes it worthwhile.”

The environmental theme is also one that Ginger & Tweed is closely aligned with. The business began with the owners

creating products from reclaimed wood, offcuts and old wine boxes. They continue to recycle and reuse materials, they use locally sourced timber and they support local businesses whenever possible.

“It’s important to us to be sympathetic to the natural material of wood,” says owner Jo, who, along with her partner, creates products in the garden shed at the back of her little local cottage. “Embracing the cracks, knots and – some may say – imperfections is key to our making process, and it means that there is little to no wastage.”

There’s a similar ethos at Hawker Joinery on Queen’s Parade Place, too, with one of their goals being to use sustainable timber – specifically Accoya, known for its durability, lasting 50 years above ground.

Sims-Hilditch also champions materials that are built to last, from both an ecological and aesthetic point of view.

And when it comes to accessories, Libby Ballard, of Libby Ballard Ceramics in Corston, designs her products – such as crockery and plant pots – to last a lifetime.

“I want to create timeless pieces that become part of your home, and that you love to use or admire, and that don’t get thrown away due to going out of fashion.”

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1. Console table, from £670, Urban Editions, based just outside of Bath; www.theurbaneditions.com 2. Planter, from £6.95, Homefront Interiors, Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 3. Ottoman, from £89, Ginger & Tweed, Box; www.gingerandtweed.com 4. Lighting selection, from £55, Nala Lighting, Milsom Place, Bath; www.nalalighting.com 5. Chandelier, £6,100, Jonathan William Designs, Bath; www.jonathanwilliam.co.uk 6. Wine rack, from £110, Jonathan William Designs, Bath; www.jonathanwilliam.co.uk 7. Wooden bowls, from £29.95, Homefront Interiors, Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 8. Coffee table, £390, Jonathan William Designs, Bath; www.jonathanwilliam.co.uk 9. Bespoke furniture, POA, Splinter Works, Queen Square, Bath; www.splinterworks.co.uk 10. Folding Stool, £89.95, Homefront Interiors, Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 45

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COLOUR RIOT

This year, brave, bold shades are going to explode even more than they already have; think fuchsia pink, burnt orange, deep blue and citrus hues to really bring some excitement into rooms.

“This season’s collections are bursting with colour, with the Anna range by Manuel Canovas leading the charge,” says Kim Paterson, head of interior design at Rossiters of Bath on Broad Street. “From the rich embroidered herringbones to the multi-coloured velvets, design doesn’t get much bolder.”

For Louise Rushford, artistic director at The Lux & Bloom Studio near Wellow, Bath, jewel tones have always been a go-to. “Hues that have luminosity, giving a dazzling effect, are the ones that add real drama to interiors,” she says, “especially when mixed with blacks and greys. Even just a few cushions or a lampshade are enough to liven up your life.”

Eye-catching patterns are creating a statement, too. For Arianna Brissi, the creative director at Brissi on Milsom Street, the ‘nomadic’ style is a winner. “A bright Aztec rug, a statement vase with a strong ethnic pattern, or even a touch of rattan or a splash of bamboo are great additions,” she says. “We have discovered our inner anthropologist and have run with it.”

And courageous colours in the form of velvet is a big story in interiors, as far as Sarah Howells of TR Hayes on London Street, Bath, sees it. The tactile, luxurious, plush fabric in a strong hue can create some serious impact.

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

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ON PAPER

For Bath Spa University student Jessica Morgan-Helliwell, of JMH Textiles, the statement print is key this season. In collaboration with The Holburne Museum, Bath, she created a print that was inspired by their collection of items – specifically teapots, cups and saucers – which she turned into a made-to-order wallpaper drop.

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1. Wood wall art, £570, Bigfabdesigns, Midsomer Norton; www.bigfabdesigns.etsy.com 2. Sandcastle basin, £1,656, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 3. Lip armchair, £890, Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com 4. Mini tray, £8, Avenida Home, Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com 5. Paper lampshade, £30, Rossiters of Bath, Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 6. Circu cloud lamp, €2,100, Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 7. Clock, £39, Blue Women and Home at The Loft, Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 8. Concrete basin, £1,404, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 9. Kitchen design, POA, Bath Kitchen Company, North Parade Buildings, Bath; www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk 10. Mosaic wall art, £545, Bigfabdesigns, Midsomer Norton; www.bigfabdesigns.etsy.com 11. Baskets, from £16, Homefront Interiors, Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 12. Circu cloud sofa, €3,360, Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 13. Frida Kahlo cushion, £43, Rossiters of Bath, Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 14. Boat Bath, £1,509, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

Bare metal: accents in gold, brass and copper add a touch of glamour.

Covet house armchairs, POA, Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

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INTERIORS HEAVY METAL

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Metallic homeware accessories have had Pinners going click-crazy lately; James Horsfall at Bath Kitchen Company, on North Parade Buildings, says handmade brass and copper accents – which work well with dark colours – will be among the most popular additions for spring interiors.

Gilt is also coming back; Vanessa at The Marmalade House says that when it’s used in the right places, it can be dramatic and mesmerising, and will bring a touch of glamour into the home. “We teach gilding in copper, gold and silver leaf on our furniturepainting courses, and when you see how beautiful small touches can be, you can start to use it with confidence in a room scheme.”

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OFF KILTER, ON POINT

“We find ourselves drawn to deliberately off-kilter displays. Console tables featuring the likes of a central mirror and symmetrically placed lamps at each end have been eschewed for off-centre groupings of objects – think candlesticks, vases or favourite items from your travels – often accentuated by low-level lighting.”

John Law, of Woodhouse & Law on Bathwick Hill

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1. Gold Manipur fabric, £95 per metre, Rossiters of Bath, Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 2. Beans sideboard, POA, Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 3. Loretta Sofa, £1,150, Rossiters of Bath, Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 4. Hanging planter, £40, Leak, Larkhall Square, Bath 5. Velvet sofa, £1,839, TR Hayes, London Street, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk 6. Retro tap, £904, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 7. Bathroom design, POA, Splinter Works, Queen Square, Bath; www.splinterworks.co.uk 8. Shower set, £3,919, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 9. Ana Roque Lauren sideboard, £3,137, Woodhouse & Law, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 10. Round vase, £45, Leak, Larkhall Square, Bath

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

Sit Back and Relax as we can Take Care Of Full Installation and Project Management to Create The Bathroom Of Your Dreams The largest bathroom showroom in the area displaying: The Original Thomas Crapper as well as designer ranges Laura Ashley, Geberit, Laufen, Hansgrohe, Roper Rhodes and Matki showers. We know the art of bathrooms and can help you design yours!

Call for a site survey or visit our showroom Brassmill Lane Trading Estate, Bath BA1 3JF Tel: 01225 462727 | totalbathrooms.co.uk

Masters of paint

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SJ BLANDINI are traditional painters and decorators, specialising in period property decoration, restoration and decorative arts.

B

orn and raised near Bath, founder Simon Blandini started his painting and decorating career as an apprentice in Bath, later going on to study specialist finishes then working as a furniture painter in Italy. He then progressed to launch SJ Blandini heading up a talented team of master painters and decorators.

As period property specialists SJ Blandini are fortunate to be based in Bath and have the expertise to carry out the delicate work required for the restoration of dÊcor in listed buildings. This level of work requires highly trained painters with an understanding of the specialist materials and the know-how required to restore ornate relief detail such as cornices, mouldings and wood trim that’s being hidden by many years of built-up paint which needs removing to return these details to their original beauty.

Other specialised services include kitchen and furniture painting; changing the colour of kitchen units and adding different handles will completely refresh and revitalise your kitchen.

SJ Blandini have a team of skilled artisan painters who are experienced in oil and water gilding as well as marble, precious stones and metallics.

Repainting old pieces of furniture will give them a new lease of life and enable them to be better matched into existing colour schemes. SJ Blandini will strip pieces of furniture and then repaint by hand, often enabling many details that were lost jump back out again. Styles and techniques include painting to look aged and distressed, or spraying in gloss or lacquer for a faultless finish along with effects such as painted marbled tops or gilt detailing.

As well as residential homes SJ Blandini have great experience of commercial decorating projects such as schools, restaurants, offices and hotels including The Gainsborough Bath Spa in central Bath, a project on which they were appointed as a decorating contractor. They can quote for all internal or external commercial projects from sources drawings, tender specifications or site visits. They are part of the recognised Government Endorsed Painters & Decorators Trust Mark.

Whether it’s painting one piece of furniture or an entire home, SJ Blandini pride themselves on delivering exceptional results, professionalism and quality workmanship with the minimum of disruption and creating a unique result for their clients. n

Simon Blandini | Tel: 01761 437009, Mobile: 07922 275587 | office@simonblandini.com | www.simonblandini.com

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

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

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The Framing Workshop has been trading as an independent family run business on Walcot Street for over 28 years. We treasure you, our client, and spend time helping you to find the best way to display and protect your cherished objects, artworks and memorabilia. Creativity and respect for each artwork are core to what we do.

Every picture tells a story. Come and share yours.

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

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01225 791155 ashford-homes.co.uk

Interior Design, Fit-out & Refurbishment. Kitchens, Bathrooms & Bedroom specialist 3 Cork Place, Bath BA1 3BB | Tel: 01225 339003 | Mob: 07530 896413 | batholive.com | oliveinteriorsltd@hotmail.co.uk Contact us for a free design consultation

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Fireplaces, wood burners, gas fires, chimney and flue specialists

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Interiors & Homewares Work from local artists and makers Prints, Cards & Gifts 10 Margaret's Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP homefrontinteriors.co.uk T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk Handmade, Reclaimed, Sustainable & Vintage

Original cast iron radiators, lovingly restored and ready to plumb straight into your exisiting central heating system.

We are a local Bath-based business with a huge choice of stock available now.

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Inspired design and styling can excite and enhance our lives enabling us to feel nurtured and uplifted.

Whether it be redesigning the interior and exterior of a property, altering the colour palette, introducing a new style, changing soft furnishings, refreshing, replacing or de-cluttering ~ leave it to me…

The Coach House, Linden Gardens, Weston Road, Bath BA1 8DB M. 07710 223285 E. lucy@lucycollins.me www.lucycollins.me

SOFT FURNISHING SERVICE Including: Curtains, bespoke bedding, bespoke head boards, Commercial projects. We have our own local curtain making workrooms, and facilities to provide clients with a full design service.

Our suppliers are: Romo, Harlequin, William Yeoward, Sanderson, Casadeco, Wilman, Villa Nova, GP & J Baker, Marvic, Warwick, Blendworth, Anna French, Thaibut, The Real Paintbox Co., Lewis & Wood, James Brindley.

UPHOLSTERY SERVICE If you have a favourite sofa or chair in need of refurbishment, we can also provide an upholstering service.

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MARKILUX AWNING SALE* For a limited time only, we are offering our customers a fantastic discount on all Markilux's awnings, suitable for patio or balcony.

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SOVEREIGN DAMP & TIMBER LTD We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, basement waterproofing, timber treatment and specialist replastering.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Takeaway service Need a skip? BATEMAN SKIPS are geared to all your waste-transfer needs – and we think you’ll like their ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ principles . . .

B

ath is well known for its Roman baths and as a world heritage site. This makes it an incredibly desirable place to visit and live, but when it comes to building work, waste management and therefore hiring a skip it can pose a couple of issues compared to other cities.

Here are a few things to think about: ● If you are trying to book a skip on the road in an historical area, especially if the street is cobbled, the council may reject the permit to protect the road. ● If you are planning on putting the skip in your residential parking space, the council charge an additional bay suspension fee on top of the permit. ● We always check access to the delivery location. If there are any issues we will need to talk to you about an alternative solution. ● We now offer Same Day Delivery service – if you order before 11am we guarantee delivery the same day if required.

Our experienced team will be able to advise you of the alternatives if either of these issues effect you.

BATH LIFE OFFER If you book online at www.batemanskips. co.uk you can use the code BATH10 for £10 off your skip order! Valid until June 2019.

WHAT OPTIONS DO YOU HAVE IF YOU CAN’T GET A SKIP? Hiring a skip for building work is standard practise for domestic projects as well as people in the trade carrying out professional projects.

We do, however, get requests for alternatives.

We have a Waste Transfer Station in Keynsham that anyone with a waste carriers license can make full use of. We weigh you in and then weigh you out so you only pay for the exact amount of waste you drop off – many of our customers like this as they can get rid of any mess around the building site as soon as they want to without it mounting up.

We also offer Grab hire which has grown in popularity over the last few years. You can get up to 16 tonnes of soil and stone in the grab lorry and the waste is gone immediately.

WHAT ARE WE DOING ABOUT RECYCLING? Recycling is something that we take incredibly seriously at Bateman Skips. The cost to the environment is too much to ignore reduce, reuse and recycle principles.

Last year we recycled an average of 95% of the waste that came through our materials recycling facility, that’s over 80,000 tonnes diverted from landfill. Although we are happy with this accomplishment we have set ourselves the goal of becoming zero waste to landfill by next year.

We’d like to thank you for taking the time to read this advert, and if you have any questions we are always happy to help. ■

You can call us on 01225 650229, email us at info@batemanskips.co.uk or you can connect with us on the live chat feature on www.batemanskips.co.uk. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

INTERIORS DIRECTORY Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs this spring ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES Aaron Evans Architects

3 Gay St, Bath; 01225 466234; www.aaronevans.com Award winning architects practice established for 40 years in Bath Aqua Fortis

01225 285500; www.roofersbath.com Roofing solutions Bateman Skips

Broadmead Lane, Keynsham, Bristol; 01225 650229; www.batemanskips.co.uk Family run skip hire and waste management business The Build Bristol Group

7 Charles Rd, Filton, Bristol; 07545 339908; www.thebuildbristolgroup.com Architects and builders providing both commercial and residential design and construction service Dimension 22

71 Rush Hill, Bath; 07872 016350;

Velvet cushion, £66, Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com

www.dimension22.co.uk Domestic planning, design and building consultants DKA

Rock Pools and Spas

86 Westbury Leigh, Westbury; 0333 6009001 www.rockpoolsandspas.co.uk Design and servicing of spas and hot tubs Saltford Building Services

01225 874676; www.saltfordbuildingservices.com Specialists in complete building and property development services Sovereign Damp Proofing

01249 716161 www.sovereigndpc.co.uk Comprehensive service for all kinds of damp-proofing

The Malt House, 17-20 Sydney Buildings, Bath; 01225 465701; www.dka.co.uk Local architects with over 20 years’ experience of designing and delivering quality buildings.

Sydenhams

Hawker Joinery

North End, Batheaston, Bath; 01225 858233; www.hawker-joinery.co.uk The oldest established joinery business in Bath

29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www.timberwindows.com Beautiful real timber doors and windows with dedicated installation team

Hetreed Ross

BATHROOMS

Toll Bridge Road, Bath; 01225 851860; www.hetreedross.com Award-winning architects providing a complete range of services including domestic interior design The Home Service

01225 685111 www.thehomeservice.co.uk Home moves, home service and project management Lucy Collins

07710 223285; www.lucycollins.me Property dressing and styling

Hawthorn Grove, Bath; 01225 833585; www.sydenhams.co.uk Long-standing builders merchants plus fitted kitchens and bathrooms.

Timber Windows of Clifton

Ripples

Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971; www.ripples.ltd.uk Creators of award-winning luxury designer bathrooms for decades Total Bathrooms

Brassmill Lane, Trading Estate, Bath; 01225 462727; www.totalbathrooms.co.uk A specialist in Bette products with a huge range of baths

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

Fabric & Flair

10 St Martin’s Park, Marshfield, Chippenham; 01225 891844; www.fabricandflair.co.uk Making and fitting beautiful curtains, blinds and accessories for over 20 years

DECORATING Ipaint

07726 939661; www.ipaint.me.uk High-end painting and wallpapering SJ Blandini Interiors

01225 873694; www.simonblandini.com High-end expert painting and decorating service specialising in period properties

FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS

Mendip Fireplaces (Bath)

The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706 www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk Fireplace, stove and chimney specialists with an extensive range of open fires, wood-burning and gas stoves, cookers and fire surrounds

FLOORING, CARPETS AND TILES Bath Contract Flooring

4 Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 471888; www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk Specialists in flooring Boniti

Dunsdon Road, West Littleton, Chippenham; 01225 89200; www.boniti.com Natural stone and timber flooring, decorative tiles, garden furniture with a specialist bespoke design service

The Marmalade House

Broadleaf Timber

CURTAINS, BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND SOFT FURNISHINGS

Capitol Carpets of Bath

The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 445855; www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Learn how to paint furniture

Aspect Window Styling

1 Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 469559; www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk Blinds, shutters, awnings, curtains, poles and accessories The Curtain Exchange

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath; 01225 422078; www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk

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

A wide range of bespoke and readymade curtains and blinds

134-136 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 463464; www.broadleaftimber.com Solid wooden floors, plank and parquet, oak flooring, made-tomeasure internal and external oak doors, staircases and joinery 120-122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341; www.thecarpet.co.uk A range of affordable carpet and stone flooring Haliden Oriental Carpets

98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Antique oriental carpets, Persian rugs, tribal weavings and antique turkmen carpets

INTERIORS Interior Harmony Flooring

5A Chelsea Road, Bath 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk Specialists for vinyl, carpet and hardwood flooring, floor sanding and wood floor renovation Miety Stone

Hillmans Transport Depot Bridge, Chelwood, Bristol; 01275 333589; www.mietystone.co.uk Stone paving Oriental Rugs of Bath

1 Hallatrow Business Park Wells Road, Hallatrow 01761 451764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com Rugs, kilims and various pieces of furniture Tile & Flooring Bath

1 Mile End, London Road West Bath; 01225 310561 www.tileandflooring.co.uk Family-run business specialising in the supply, installation and restoration of flooring

FURNITURE, INTERIORS AND HOMEWARE SHOPS

01225 738551; www.juliadavey.com Hand made contemporary homeware and gifts Knees Home and Electrical

Spitfire Retail Park, Bradley Road, Trowbridge; 01225 754161 www.knees.co.uk Carefully selected range of kitchen appliances, furniture home accessories.

Leekes

Beanacre Park, Melksham 0845 0508240; www.leekes.co.uk Quality furniture, electricals, home accessories and more Oka

26 -27 Milsom Street, Bath; 01225 443074; www.okadirect.com A 4,000 square foot interiors haven in the heart of Bath Perfect Rooms, Interiors and Upholstery

Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham 01249 716455 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Fabrics, carpets, wallpaper, furniture, homeware and gifts Rossiters

27 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 571718; www.avenidahome.com Classic home accessories

38-41 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com Furniture, accessories, fabrics, and an interior design service

The Bath Framer

Silcox Son & Wicks

Avenida Home

7 Walcot Buildings, London Road Bath; 01225 920210 www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk High-quality framing services The Framing Workshop

80 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com Box framing, glass and perspex boxes, hand-finished and gilded frames and more Graham and Green

92 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 418300 www.grahamandgreen.co.uk Exceptional range of furniture and home accessories Homefront Interiors

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath 01225 571711 www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk New, vintage finds, handmade, sustainable, reclaimed and recycled homewares Julia Davey

20 Wellsway, Bath

5-7 New Bath Street, Bath; 01225 463933; www.silcox.co.uk Eclectic collection of furnishing gems to suit a range of tastes Verve Living

15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 07785 332536; www.verveliving.uk An interiors space that fosters creativity and craftsmanship

INTERIOR DESIGN Bear Interiors

20 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 330124 www.bear-interiors.co.uk Kitchens, custom-built furniture, interior design consultancy and projects from showroom on Bear Flat Claire Rendall

01225 859940 www.clairerendall.com Luxury interior design Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd

Walcot Studio, Old Orchard 88a Walcot Street, Bath 01225 426905/07855 797311 www.clairstrong.co.uk

Retro tap, £904, Ripples, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com

Innovative design for commercial and residential settings both large and small

installation of bespoke wooden kitchens, bathrooms, libraries and bedrooms

Etons of Bath

Hobsons|choice

108 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com Showroom offering full range of interior design services Lux and Bloom

07989 687771 www.luxandbloom.com Bath based design house creating furnishing fabrics and home accessories No. Twelve Queen Street

12 Queen Street, Bath; 01225 462363; www.twelvedesign.co.uk Truly personal design service focusing on private residential, hotel and commercial work Woodhouse & Law

4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072 www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk Full interior design service

KITCHENS

The Bath Kitchen Company

7-9 North Parade Buildings Bath; 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Family business designing unique, beautiful and functional kitchens for over 20 years Cheverell Wood

Cheverell, Hopton Park Waller Road, Devizes, 01380 722722 www.cheverellwood.co.uk Highly skilled craftspeople specialise in the design, manufacture and

London Road, Bath; 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com Luxury kitchen showroom showcasing Bulthaup brand and offering high end design service and project management Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors

8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath; 01225 481881 www.kellymariekitchens.com Independent luxury German and British kitchen design with over 15 years’ experience Saltford Kitchens

439 Bath Road, Saltford, Bristol 01225 874676 www.saltfordkitchens.com Bespoke kitchen and worktop design and installation Schmidt Bath

1 Park Road, Bath; 01225 337276 www.home-design.schmidt/en-gb Made to measure kitchens, dressing rooms and furniture Westside Design

Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 864260; www.westsidedesign.co.uk Kitchens, cabinet makers and joiners

RADIATORS

Reclaimed Radiators

07540 978408 info@reclaimedradiators.co.uk A comprehensive range of antique cast iron radiators.

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

Emma Rose

Original Contemporary Art . Limited Edition GiclĂŠe Prints Cards . Commissions First Floor Gallery, 78 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD

www.emmaroseartworks.com

A R T WO R KS

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

DANCING IN THE DARK Cody Choi is a professional dancer and photographer who focuses on dance portraiture and theatre photography.

His photography journey started as he toured and danced around the world with Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake for three years. When not dancing, Cody filled his days capturing different places, theatres and fellow dancers.

“Follow not only the movement but breathe with the dancers” is Cody’s approach to his dance photography.

These pictures are not limited to the flow and shift of bodies; they extend to the dancers’ state of mind and emotions, creating a resounding impact.

Cody Choi’s photography can be seen at ART Salon, 21 Broad Street, Bath; www.artsalon.co.uk

Flora 9, Photograph 51 x 76cm Edition of 30 £390

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

WHAT’S ON

© THE OTHER RICHARD

30 March – 27 April

Equus is being performed at the Theatre Royal

EXHIBITIONS Until 31 March

MODERN ARTBUYER SPRING POP-UP A pop-up gallery showcasing contemporary paintings and prints by artists including Maria Rivans, Bonnie and Clyde, Victoria Topping, Paul Minott, Paul Bennett, Caroline Hall, Plum Neasmith and Chuck Elliott.

Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-4pm; Unit 23 Milsom Place; Milsom Street and Broad Street; www.modernartbuyer.com

Until 22 April

WHY MUSEUMS MATTER This exhibition examines the connection between museums, creativity, mental health and wellbeing. Each piece will reveal a personal connection, exploring how individual objects and opportunities to learn new art skills can inspire creative journeys.

Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, 11am5pm Sunday; general admission £12.50; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

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

Until 25 April

NICK CUDWORTH: BATH AT NIGHT Nick has long been entranced by Bath’s Georgian architecture and the way the stone seems to glow, even at twilight and during the night. For this exhibition he has made giclée prints on stretched canvases, replicating the sizes, brushstrokes and colours of the original oil paintings.

Monday – Sunday 8am-8pm; Art at the Heart of the RUH, Central Gallery, RUH; www.artatruh.org

Until 27 April

EMMA HART: BANGER Emma Hart’s work has been described as ‘badly behaved’, challenging assumptions and stereotypes in her quest to make art to which everyone can relate.

Tuesday-Saturday 1pm-5pm (late night Wednesday open until 7pm); The Edge; www.edgearts.org

Until 28 April

JASON DORLEY-BROWN Jason’s work has been influenced by his years in the photo industry; he

has a passion for colour, symmetry, abstract and pop art along with using and mixing ‘old school’ and modern techniques to create striking imagery.

Monday-Sunday 8am-8pm Art at the Heart of the RUH, Central Gallery; www.artatruh.org

Until 6 May

GEORGE SHAW: A CORNER OF A FOREIGN FIELD Shaw’s paintings, made with enamel model paint, focus on the Tile Hill estate – a post-war development on the outskirts of Coventry, where he grew up. Steeped in modern and historic traditions, Shaw’s work alludes to 20th-century painting and photography, and the legacy of such European masters as Titian.

Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm; £12.50; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 7 May

ENDANGERED AND EXTINCT (CREATIVE RECYCLING BY VAL HUNT) Animals, exotic birds, fish, dinosaurs and species of flora, all

on the edge of extinction, or now extinct, have been made from a selection of throwaway material.

This exhibition presents a subtle message about recycling and preservation, raising awareness of why the creatures on show are endangered or extinct.

10.30am-5pm; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 3 November

ALL SHOOK UP: THOMAS KELLNER’S AMERICA Photography showing landmark sights in the USA, in Kellner’s signature distorted style, that play with notions of movement and harmony.

Tuesday-Sunday 11am-5pm; American Museum & Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 1 March 2020

GLOVE STORIES An eclectic display of historical gloves from the past 400 years, many of which have never been displayed to the public before.

Highlights include embroidered gauntlet gloves from the 1600s, a

WHAT’S ON curious pair of gloves in a walnut shell from the 1830s, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s carriage-driving gloves. The exhibition also touches on outer space with a Soviet cosmonaut’s glove and a costume glove from the Star Wars film The Empire Strikes Back.

10.30am-4pm; included in Fashion Museum ticket; Fashion Museum Bath; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

© MANUEL HARL AN

1 – 30 April

ABOVE:

Emma Rose’s The Edge is on display at Emma Rose Artworks on Walcot Street LEFT: The Girl on the Train is being performed at the Theatre Royal; BELOW: Dave Fidler will be strumming away at Saint James Wine Vaults

EMMA ROSE: ELEMENTS In response to spring, an exhibition of how natures reacts to the seasons.

Blossom, sun, storm, snow and mist abound in sky, sea and mountain.

Emma’s work is a mix of Indian Inks and acrylics, occasionally using gold/copper/silver leaf.

Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm; Emma Rose Arts Works; upstairs at 78 Walcot Street; www.emmaroseartworks.com

PLAYS/SHOWS Until 30 March

PLAYHOUSE CREATURES The Rondo Theatre Company performs a story about the first professional actresses to appear on the English stage, at the command of a monarch with an eye for a pretty girl. Described as both comic and moving.

7.30pm; various prices; The Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

Until 27 April

THE OMISSION OF THE FAMILY COLEMAN This absurdist comedy follows three generations of the dysfunctional Coleman family living under one roof on the verge of chaos, held in check by their matriarchal grandmother.

Various times and prices; The Ustinov Studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

© DAVE FIDLER OFFICIAL

2 – 6 April

EQUUS When teenager Alan Strang’s pathological fascination with horses leads him to commit a devastating act of violence, psychiatrist Dr. Martin Dysart reluctantly accepts the task of uncovering what actually happened the night the crime was committed. Peter Shaffer’s play exploded onto the scene in 1973 and went on to become a huge worldwide hit.

Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

8 – 13 April

THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN

Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel – an international phenomenon selling over 20 million copies worldwide – and starring Samantha Womack and Oliver Farnworth.

Various time and prices; Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

16 – 20 April

HOME I’M DARLING Following a sold-out run at the National Theatre and direct from a West End transfer, Katherine Parkinson reprises her acclaimed role as Judy in Laura Wade’s new comedy about one woman’s quest to be the perfect 1950’s housewife.

Various time and prices; Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC 1 April

GABRIELLE The soul singer will be performing songs from her new album and showcasing her signature hits, such as her number one single Dreams.

7pm; various prices; Komedia www.komedia.co.uk

6 April

UB40 Birmingham’s world-famous reggae stars UB40 celebrating their 40th anniversary with a huge tour. Fans can expect to hear their greatest hits, including, Kingston Town and Red, Red Wine.

Doors 7.30pm, show 8pm; various prices; Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

6 April

BLOXX The female-fronted four-piece band specialise in contagious indie pop with an underbelly of grunge.

7pm; Moles; www.moles.co.uk

13 April

THE BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE SHOW Expect all the big hits from the band, such as God Only Knows, Good Vibrations, I Get Around, Surfin’ USA, Fun Fun Fun, and California Girls.

Doors open 7pm, show 7.30pm; various prices; the Forum; www.theforum.co.uk

19 April

DAVE FIDLER The Mancunian songwriter will be performing tunes from his new album Songs From Aurora. Expect pastoral folk pop; fans of Nick Drake will enjoy.

The Wine Vaults; www.stjameswinevaults.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

WHAT’S ON

Until 31 March

KALEIDOSCOPE Using a unique blend of gentle, playful performance, sound and lighting, babies and their grown ups are invited to discover the magic of a multicoloured world.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

2 – 7 April

ROMEO AND JULIET The tragedy about two starcrossed lovers will be performed by theatre company Box Clever, which specialises in producing contemporary theatre for young people.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

5 – 6 April

MACBETH Expect a contemporary, and very physical production of the Scottish play that charts the devastating impact of unchartered ambition.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

11 – 13 April

FOLK LORE Hear the roots of the stories you have grown up knowing, in this celebration of the folk traditions of the South West.

The performance will begin in a secret outside location before coming back to the egg auditorium.

Various times and prices; the egg theatre; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

6 – 21 April

QUIRKY QUIZ TRAIL FOR FAMILIES Beckford Tower is a special place where William Beckford displayed his unusual and precious art objects. This is a drop-in activity taking in some of the surprising treasures.

Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays: 10.30am – 5pm (last entry 4.30pm); various prices; Beckford’s Tower & Museum; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

OTHER 30 March

SELVEDGE TEXTILES FAIR The team behind the cult magazine Selvedge brings a curated collection of 50 merchants and makers to

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

Bath. Exhibitors sell a range of rare vintage fabrics, covetable haberdashery and skilfully handmade textile treasures.

11am-5pm; various entry prices; The Assembly Rooms; www.selvedge.org

30 March

FESTIVAL OPENING WEEKEND GALA SHOW – STAND-UP AND MUSICAL COMEDY SHOWCASE A glittering array of fantastic comedic talent in celebration of the festival, featuring a mixture of delightful musical comedy and stand-up.

8pm; £22 / £18 concs; Walcot House; www.bathcomedy.com

31 March

RARE SPECIES FROME – THE FECUND COMING What lies beneath Frome’s cobbled streets and why has it become such a popular location for hipsters and artisans to settle? Peppered with humorous observations, cultural references, stories, poetry and song, this 50-minute tour reaches the parts other tours cannot reach.

3pm; £10; Frome town centre; www.bathcomedy.com

© MANUEL HARL AN

FAMILY

1 April

ONLY FOOLS THE (CUSHTY) DINING EXPERIENCE Expect non-stop laughs from the likes of Del Boy, Rodney, Cassandra, Trigger, Marlene, Uncle Albert and more.

7.30pm; £57.50 includes three-course meal and cocktail; Abbey Hotel; www.bathcomedy.com

1 April

DAME ZAHA HADID BY ANTHEA STREETER Dame Zaha Hadid was one of the most distinguished architects in the world. This lecture examines some of her completed works, including her most famous building in the UK, the Aquatics Centre for the London Olympics in 2012.

7.10 pm; Non members £8, members £5; Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute; www.batheveningarts.co.uk

4 April

AN EVENING OF ERIC & ERN Expect a show full of Morecambe and Wise’s most loved routines, songs and sketches and, of course, a musical guest. 7.30pm; £20 -£25; Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

ABOVE: Katherine Parkinson will be in Home I’m Darling at the Theatre Royal MIDDLE: Nick Cudworth’s Saturday Night, Sunday Morning will be on display at the RUH LEFT: Chef Tim Anderson will be chatting Japanese cuisine at Topping & Company Booksellers

WHAT’S ON

BIZARRE BATH Join the celebrated stroll which takes an irreverent look at the city of Bath.

8pm show; £8/£5 concs; Meet outside The Huntsman; www.bathcomedy.com

9 April

THINGS IN JARS WITH JESS KIDD Costa Award-winning writer Jess Kidd will be chatting about her new book, which sees Bridie Divine, the finest female detective in all of Victorian London, with her reputation in tatters.

7pm; £6; Mr B’s Emporium; www.mrbsemporium.com

10 April

KATE SPICER’S LOST DOG IN BATH The journalist will be chatting about her tragicomic memoir, Lost Dog, a love story, a myth of modern womanhood, and the enduring mystery of the relationship between human and canine.

Doors open 7.30pm; starts 8pm;£7; Topping & company Booksellers; www. toppingbooks.co.uk

11 April

HENNING WEHN – GET ON WITH IT The comedian has gained scores of fans on his appearances on television programmes including Have I Got News For You and Would I Lie To You. 6.30pm doors: 8pm show; various prices; The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

12 April

JOHN-LUKE ROBERTS The comedian’s new show is a manifesto for absurdism all about the missing Spice Girls. It was critically praised at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and went out to sell out the whole run including all the extra shows he had to put on.

8pm; £12; The Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

13 April

CROCHETING: BOOK LAUNCHES Two book launches for those interested in crocheting: Mindful Crochet by Emma Leith and Crocheted Wreaths and Garlands by Kate Eastwood. There will be the opportunity to meet and chat to the authors, plus prosecco, cakes and craft making on site.

10.30am; Wool (shop); www.woolbath.co.uk

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

RIGHT:

Folk Lore will be on at the egg theatre MIDDLE AND BOTTOM: Jason Dorley Brown’s Elvis and Bartlett Street can be seen at the RUH

24 April – 22/23 May

26 LEAD SOLDIERS CREATIVE COURSES These five-week courses are for anyone who has dreamt of getting into creative writing or writing a memoir.

Day and night-time courses; £125 for five sessions; Tivoli cinema Café; www.facebook/@26leadsoldiers

26 April

TALKS AND TASTES: TIM ANDERSON IN BATH A journey through Tokyo with chef, food writer and MasterChef champion Tim Anderson. The expert on Japanese/American food will be talking about his newest passion project, Tokyo Stories,where he takes inspiration from the chefs, shopkeepers, and home cooks of Tokyo to showcase both traditional and cutting-edge cuisine.

Doors open 7.30pm; starts 8pm; £10; Topping & company Booksellers; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

© ROY NEWPORT

7 April

马生拍卖

Ma San Auction in Bath

S P E C I A L I S I N G I N C H I N E S E A N D A S I A N WO R K S O F A R T 19th C Chrysanthemum dish with Yongzheng mark.

SOLD £2400

A 19th century Tibetan gilt copper repoussé Kalachakra dance mask. SOLD £4560 Photo album of China 1900's.

SOLD £4320 Qing dynasty hardwood book stand.

SOLD £2400

now We are g t p acce in ts men consign ay M for our 9 1 0 2 sale

Pair of jade bangles.

SOLD £1320

Qing dynasty Huanghuali sedan chair document box. SOLD £960

Free valuations and home visits • Over 30 years experience • Competitive commission rates Direct contacts in Hong Kong and China • Sales every two months 2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2ED

www.masanauction.com

Tel. 01225 318587

Book your stag/hen party at Brook Bank - beginners packages, with variety of targets from £33pp

Brook Bank operates a fibre-wad only policy for sporting targets we also send spent cartridges for recycling Open for practice 4 days a week Gunsmith on site - snack bar.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Brook Bank, Rodney Stoke, Cheddar, BS27 3UJ Tel: 01749 871055 / 07773 488018 brookbankshooting.co.uk ba

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

20% OFF CURTAINS Subject to terms and conditions

Smarty, Bath 11 River Street Place, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RS

Smarty, Bradford on Avon Elms Cross Shopping Centre (next door to Sainsbury’s), BA15 2AZ

01225 444666

01225 862964

www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk

www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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How many people can comfortably sleep in one of your campervans?

They sleep four. Two downstairs and two up in the pop-top roof. You’d need to be on friendly terms, though, as they are quite intimate.

Surprisingly the upper bed is the biggest. I’m six foot tall, and there is easily plenty of room for anyone taller.

You say your campervans are ‘Holiday Ready’.

What would I need to bring?

Just your clothes, toiletries and towels. Many people prefer to bring their own bedding, but we

can supply that too. Each camper is stocked with olive oil and local rapeseed oil, salt, pepper, tea and coffee; you just need to think about food.

On that note, is there still availability…?

Yes! Unusually, we still have two campers available for Glastonbury!

Can your campervans be taken abroad?

Yes; we offer an EU travel upgrade with unlimited mileage.

Do you do any special packages for festivals?

Festival packages are often an excuse to hike up the price. We certainly don’t charge any extra, but we do have great upgrades to create a bespoke package to suit you. Eco toilets, an inflatable side awning or go full-out with our glamping bell tent, complete with rugs, low Indian table, Thai floor cushions and a tea light chandelier.

I don’t like camping; will I like staying in a campervan?

If you love the idea of a festival, or want your kids to experience the freedom of an outdoors holiday, but, hate the thought of sleeping in a tent, then yes. We provide the luxury you need, when the holiday you want happens to be in a field.

Are your campervans often used for festivals?

Yes, festivals are huge. June is a sad month without Glastonbury!

Which festivals are your campervans regularly used for?

Well, Glastonbury has to take the top slot, but our campers get everywhere, Womad, Camp Bestival, Kendal Calling. An Australian couple took a camper to End of the Road festival last September. They were so chuffed to tell me about a steward who came running over to them asking “Oh, is that a Sun Kissed van? I hired one of their vans last year!“

Do the electrics work off grid?

Yes the campers have two big leisure batteries which will easily keep the lights on, your fridge cold, phones topped up and heating thermostat working throughout a five day festival. ■

1-2 High Street, Weston Village, Bath, BA1 4BX. 01225 330106 info@sunkissedcampers.co.uk www.sunkissedcampers.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 87

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Come and Explore St Margaret’s Prep School You will undoubtedly want your children to be happy and enjoy a broad and stimulating education that’s rich in opportunities, but what makes ST MARGARET’S special?

THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT Your child will learn in a safe, nurturing environment and spend each day in modern, stimulating and purpose-built teaching spaces. Thirty acres of campus and offsite facilities mean there’s space to explore, learn, play, let off steam, relax, think and grow.

FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP POTENTIAL Wherever your child’s strengths and interests lie, we have the facilities to support them.

These include dedicated specialist teaching rooms; a 25m indoor swimming pool; sports pitches; all-weather Astroturf; chapel; dining hall; theatre and an outstanding library and computer suite where interactive learning takes place.

Outdoor space is plentiful and children benefit from a variety of play areas.

A TAILORED LEARNING PROGRAMME

FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFE

ZEST AND VITALITY

Of course you want your children to be happy, alongside giving them the best possible start in life. St Margaret’s is a place where friendships and special memories are created and where a love of learning is established. Your children will understand that success requires hard work, personal responsibility, respect and consideration for others. These qualities will remain with them, equipping him or her for future challenges and providing an edge in years to come. n

Your child will join a school with real spirit and energy, living each day to the full. We purposefully pack excitement and learning experiences into every moment. Our staff are passionate about teaching and lessons are fun, vibrant and engaging. The children’s love of learning is infectious and we hope it’ll rub off on you too!

St Margaret’s is an independent day school in Calne, for boys and girls aged from 3-11.

We welcome visits all year round. www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk

Teaching is tailored to meet the needs of the individual child. Children are encouraged to reflect and evaluate their own learning and with support identify their next steps. Specialist teachers offer a wide range of experiences and delivery personalised learning. An extensive range of mobile technology enhances learning too.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Have you tried Paddleboarding in Bath?

ORIGINAL WILD director, Kyle Worgan, tells us about Bath’s stand up paddleboarding and adventure company, established in 2018 What is stand up paddleboarding?

SUP is the no 1 emerging watersport in the world. It’s great because it's accessible to everyone and is unique because it combines surfing and paddling.

How can you get started?

You can join a ‘Try paddleboarding’ event, experience a personal tour or book a group/ party adventure from our brand-new venue at the Bath Riverside. Our adventure experts will run you through everything you need to know before hitting the water on your SUP, giving you the perfect fun and safe paddleboard experience based on your ability, balance and energy levels!

Many of our customers have gone onto develop their skills through our adventure days or buy their own SUP boards.

What makes Bath a special place to SUP? Pulteney bridge and the river Avon are at the heart of the city, and to see these sights while standing on the water is an unforgettable

Join us this Easter Holiday for a new, Easter-themed family trail, Tuesday family craft activities, Falconry Day and Thursday gardening fun. Make use of The Dragon's Lair Play Area and relax in our family-friendly Cafe.

experience. Our SUP safari journeys and adventure days also take you out into the countryside to explore other waterways and wildlife.

Why did you launch Original Wild in Bath?

I’m passionate about helping people experience the outdoors having worked as a coach and instructor for many years in paddling, climbing, mountain biking, archery, team building, mountain walking and first aid.

Original Wild was developed in Bath to provide high quality adventures which are easy to book and with emphasis on the best possible team, equipment and service. We’re providing exciting watersports, climbing and abseiling, the Bath Code Break challenge as well as First Aid Training and professional courses. We now even have an online outdoors shop.

It’s been great to see high interest from locals and visitors to Bath, and to be featured in National Geographic Traveller, ITV news, The Telegraph, as well as local press and travel blogs. ■

Book online today: www.originalwild.com Follow us on

crafty cats 9 & 16th Apr 10:30-3 nature ninjas 11 & 18th Apr 11-3 falconry day 13th apr 11-4

Starting School?

We'd love to see you at one of our

OPEN DAYS Atworth

Wednesday 1st May 2019

10am

No a

-2

ppo pm nece intment ssar y

Monkton Farleigh Friday 3rd May 2019

We love our nurturing school and you will too!

All are welcome to visit to see it in action…

We look forward to meeting you Ofsted rated 'Good' 2017

Headteacher: Mr Simon Futcher Bradford Road, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8HY Tel: 01225 703026 Email: admin@churchfields.wilts.sch.uk www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk

NIC BOTTOMLEY BOOKS

Someone’s good books It’s all about ‘books about books’ in this issue; read on if you’re a serious bibliophile...

“They can operate as a testing pot for future reading experiences”

O

ne of the things that book addicts are reliably keen on reading about is other books.

But books about books can go one of two ways. At their worst they are just lists. They name and recount scant details of other titles without truly reminding you of why you enjoyed those you already know and without giving you much impetus to go and read the ones you’ve never tried. At their best, though, they are treasure troves – and that’s what attracts the bookworms. They can operate as a nostalgic indulgence and a testing pot for future reading experiences. And, for a reviewer, they can provide a hook for an entire article; as you’re about to witness...

BOOKWORM Bookworm by Charlotte Mangan is the author’s roughly chronological reminiscences of her own childhood reading. The book weaves personal memoir with an unusually detailed consideration of the books that defined her young reading life. Fittingly, the tone oscillates between a warm, sometimes soft-bellied tone when recalling the sanctuary that books provided, to a more ebullient manner when it comes to exploring the merits or deficiencies of a particular book or author.

So many books are explored that you find yourself agreeing cheerily with Mangan at times and rejecting her views completely at others. Or at least I did.

She and I will have to differ when it comes to Dr Seuss, for example. She dismisses The Cat in the Hat because of her own preference for order, home safety and playing by the rules. Don’t get me wrong, she does so in a very entertaining manner and indeed she’s repeatedly very funny when she weaves in references to her own cautious character throughout the book. But the bookseller in me wants to send her a care package of other Dr Seuss books she would cherish based on what Bookworm tells us about her reading tastes. The threats of being boiled in beezlenut oil in Horton Hears a Who might rule that one out, but I’m positive she’d lap up the moral fortitude and endless possibilities of “The Sneetches” and “Oh The Places You Will Go”!

Vintage, £8.99

TEDDY ROBINSON I am, though, completely on board with her fondness for the peculiar but charming world of Teddy Robinson by Joan G Robinson. I share her sentimental recollections of these gentle but witty books for young readers. By modern standards, not an awful lot happens to Deborah’s favourite stuffed bear, but he is so witty and contrary that it’s impossible not to enjoy reading about his mild adventures – particularly the episode where he faces the ultimate soft toy terror of being left outside.

The Teddy Robinson Storybook brought back into print some of the original tales. In a cynical world where even kids’ lives seem prone to getting hectic and complicated, there’s an escapist, comforting nature to these stories. They are positive, humorous, so carefully geared to young ears and they seem to have aged a lot better than many books from the same era.

Macmillan, £5.99 THE OWL There’s one other childhood favourite that I share with Mangan that I’ve completely omitted to revisit with my own children.

The Owl who Was Afraid of the Dark by Jill Tomlinson is now available as a shortened picture book, but the definitive original version is a short chapter book, perfect for young readers and for reading to all children – including those struggling to nod off ! Only with the story in its full form do you get the real charm of the raggedy owlet slowly being convinced that the dark can’t be all bad if it’s a space occupied by fireworks, Santa and exciting campfire antics.

And if that isn’t enough to entertain your young reading companion, then there’s always the fact that “Plop” is the greatest and most satisfying animal character name in all of literature.

Egmont, £5.99

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

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

FILM

FROM FAR LEFT:

Yuli is Billy Elliot but in reverse; Out of Blue is an intriguing new thriller; the All About Eve production will be streamed live to the big screen

Flick into place We’re heading into a new season of great indie films and outstanding live-stream events. From a cosmic noir thriller to a sold out theatre show, there’s a stellar range to enjoy...

OUT OF BLUE Out of Blue is the intriguing new cosmic noir thriller starring Patricia Clarkson. She plays an officer and recovering alcoholic who is called to investigate the gruesome murder of Jennifer Rockwell (Mamie Gummer), an astrophysicist who had been increasingly disturbed by her work on black holes.

The list of suspects includes two of Jennifer’s colleagues, but should the list also include Jennifer herself ? Does the culpability extend further to some cult or transcendental sense, to the dark cosmic forces into that gravitational orbit that Jennifer allowed herself to be pulled into? Or could it be the work of a serial killer?

Director Carol Morley creates a fascinating murder mystery, with Clarkson expertly guiding the story. It’s a uniquely disturbing film that tackles the meaning of life, leaving you breathless with anticipation.

but is haunted by her insecurities of ageing and a terror of the abyss. Margo finds her life invaded by Eve Harrington (Lily James), who doesn’t try hard to conceal her ambitions to remove Margo from her pedestal.

Originally written in a very different era, All About Eve does have some moments that are problematic when it comes to the depiction of female ambition and its relationship to female bodies. But it is still potent, and apt, and you can see why it is appealing. It’s in a play about theatre, and the characters are brilliantly complex.

This magnificent production lifts the curtain on a world of jealousy and ambition. One of the world’s most innovative directors of theatre Ivo van Hove asks why our fascination with celebrity culture and youth never seems to get old.

“It’s a uniquely disturbing film that leaves you breathless with anticipation”

ALL ABOUT EVE The incredible National Theatre production which has been sold out every night, All About Eve will be streamed live to big screens to allow everyone to see this outstanding play.

Gillian Anderson stars as Margo Channing, an iconic role immortalised by Bette Davis in the 1950’s film. Margo is a star actress at the peak of fame who is worshipped by her fans,

YULI Yuli is the fantastic new biopic of Cuban classical ballet dancer Carlos Acosta. We watch Carlos rise from an impoverished childhood outside of Havana, to becoming a principal dancer as London’s Royal Ballet. Acosta stars as himself in this powerful dramatisation of his life that hits every emotional note it can.

The film begins with Acosta rehearsing for a show that turns out to be an impressionistic account of episodes in his life. Opening a red

scrapbook with the name ‘Yuli’ on the front, which was his childhood nickname, we are taken back to his upbringing as the son of a lorry driver Pedro (Santiago Alfonso) and mother María (Yerlín Pérez). Pedro is first seen gruffly dragging his young son, played by terrific 10-year-old Edilson Manuel Olbera Nuñes, away from a street dance contest, where he’s showing off his hip-hop moves.

What follows is a Billy Elliot, but in reverse.

Pedro, in a loving but authoritarian way, wants his son to excel as a classically trained dancer, while young Carlos would rather be a footballer, and resists his father’s wishes in fear of being seen as effeminate. Pedro drags Carlos to an audition at the Cuban School of Ballet, where he dazzles the teachers and is recruited as a pupil, with the school encouraging him despite his waywardness. This brilliant film will leave you in awe of Carlos’s talent, and will inspire you to follow your own talents, even if you are unsure of yourself.

The special screening of Yuli on 3 April will be followed by a satellite Q&A with Carlos, as well as Icíar Bollaín and Paul Laverty.

Sophie-Claire McLeod is duty and marketing manager at The Little Theatre, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

MANTRA

Expect a buzzy ambience in this modern-meets-traditional Indian restaurant, says Harriet Noble Photos by Nick Cole

I

t felt like everyone in Bath had emerged from the depths of wintry misery, like they’d burrowed their way out of underground hibernation holes, rubbed their eyes, dusted off their spectacles and looked around to see light – actual daylight. This was the scene when my pal, Mary, and I went for early supper at Mantra, the recently opened Indian restaurant on Bladud Buildings. The place was positively humming when we went. Friends and family greeted each other exuberantly, and all around us we could hear: ‘I haven’t seen you for ages’, ‘We survived winter’, ‘Wasn’t it long?’, ‘Isn’t it great that it’s still light!’ Oh, the optimism that comes from a bit of extra vitamin D. And, luckily, the positivity and jubilation of the eaters was mirrored right back at us by the vibe in the restaurant.

The décor is contemporary, cool and colourful, and there are wood panelled floors, dainty tea lights, decorative rose

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

petals, and hanging greenery providing pops of colour wherever you look. We sat at the far end of the ground floor, which has a bright conservatory-feel to it, offering views out to the garden. There’s also a downstairs, with arched ceilings and an altogether cosy feel to it.

Mantra calls itself a progressive Indian restaurant and this is apparent in the menu, where there’s a mixture of classics and slightly more unusual fare, including lots of fish, vegetarian and vegan dishes. We got started on the wine and poppadoms while perusing the menu. Unusually, the poppadoms weren’t the big ones that break in to a million pieces, which you then sometimes find down your top later on in the evening, but small, crumpled-up ones that looked a bit like miniature origami. Accompanying them was a trio of delicious dips: mango chutney, minty raita and a zingy tomatoey sauce.

Not being able to narrow down what we wanted,

RESTAURANT

Mary and I opted for the sharing menu, which kicked off with onion bhajis and savoury pancakes with veg inside.

Crunchy on the outside and earthy on the inside, the bhajis were a delight, while the pancakes were similar to spring rolls, but felt lighter and healthier.

For the mains we opted for Hyderabadi hot chilli chicken, Kashmiri aromatic lamb rogan josh, sautéed potatoes with exotic lightly spiced sauce and tadka dal. It’s quite a risk going for shared plates at an Indian restaurant as everyone has a different threshold for spices; not everyone wants to tuck into the same grub. My father, for example, becomes drenched in sweat at the mere mention of a curry. In fact, anything more than salt and pepper makes him get out his hankie. There are others, though, who nonchalantly knock back a make-your-nose-stream kind of curry without a bother. I like to think I’m closer to the latter, but the great advantage of the sharing menu at Mantra is that there is a variety of strengths to the dishes; something for all kinds of palates. So, our chicken dish definitely packed a punch on the spicy side, with jumbo, pillar box-coloured chillies protruding from the bowl, while the lamb rogan josh offered a deep, but more measured, flavour, with waves of cumin in every bite.

The tadka dal, my absolute number one feel-good dish, was exactly how it should be: warming, nourishing and supremely filling.

I don’t often have puddings in Indian restaurants, mainly because I’m usually so full and on the verge of slipping into a happy curry coma after my main courses.

However, when the friendly waiter cleared our mains, he also asked if we would like a bit of a breather between courses. Yes, please! After 10 minutes of chatting and drinking more wine, I was raring to go again. I opted for the gulab jamun as I’d never had this before. What arrived was a pair of pingpong-sized doughy balls, that tasted a bit like a sticky toffee doughnuts but, thankfully, were less rich. These were paired with a saffron- and rose-scented syrup, which was delicious as it was beautiful. Mary opted for spiced ice cream, a beautiful sunset-coloured treat that echoed some of the flavours of chai tea.

As we headed out of the restaurant, the sun had gone down but we had full, happy bellies and thoughts of all the longer days ahead of us… hopefully filled with more curry. n

“The saffronand rosescented syrup was as delicious as it was beautiful” DINING DETAILS Mantra, 5 Bladud Buildings, Bath BA1 5LS; 01225 446332; www.mantraofbath.co.uk We ate Poppadoms with dips; onion bhajis and savoury pancake; Hyderabadi hot chilli chicken; Kashmiri aromatic lamb rogan josh; sautéed potatoes with exotic lightly spiced sauce; tadka dal, plain naan and pilau rice; gulab jamun in saffronand rose-scented syrup; spiced ice cream Prices Sharing menu for two: £35 per person; main menu: starters £4.95 – £8.95; mains £11.95 – £15.95; desserts £4.95 – £5.95 Drinks There’s a large and varied wine list on offer Service/atmosphere Cool, buzzy and fun What else? There’s a big round table in the subterranean level which is perfect for large group celebrations

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

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

Award-Winning, Family Run Farm Shop Established for over 30 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open Daily 9am – 6pm (9.30am – 5pm on Sundays) HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME. HOMEMADE SAUSAGES, BURGERS & FAGGOTS

Easter Orders now being taken

LOCAL CHEESES & HOME COOKED MEATS LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES, FRUIT & SALADS HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATES & FUDGE FINE WINE, LOCAL ALE & CIDER PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS GIFT HAMPERS www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk Tel: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ

Hondo

Sushi, Japanese and Korean fine dining restaurant Freshly prepared food using the best quality produce 2 floors of dining and takeaways available

Sushi Bentos Donburi Bao buns Katsu currys

8-9 St James's Parade, Bath

T: 07733828981

PHOTOS BY © PAOLO FERL A

FOOD & DRINK It’s all trendy and tropical down at The Botanist

PLANT THE IDEA

GREEN PARTY

A new restaurant and bar, The Botanist, opened its doors recently, revealing eye-catching interiors in the newly refurbished Grade-II listed Octagon building in Milsom Place.

“We’ve worked very hard for our designs to be sympathetic to the building and not take anything away from its unique features,” says Amber Sacco, lead designer at The Botanist.

“The Octagon is quite unlike any site I’ve worked with before – the ceiling is amazing. I love the way it works with the ficus tree in the centre of the bar and draws the eye to it from every part of the building.”

The 8,000 square foot bar and restaurant will serve up staples such as steaks and burgers, as well as The Botanist’s own hanging kebabs, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices. There will also be masterclasses on offer, for those keen to brush up on their gin-making skills.

Somerset’s first vegan festival is coming to Bath this April, celebrating all things deliciously plant-based. As well as over 25 food and drink pop up stalls, there will be guest speakers and demonstrations from people in the vegan community. Afterwards, expect live music from local musicians and bands.

When: 13 April 3pm -10pm Where: Green Park Station, Bath For more www.vegfest.co.uk

For more: thebotanist.uk.com/bath

The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel and Koffmann and Mr White’s are both in the offer

Veg out at the festival

© PE XEL S

MID-WEEK TREATS

Bathonians can now enjoy a range of meal deals and special foodie treats midweek in a range of local restaurants. This is the new initiative, called B-LOCAL, launched by Bath BID, which is aimed specifically at the people that work and live in the city. In fact, to receive the deal, you have to bring your Discovery Card or show that you live or work in the area. Each offer is different, but the deals include 2-for-1 on a three-course menu at The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel, and 20 per cent off the à la carte menu at Koffmann and Mr White’s.

“What a great range of mouthwatering offers,” says Allison Herbert, CEO at Bath BID. “We are delighted with the response by Bath’s food and beverage businesses to this initiative. They really want to provide something special for local people, not just those that live in Bath, but all those that work in the city, too.”

For more: www.bathbid.co.uk

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

TRY FIVE 2

3 1

FIVE FOR THE FAMILY

Our pick of family-friendly cafés that keep the little ones occupied while parents can rest up with a restorative cuppa

1

THE PARLOUR CAFÉ AT NEWTON FARM FOODS Children can play on bales of hay, small tractors or diggers in and around the open barn; look, learn and draw on the dedicated blackboard frame; watch the newly born piglets play; visit the owls at the nearby west of England Falconry; or check out how the insects are doing in their new bug home. On wet days there’s a toy box and there’s paper and crayons for upcoming artists.

“Our farm shop and café are well positioned for short country walks, and we favour the great outdoors, food education, health and wellbeing,” says business development manager Roz Golding.

Anything else? They will be restarting their outdoor children’s yoga classes this Easter.

Newton St Loe, Bath; www.newtonfarmfoods.co.uk

2

KOMEDIA ARTS CAFÉ The café inside the popular venue space has a play area with toys and games, chalkboards for drawing, plenty of space for buggies and pushchairs, and a full children’s menu.

“We serve hot food every day, from macaroni cheese, fish fingers, and mixed fruit bowls for kids, to paninis, fresh salads, and homemade soups for adults,” says café manager Robyn Northover.

“We also have lots of homemade sweet treats available, including cakes, pastries, and peanut butter and pretzel brownies; they have to be tried to be believed.”

Westgate Street, Bath; www.komedia.co.uk

4

3

GARDEN CAFÉ AT THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM The big draw here for parents is that the café is surrounded by grassy area and it has an outdoor seating area so children can run around outside while the grown-ups have a bite to eat. There are also colouring pages inside, and kids go free into all the exhibitions.

Anything exciting in the pipeline? “We’re really excited about the forthcoming Lauren Child exhibition – rest assured there will be café treats inspired by some of her bestloved characters,” says general manager Lukasz Kosyrczyk.

Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.holburne.org

5

4

ALICE PARK CAFÉ Based in Alice Park on the eastern edge of Bath, this café offers a range of activities, including a family-friendly dog show. What’s on the menu? “For children, we offer our own range, Little Scoffs, a vegetarian range of meals made right here in the café,” says owner Tony Hickman.“The range includes macaroni cheese, penne pasta and cottage pie.”

Looking ahead, there are developments to the wildlife pond section, refurbishment of the tennis courts nearby and the completion of the pathways enabling even more activities for the whole family in the park.

Alice Park, Gloucester Road, Bath; www.alicepark.co.uk

5

THE EGG CAFÉ It serves up light lunches, snacks, coffee, cake, and prosecco for adults who fancy it.

Parents can make a day of it by catching one of the family-friendly performances at the egg theatre upstairs, but there’s also plenty to do in the café as well, “We have a large selection of toys, colouring-in and story books for all to enjoy,” says marketing and access officer Jenny Crowell.

“There is also a large play area for children, including a ball pool. We are breast feedingfriendly and have family changing facilities in our accessible toilet.” n Sawclose, Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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

Pizza, Pie b & Pub Gru Menu

Sunday Roasts

r

a B y e k s i h Gin & W

Buddha n r a B a e T

NEWLY OPENED

within The Crow

n

s oucher Gift V ble! availa

Join us for Afternoon tea at the Buddha Tea Barn!

BOOKINGS: 01225 872728 The Crown / Buddha Tea Barn, 500 Bath Road, Saltford, BS31 3HJ www.thecrowninsaltford.com f thecrowninsaltford

Enjoy Modern British Cuisine in a relaxed friendly atmosphere alongside a range of craft ales, cocktails and selection of wines.

Join us for lunch Tuesday to Friday 12–2.30pm and enjoy 2 courses for £19.50, 3 courses for £22.50 from our set lunch menu.

Now offering our 7 course tasting menu £50.00 per person. Booking in advance only.

14 Silver Street, Bradford On Avon, BA15 1JY Telephone: 01225 938088 Email: maylee@thebunchofgrapes.com

www.thebunchofgrapes.com

Fancy working at Crumbs?

We're on the hunt for bright sparks looking to forge careers in media sales. If you’re passionate about food and drink, and have love for our local independent businesses, then we may have the job for you. It’s all about working with clients to curate, pitch and deliver advertising campaigns across our pretty awesome food magazines and digital channels.

BAT H ’ S B E S T B R E A K FA S T

Sound like your cup of tea? Email your CV to jo.cains@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call on 01225 475800 for a chat.

Breakfast • Lunch • Coffee • Cake • Wine

Proud winner of

www.mediaclash.co.uk

11 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LP 01225 487846 www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk

thai magma 15 %

DISC

QUO

Restaurant

OUN

TE B AT H L

T

IF E

the home of rice and noodles TAKEAWAY SERVICE AVAILABLE

01225 444 834 | 78 Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3BG

N ew u en M

Serving up an ever-changing menu of eight plates, this is a place where the little things matter.

Open Tuesday to Sunday Dinner only from 5:30pm 3 North Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX 01225 724111 – eightinbath.co.uk

Welcome to Mantra, an Indian Restaurant in the heart of Bath, that specialises in serving progressive Indian food. Mantra is a family run authentic Indian restaurant. Our dishes are healthily packed with flavour, crunch, punch and zing offering plenty of choice to vegetarians and vegans.Inspired by seasonal ingredients, our food contains only the freshest produce prepared in a way that captures the amazing diversity of India’s regional cuisines and childhood street food memories.

5, Bladud Buildings, The Paragon, Bath BA1 5LS Tel: 01225 446 332 Email: info@mantraofbath.co.uk | www.mantraofbath.co.uk

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

CLIP SERVICE There’s a new way to accessorise, and it’s perfect for bad hair days.

Hair clips are in the midst of a serious resurgence, having developed from cutesy schoolgirl decorations to cool adornments worn by the likes of Alexa Chung and Bella Hadid. We were particularly drawn to these handmade, 60s-inspired Kanel flower clips (pictured), which we spotted at Found in Bath; ideal for fringes and flyaways. £5.50 each, available at Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111

BLUSHING BIRDS CAKE TRAY, £38 Bring the outdoors into your teatime ritual with this exoticmeets-pretty porcelain cake tray From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

MERCI BOUQUET

FAUX FLOWERS, PRICES START AT £4.95 Go wild with a lifelike collection of beautiful faux plants and flowers From Graham & Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

Optimistic, colourful and life-affirming – April sees nature awakening and flowers blossoming. Here’s our selection of floral buys to put a spring in your step…

PASSION FLOWER MIRROR, £10 The pocket mirror, by John Derian, is handmade using reproduced imagery from John’s vast collection of antique and vintage prints From Maze Clothing, 19 Green Street, Bath www.mazeclothing.co.uk

FLOWER TEA LIGHT CANDLE HOLDER, £14 EACH If you’re thinking of sinking into a bubble bath, why not set the mood by placing these mink, pink and white handcrafted tea light candle holders nearby?

From Brissi, 38 Milsom Street, Bath; www.brissi.com

HARLEQUIN FLOREALE LINEN CUSHION COVER, £25 Liven up any room with this burstingwith-colour floral cushion From Blue Lizard Textiles; based in Bath; www.etsy.com/uk/shop/BlueLizardTextiles

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

BRAMLEY BODY TRAVEL SET, £28 Bathe in these heavenly scents, all of which contain 100 per cent natural botanicals, ensured to revive the senses From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www. rossitersofbath.com

ED’S CHOICE

OMBRAGE FLEUR HAT, £375 Think ahead to the events season and update your millinery staples with this teal-coloured percher pillbox hat, designed and handcrafted by V V Rouleaux founder Annabel Lewis.

From V V Rouleaux; George Street, Bath; www.vvrouleaux.com

DAFFODIL HOLDER, £10.95 This ceramic spring-like holder can store anything from your hairbrush to your toothbrush, your office pens to your mascara From adiencrafts, based in Keynsham; www.etsy.com/uk/shop/adiencrafts

ROSE OF VENEZUELA, IN HONG KONG, £1,650 Artist Frances Doherty’s exuberant glazed stoneware makes for an eyecatching centrepiece From ART Salon, 21 Broad Street, Bath; www.artsalonprints.co.uk

LIBERTY PRINT DUVET SET, PRICES START FROM £120 Wake up raring to go, with this cute-as-a-button poppy and daisy rose duvet set from Liberty’s 40th anniversary collection. Available in sizes cot bed to super king From Coco & Wolf, based in Wells; www.cocoandwolf.com

WILD FLOWERS BOW TIE, £38 Jazz up any outfit with this nature-inspired bow tie in the celebrated Liberty of London print From Blue Eyes Bow Ties; based in Bath www.blueeyesbowties.com

WILD FLOWER DRESS, £80 This dusty blue dress has a bodice fit and pleated skirt with a hand screen-printed floral design and, praise be, pockets. Dress up with heels for a spring wedding or pair with sandals for an outdoor pub lunch From There’s Only One Amy Laws, based in Bath; www.theresonlyoneamylaws.co.uk

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EASTER GIFT GUIDE TWO-LAYER CHOCOLATE BOX, £75 Legend has it that Charlotte Brunswick was the first chocolatier in Bath in the 18th century. Today, the local shop that bears her name creates recipes that are still inspired by her ideas From Charlotte Brunswick, 3 Church Street, Bath; www.charlottebrunswick.co.uk

DRINKING CHOCOLATE BAR, £5 Hasslacher’s original solid bar Colombian drinking chocolate is available at independent delis and whole food stores – like Harvest, in Bath – as well as Marks & Spencer From Hasslacher’s Hot Chocolate, based on Gay Street, Bath; www.hasslachers.co.uk

EASTER DELIGHTS Whether you’re searching for edible or guilt-free Easter gifts, here are a handful of local ideas...

HOT CHOC BUNS, £9.99 These solid Belgian milk and white chocolate ‘buns’ look just like the real thing From Choc on Choc, based in Rode; www.choconchoc.co.uk

CHOCOLATE LOVER’S BOX, £60 This hamper is stuffed with artisan goodies – from truffles to cookies – for your favourite chocoholic From Taste of Bath; www.taste-of.co.uk

EGG CUPS, £4.50 An earresistible way to enjoy your breakfast From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www. rossitersofbath.com GELATO EASTER CAKE, FROM £17 Personalise the top of this cold cake with whatever message you fancy From Swoon, 15 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.swoononaspoon.co.uk SIMNEL CAKES, £3.70 A light fruitcake with a sprinkle of Bertinet magic From The Bertinet Bakery, 1 New Bond Street Place, Bath; www.bertinetbakery.com EASTER CARDS, £2.95 These pretty card designs are available at an array of shops in Bath – including Flamingo, The Card Collection, and Wool From Wild & Wool, based in Widcombe, Bath; www.wildandwool.co.uk

HETTY HARE TABLE LAMP, £135 This lamp creates a focal point with its intrigued ears and proud stature From Graham & Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk COOKIE CUTTERS, £10 Use these Easter-themed cutters, which come in bunny, chick, rainbow, flower and egg shapes, to create family-friendly biccies From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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

MOTHER’S DAY at CRESCENT FLOWERS

Tel: 01225 312999 crescentflowershop@icloud.com www.crescentflowers.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the Florist

The local experts on providing bunches and blooms SARAH PURVIS

FRANCES FRANKLIN

THE PETAL SHED

CRESCENT FLOWERS

07906 517098; www.thepetalshed.co.uk

01225 312999; www.crescentflowers.co.uk What do you love about your job?

I love meeting and working with couples – talking through initial ideas and looks that they might like, suggesting pieces that suit the venue along with flowers that are in season right through to the big day – creating the bouquets, button holes, table centres, mantlepieces and more besides. The ‘journey’ could be more than a year or just a matter of months but either way it’s a very rewarding process and being a part of a couple’s wedding day is very special. I also get to meet and work with some amazing suppliers in some fantastic venues.

Why did you decide to become a florist?

I wanted to work with flowers because I have a deep and abiding love for nature and art in all its forms; it gives me huge satisfaction and joy to create, in floral form, a customer’s idea which we turn into reality.

Tell us about the biggest project you have worked on A large church wedding in Richmond, London with the reception being held at Claridges. The colour theme was bright pink and the table centres were made up of an abundance of English scented roses surrounded by jelly beans in glass bowls.

Sarah Purvis

What colour scheme is trending right now?

Although ‘Living Coral’ is the colour of the year this year, most of my couples are choosing to use whites and greens – a fresh, yet elegant timeless combination.

There is an abundance of seasonal flowers in this palette, so the possibilities are endless in creating something special for each couple.

Tell us about the biggest project you’ve worked on.

For a wedding I created an arrangement along the entire length of the balcony in the Pump Rooms – all 26ft of it! It was a great challenge, using the largest number of flowers I’ve ever used in a piece.

Can you order online?

Yes, we have had our fabulous website for over a year, with the help of Creative in Bath, we get numerous new hits everyday and are very lucky to get international orders frequently. We also have the environment very much in our mind, which is why we are changing our packaging to be biodegradable.

Frances Franklin

LUCY & SOPHIE OVERMENT

EMMA REES-OLIVIERE

MR FLORISTA 07851 773849; www.mrflorista.com

MYRTLE MEE, BATHWICK HILL; 01225 484400 www.myrtlemee.co.uk; myrtlemeefloristbath Have you got a Shopfront?

Yes. A careers’ worth of high end retail combined with a consuming passion for flowers and plants and years of quality floristry training resulted in Myrtle Mee. We wanted a showcase; clear, apparent and beautiful. Now after 15 years of experience and development our shop is busier than ever, blossoming and vibrant.

Emma Rees-Oliviere

What makes your floristry company unique?

Always on a mission to discover new and lovely things to stock and use we do like the unusual and quirky. My style is and has always been “country bunch, free, lyrical and wild and of the highest quality.”

What inspires you?

My clients and their floral needs inspire me every day. I need to interpret those special details that could mean so much and am constantly asking myself how I can make these flowers say what my customer wants them to say.

What made you want to be florist?

We wanted to make it easier, more affordable and sustainable to send flowers in Bath. We provide one ‘florists pick’ bunch which changes weekly and is available in three sizes. By offering one exclusive weekly style rather than a mass selection, this means we can put more flowers in bunches and fewer in the bin. We also offer one houseplant which changes monthly for those who want to go super green.

What makes your floristry company unique?

We’re committed to giving back through our Random Acts of Flowers. Every time you buy something from us, a percentage of what you pay goes towards funding bunches for people who really deserve them.

At the end of each month, we make up bunches and send them off to their new homes.

Lucy and Sophie Overment

Do you offer any other services?

Weddings, events, flower walls, green walls, you name it we do it! We are most excited about our subscription service. Our easy online ordering means you can fill your space with flowers at a discounted rate. You choose the size and frequency, we choose the best flowers around. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 117

Superb Quality Clothes Care Excellent Value Special Offer 2 Suits Dry Cleaned for £20 Van service available

6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595 Parent Company established in 1975

ARE YOU MAKING TIME TO BE CREATIVE IN 2019?

Pottery Workshop dates with Jane Scott Saturday 30th March – Wall Icons Saturday 27th April – Tapas Dishes Sunday 28th April – Figures made easy Saturday 25th May – Serving Platter Saturday 22nd June – Plant Pots Saturday 27th July – Clay and the art of letting go

Classes • Private Tuition • Workshops 07813 718853

janescottceramics.com

@janescottceramics

independent businesses Not Cartiers has had a sparklingly successful 40 years in business, and continues to thrive

Shine of the times

We hear from local traders who run some of the longest-standing businesses in the city

Photos by Sam Jelbert / Visit Bath www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 119

INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

U

rban environments are always evolving, and Bath is no different. Ours is a city bursting with independent businesses – from one-off boutiques, quirky cafés, bars and restaurants, to jewellers, museums and galleries – which all make a significant contribution to Bath’s inimitable offering, and preserving this uniqueness is something that local residents and retailers feel strongly about. But pressures on small businesses are mounting, and there’s an increasing need to embrace the future of our high streets in the digital age.

On 1 April, Visit Bath will launch its Independent Bath campaign, highlighting the diverse range of indie businesses we have on our doorstep, and encouraging people to shop local. In collaboration with Bath’s official tourism site, here we chat with a medley of traders that have stood the test of time.

BATH GUILDHALL MARKET

At the oldest shopping venue in the city, Bath Guildhall Market, you’ll find a colourful group of 20 or so stallholders. Here, a handful of its long-standing traders tell us about market life inside this jewel of a building in the heart of the city.

KANTA DICORATO, owner of M&K Hardware and Electrical Our business been running in Bath for 32 years...

We have become a bit of an institution. We wanted to open our shop because it seemed that all hardware shops were closing and there was nowhere for locals to get essentials and everyday items. I run the shop with my husband and son; it’s a family business with family values.

In the market, all the stallholders work together...

This makes for a great shopping experience which you won’t get on the internet; we can also recommend other services that customers might need. We all understand each other and our problems, and we all support each other; I love coming to work as the atmosphere in the market is great.

GILLY BELL, owner of Dufflebag

Our shop has been running for 16 years...

You’ll find everything from handbags and small leather goods to luggage here.

Any independent business that can keep their head above water is admirable...

My favourite thing about running the shop is that nobody tells me what to do, and I think my business has survived for so long because I always seem to have something for everybody.

STEPHANE GOUZIEN, owner of Nibbles Cheese The business has been running for over 40 years...

but I didn’t set it up, I took it over 13 years ago. I used to run No.5 Bistro and I took the opportunity to buy Nibbles Cheese, where I sell cheese, bacon, local ciders, mead, and a selection of French produce.

Our location here is amazing...

We’re lucky to be in the centre of Bath; we have a good footfall of local customers, as well as tourists.

My favourite indie businesses in Bath are...

Henry’s and The Scallop Shell. I work closely with a lot of small businesses locally; I supply produce to local bed and breakfasts, cafés and restaurants.

33 High Street, Bath; www.bathguildhallmarket.co.uk

Bath is known as a great place to shop...

and has a very active tourist industry. Any independent business that survived the recession plus Brexit deserves a medal.

I work closely with all the other businesses in the market...

There’s a great communal feeling under one roof.

Running my own business gives me...

complete artistic freedom. And, because I buy all my stock personally, I can offer my customers something a bit different. It’s vital to be adaptable in retail, and to be aware of the economic climate and make the changes necessary to survive.

GINA TINNE, owner of Not Cartiers

My business has been going for 40 years...

I offer antique and classic costume jewellery for all ages and styles.

I was inspired to set up in business because...

I’ve always been interested in arts and crafts and being self-employed.

I started out making rings, and Bath just happened to be a convenient place to sell them; it’s a great central position. Lots of people that work at the theatre come in here, so I see a lot of actors and actresses.

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

THE FRAMING WORKSHOP

The bespoke framing shop has been on Walcot Street for 30 years; its owners – husband and wife Ian and Hannah Pittman – tell us more...

“We believe our business has stood the test of time because of our fantastic team of creative craftspeople, who take pride in what they make and enjoy discussing with each client their individual requirements. We have a great team of framers, several of whom have been at the workshop for over 15 years; we are like family.

“We have been on the same street for three decades; we love the diversity of art and objects which come to us for framing, and will always come to solution that suits. The right frame will enhance and protect its contents – be that an oil painting or a child’s first shoe.”

80 Walcot Street, Bath; www.theframingworkshop.com

“There’s a great communal feeling under one roof”

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE: Treasures aplenty; the Bath Guildhall Market is the oldest shopping venue in the city

Bossing it: the managers and directors of Bath Aqua Glass – Adrian Dolan, Annette Dolan and Themis Mikellides

INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES BATH AQUA GLASS

The shop has been running in Bath for over two decades; Annette Dolan, who started it in 1996, attributes its longevity to tenacity. Here she tells us more.

We are a team of artisans...

who produce glass in different forms. We have a stained-glass studio, a glass-blowing studio and a fusing team. The glass is coloured with copper oxide which is reminiscent of Bath spa waters. It’s a beautiful aqua colour, which is synonymous with Bath. We also adorn it with trails, as the Romans did, which represent eternal health; it’s often called snake-thread – the snake being the symbol of the Hippocratic Oath of medicine.

The inspiration to start up in business came when...

I was at a crossroads in my relationship; it was going nowhere, and I was chatting to my brother telling him I loved Bath. He had returned to Bristol and had restarted Bristol Blue Glass, and suggested we open a shop in Bath together. On launch day, we dressed in togas and so many people came that some had to stay outside the shop, and we were featured on BBC Points West.

There’s a fabulous history to our shop...

It’s next to Bath Abbey and was run by a female hat-maker. She would have lived and worked in the building, and there is still a straw press in our cellar, as well as an amazing range which she’d have cooked on.

Our notable customers include...

Mike Tindall, Lord Bath, Suzanne Hampshire and even the Queen.

We also have a wall of fame in our studio which features Michael Eavis’s handprint.

I work with my partner, Adrian...

It’s not all plain sailing, but we are still together today after 20 years.

Handcrafted creations are Bath Aqua Glass’s speciality

My other love is Bath...

Even on days when the weather is grim, you can wander the streets, take strength from the water at the weir, marvel at the architecture and, on a really cold day, walk along the cobblestones by the Cross Bath and see the steam rising – it’s quite magical and is one of my favourite places, as it is the source of the hot springs that inspire our designs.

The community of independent businesses in Bath...

is a mixed bunch, with good shops. We need more unique businesses.

It’s often the businesses who create things from scratch that last and stand the test of time. There are good jewellers in Bath who make their products on the premises, like we do, which adds an extra dimension to the businesses.

Local independent businesses I admire are...

Meticulous Ink, DidiCakes and The Bell Inn.

I think our business has stood the test of time...

due to tenacity. I started from humble beginnings and value what I have achieved. We’ll continue to work hard and strive for a happy team and high-quality handmade products.

15 Abbey Churchyard, Bath; www.bathaquaglass.com

“It’s often the businesses who create things from scratch that last”

ROSSITERS OF BATH

Married couple Ann-Marie and Peter James run Rossiters, a design-led four-floor emporium offering furniture, home interiors, fashion and gifts, which has been in existence for almost 60 years. Ann-Marie tells us more...

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

“To this day, it’s all about delighting our customers with a carefully curated selection of products, and we have a fantastic interior design service, which is completely free. We’ve had a whole host of celebrity visitors over the years – everyone from John Cleese to Robbie Williams (who is rumoured to have bought an ironing board cover) – and, as one of the longestestablished interiors departments in Bath, we are fortunate to have the largest selection of wallpaper and fabric books in the West County, including exclusive ranges from House of Hackney and Cole & Son.” 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 123

© GUERMAN BOT TEN

INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

“We have more history than we know what to do with” One of our most famous guests was...

Nicholas Cage, who described dinner in Sally Lunn’s as ‘like time travelling’.

Having our own business means...

SALLY LUNN’S

Based in one of the oldest houses in Bath, Sally Lunn’s is a historic tea and eating house, home of the original Bath Bun. Their kitchen is believed to originally have been the bakery of the young Huguenot baker – today their namesake patron – who came to Bath in 1680 after escaping persecution in France, and who created the first Bath Bun – a regional speciality. Today, centuries after the doors first opened, their menu blends tradition with contemporary flair, and their kitchen museum shows the actual space used by Sally Lunn in Georgian Bath. Here, Simon Lloyd-Williams, who now runs Sally Lunn’s, tells us more.

Sally Lunn’s is an independent local treasure...

We have more history than we know what to do with but have evolved with our history – we call it ‘living history’.

We’re based in what’s long believed to be Bath’s oldest house...

I have been running Sally Lunn’s for a couple of years, but Sally Lunn’s owner, Jonathan Overton, has been here for more than 30 years. We have focussed on serving historical comfort food with huge hospitality. I am very proud of the changes we have made to our dinner menu – our handmade savoury pies, just like our famous buns, are, we think, the best in the world.

The building has a fascinating history...

It’s home to Bath’s original bun, enjoyed by Jane Austen; it’s a unique house, with an oven in the cellar dating back over 1,000 years; and we are open for dinner now – we’re making new history every day.

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

We can offer a very positive work experience for our large team. Big chains have rules and pay scales; we love to promote from within – our excellent restaurant manager, Danielle, for example, started as a 16-year-old part-time Saturday waitress. We also retain great staff; Francisco, for example, has worked here for over 30 years.

Other indie businesses I respect are...

the independent guest house and hotel owners of Bath; each offers a very special experience in a very special city. Richard and Jo Bertinet – of The Bertinet Bakery – and their high standards are an inspiration, too. And Richard Buckley and his team at Acorn have redefined what a meat-free fine dining restaurant can be.

We work closely with other Bath independents...

Our recently completed five-year restoration project has been overseen by local interior artist Adam Calkin. We are a proud associate member of BIGHA, members of Bath BID, Visit Bath and the Association of Bath Restaurants, too.

The community of independent businesses in Bath...

has a common bond. We care more than we need to; we see what we do as a reflection of ourselves, and not just a job.

It’s a privilege to work in such a beautiful city...

The light on the golden stone feels unique and is a blessing every time I see it.

4 North Parade Passage, Bath; www.sallylunns.co.uk For more, see www.visitbath.co.uk

© Sally Lunn’s

© Sally Lunn’s © Sally Lunn’s

© Sally Lunn’s

this page and opposite: Take refreshment at Sally Lunn’s eating house before visiting the micro-museum that lies in the cellars – the birthplace of the original Bath Bun

ALLERGY TESTING Feeling unwell? May I help you?

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If you suer with any of the above complaints, an hour’s test could change your life!

For your nearest tester please contact Cindy on 07747 800097 or 01934 824056, or email allergytesting@churchviews.co.uk

Now testing at Lansdown Clinic, Bath BA1 5EE www.allergytest.co.uk

Put a Spring into your Love Life!

Caroline Crowther is a truly local personal introduction agency helping you meet someone new in your area. We offer a long term personal service until you find your perfect match.

For a professional and personal service call

0800 180 4788

www.carolinecrowther.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the therapist

The local professionals on how they help clients improve their wellbeing MERYN CHURCHOUSE

HELEN MULLOY REID

BSC (HONS) MFHT MC SPORTS THERAPY & SPORTS MASSAGE

BARE BEAUTY 07986863797; www.barebeautytherapy.co.uk

07598937216; www.bathsportstherapy.co.uk What are the benefits of the treatments you offer?

They improve flexibility and range of movement in joints, encourage faster recovery time from injury, improve circulation and posture, and relax muscles and alleviate stress.

Tell us about the range of treatments you provide...

They include sport and remedial massage, acupuncture for sports injuries, therapeutic ultrasound, pulsed shortwave therapy and laser therapy. I also provide gym and home-based rehabilitation programmes and 1:1 clinical Pilates sessions. Programmes are developed dependent on specific injuries and problem areas as well as individual’s lifestyles.

What is Bare Beauty all about?

I am passionate about taking a holistic approach to caring for your body, encouraging a simple but effective skincare routine. Using organic natural products applied with the action of massage promotes good well-being and delivers effective results. Skincare doesn’t need to be costly or complicated, better to be consistent. I continually source gorgeous brands not used by other salons or spas in Bath.

Meryn Churchouse

What advice would you give someone considering having a treatment?

Don’t hesitate. Seek treatment before your injury/pain become chronic. We don’t spend enough time caring for our body’s. We have regular haircuts and skin care routines but we don’t prioritise enough time to take care of our internal musculature and skeletal systems.

Helen Mulloy Reid

CAROLINE JOSLING

Has well-being always been an important part of your life?

Well-being is incredibly important to me, having always embraced a healthy clean-living approach, from what I eat, how I live my life and how I care for myself. I love my working world and feel proud of what I have created by staying true to my beauty values and vision for Bare Beauty.

How do you relax and unwind?

You could find me walking my puppy Topaz through Prior Park gardens, or doing the park run in Rainbow woods.

I am regularly on my yoga mat, soon to be offering yoga on my treatment menu, and am currently undergoing teacher training at the Bath Yoga Studio. I find daily meditation is essential to re-energise. I also do voluntary work for DHI, a charity that helps those with drug and alcohol issues.

DEBRA CHICKEN

HARVEST MOON HOLISTIC THERAPY

ADVANCED CLINICAL MASSAGE THERAPIST

01225 466944; www.carolinejosling.com

07525 936546; www.debrachicken.co.uk How did you get into therapy?

I gained a special interest in holistic health, wellness and natural beauty on my travels around the world as a model. Initially trained in massage and aromatherapy, I soon discovered a face therapy that releases tension and not only helps you look better but feel better too. I call it Facial Energy Release. I have gone onto learning and teaching more face therapies, as I find work on the head and face deeply relaxing and powerful for releasing pent up tension all over the body, most recently training in new Neal’s Yard Frankincense Intense Facial Rejuvenation.

Other specialities?

Fertility and maternity treatments offering reflexology, aromatherapy and maternity massage.

A really rewarding field which can address complaints such as fatigue, symphysis pubis dysfunction, migraine and even an overdue baby.

How do you like to relax?

Having therapies myself, I practice Iyengar yoga and I am enjoying singing lessons – soon to find a choir.

What are the benefits of the treatments that you offer?

Clinical massage uses a combination of massage and advanced bodywork techniques to treat injuries, soft tissue damage and muscular problems, giving the recipient relief from muscle pain, thereby improving posture, assisting with healing and helping with relaxation. Through an initial consultation, I acquire a ‘picture’ of who you are, how you use your body and what stressors may exist for you. Positive results are generally achieved within 3 – 6 sessions, with the number of sessions varying depending on the severity of the injury being treated.

Caroline Josling

Tell me about the range of treatments you provide?

The session includes many techniques and includes; hot stones, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, soft tissue release, stretching and Thai massage. I am an expert in treating pain conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine, fibromyalgia and back pain.

Debra Chicken

What sets you apart from the other therapist in the area?

My training. I am the first therapist in Bath to offer this way of treating chronic pain conditions. I trained at the Jing Institute in Brighton. They are the only massage school that offers a degree level education; Eastern and Western modalities are woven together to offer a completely unique treatment. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 127

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TIA BROWN

MATT SHEPHERD

TIA BROWN NATURAL AESTHETICS

CLINICAL SPECIALIST CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST AT PHYSIO IMPULSE

07940 955237; t.b.naturalaesthetics@outlook.com

01225 683007; www.physioimpulse.co.uk What sets you apart from other therapists in the area?

With over 12 years’ experience in the industry in a variety of roles, a vast amount of knowledge has been gained.

We focus solely on helping clients enhance their inner natural beauty through specialist result driven treatments.

All treatments we offer work alongside our body’s own natural systems, which aids youthful healthy skin without having to use injectables or go under the knife. Unlike other aesthetic therapies, our products are all natural, vegan, paraben free, organic/botanical ingredients.

Do you specialise in a particular area?

I treat most musculoskeletal conditions but specialise in chronic knee and shoulder pain. Alongside my Honours degree, I have a diploma in injection therapy which allows me to inject painful and arthritic joints to relieve pain and aid rehabilitation.

Tell me about the range of treatments you provide?

I provide conventional physiotherapy care such as manipulation, myofascial release, taping and rehabilitation programmes. Some more complex conditions can recover more slowly, despite best efforts with these treatments, so my extra training enables me to inject troublesome joints to aid recovery.

Matt Shepherd

Do you specialise in a particular area?

Advanced specialist skin treatments are our speciality, treating concerns such as signs of ageing, fine lines/ wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation, acne scaring, loose skin, stretch marks, scarring, blepharoplasty, acne/blemished prone skin and many other concerns.

What sets you apart from the other therapists in the area?

I have a dual role carrying out orthopaedic clinics with surgeons in a local hospital alongside my clinics at Physioimpulse. This enables me to watch surgery, discuss MRI scans / Xrays and complicated cases which enhances the knowledge already gained from 16 years clinical experience. I am also the only private physiotherapist in Bath to offer ostenil (Hyaluronic Acid) injections which can provide up to nine months of pain relief for arthritic joints, without the side effects of steroid therapy.

Tia Brown

Tell me about the range of treatments you offer?

Our treatments include, plasma pen treatment, one of the beauty world’s no 1 most advanced soft-surgery skin lifting, skin tightening and rejuvenation treatments.

The million dollar facial, designed to deeply exfoliate and increase the natural production of collagen and cell renewal. Mesotherapy, recommended for anti-ageing, skin rejuvenation and hyperpigmentation. We also offer chemical peels, micro needling and dermaplane facials.

CLAIRE LAWTON

ELLIE REDWOOD

01225 428741; www.beautyatnumber32.co.uk

01225 338838; www.beyondbeautybath.com

Why did you become a therapist?

I initially wanted to become a policewoman but my Godfather ‘Tug’ Wilson, who was a policeman in Bath, dissuaded me as the challenges for policing in Bath were changing in the 80s and he suggested that I followed my interest in anatomy and physiology and took up a career in physiotherapy or beauty therapy.

After gaining the international qualification CIDESCO I opened my first salon in George Street Bath in 1986.

In 1990 I married and moved to Hong Kong where I started a salon. After qualifying as a lecturer in adult education the opportunity arose to buy Jennifer Luckham Beauty Clinic Monmouth Street in 1998.

Why did you decide to become a therapist?

Initially I wanted to study at The London School of Media Make-Up and pursue a career in film and stage makeup. However whilst training I discovered I found greater satisfaction from the way I could use beauty treatments to improve my clients sense of wellbeing and confidence.

BEAUTY AT NO.32

BEYOND BEAUTY

Tell me about the range of treatments you provide?

All five therapists at Beyond Beauty are highly qualified offering regular manicures, pedicures, waxing and a wide range of beauty treatments together with a full selection of massage therapies. Running my own business has given me the opportunity to expand my qualifications allowing us to offer more specialist treatments including IPL hair removal, chemical skin peels and brow Perfect microblading.

Claire Lawton

What sets you apart from the other therapists in the area?

Our salon prides itself in offering a professional yet caring approach to clients concerns and 2018 proved to be a significant year with the rebranding of the salon, changing the name to Beauty @No32 and being awarded the National Thalgo Salon of the Year.

Do you specialise in a particular area?

The salon offers all aspects of beauty therapy but specialises in Electrolysis, CACI non surgical facials, waxing and body therapy treatments.

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

Who or what gives you the most inspiration?

I absolutely love what I do and increasingly I am enjoying teaching. Recently I became a qualified beauty trainer. It’s great to share what drives me and inspire others.

Ellie Redwood

ADVERTISING FEATURE

WARREN SPREADBURY

TOM GREEN

CHIROPRACTOR AT THE MEDICAL

PHYSIOTHERAPIST AT THE MEDICAL

01225 444 001; www.themedical.co.uk

01225 444 001; www.themedical.co.uk Describe your average day...

The best thing about my job is there is no average day.

Each day provides new challenges, tasks and interesting aspects of patient care to consider and work on. Each day is as unique as the patients that come to see me.

What are the benefits of the treatments that you offer?

Every person and case is different and my treatment is tailored to the person’s needs and their goals. I benefit from a sturdy rugby stature for deep tissue pressure but can be delicate when needed, don’t worry!

Do you specialise in a particular area?

Chiropractors are known for back and neck pain, but we can treat the whole body from head to toe. If it hurts or is giving you discomfort, come and see if I can help!

What are the benefits of the treatments that you offer?

The biggest benefit is the huge range of techniques and approaches available. There’s very little that cannot be helped in one way or another, often with many different treatment options available for a specific complaint.

Describe your average day...

I see so many different types of people with such varied problems – every single day is totally different and as a result, never dull. I am regularly being told what ‘Dr Google’ has said a patient should do or should fear, so much of my day is often spent reassuring people that they won’t need to chop their leg off and that they can be cured! Treatment is also about mindset as well as being a physical therapy.

Warren Spreadbury

What do you like best about Bath and how do you unwind?

I live and work in Bath and love the local community feel with the city benefits. I enjoy the local city social life, intense gym sessions, laughing and being at the top of a mountain….a small one.

Tom Green

ROWENA HUNT

MEGAN JACKSON

WELLNESS | BREATH | YOGA

SPECIALIST PELVIC HEALTH PHYSIOTHERAPIST AT BMI BATH CLINIC

07855 355729; www.rowenahunt.com

01225 838767; www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/bath What mind-set will help people succeed with their New Year’s goals?

We often focus on what we ‘should’ or ‘should not’ eat and forget to ask ourselves why we make the choices we do. Seek out imbalance in the rest of your life and ditch diet and deprivation. Eat nutritionally dense, unprocessed foods to satiate your body’s needs so unwanted cravings naturally fade.

Have fitness and nutrition always been a big part of your life?

No. I worked in the hedonistic, high octane, high stress world of Hong Kong finance for years before realising it was making me sick, unhappy and physically old before my time. My coaching is inspired by those experiences.

Do you specialise in a particular area?

I specialise in treating a range of pelvic health issues in both men and women. I treat urinary, pelvic floor and bowel issues as well as pelvic and bladder pain, sexual dysfunction and prolapse. I also assess and rehabilitate patients before and after gynaecological, prostate and bowel surgery, as offered at BMI Bath Clinic. Pelvic health physiotherapists are few and far between and while many people don’t realise that physiotherapy can help with pelvic issues, treatment is often extremely effective and can make significant improvements to quality of life.

Rowena Hunt

Tell me about the range of treatments you provide?

I provide a holistic approach to the treatment of pelvic issues which combines more traditional ‘hands on’ treatment with acupuncture, exercise and relaxation.

Because each patient’s issues are unique to them, there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach and treatment is always tailored to the individual.

Tell us about the services that you offer.

I use intuitive wellness & life coaching, breath techniques, physical yoga and EFT to help clients highlight unhelpful habits and make small, consistent changes towards their goals. I empower people to feel comfortable in their own skin; finding balance and reducing stress, while gaining strength and flexibility in body and mind.

Megan Jackson

What do you like about your chosen career path?

Patients suffering from pelvic health conditions feel disempowered and are often unable to discuss it openly; seeking treatment improves people’s wellbeing enormously and I value being able to make a difference.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Time for a spring clean?

Helen Adams runs a clinic at The Nourish Nutritional Therapy Centre in Bath and OAKMEAD CLINIC in Chippenham. She is one of only a handful of fully qualified practitioners in functional medicine in the UK

W

e hear the term ‘Spring Detox’ a lot at this time of year – what does this really mean? Is it about fasting?

Eating different foods?

Going on a retreat and just having raw foods and juice? The answer is: it depends what you are detoxing from. There are steps anyone can take without going to extremes.

WHAT IS A TOXIN? A toxin can be an excess of any form of contaminant stored in the body. We also have various bacteria to keep our immune system busy and we have moulds, particularly from damp houses which have not been properly ventilated over the winter months.

STEP 1: Certain foods are natural detox agents such as asparagus, avocado, beetroot, black-eyed beans, broccoli, chickpeas, garlic, lentils, organic liver, onions, pinto beans and spinach.

STEP 2: Specific nutritional supplements boost detox effects even more by providing specialised support, for example, specifically targeted at viruses, bacteria, moulds or fungus.

It’s best to do this with the help of a nutritionist or you could waste a lot of money on the wrong or poor quality products.

SELF HELP?

STEP 3: Get expert help and a protocol specifically tailored to you. Your general state of health and medical history make you unique so your detox should be unique as well. For example, juicing every day because it made your neighbour feel great may not suit you.

You can do quite a lot to detox yourself with some support:

One of my clients, Erica, said recently,

“I feel so much better, I can’t believe what a difference this has made. I’ve recommended Helen to all my friends.” ■

If you are interested Helen offers a free initial discovery consultation’ please visit www.oakmeadclinic.co.uk or to book a free discovery session email Wilf Adams on wilf@oakmeadclinic.co.uk or call 07846 620453

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

BUSINESSINSIDER B AT H G E T S S E R I O U S

Perfect attire when going on a date with an Emperor

The deadline looms – so get entering

GOOD AS GOLD If you’re itching to update your summer wardrobe, a new company named Pasha Living might be just the ticket. They have just launched their online boutique, selling resort wear inspired by women of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Founded by husband-and-wife team David Kerrigan and Serra Özsoy, Pasha Living represents

their ambition in bringing a touch of eastern exoticism to the resort-wear category. Among the collections are versatile kaftans, Grecian handmade leather sandals, jewellery created to evoke the spirit of the ancient world and Ottomaninspired hammam towels made from Aegean cotton.

For more: www.pashaliving.com

LOOK SHARP Nominations are flowing in for the Creative Bath Awards, the judges have been revealed, and the entry closing date has now been announced. The deadline to nominate yourself or someone else for a highly prestigious Creative Bath Award is 17 April. Creative businesses and organisations are urged to check the organisers’ 12 top tips on the awards site, which is full of handy advice on creating a knock-out entry.

The big event, headline sponsored by Bath Spa University, will take place on 13 June in a mega marquee, right in the middle of Bath’s Queen Square. Acting as a beacon for creativity in the city, this public celebration will be filled with creative surprises, including dance, music, and much more.

The finalists will be revealed on 23 April.

For more: www.creativebathawards.org

ACTION PLAN It’s all mellow yellow down at the store

A new boutique charity shop has opened on Margaret’s Buildings. Mercy in Action’s stock includes vintage clothes, books, handbags, household items, toys and a range of kid’s clothing.

“We believe the Mercy in Action shop will be a positive addition to the existing shops and businesses here and are so grateful to the other traders who have given us a warm welcome,” says founder and CEO Allison Todd.

“We’re looking forward to getting involved in the local community.”

For more: www.mercyinaction.org.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

BUSINESS INSIDER

It’s not a mammoth swimming pool, this is where the plot for Bath Quays North is

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS A new online company which specialises in delivering bouquets and plants has arrived in Bath. Mr Florista, owned by sisters Lucy and Sophie Overment, also run floristry services for social and corporate events. Interestingly, they have created a system called ‘random acts of flowers’, which works like this: every time a customer buys something from them, a percentage of what they pay goes towards funding bunches for people who really deserve them. It’s a concept that works threefold, as, every month, one charity, one independent business and one publicly nominated individual receives a random act of flowers.

For more: www.mrflorista.com

QUAY TO THE CITY Legal & General, in partnership with Bell Hammer, has been announced as the development partner for the Bath Quays North regeneration project, the 5.5-acre prime riverside site in Bath city centre. Bath and North East Somerset Council selected the development partner for the plot, which will be a mixed-used scheme with 306,000 sq ft of office space.

“We are delighted to have been selected to develop Bath Quays North and look forward to working with the council to bring our vision for Bath to life,” says Rachel Dickie, head of urban regeneration at Legal & General’s future cities business.

“Our investment partnerships in cities such as Cardiff and Newcastle are already delivering at a pace, and we believe that our plans for Bath Quays North will have a significant positive impact on the city centre, generating employment opportunities and economic growth.”

For more: www.legalandgeneralcapital.com

Bath is the best place in the UK for those looking to get on the property ladder. This is the news that comes from the price comparison site MoneySuperMarket, which recently looked at 35 cities against six important factors for first-time buyers, such as job opportunities, average salary, disposable income, rate of contents theft and average cost of a one-bedroom property.

Bath has moved from second to first place over the last year – due in part to an improvement in job opportunities. The top five were: Bath, Wolverhampton, Chester, Aberdeen, and Derby.

For more: www.moneysupermarket.com

Top Lane, Whitley, Wiltshire SN12 8QX

© PAUL GILLIS

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

Bath has landed the number one slot

01225 704966

Top notch boules skills, optional; silly costume, mandatory

© ANDY LLOYD

Thanks a bunch

HOLD ON TO YOUR BOULES… Bath charities are set to benefit from another sell-out Bath Boules tournament this year, as team tickets flew off the shelves once again.

13 March saw a flurry of local businesses securing their tickets for the much-loved event, which runs from 14 –16 June. A whopping 192 companies will compete in the France-tastic tournament, which sells out every year. For information on any remaining spaces, contact the Boules team: info@bathboules. com or register on the waiting list via the website.

Plans are shaping up for the joyous weekend, in which Queen Square is uniquely closed to traffic on two sides. The party in the square is entirely free to anyone and everyone to attend and enjoy the entertainment, street food and the official Boules bar. All food and drinks profits go to the Bath Boules Trust to give money to local Bath charities.

“Just a few sponsorship opportunities for this incredible outdoor celebration are available now,” says Steph Dodd, events director at MediaClash, which organises the Boules. “Every penny raised directly affects the lives of people in need across the city – and it’s brilliant fun for the people of Bath. It’s heart-warming how residents, businesses and visitors come together for enjoyment and doing good. It’s a much-loved Bath event.”

To learn more about sponsorship, contact rosanna.hood@mediaclash.co.uk For more: www.bathboules.com

T f @peartreewhitley www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH SPORTS NEWS Bringing you the latest in sporting news

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY

Bath’s city centre was marginally more crowded than normal

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

© ARTUR LESNIAK

From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish

RACE TO VICTORY

BOTH IMAGES © CL ARE GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY

The annual Bath Half Marathon returned to the streets of Bath on 17 March, with over 12,000 runners crossing the finish line and an estimated 40,000 spectators celebrating the 38th edition of the popular race.

After last year’s race was cancelled due to the snow, the runners were blessed with a bright, dry and cool morning – perfect weather conditions for running.

Chris Thompson dominated the men’s field and took the lead from the start, claiming the men’s title in

a time of 1:03:09, some 40 seconds faster than his time at the London Big Half the week before.

The women’s race saw the top five finishing within less than a minute of each other. Kate Reed ran a strong race and secured the women’s title in a time of 01:12:44.

As always, the family fun run was greeted by huge support from spectators, and delighted many young runners who were able to experience the thrill of race day. Congratulations to everyone who took part.

For more: www.bathhalf.co.uk

Kate Reed and Chris Thompson making a run for it

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

3 APRIL BATH WOMEN’S BUSINESS CLUB Connect with successful women, who are company directors, over a healthy lunch with business talks that will leave you inspired and raring to go.

11.30am–2pm; Bailbrook House Hotel; www.womensbusiness.club 4 APRIL THE 2019 BATH TRANSPORT HUSTINGS The transport conference will bring together all the Bath political groups contesting the local election on 2 May 2019. Chaired by Sir Peter Hendy, the conference will be a neutral platform to allow the political groups to present their Bath Transport Manifestos on which they are competing to win B&NES Council seats.

4.45pm–8.30pm; St Swithin's Church; 37 The Paragon; www.eventbrite.co.uk 24 APRIL APPLYING MATHEMATICS TO UNDERSTAND OUR CHANGING CLIMATE Dr Emily Shuckburgh, British Antarctic Survey, will discuss how we are using mathematics to understand our changing climate and the risks posed to human society.

5pm-6pm; University of Bath; Chancellors' Building, Room 1.10; www.eventbrite.co.uk 29 APRIL BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB This month’s event features Jamie Luck, director of charity Mentoring Plus. Includes lunch and networking opportunities.

12pm-2.30pm; The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

The team at Royds Withy King, looking beyond ecstatic with their win

CROWNING GLORY

Bath-headquartered law firm Royds Withy King, who have offices on Midland Bridge and Queen Square, have recently been crowned best managed firm at the Managing Partners’ Forum awards.

“We’re thrilled to have won this award which reflects the ambitions and hard work of everyone who has helped to steer our business through a period of considerable growth while managing the significant investments and changes needed to ensure we remain a great place to work,” says Graham Street, managing partner at Royds Withy King.

“This award is for our people who have supported the firm on its journey and continue to play a crucial role in our success.” www.roydswithyking.com

THREE IS A MAGIC NUMBER

Savills Bath has announced three promotions within its local team.

Carly Foster and Will Wright have been promoted to associate director, and Ellie Mackenzie has become an associate.

“I am delighted to announce the well-deserved promotions of Carly, Will and Ellie, and extend to them my warmest congratulations,” says Luke Brady, head of Savills Bath.

“The development of our staff is integral to ensuring we provide the best service to our clients, as well as a thriving office environment.” www.savills.co.uk

LANSDOWN GOLF CLUB LO O K I N G TO B O O K YO U R W E D D I N G O R S P E C I A L E V E N T I N B AT H ?

Look no further than Lansdown Golf Club.

W e h a v e t h e ex p e r i e n c e a n d v e r s a t i l i t y t o e n s u r e y o u r d a y i s a p e r f e c t o n e .

O u r g r e e n a n d b e a u t i f u l s u r r o u n d i n g s m a ke u s t h e p e r f e c t l o c a t i o n f o r a w e d d i n g o r e v e n t . S o c o m e a n d s e e w h a t m a ke s L a n s d o w n s p e c i a l . . .

01225 425007

INFO@LANSDOWNGOLFCLUB.CO.UK

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic local titles. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months.

If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475800 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2019 EDUCATION WINNER SPONSORED BY

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

Very surprising and very exciting. I was really excited to be a finalist, so to win really was the icing on the cake. We’ve had lots of our customers stop us and say congratulations; it means a lot to have our customers recognise our achievement.

How did you celebrate?

March includes British Science Week so is our busiest month of the year, which means we still haven’t got around to celebrating properly. We will have a belated celebration at work once the March madness dies down, which I'm sure will include doughnuts for all our lovely staff.

Where is your award now?

Fun Science is actually run from my home, so the award is on my living room windowsill and I point it out to anyone who comes to visit, whether they are there for work or not. We are hoping to move to an office in Bath soon, and the award will be coming with us – taking pride of place on the windowsill there, I expect.

Why do you think you won?

2018 was a really big year for us. We started up our first two international branches in the USA and Switzerland, and that was a huge challenge, but one which we pulled off eventually, and both

branches are going really well. I had to learn to make slime in French! We also had a really big year here in Bath and started working with nine more schools and employed four new members of staff, all local people. Through all of this, our aim is still to inspire every single child that we meet to pursue science, and we still put a lot of effort into ensuring the sessions meet the needs of all our different groups. I think the judges noticed the hard work that we had put in that year, and I also think the testimonials from parents really helped us.

As a company, what sets you apart?

We are fast becoming a company with quite a large reach across the UK and internationally, but we are also still very much a local company and we like to think that we are a very friendly team. We have great relationships with the teachers, parents and children that we work with, and we tailor our sessions to meet the interests of individual groups and children. We offer all primary schools up to 35 miles from Bath a free assembly once a year to give absolutely every child aged four to 11 the chance to experience hands-on, practical science completely free of charge. We hope that this will light a spark within them that may lead to a lifelong passion for science.

things, I still go out and do lots of our schools sessions Cressida plans to too. I absolutely love running celebrate her win a session with a group of with doughnuts children and seeing their eyes light up when the experiment works, or even more when think she’s great. She’s really worked it goes wrong. We like to prepare hard to be where she is now and topics based on what the children are comes across as a genuinely lovely and interested in and have recently run kind person. a session on ‘poo analysis’ where the children analysed fake poo with lollypop Future plans? sticks. They had to measure it, break it Our goal for the year is to set up five new apart and see what undigested food was branches across the country, start afterinside, all while learning about digestion, school clubs in five more host schools, herbivores and carnivores. It's so great to and start running our popular holiday see children learning without realising it club in Bristol as well as Bath. We are and having a great time, too. also working on an exciting project with iFLY indoor skydiving centres to revamp What do you their STEM educational programme love most about for schools. working in Bath?

We sell franchises Tell us something about yourself and often meet or the company that might with prospective surprise us… franchisees to answer I started up Fun Science when I was 19 any questions they and still at the University in Bath. I spent may have. These £10 on a website domain then listed people may come myself on lots of local free websites. from across the country or even abroad, Once I had my first booking, I went out but they don’t usually take much and bought some scientific equipment. convincing to travel to Bath to see us, For the first year, I reinvested almost because it’s so pretty. I also think that everything I earned in more equipment there is a great focus on the importance and marketing and ran the business of unique educational opportunities in part-time alongside my studies. After Bath, which is perfect for our type of two years of this, I graduated, took on business. It’s also great to be in a city that my first member of staff and made the feels small and friendly but is also so close decision to try running it full time. That to larger places like Bristol and London. was almost five years ago now and things have changed a lot from when I was Business heroes? storing all my chemicals under my bed in I met Deborah Meaden at Bath Spa my student house!

University a few years ago and I just For more: www.fun-science.org.uk

“I STARTED UP FUN SCIENCE WHEN I WAS 19 AND STILL AT UNIVERSITY IN BATH”

What do you love most about your job?

Even though I run the business side of

© SOUL MEDIA

Managing director of FUN SCIENCE Cressida Bullock tells us about going global, making slime and experiments that go wrong

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Reach the best in the west

World-class winners

Allison Herbert, CEO of BATH BID finds out what plans the environmental finalists have lined up....

T

he Bath Business Improvement District proudly sponsors the Environmental category of the Bath Life Awards and is continually impressed by remarkable initiatives to conserve and protect our planet. We asked the finalists of this year’s awards to break confidentiality and tell us what they have been doing. The diversity of the responses is fascinating and well worth sharing.

Huskup® is tackling the UK’s disposable culture with a brand new reusable cup made from rice husk, not plastic. Pure Planet is Britain’s first app-based energy supplier, offering 100 per cent renewable electricity and 100 per cent carbon offset gas to households providing green power for less cost than polluting equivalents. Harvest Natural Foods retails packaging-free vegetarian, ethically sourced, and GMOfree products and they are currently removing palm oil from their ownbrand items.

The Natural Cleaning Company is the first environmentally friendly domestic cleaners in Bath and they significantly reduce single-use plastics and chemicals, using technology which allows them to clean with just water. The annual Festival of Nature, run by the Natural History Consortium, has grown from strength to strength, helping to connect people with the natural environment. The Iford Manor Estate is managing to protect the valley and its wildlife thrives – Natural England said it was one of the best schemes they had ever seen.

The 2019 winners, Freshford Church School, were noted by judges for their outstanding teaching about the planet’s challenges and for encouraging pupils to make positive changes to make the school more sustainable. Their ambition is to be a carbon neutral and single-use plastic free space. Part of their plan is to provide public electric charging units in the car park and to install solar panels on the roof of the school’s extension. Their solar panels have been temporarily thwarted at B&NES planning stage, but they are not deterred – vital lessons in resilience and determination are being taught in real time.

The awards ceremony was a night to be proud of our city and its citizens; “Bath is the winner” – but for this category we think the winners are on a much more global scale. ■

Affluent, active and influential and just a call away...

Bath Life team

01225 475800

Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath BID Third Floor, 21 Stall Street, Bath BA1 1QF 01225 430640; www.bathbid.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Is back pain stopping you from fully enjoying life?

Many of us will experience back pain at some point in our lives.

Mr Mike Katsimihas, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at THE SPINAL CENTRE AT BMI BATH CLINIC shares his advice...

O

ften, back pain is a result of strains and minor injuries, rather than something more serious. Most cases of back pain will get better over time and won’t require surgery.

That said, although back pain is often nothing to worry about, it can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. Not only can your normal daily activities become difficult, but if your symptoms persist for a long period of time, chronic pain can affect your mood too.

With this in mind, it’s important to be aware that the earlier you begin treatment, including taking steps to help yourself, the quicker you can get back to enjoying life.

What are the symptoms of back pain?

Back pain differs from person to person.

Common symptoms can be felt as a dull ache or, contrastingly, a sharp shooting pain, depending on the cause. Symptoms can also include muscular spasm and leg pain or leg numbness/weakness. It is always worth seeing a qualified professional to investigate the cause of your pain. Seek help immediately should you experience difficulty urinating, a lack of bladder/bowel control, numbness in the saddle area, weakness in both legs or severe unremitting pain that gets worse.

What’s the cause of my back pain?

It’s very difficult to attribute back pain to one specific cause. Sometimes it can be a result of simply ‘overdoing it’ or lifting incorrectly which can cause muscle or ligament injuries.

Other times, it can occur as part of the ageing process or from degenerative conditions, such as arthritis. The stiffness associated with arthritis can reduce the movement of your spine and may cause you to experience pain. Having poor posture while sitting in front of a computer or driving for long hours can also be the cause.

Common back pain conditions include: l Herniated cervical disc – when a disc between the vertebrae breaks down and pushes against the nerves or spinal cord. l Sciatica – a pain down your leg which is caused from pressure on a nerve where it leaves

“IT IS ALWAYS WORTH SEEING A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL TO INVESTIGATE THE CAUSE OF YOUR PAIN.” your spine. Sciatica can occur when a disc becomes worn and bulges. l Spinal stenosis – where the space in the centre of the spine narrows, trapping nerves which can cause weakness or pain in your legs. l Scoliosis – an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine.

How can I manage back pain?

There are some things you can do to help prevent back pain, such as improving your posture and range of movement, as well as adjusting the way you sit. However, the most effective way to prevent back pain is to maintain a good level of exercise. The good news is that many back problems won’t require surgery. If your symptoms aren’t improving, however, then it’s best to get a firm diagnosis, which can not only help to resolve your issue,

but can help you return to your normal activities as soon as possible.

Please contact us if you wish to book an appointment with the Spinal Centre at BMI Bath Clinic. n

Mr Mike Katsimihas Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon The Spinal Centre at BMI Bath Clinic Claverton Down Road, Combe Down, Bath, BA2 7BR; 0808 101 0337 www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/bath www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 141

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the IT specialist Our local experts are ready to improve your digital workplace

ANDREW JAMES

MATT DELARGY

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR; SOVISION IT

HEAD OF SALES, DATASHARP INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS

0117 986 4026; www.sovisionit.com What makes soVision IT different to other IT support companies?

We invest in security solutions that are part of an IT support service such as darkweb monitoring and security training software for staff, ensuring compliance with Cyber Essentials & GDPR. A secure network is a reliable well run IT system, our clients consider us as their strategic IT Director. We also have an in-house software development team that can develop software apps.

Do I need to bother with GDPR as this is old news?

Short answer YES. It’s not too late to get your business GDPR compliant. You can by ensuring your systems are protected from cyber threats, encrypting data on laptops, identifying how to find and remove client data from your systems, robust backups and cleansing old data. We recommend that you review your internal procedures and achieve Cyber Essentials as this will help your business with GDPR compliance.

08000 328274 mdelargy@datasharp-ic.co.uk www.datasharp-ic.co.uk What takes up most of your time?

A large amount of our work right now is improving the digital workplace and changing the landscape of the digital workplace. Digital workplace, in my view, refers to flexible working, whether from the office, client site, on the move or from home. The key is to work from a single, effective pane of glass for an easy transition between these four mediums.

It includes secure telephony and document management, video, while collaborating with existing infrastructure such as a company’s’ CRM, from anywhere at any time.

Andrew James

How do companies benefit from you?

We create a domino effect: agile working and next generation client engagement which, in turn, creates a more effective working environment, (getting more from less) and a better client experience, leading to a lower attrition of your customers and more repeat business.

Who do you work with?

We work with businesses across the region however we have a lot of clients in Bath and are most likely working with your neighbour!

Matt Delargy

TOM CANNON

MANAGING DIRECTOR, MOORE STEPHENS IT SOLUTIONS

ANDY EWINGS

01225 486100; tom.cannon@moorestephensit.co.uk www.msbit.co.uk

01225 758181; www.bluefusesystems.com

What are the top three tips to help prevent a cyber-attack?

1. Change your passwords as regularly as possible and do not use the same password for everything you do.

2. Keep your antivirus software up to date.

3. Make sure that your backup is working correctly on a daily basis.

MANAGING DIRECTOR, BLUEFUSE SYSTEMS

Tom Cannon

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Making clients feel happy and comfortable with their IT. We often spend a lot of time initially with a new client, improving their overall IT support experience.

We like to make them feel more positive about their own setup by resolving any long-standing issues.

How can you help improve the IT for a business?

We are able to provide a free IT audit/review to any businesses looking for advice on their network. This provides the business with a report on key points such as cyber security, backup and antivirus. Please contact me to arrange a free audit.

Andy Ewings

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

The most rewarding aspect of the job is helping clients realise their goals with the digital solutions we build. The evidence of this is seeing them grow and succeed with the solutions we provide being at the centre of what they do. It’s also very rewarding being able to give undergraduates at Bath University an opportunity to gain valuable experience through our placement program.

If you could give one bit of advice what would it be?

Make sure you are passionate and enjoy what you are doing. If you don’t believe in what you are building neither will your clients.

What will be the biggest IT Challenges for businesses moving forward?

Finding talent is, and has always been, one of the biggest challenges facing IT companies. Technologies move on very quickly so finding people with the right experience in the right areas can be hard. Equally increased data governance, security, and privacy will provide many IT companies with large headaches!

What services do you offer?

We offer services across the digital spectrum from brand creation, wireframing and design, build (website and mobile applications) and hosting. We try to be a full service agency for our clients. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 143

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ACCO UNTANTS / COMMUNICATIONS

FINANCIAL SERVICES / RECRUITMENT / SOLICITORS

SP RING / SUMMER 2019

BUSINESS SPECIAL

ADVERTISING FEATURE

BATH AT WORK

Work hard, play hard, so the mantra goes.

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BUSINESS SPECIAL ACCOUNTANTS

Andrew Sandiford

BDO

Anthony Jane

Tell us a little about your business...

As the UK’s fifth largest accountancy and business advisory firm we are distinctive, and our people tell us we have a very special and unique culture. We want to preserve and build on the strengths of our culture and the characteristics that make us both successful and different.

Everything we do at BDO is driven by our core purpose – helping you succeed. It governs what we do. It’s why we do what we do. It’s why we come into work each morning.

Our purpose reflects how we work with our clients to achieve their business goals and be successful, and it is a key ingredient of our entrepreneurial and innovative culture.

We are guided by our core values (honesty and integrity, mutual support and respect, professional and personal client relationships, and empowerment and personal responsibility) in everything we do.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

“BDO’s global organisation extends across 162 countries and territories, with more than 80,000 people working out of 1,591 offices”

In short, our international reach and capability.

BDO’s global organisation extends across 162 countries and territories, with more than 80,000 people working out of 1,591 offices and we’re all working towards one goal: to help our clients prosper. Our firms across the organisation work in a consistent way to the same quality standards.

This means access to local people who understand your business, your local and international markets and the specifics of your industry: all backed by a global organisation.

Any exciting news?

BDO recently merged with the Bristol, London, Reading and Watford offices of Moore Stephens LLP, making BDO the largest UK accountancy and business advisory firm focused on mid-sized, entrepreneurially-spirited businesses.

What areas do you specialise in?

BDO specialises in audit and assurance, tax, advisory and business services and outsourcing.

0117 930 1500; www.bdo.co.uk

BISHOP FLEMING Andrew Sandiford

Tell us a little about your business...

Bishop Fleming is a leading provider of accounting, tax and business consultancy in the UK. The firm has a wealth of knowledge and experience in personal and business tax, corporate finance, international tax, payroll, VAT, audit assurance and accounting and is the number one auditor to the academy sector.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

We are delighted to be appearing in the 2019 The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For, for the fourth year running.

We have a culture that is focussed on people – they are at the heart of our business and our clients’ businesses. Our wellbeing and training programmes ensure our people are looked after and receive the best skills to deliver exceptional service to clients.

We are also rated gold by Investor in Customer, recognised for delivering exceptional client service.

Tell us about your involvement with local charities…

We are passionate about supporting the communities in which we work. This year we have set an ambitious target of raising £100,000 for a huge range of charities and local causes. As part of this initiative, we are delighted to be the official title partner of the 2019 Bath Half Marathon.

We have 120 runners taking part, which is the largest participation by any corporate sponsor in the history of the event Anything exciting in the pipeline?

Bishop Fleming is celebrating its centenary year having been found in Torquay in 1919 and is marking the milestone with a year-long programme of projects and activities.

01225 486300; www.bishopfleming.co.uk

ARCHITECTS BUSINESS SPECIAL CONCINNITY CONSULTING Anna Goodship

Tim Lerwill

Tell us a little about your business...

I took the decision to leave my previous role as finance director and start my own consultancy business nearly two years ago, in July 2017.

Having worked in the finance sector for 14 years, I wanted to share my expertise with other organisations who have a desire to grow and develop their business, but don’t have the resource or experience to do that by themselves.

So, Concinnity Consultancy Ltd was born. It started with my values – a blend of expertise, honesty and my desire to integrate myself into my client’s business to truly understand what will work for them. My brand then followed – I wanted to differentiate and stand out from others in the sector.

In summary, the business offers a flexible solution to finance, operating at finance director level and working within the business on a variety of services specifically tailored to the business needs – for example, management accounting, cash flow planning, budgeting, team development or process improvement, often working alongside the business’s external accountant.

Over the past year I haven’t stopped! This coming year I plan to continue as I have been. I am truly delighted that I took the leap and started my own business.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

I have always wanted to run a half-marathon. My Dad had a severe stroke 10 years ago and it had always been one of my goals to raise some money for the Stroke Association. Working a full-time, fairly demanding job I had never felt I had the time to train for one. As I started my own business in mid-2017, I decided my first year of business (when I would have more work-life balance!) would be the time to do this.

It didn’t completely go to plan. I planned to run the Bath Half in March 2018. I started training in November and by the January I had a badly torn hamstring! I had raised over £2,300 so was pretty determined to run it after months of physio. Needless to say I was one of the few people who was pleased by the first ever cancellation of the Bath Half in 2018. Partly recovered, I went on to run the two-tunnels half marathon in May and ‘earn’ my sponsorship. I was really proud to be the Stroke Associations top fundraiser and was given a celebratory bottle of champagne!

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

I would say I’m pretty unique in what I offer – a flexible finance director who is happy to work as many or as few hours as my clients need. So, for some clients it will be a few hours a month, whereas for others I’m on site one day a week.

I would also describe myself as ‘non-corporate’ – that doesn’t mean to say I’m not highly professional with strong integrity, it’s more about being really approachable and friendly (and, of course, trustworthy and honest).

What makes working in Bath special?

I love the fact that even though it’s a World Heritage Centre, which makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, it’s a perfect size – small enough to feel homely and welcoming.

It’s a great city to work in, because there is so much diversity and culture – there’s a real buzz during the day and, of course, it’s equally lively at night too. I also love the variety of restaurants and eating places, from street food to 5-star gourmet specialities, all placed so close to each other. Plus, the beautiful Somerset countryside that is literally on our doorstep – I genuinely wouldn’t want to live or work anywhere else.

I’ve also met some wonderful clients and partners to work with, through a great networking circle – Women Mean Biz. I’ve found it really beneficial meeting every month for lunch and sharing working practices, challenges and opportunities.

0800 170 1779; www.concinnityconsultancy.co.uk

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OLD MILL Tim Lerwill

Tell us a little about your business...

Old Mill is an Accountancy Age Top 50 +50 firm which has developed a strong regional presence with around 300 people working across four offices in Melksham, Wells, Yeovil and Exeter. We work primarily in these sectors; owner managed businesses, food and drink, property and construction, rural and wealth management.

What plans do you have for 2019?

“Our clients want to know that we’ve got their back and can help them to solve their problems”

It’s a really exciting year for Old Mill in that we are rolling out a new brand that will project a more contemporary look that reflects where we are as a company right now. We have also invested in IT which will improve efficiencies across the business in a number of areas.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

It’s all about making a difference at a more strategic level and that starts by really getting to know our clients and developing a deep-seated understanding of their businesses and aspirations for the future.

It’s not just about preparing a set of year-end accounts or filing a quarterly VAT return, our clients want to know that we’ve got their back and can help them to solve their problems by providing insights and actionable advice that is grounded in reality.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Old Mill is unusual amongst professional services firms in that we are no longer a partnership having gone down the employee ownership route a few years ago with more than 40 individuals now having a stake in the business.

01225 701210; www.oldmillgroup.co.uk

BUSINESS SPECIAL PEARSON MAY

David Richards BA(Hons) ACA CTA Tell us a little about your business...

Pearson May is a leading firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers with our Bath office located in Great Pulteney Street. The firm was established in Bath nearly 180 years ago, and we strive to help our clients pay less tax. Our clients are local, regional, national and international.

What makes working in Bath special?

More so now than ever before, Bath is a vibrant and eclectic mix of business and pleasure. Against the backdrop of our beautiful city, Pearson May provides advice to owner managed businesses, fellow professionals, and private individuals who value a quality personal service – and paying less tax, of course!

What challenges are your clients facing?

PG OWEN Ian Gillard

Tell us a little about PG Owen’s history...

It was established in 1871 by David Owen, one of the founding fathers of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. In 146 years, this current management team is only the fourth in the firm’s history. We are more than just accountants and tax advisers. We offer a complete one-stop source of all financial support, be it financial services through our parent company or legal services through our associate company.

What advice would you give to any considering accountancy as a career?

“We are always keeping an eye on anything that may affect us and our clients, including making tax digital”

A good analytical mind is required, a desire to offer the very best advice to all clients, both large and small, and a degree of determination to treat every obstacle as a challenge is essential.

Is there anything you are monitoring that might impact your line of work?

We are always keeping an eye on anything that may affect us and our clients, including making tax digital. And, undoubtedly, Brexit will provide challenges at all levels. For many businesses, the impact of the major increases in national living wage allied to increased auto enrolment pension contributions will mean that pricing issues will be at the forefront of many businesses.

01225 422183; www.pgtax.co.uk

With ever increasing government regulation, managing your business and tax affairs requires ever more specialist professional advice. At Pearson May many of our senior staff and partners are chartered tax advisers, as well as being qualified accountants.

Any involvement with charities?

It is highly rewarding to give back to our community and, as part of this process, Pearson May organises a popular Charity Golf Day in support of local charities. The event attracts business teams across all sectors and has been taking place every September for more than 20 years now.

In total we’ve raised a six-figure sum for the charities concerned.

01225 460491; www.pearsonmay.co.uk David Richards

ARCHITECTS BUSINESS SPECIAL RICHARDSON SWIFT Catherine Edwards

Roger Chadwick

Tell us a little about your business...

We’re the largest accountancy firm based solely in Bath, which means our clients enjoy a completely local and personal service. They can just pop in! It’s great for us as advisors too, as we really get to know our clients and can offer more proactive advice, especially when it comes to long-term planning.

What areas do you specialise in?

As a firm, we have specialists in tax, audit and business services, advising local owner-managed businesses, private individuals and their families.

Not many people realise that we carry out audit work for businesses of all sizes, whether it’s for a statutory audit, securing finance or extra peace of mind. Alongside this, we audit grant claims and client money reports for legal and property firms. I’m also a registered ‘reporting accountant’ for ATOL. Travel companies who are ATOL registered report data annually as part of their licence renewal and a specific registration is needed to sign these off, which I hold.

What makes working in Bath special?

For a small city, Bath has a thriving and diverse business community so we deal with a huge variety of clients across many sectors.

Whether it’s people linked to our universities, or those relocating to improve their work-life balance, Bath attracts some very talented entrepreneurs, and they are the heart of our client base.

Also, Bath is a beautiful place and crossing Pulteney Bridge to get to the office each day is a real treat.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

We’re the accountant in residence at the University of Bath’s Innovation Centre, which supports entrepreneurs across a range of high tech and high growth sectors. This involves running regular ‘surgeries’ where members can ask our advice on any accountancy issue.

It’s great to share our expertise; especially when we’re able to help promising start-ups access finance, or established businesses realise their growth plans.

01225 325580; www.richardsonswift.co.uk Catherine Edwards

SOLICITORS BATTENS

Roger Chadwick

Tell us a little about your business...

Battens is a full service law firm offering a wide range of legal services.

As a firm which has been in existence for over 300 years; we have a rich history of providing legal services to people in the South West.

What is it like being a solicitor?

Life as a solicitor is an interesting mix of trying to make everything work while ensuring that your client is adequately protected. At times things can be incredibly stressful while on the other hand it can be extremely rewarding; as a client focussed law firm we get a lot of positive feedback from our clients.

How do you get the work-life balance right for your staff?

“We have experts offering legal services such as Film and Media and Immigration”

Ensuring our staff are maintaining their work-life balance is important.

Managing client expectations can be difficult in a world of 24 hour access and instant email responses. To counter this, we have regular social activities and meetings to ensure that people are able to cope with their work load.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

We have experts offering legal services such as film and media and immigration which are not available elsewhere in Bath, and we have access to resources which enable us to match or exceed the services offered by other firms.

Any involvement in the community?

Battens charitable trust donates approximately £50,000 a year to worthy causes in the South West.

01225 562581; www.battens.co.uk

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BUSINESS SPECIAL MOGERS DREWETT Steven Treharne

Tell us a little about your business...

Mogers Drewett is long-established in the South West with offices in Bath, Sherborne, Wells and Frome. We offer a diverse range of services including family law, commercial property and dispute resolution.

We understand the importance of providing forward-thinking legal expertise and going above and beyond for our clients.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

We are one of the first law firms using innovative robotics technology to streamline our legal practice management system. The use of the T-Impact robot frees up time for teams to focus on providing added value services, and optimises the data input process by removing the potential for human error. It enables us to be more efficient and produce high quality work in a cost-effective way without reducing the client service experience.

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2019?

Helen Starkie

HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR Helen Starkie

When was your firm founded and by whom?

I founded the firm in 2010. I had worked in large regional firms managing large departments for the previous fifteen years or so. I had become disillusioned by the modern trend, in larger firms, of basing everything around fee-earning targets, rather than customer (and staff) satisfaction. I wanted to get back to the old values of having time and giving personal service to clients.

“We are one of the first law firms using innovative robotics technology”

We believe professional service providers will increasingly diversify to offer a one-stop service. For example, when people seek advice on buying or selling a house or when a marriage has broken down, law and personal finance are intrinsically linked. It therefore makes sense for clients to receive specialist financial planning advice combined with legal expertise. At Mogers Drewett, we have an experienced team of legal and financial planning professionals under one roof, who regularly pool their advice to deliver a more effective solution for clients.

Tell us an interesting fact...

Mogers Drewett’s rich history dates back to 1852 when the Moger family founded a private bank in Bath. Back then, private banks issued their own notes, so when the Moger Bank was acquired in 1981, there was a great bonfire on Bathwick Hill to literally watch money go up in smoke!

0800 533 5349; www.mogersdrewett.com

Tell us a little about your business...

We work in comfortable, relaxed surroundings and our services are geared to the individual. We specialise in court of protection work for those (young or old) who cannot manage their own affairs, powers of attorney, wills, probate, trusts, tax-planning, issues surrounding residential and nursing care and domestic property issues.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our service really is personal. Clients are not passed around an anonymous ‘team’ for different exercises. We offer home and hospital visits at no additional charge and do not limit our work to the purely legal aspects of a situation – for example, we are happy to deal with issues such as ensuring that clients in care have appropriate clothing and furnishings with them when they move into care.

In house our style is open and friendly, non-hierarchical – and fun.

We spend a lot of time laughing!

Any involvement in the community?

There are only four of us, but we manage to raise as much for charities (primarily Amnesty International, the RUH and Dorothy House) as any of the larger businesses in town!

01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk

Steven Treharne

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ARCHITECTS BUSINESS SPECIAL Jo Stevens

RENNEY AND CO EMPLOYMENT SOLICITORS Jennifer Renney-Butland

Tell us a little about your business...

We love firefighting and helping our clients to understand their options so that they can take decisions which are the best for them.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Working in the uncertain climate of Brexit, many businesses are suffering from a lack of available staff as people leave the UK and return back home. This is having a knock on effect for employees facing redundancy.

The new GDPR data protection laws are causing confusion and additional compliance duties on businesses, as well as increased costs.

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2019?

“The new GDPR data protection laws are causing confusion and additional compliance duties on businesses”

The bigger city firms will be taking more and more advantage of Artificial Intelligence in running their firms.

Good news for clients who will see greater transparency around legal fees and what work is covered by the quotation, as new rules come into force in May 2019. This should help clients compare prices. It’s a bit like getting a detailed quotation from a builder – without it you really can’t compare it to the other cheaper builder as you’re not 100% sure what you’re getting. Often the cheaper builder turns out to be more expensive as they keep adding things on which weren’t included in the original price.

Tell us something interesting about the company...

MOWBRAY WOODWARDS Jo Stevens

We love reading, especially quotations. Here’s one of our favourites from Mahatma Ghandi: “An unjust law is itself a species of violence.”

01225 632240; www.renneyandco.co.uk

What does Mowbray Woodwards specialise in?

We provide a broad range of legal services for people at different stages in life. From buying a house and writing a Will, to getting divorced and dealing with a business issue, our teams of specialist solicitors are on hand to help.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our rebrand back in 2016 was the catalyst for a new way of thinking at Mowbray Woodwards. We recognised that people are the key to our success and in order to set ourselves apart from the competition we had to do something special. We know that clients expect high quality legal advice, that’s a given, but what they really value is exceptional service. As a business we are committed to delivering forward-thinking initiatives to improve client experience and cement our position as the go-to law firm for a truly personal and bespoke service.

What plans do you have for 2019?

As ever we plan to push the boundaries with our advertising, keeping clients at the forefront and delivering messages that resonate and engage. We will also continue to nurture our team culture, working collaboratively to retain our reputation for first-class service.

Tell us a bit about the history of the company...

Mowbray Woodwards was established in 1946, so we’ve been providing the people of Bath with legal advice for over 70 years, from the same building at No 3 Queen Square. It’s what we call ‘Lifetime Legal’.

01225 485700; www.mowbraywoodwards.co.uk

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Jennifer Renney-Butland

BUSINESS SPECIAL Graham Street

SHARP FAMILY LAW Richard Sharp

Tell us a little about your business...

Sharp Family Law is the largest niche firm of family law solicitors in Bath. We specialise in helping clients to minimise conflict and maximise results, so that they can move forward successfully into the future.

Since our inception, we have been committed to fostering a constructive and strategic approach to helping clients control costs and achieve the best possible outcome. We are recognised for our expertise in helping clients resolve issues in a constructive, cost efficient manner through out of court options, including Collaborative Law, Mediation and Constructive Negotiation

“It means a lot to us to know we are making a positive difference in our clients’ lives”

What are the strengths of your company...

An interview process conducted in 2014 revealed that clients felt very supported by our solicitors, received good advice from them, were encouraged to concentrate on what was important to them and their families, and saw costs managed within budgets. They also believed the firm looked out for what was in their best interest. It is responses like that which explain why we do the work we do. It is the reason I founded the firm in 2007. It means a lot to us to know we are making a positive difference in our clients’ lives.

01225 448955; www.sharpfamilylaw.com

ROYDS WITHY KING Graham Street

Tell us a little about your business...

Royds Withy King has been named the winner of the Managing Partner Forum’s ‘Best Managed Firm’ Award for 2019 and Bath Life’s Legal and Financial Firm of the Year.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

Our recent award wins reflect the collective hard work of staff. We are intent on building a business which is centred around our clients and people, underpinned by a strong commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.

Locally we have supported and promoted TEDx and our own ‘Year Ahead’ thought leadership events, raised money and awareness for nominated local charities, and continued our support and sponsorship of Bath Boules and Bath Rugby.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

Our brand promotes being ahead of the curve, looking to the future, anticipating and responding to the needs of our clients and our people.

In the last year we launched a number of new initiatives, including: • Life Safe® – an innovative, online legacy management portal for clients wanting to keep a secure record of their digital assets, important documentation and treasured possessions • Online cost calculators for conveyancing, probate and debt recovery • Bath Financial Forum: to bring together and recognise the strong financial community across the city Tell us something intriguing about your company...

Last summer, we launched a drone law team led by former RAF traffic controller turned lawyer, Phil Banks-Welsh, to help our clients make sense of any future legislation. This has led to the team being invited to contribute to a Department of Transport consultation and Phil is now one of the foremost media commentators on the regulation and use of drones in the UK. 01225 459 999; www.roydswithyking.com

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Richard Sharp

BUSINESS SPECIAL THRINGS

Alice Altounyan

Tell us a little about your business...

Thrings’ private property team helps clients buy, sell, rent and develop their properties. Knowing how stressful this process can be, we pride ourselves on making the experience as efficient and hassle-free as possible – including visiting properties with or on behalf of our clients, or seeing clients in their homes when getting to the office is tricky.

Thrings is a cornerstone business in Bath – we’ve practised here for over 300 years.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath has a uniquely close-knit business community. We have strong working relationships with our referrers as well as with our competitors; being able to have sensible conversations with solicitors on the other side can make all the difference when it comes to getting deals through for clients.

Alison Allen

STONE KING Alison Allen

Why did you choose a career in law?

A fair and robust legal system is necessary for a healthy and functioning society and the law underpins everything that we do.

I always wanted a job where I would be dealing with people and although it may sound a little clichéd, I never fail to be humbled by our clients’ stories and am committed to achieving the best legal outcomes for them.

I regularly act as a trustee, attorney or deputy appointed by the court of protection – in other words I regularly help people manage their finances to provide care and support.

We know our way around the care system, know what our clients’ rights are and try and be in a person’s corner for them.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Stone King is made up from not only some of the best legal brains in the business but from people who specialise in varied aspects of the law.

This means we are able to provide a holistic approach for our clients, something they tell us that they appreciate.

We help people plan for the possibility that they might need help in making decisions in the future. We also help families plan for the futures of loved ones who might be more vulnerable and will need ongoing support – for example parents of children (adult or minors) who might have mental health issues as well as mental disabilities.

Tell us an interesting fact about your company...

Stone King’s Bath office was once home to none other than Jane Austen.

01225 324407; www.stoneking.co.uk

Work-life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?

I’m still working on this! Our promise to clients is to provide them with excellent service at all times. Delivering on this is crucial, and while it might call for working antisocial hours, it’s part of the job.

There’s a progressive work environment at Thrings; the firm promotes flexible working and encourages volunteering and participation in local fundraising events for fantastic organisations such as St John’s Foundation, Bath Rugby Foundation and Dorothy House Hospice Care.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

The firm has carried the Thring name since the late 19th century.

Indeed, Jeremy Thring – a consultant solicitor in our private client team – is the third generation of the Thring family to work for the firm.

His father and his grandfather were partners before him.

01225 340000; www. thrings.com Alice Altounyan

BUSINESS SPECIAL FINANCE

BATH BUILDING SOCIETY

Barry Newbury

Tiffany Hardie-Albutt

Tell us a little about your business...

We are a building society headquartered in Bath and we offer mortgages and savings. We have a small mortgage team which aims to offer a high standard of personal and flexible service; and we are known for our flexible approach to underwriting. All applications are judged on merit and decisions are made on the basis of the applicants’ individual circumstances by experienced underwriters rather than computers. We offer a range of niche mortgage products that wouldn’t be found on the high street, those that help out customers with unusual circumstances. On the savings side the fact we are focussed on Bath enables us to offer a more personal service. We see all our customers as individuals rather than numbers and we always endeavour to provide our members with attractive savings rates.

The society can trace its origins back to 1904 when it was set up originally as a friendly society. It used members investments to buy property to rent, becoming a building society in the 1950’s lending money to people in the city to buy their own homes. To this day we enjoy great support from the city of Bath although we also operate throughout England and Wales.

Tell us about your involvement in the community...

As the main sponsor of the Bath fireworks event at the Rec, in conjunction with The Rotary Club of Bath, we have helped to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds over the last 42 years. Along with this we also run the firework safety poster competition in primary schools and most people who have attended a primary school in Bath will have taken part in our Firework Safety Poster Competition over the years. In 2018 we handed out £6,500 to eight charities and community groups from the local area through the Bath Building Society’s Annual Charity Awards scheme. In 2019 we are also sponsoring the Bath Festival of Motoring, The Rotary’s Carol Service and the Boules Tournament that MediaClash organise in the City.

Tell us about your involvement with charities...

The Society sponsors a hot air balloon over Bath (run by Bath Balloons) which enables us to give away a limited number of tickets each year to good causes in and around Bath for fund-raising purposes.

01225 423271; www.bathbuildingsociety.co.uk

EPOCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT Barry Newbury

Tell us a little about your business...

Epoch provides clients with the clarity and the confidence to make life-changing decisions. We show clients what their financial future could look like if they follow one path or another. We also work with not-for-profit and charity clients, helping them to navigate through the governance headaches surrounding their investment policies.

Describe your offices...

Our offices are just off Queen Square; we occupy the top floor of Queen Square House.

With glass internal walls to increase the visibility of the space and the sense of community amongst all staff, as well as open plan seating, it’s a great place to work. When we moved in, we spent a lot of time refitting the space so that it is a productive, yet enjoyable working space. Even after four years in this office, it still feels fairly new.

“We spent a lot of time refitting, so that it is a productive, yet enjoyable working space”

What challenges are your clients facing?

Our clients tend to face quite complex issues. They are often working towards some sort of liquidity event – typically selling their business.

The challenges they face centre around when they can exit their business and have the financial autonomy to either fully retire, go again in another business, or something in between. We help them price up their life now and into the future, then ascertain the minimum amount they need to sell for to realise this dream. They can then work towards the exit point with a real sense of purpose, rather than with a feeling of uncertainty or “what happens if…?”.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Tiffany Hardie-Albutt

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

We’re the only chartered and accredited financial planning firm in Bath, and one of about 35 in the whole country.

01225 487772; www.epochwm.co.uk

BUSINESS SPECIAL HANDELSBANKEN

Heather Houlihan

Simon Cropper

Tell us a little about your business...

Handelsbanken is a local relationship bank, servicing both personal and business customers in over 200 communities across the UK. We believe in building long-term relationships and contributing positively to each community we serve in. Here in Handelsbanken Bath we are a team of 13, with over 300 years banking experience between us!

What areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in providing highly tailored personal service to our customers.

We take time to understand the unique needs of each individual or business and create solutions in accordance with those precise requirements.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

“We are a team of 13, with over 300 years banking experience between us”

Our primary focus is on customer satisfaction. At Handelsbanken there are no sales targets or product related bonuses, meaning we can focus solely on what is best for the customer not best for the bank at any particular time. We believe satisfied customers stay longer and do more business. For the past ten years Handelsbanken has been voted top for customer satisfaction by personal and business customers in an independent survey of British banks (EPSI Rating, 2018).

Tell us a bit about launching in Bath...

We opened our Bath branch in 2007 and have been delighted with the response we have had to our traditional banking approach. In late 2018 we relocated to larger premises in Henry Street to support the growing demand for our local relationship banking services, and are very pleased with the new space. We are proud of our achievements and always looking for talented individuals with a passion for customer service to join us, so if you know someone or are interested in knowing more we’d love to hear from you. sicr01@handelsbanken.co.uk ; www.handelsbanken.co.uk/bath Simon Cropper Branch Manager

JELF

Heather Houlihan

Tell us a little about your business...

I’ve been in the insurance industry for ten years focusing on commercial insurance. Having lived and worked in Bath all my life, I’m part of the local community. I work closely with clients, to understand their risks and circumstances, before designing an insurance solution to meet their needs. I enjoy working at Jelf, a community broker, where our focus is always on our clients.

Tell us about your involvement with local charities...

Bath is an active and supportive community that I’m proud to be part of. Jelf have sponsored a walk for the Forever Friends Appeal supporting the Royal United Hospital. And I recently gave a talk on Professional Indemnity, Directors and Officers and Cyber liability at Hub XV. Work-life balance – how do you manage it?

As a working mum, maintaining a work-life balance is important. Jelf provide flexible working options which is a massive benefit.

Unfortunately, 30 per cent of UK workers feel they have a poor worklife balance. I’m pleased I can support clients by introducing them to my employee benefits colleagues. These colleagues provide advice on creating reward packages and delivering wellness strategies to help improve workplace culture and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Jelf turn 30 this year! We’ve gone from half a dozen employees working out of a building that was previously a tyre fitting garage, to over 2,800 employees working out of 70 offices over 67 locations.

01225 444553; www.jelf.com

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BUSINESS SPECIAL Alison Davis and Adrian James

SOUTH WEST BUSINESS FINANCE Natalie Charteris

Tell us a little about your business...

South West Business Finance (SWBF) is an independent finance consultancy and commercial brokerage. We work with a broad range of lenders and funding providers to find our clients the most appropriate finance for their needs. We use our broad range of experience to put together the best debt structures for our clients, focussing mainly on trading businesses and property professionals.

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2019?

The uncertainty in the external economic climate does bring both challenges and opportunity for businesses. All businesses and property professionals will need to be discussing their finances to ensure that they will stand through this difficult period and therefore we are still forecasting growth.

Tell us about your involvement with local communities...

MULBERRY WEALTH MANAGEMENT Alison Davis and Adrian James

Tell us a little about your business...

Alison and Adrian deliver bespoke financial planning to business owners and private clients in Bath and throughout the South West.

They use a proven process which starts with a review of current circumstances and leads to a clear financial plan which will ensure your key objectives in life are financially supported. They are supported by the team at Mulberry Wealth Management.

Tell us about your involvement with a charity...

Cancer Research is our chosen charity for 2019. We feel this connection acknowledges the range emotionally difficult situations our clients often face. Each time we receive a personal referral a donation is made to charity. Full details are on our website.

What areas do you specialise in?

Adrian is an experienced pension transfer specialist and well regarded in the field of company pensions. Alison specialises in creating bespoke financial plans which support your personal life goals. Together we offer advice on pensions, investments, wealth management, and estate planning for families.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our planning process focusses on the life goals of our clients. Only with this understanding can we develop the right financial plan to deliver against their objectives. As independent advisors we are not restricted and able to deliver a bespoke plan from products selected from the whole market.

We are delighted to be supporting Children’s Hospice South West as our charity partner of year 2019. The team will be doing a sponsored walk along the Bristol to Bath cycle path and the funds we raise will help support life-limited children and their families from across the South West.

“We have an office dog called Digby!”

What areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in all aspects of business and property finance. What we are currently seeing most of is cashflow finance, whether that be for growth, growing pains or a small gap in general cashflow. On the property side we are completing a lot of property development and commercial mortgage transactions. Debt sizes vary from £100k to £20m.

When was your firm founded and who by?

My fellow managing director Steve Barrett and I founded the business in 2014, having both come from a background of commercial and corporate banking. Our team is now 14 members strong with a huge amount of commercial banking experience, over 250 years between us. With this much experience we don’t believe there is a transaction that we haven’t seen…saying that we are happy to be tested!

Tell us something interesting about your company...

We have an office dog called Digby!

01225 800849; www.swbf.co.uk

What challenges are your clients facing?

Our role is to work with clients to identify the right investment platform to deliver the growth requirements of their personal plan. Guiding clients through the complexities of pension and taxation rules is core to this relationship, ensuring they maximise the investment opportunity of their hard earned savings and inheritances. The uncertainties around Brexit and world trade, coupled with identifying the strongest fund managers, ensures our clients benefit from our extensive experience in the market.

Any notable success stories?

Alison featured in The Times, UK’s Top Rated Advisers Guide (Feb 2019).

02920 023 333; www.mulberrywealth.co.uk

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The team at South West Business Finance

Nicola McHale

Francesca Devadason

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

RECRUITMENT

Nicola McHale

Francesca Devadason

VI INTERNATIONAL

Tell us a little about your business...

Nicola McHale is a master executive coach, working with senior executives to enable them to achieve excellence. ‘I have run management development programmes globally for clients like Amex, JPM, Virgin Atlantic, Microsoft and LBG and HSBC for the last 30 years and therefore have met probably every problem an executive can face as they build their business. I have run a Vistage Peer Group locally for the last four years working with local SME’s. Now I am working with SME’s in the Bath area and will help you transform your top team, transform your results and make a real difference to your business. My daughter is a director in Vi International and she supplies executive coaching for improving sales performance and recruitment training and development.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of proud of?

I am most proud of the fact that I built Vi from nothing to delivering bespoke programmes in USA, Europe, Singapore and China for some of the world’s most prestigious brands. I have personally created and delivered cultural transformation and leadership development globally.

HAYS

Tell us a little about your business...

Hays has been at the forefront of Bath’s recruitment since we established our offices in 1997. Using our innovative attraction strategy combined with our specialist local knowledge, we’re experts in finding, engaging with and matching qualified, professional and skilled people across a range of industry sectors.

What areas do you specialise in?

In Bath I cover office support from both a temporary and permanent perspective. Alexandra Hemmings and Catherine Fellowes support our clients with accountancy and finance roles and Gaynor Dos Santos is our HR specialist. Together we have a combined recruitment experience of 38 years across our retrospective industry sectors, not that we like to admit it!

We also work closely with our Bristol office which cover Bath from an IT, legal, marketing, education and construction perspective. Our in-depth expertise and tailored service means we forge long standing relationships with our clients.

What makes working in Bath special?

We have been tried, tested and then trusted by some of the largest organisations in the world. What we do works. We will not do anything unless we know it will work for you. We are honest, challenging and supportive – but we will not let you get away with something that is going to trip you up.

Being born and raised in Bath, it is a privilege to work in my home city.

Steeped in heritage, still with its artisan roots and now coupled with its thriving business community, Bath is not only aesthetically pleasing but a productive place of work. From the sprawling trees in the Circus to the bustle of Milsom Street we feel very fortuitous to work in the business hub of the city, Queen Square.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Tell us about your involvement with a charity...

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Vi International started at my dining room table in 1988 and grew to 22 consultants worldwide with a subsidiary business in Singapore. Not bad for a little council house girl from a tiny little village in Kent who was told by her school she would never achieve anything because I messed around at school!

0845 408 5833; www.viinternational.com

Hays charity partner is Action for Children which supports disadvantaged children from birth to young adulthood across the UK. The partnership is in its second year, after we raised over £120,000 last year, and our staff are undertaking a number of fundraising activities to support an employability programme for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

01225 337676; www.hays.co.uk

BUSINESS SPECIAL Team Juice

SIMPLE

Jayla Wilcox

Tell us a little about your business...

We’re a local, independent employment agency/business who specialise in the provision of temporary and permanent recruitment solutions across industrial and commercial sectors at all levels, covering Bath, Bristol, Wiltshire, Somerset and North Devon across our Branch network.

Our dedicated team of consultants serve the local business community, providing people with temporary and permanent roles.

We pride ourselves on making the recruitment process as simple as possible for both clients and candidates.

When was your firm founded?

“Our dedicated team of consultants serve the local business community”

Simple was established in 2009, some ten years ago. I was a well-established high street recruiter, with the passion and determination to provide something different to the world of recruitment.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

JUICE RECRUITMENT Emma Summers

Tell us a little about your business...

What started as a logo and a set of core values of how a recruitment business should operate – has become a well-known and highly respected business representing many of the South West’s most prolific organisations.

Today, the company that began life in a small office in Bath now has five branches across the South West.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

With branches in Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, Trowbridge and Swindon, the team at Juice love meeting impeccable candidates who are always prepared to do their best and give their best.

Juice represents candidates that mirror its core values – those of honesty, integrity, passion and huge amounts of enthusiasm to deliver and to be successful.

We are an agency that pride ourselves on delivering a service that stands apart from others. The team work closely with our clients and candidates to ensure we are a partnership, and that with our market knowledge, recruitment expertise and passion we are able to make a real difference to their business.

When was your firm founded and who by?

It all began 20 years ago when I felt that the recruitment industry required a fresh new, exciting and dynamic approach; one that was customer led and focussed on a quality experience for both candidates and clients.

My mission was to create a company that specialises in supplying exceptional candidates that go above and beyond in their passion to succeed in their chosen environment. A company that makes its candidates and clients feel welcomed and provides an unparalleled recruitment experience across every channel.

01225 447870; www.juicerecruitment.com

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The last 12 months have been very exciting. We have seen significant growth as both a business and as a team, with the opening of new branches, further consultants joining our teams and our existing team members progressing within their roles.

We continue to grow within all areas of our business: industrial skilled and unskilled, office personnel temp and perm, accountancy and finance and engineering and technical, and the next 12 months ahead will see substantial and further exciting changes for Simple – watch this space!

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Simple Recruitment began in my dining room in April 2009 when I was pregnant with my first child.

01761 235741; www.simplerecruitmentltd.co.uk

Jayla Wilcox

Funding solutions for your business and property needs

Property Investments

Property Development

Bridging Finance

Crowd Funding

Commercial Mortgages

Invoice Finance

Asset Finance

Banking Consultancy

01225 800849

enquiries@swbf.co.uk www.swbf.co.uk

South West Business Finance is a broker of credit and not a lender. South West Business Finance is a trading name of Aspire Commercial Finance Limited Registered in England & Wales under No: 09076273 Aspire Commercial Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (690089) also a member of the NACFB (06/0035/CM) Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up on repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured on it.

BUSINESS SPECIAL Catherine Lichota

EIP

Richard Gordon-Brown

Tell us a little about your business...

EIP is an intellectual property law firm advising on patent, trademark and design registration, IP search and strategy, through to major IP litigation. We have an office in central Bath, as well as others in the UK, US and Germany. As well as advising early stage companies on building a strong IP framework, we help businesses protect and exploit their own IP and deal with threats posed by other parties’ IP rights.

What areas do you specialise in?

“We also protect the appearance of products using registered designs”

EIP is a leading practice for telecoms, computing and electronic inventions.

However, several of those based in our Bath office, including me, have an engineering background, and we work for a number of household name clients in this area. Personally, I have a lot of experience of the aerospace and consumer products sectors, as well as automotive. We also protect the appearance of products using registered designs, and branding using registered trademarks.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our depth and breadth of experience. We are fortunate to have an exceptional team of attorneys, many of whom have worked in start-up or large IP-owning companies before joining EIP, which has given them first-hand experience of the commercial realities of developing an IP portfolio and managing IP risks.

Any exciting news?

PATENT ATTORNEYS BRYERS LLP

Catherine Lichota

Tell us a little about your business...

We specialise in assisting clients with intellectual property (IP) matters, whether that involves inventions, designs, branding or other implementations of ideas important to a business. We work with companies operating in different industries and in different countries, and with people having all sorts of different backgrounds.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our philosophy is to be approachable and pragmatic, so that people feel comfortable to contact us with whatever IP related query they have, whenever they have it. Our recommendations are more effective the more we understand the relevant commercial circumstances, and so we like to stay in regular contact with our clients so we can learn of any changes that may alter our advice sooner rather than later. Although we are based in Bath, we are happy to travel or to use conferencing technology to avoid our office location becoming a barrier to establishing and maintaining business relations.

What challenges are your clients facing?

A perennial issue is attracting and keeping the right people within a business, which can be affected by many factors such as general industry trends, company culture, the education, experience and skills of the workforce, and local housing and transport costs.

Tell us about the growth of the company...

Since the firm moved to Gay Street over 20 years ago, it has grown from needing only a few rooms in the building to taking over the whole property and making changes to fit everyone in!

01225 42 88 77; www.bryerlaw.com

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EIP was recently named “UK Patent and Trademark Attorney Firm of the Year for Patent Litigation” for the second year running, for its success in high-profile telecoms litigation cases.

01225 337843; www.eip.com Richard Gordon-Brown

BUSINESS SPECIAL COMMERCIAL SURVEYORS DIRECT Andrew Ellison

Tell us a little bit about your business...

Commercial Surveyors Direct is a firm of chartered surveyors based in Chippenham but with national coverage. Founded in 2018, we can undertake building surveys, create schedules of condition for new leases and undertake commercial valuations for all purposes. We can advise on managing your property portfolio both in terms of the maintenance of its fabric and maximizing its value.

What areas do you specialise in?

Kevin Murphy

PROPERTY

AARON EVANS ARCHITECTS LTD Kevin Murphy

Tell us a little about your business...

Aaron Evans Architects is a multi-award winning, private architectural practice based in the centre of Bath. We provide full architectural, heritage, project management and master-planning services to a wide range of clients including individual property owners, private companies, charities, developers and PLCs. What areas do you specialise in?

We focus on securing highly sensitive and complex planning and listed building consents. We are experts at delivering challenging projects in Bath, the South West and throughout the UK in similar planning environments. We design residential, both new build and conversion of listed buildings, as well as education, commercial and retail development projects. In fact any project that requires an imaginative, viable and sustainable solution. We enjoy a challenge!

How have the last 12 months been for you?

Brilliant! We have just celebrated our 40th anniversary of practice in Bath. In November 2018 we were delighted to win the best ‘Architect’ category in the inaugural Bath Property Awards against our strong local competition. In February we topped this off by winning the ‘Property’ category in 2019 Bath Life Awards. It is extremely gratifying to see our hard work over the years being recognised by our professional peers and colleagues and the wider Bath community.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Our founder, Aaron Evans, who sadly passed in 2012, was a longtime supporter of the Natural Theatre Company and an inaugural sponsor of the Bath Film Festival. A born creative one of his least known legacies to the City can be found at the Natural Theatre HQ on Widcombe Hill in the form of a ‘Pothead’ caryatid!

01225 466234; www.aaronevans.com

While we cover all areas of commercial activity our valuers have particular specialisms in the care sector ranging from GPs and dentists’ surgeries to care homes and vet practices. We can undertake business appraisals as well as more standard investment valuations, looking at the accounts of a business and valuing it using the profits method.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

While the business is new, the surveyors all have decades of post qualification experience. It means we have seen most things before and can draw on our knowledge to help chart a course through current and future market trends as well as regulatory pressures.

Any recent interesting projects?

In the last year we have given section 119 Charities Act advice on a convent, done a building survey on a castle and valued ancient fishing lakes for mortgage purposes! Also, in the last year, two of our surveyors have taught on undergraduate and post-graduate RICS programmes at both the University of the West of England and at The Royal Agricultural University.

0808 169 8881; www.commercialsurveyorsdirect.co.uk Andrew Ellison

BUSINESS SPECIAL CURO

Lisa Howells

David Munday

Tell us a little about your business...

A housing association and house-builder based in Bath, Curo provides great homes and high quality care and support services across the West of England. With more than 25,000 customers, we manage over 13,000 homes and are building hundreds of new homes every year.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Curo’s house-building business was set up in 2012 to give us control over the quality and range of properties we provide, while creating funds to invest in delivering more affordable homes. We build highquality homes for sale, but unlike a private developer, we don’t distribute our profits to shareholders. Instead, we reinvest the surpluses into our core social purpose, providing more affordable homes for people in our region.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

Helping people in Bath and beyond every day to find a home where they can put down roots – whether that’s through long-term social rent tenancies for customers on the local authority housing list, via shared ownership for families taking their first step on the property ladder, or by private sales of new-build homes.

Curo’s sales team are involved in both sides of our organisation – affordable (shared ownership) and commercial housing – that’s unique to housing associations with house-building operations. Our customers are at the very heart of everything we do and we’re proud to support families in their journey to homeownership, an approach recognised nationally in 2018, when our sales colleagues were awarded the ‘Homeownership Team of the Year’ title at the National Housing Awards.

Tell us more...

Curo is one of the largest employers in Bath, with more than 550 colleagues working in all aspects of house-building and social housing, supporting people and community development. We’re also one of the top 100 Not-for-Profit Organisations to work for in the country, according to The Sunday Times Top 100 Best Companies list. We’re always looking for talented people to join our organisation, from specialist roles in planning and development, ICT, to administrative and management positions as well as sales, housing officers and customer service representatives.

01225 366000; www.curo-group.co.uk Lisa Howells

DKA

David Munday

Tell us a little about your business...

We are a successful team of talented architects and designers who are proudly celebrating our 25th year of business in Bath.

We design exceptional buildings and interior spaces for well-known clients all over the country concentrating mainly on the industrial, commercial, education, and healthcare sectors.

Tell us about your community involvement...

Using our skills to inspire the next generation of designers is important to us. We work with students at St. Gregorys School offering careers advice and interview experience, we offer a fantastic week of practical work experience for students of local schools and we also provide mentoring and support to the architectural students at the University of Bath.

Describe your offices...

Our studio is based in a 200 year old industrial building alongside the canal with views across the city. Of course, we have designed the interior space to perfectly suit our needs and impress our visitors.

The main features are its light, open plan concept which promotes collaborative working and a bespoke crit space with bleacher-style seating so we can present ideas and give feedback to the whole team.

Tell us about the team...

We like nothing more than getting together as a group to talk about design and eat pizza, so twice a month that’s exactly what we do.

Dominos deliver and a member of the team presents an element of design that inspires them.

Personally; I find nothing more un-nerving than talking about design to a room of designers but they’re an understanding bunch and I guess that’s also why our clients like us.

01225 465701; www.dka.co.uk

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BUSINESS SPECIAL HETREED ROSS ARCHITECTS Ann Ross

Tell us a little about your business...

We specialise in bespoke, contemporary design with sustainability at the heart of all we do. We work on a wide range of building types throughout the South West, from new builds, listed building work, to alterations and extensions. Irrespective of its size we apply the same design creativity and technical know-how to every project.

Listening carefully to our clients’ needs and applying our experience and expertise means we produce buildings that deliver the best solutions sustainably, financially and aesthetically: truly good design inspires, delights and enhances all our lives.

Work-life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?

We have always believed that work should fit around life rather than the other way round. Several members of staff work flexible hours or parttime to suit family or education/training commitments.

Tell us about your involvement in the community…

In 2018 we bid successfully to work with Bath City Farm to obtain planning permission for a new café at their Farm in Twerton, currently awaiting funding. This involved community consultation and will provide year round facilities for farm visitors and the local community. We are architects for a dozen local churches, carrying out quinquennials, new build and refurbishment projects and have reduced rates for charities working for the common good.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

Around 75 per cent of our staff are women, still unusual in the predominantly male construction industry. Clients often comment on this and occasionally give our gender split as a reason for appointing us.

01225 851860; www.hetreedross.com

The Homelets Team

HOMELETS

Marcus Arundell

Tell us a little about your business...

Ann Ross

HomeLets offers leading independent lettings and management services across Bath and surrounding areas, catering for both the professional and student markets. We were founded in 1992 by my parents and led by my late mother until 2014. The HomeLets team really embodies everything that is great about our business, adding value by offering a wealth of experience and passion for what we do.

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2019?

This is set to be a year of immense challenge for our sector as government increasingly looks to regulate our industry. The Tenant Fees Act is set to take effect in June which will see the banning of fees being charged to tenants. Landlords continue to feel the pressure from the 3 per cent Stamp Duty increase as well as a reduction in mortgage interest relief as an allowable expense. On a positive note Build to Rent looks set to continue with major UK developments such as Spring Wharf located here in Bath.

“Offering a wealth of experience and passion for what we do”

Tell us about your involvement in the community...

HomeLets regularly raises funds and plays an active role in supporting local charities such as The Forever Friends Appeal and Dorothy House, alongside events such as the Bath Boules and Jeans for Genes Day. Any interesting facts?

We were the first agent to let an address within the prestigious Somerset Place development.

01225 484811; www.homeletsbath.co.uk

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Whichever your riding style, we have the electric bike (or bike) to suit you...

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Call us today!

01761 56 9281 077489 68010

WHAT WE OFFER

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Professional property maintenance ◊ Full changeover clean Management/caretaker service ◊ Key management Linen and laundry service ◊ Gardening service

WHERE WE WORK

Bath, Bristol and surrounding areas Contact: info@bathhm.co.uk ◊ www.bathhm.co.uk ◊

BUSINESS SPECIAL SMARTARCH

Chris Freeman

Christopher Smart

Tell us about your business...

We are a niche architectural practice specialising in construction disputes and dispute resolution. Christopher Smart set up the business in 2012 after some years working as a sole trader and experience with architect’s practices in Bristol and Bath. A passion for the legal and contractual aspects of architectural practice led to a Masters in Construction Law and involvement in dispute resolution since 1995.

What areas do you specialise in?

We act for private house owners, business owners, contractors and consultants providing expert advice and expert witness services, where a project may not have gone according to plan. We also act closely with specialist members of the legal profession and most disputes are resolved via negotiation and or mediation.

Christopher Smart also takes appointments, via the Company, as a Construction Adjudicator and as a Chartered Arbitrator in formal private proceedings, to decide disputes. In many such matters, the parties usually have legal representation, although small value disputes can be taken to a resolution without representation, where parties act in person.

“We act for private house owners, business owners, contractors and consultants providing expert advice”

What plans do you have for 2019?

Due to heavy demand for our services, we have been using consultants to assist in the workload. We are now developing a joint venture with small practice of architects so as to broaden our skill base and increase our resources.

Tell us something we don’t know...

The title “chartered arbitrator” is a much valued qualification and accordingly to the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators is held by only around 200 people across the world.

01225 445740; www.smartarch.co.uk Christopher Smart

WHITE HORSE SURVEYORS Chris Freeman

Tell us a little bit about your business...

White Horse Surveyors provide valuations, both for private individuals and mortgage lenders, and surveys on residential properties, either the Homebuyers Report or Building Survey. The company has just over 100 employees, with our administrative centre in Wiltshire, while our surveyors work from home. Consequently, we can provide our services throughout most of England, Wales and parts of Scotland.

When was your firm founded and who by?

April 2006 – by me!

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2019?

The issue of Brexit continues to bring a significant amount of uncertainty for the industry. Although I’m hoping that the year should move forward with greater positivity and economic activity, there is still the chance that the economy will continue to be in a state of limbo, making things notably harder for most companies.

However, technology and the speed of change are perhaps the most challenging aspects facing us all and the ability to adapt, embrace change and to anticipate where your world is going are crucial. Failure to buy the right technology within a short time frame to keep your business ahead of the curve will be the death knell of some but for those that do grasp the nettle great things await.

“The company has just over 100 employees, with our administrative centre in Wiltshire, whilst our surveyors work from home”

Tell us something interesting about your company...

White Horse Surveyors are currently the UK’s largest independent residential surveying company.

01249 444465; www.whitehorsesurveyors.co.uk

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Renney & Co is a professional firm of Solicitors specialising in Employment Law, for both businesses and employers as well as employees. Our core values reflect what customers tell us they like about our firm. We are: • Reliable: we deliver on time and on budget.

• Dedicated: we work hard on your side fighting your corner.

• Responsive: no need to chase us as we will act promptly and keep you informed.

• Focussed: on delivering the right outcomes for you.

Whatever your query, we're always available to help you sort out your employment and business matters.

01225 632240 info@renneyandco.com www.renneyandco.co.uk

j

BLUEFUSE SYSTEMS Andy Ewings

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

The most rewarding aspect of the job is helping clients realise their goals with the digital solutions we build. The evidence of this is seeing them grow and succeed with the solutions we provide being at the centre of what they do. It’s also very rewarding being able to give undergraduates at Bath University an opportunity to gain valuable experience through our placement program.

If you could give one bit of advice what would it be?

Make sure you are passionate and enjoy what you are doing. If you don’t believe in what you are building neither will your clients.

What will be the biggest IT challenges for businesses moving forward?

“It’s very rewarding being able to give undergraduates at Bath University an opportunity to gain valuable experience through our placement program”

Finding talent is, and has always been, one of the biggest challenges facing IT companies. Technologies move on very quickly so finding people with the right experience in the right areas can be hard. Equally increased data governance, security, and privacy will provide many IT companies with large headaches!

What services do you offer?

We offer services across the digital spectrum from brand creation, wireframing and design, build (website and mobile applications) and hosting. We try to be a full service agency for our clients.

01225 758181; www.bluefusesystems.com

Andy Ewings

Brad Snow

DATASHARP INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS Brad Snow

Tell us a little about your business...

I wish there was a simple way to summarise! We’re a business communications company based in Bath – now in our 20th year. Our areas of expertise are VoIP phone systems, Internet connectivity, network security, business mobile phones and video conferencing together with the consultancy, design and deployment skills required to bring these technologies together and create the best solutions for our clients.

We like to build solid and long-lasting relationships with our customers by understanding their business goals, (saving money, securing against the latest cyber threats, saving travel time by using video conferencing, etc.) and by providing exceptional maintenance and support services once the installation of a new system is complete.

What challenges are your clients facing?

There are some huge challenges associated with creating flexible environments that allow staff to work, communicate and collaborate with colleagues easily – both inside and outside the workplace – while, simultaneously managing the security around those environments.

Cybersecurity is always a big talking point. We’ve helped many clients manage their network security requirements and it continues to be one of the most important growth areas for us.

Also, many modern businesses are embracing video conferencing but the key to successful deployment is breaking down the barriers to adoption by making sure users understand the benefits it offers and making meetings super easy to join, without needing to get the IT Dept involved. Face-to-face meetings won’t be disappearing any time soon but being able to connect people quickly and efficiently by removing the traditional constraints of time and distance can have a huge impact on productivity. And these days, that means on every device – even the phone in your pocket.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

We’re proud to be a multi-vendor solution provider with the in-house expertise required to design, deploy and support the best solutions for our clients.

Our keen focus on customer service keeps our partners happy and we have a fantastic 1,000 sq ft technology centre at our office that allows our clients to come and get hands-on with the 30+ technology solutions that we provide.

Our dedicated support team routinely solves issues within a few minutes of them being raised. They either become an extension of internal teams or clients can outsource their support needs to us completely.

Most importantly, we retain our clients for many years, so we must be doing something right!

Tell us about your involvement in the community...

We love the annual Bath Boules weekend and we’ve raised money for the Jessie May Children’s Hospice over the years by actively taking part in events like Tough Mudders (which involves being electrocuted and set on fire!). We’re also very proud reigning champions (two years running) of the annual Jessie May Go-Karting Grand Prix.

08000 328274; www.datasharp-ic.co.uk

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BUSINESS SPECIAL Adam Doherty

MOORE STEPHENS IT SOLUTIONS Tom Cannon

Tell us a little about your business...

We are a Managed IT support provider based in the centre of Bath. We love providing IT services for plenty of different businesses, charities and schools in the local region.

Work-life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?

Although we help our clients to set up “working from home” we recognise that it’s not always healthy to work out of hours, so we actually encourage staff to switch off from work in the evenings and weekends and relax.

Tell us about your involvement in the community…

We have entered a couple of teams in the Bristol 10k this May to raise money for charity, and a team in Bath Boules in June of course. We provide IT support to a lot of Bristol and Bath based charities, often helping to set up free Microsoft software for schools and nonprofit organisations.

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2019?

FITZROY HAWK Adam Doherty

Tell us a little about your business...

Fitzroy Hawk is a creative studio making content and experiences for global brands. Whether we’re producing animations, films, AR or immersive experiences, our expertise is in blending creativity with technology. We see each unique project through from idea to execution, and brands such as Porsche, BP and Ericsson are among the many clients who trust us to bring their stories and visions to life. We’re commissioned to work across the globe, but home is beautiful Bath.

What areas do you specialise in?

Our core business is within the automotive, energy and technology sectors – though we also work with food and beverage companies, architects and leisure and tourism brands. Whatever the client’s business, our job is to create the perfect solution for them.

Data privacy and security will continue to be a major concern and cause problems for big firms. There is likely to be more shocks and an even bigger focus on security this year.

“We recognise that it’s not always healthy to work out of hours, so we actually encourage staff to switch off from work in the evenings and weekends and relax”

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Rather than offer services that suit us (the IT provider), we look at each organisations needs on an individual basis and recommend the solutions that are right for you.

Anything else?

We can offer a free IT audit that will review your security and network setup free of charge? Further details - www.msbit.co.uk/free-it-audit 01225 486100; www.msbit.co.uk

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

At the heart of our business is creative agility: the know-how to work across mediums, develop cutting-edge ideas and execute them quickly to the exacting standards of our clients. We also pride ourselves on our flexibility – not just with the brands we work with, but also our team.

We achieve this by giving individuals autonomy to manage their own work-life balance; an ethos that enables us to harness and retain the very best talent.

Tell us about some highlights...

We designed the opening ceremony for the Louvre Abu Dhabi, for an audience of international dignitaries, including President Macron and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. We created a light show synchronised to a performance by the Insula orchestra, with a finale of 6,000 floating LED lights released from the roof of the iconic Jean Nouvel building. An unforgettable project that lit up the city and acted as a beacon to the world.

07773 393 031; www. fitzroyhawk.com

Tom Cannon

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 185

Tel: 01225 920263 Email: info@citytailors.co.uk First Floor | 25 Milsom Street | Bath | BA1 1DG www.citytailors.co.uk Alterations and Repairs on all Garments from Suits to Uniforms Wedding and Prom Dresses, Designer and Vintage Clothing Made To Measure Suits and Shirts Bespoke / handmade Suits and Separates (Large selection of fabric and lining choices) Re-sizing and Re-Designing Suits and Dresses Copying/ Re-making your old favourite clothing Ladies bespoke tailoring: (Suits, Dresses, Skirts, Trousers) Bridal wear and Evening wear Alterations Leather Alterations and Repairs Free ďŹ tting service Opening Hours (no appointment necessary) Monday to Saturday 9:00am to 6:00pm At City Tailors we pride ourselves on our commitment to provide a professional and speedy service at all times whilst maintaining the highest quality of work with competitive prices.

BUSINESS SPECIAL SOVISION IT Andrew James

What makes soVision IT different to other IT support companies?

We invest in security solutions that are part of an IT support service such as darkweb monitoring and security training software for staff, ensuring compliance with Cyber Essentials and GDPR. A secure network is a reliable well run IT system, our clients consider us as their strategic IT Director. We also have an in-house software development team that can develop software apps.

Do I need to bother with GDPR as this is old news?

“A secure network is a reliable well run IT system, our clients consider us as their strategic IT Director”

Short answer – yes.

It’s not too late to get your business GDPR compliant. You can by ensuring your systems are protected from cyber threats, encrypting data on laptops, identifying how to find and remove client data from your systems, robust backups and cleansing old data. We recommend that you review your internal procedures and achieve Cyber Essentials as this will help your business with GDPR compliance.

Who do you work with?

We work with businesses across the region however we have a lot of clients in Bath and are most likely working with your neighbour!

0117 986 4026; www.sovisionit.com Ben Aydin Andrew James

BUSINESS ATTIRE CITY TAILORS Ben Aydin

Tell us a little about your business...

It started in 2010 in our studio on Milsom Street with my brother Mehmet and I offering Bespoke and clothing alterations service for both men and women. The quality of our work has been noticed by our clients throughout the years and our business since has grown to a large team of tailors and dressmakers offering alteration service, not only to the general public but to most high end boutique and retailers, Recently we have added luxury made to measure suits onto our services for those who want to have a suit made of their choice but don’t have the budget to opt for bespoke.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of proud of?

We are proud of becoming the largest and most reputable tailoring business in Bath, with a team of highly skilled tailors and dressmakers, highly regarded for the quality of work we perform and excellent customer service we provide.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our ability to produce a factory finish with garment alterations that are untraceable down to the matching of the original stitch pattern and thread.

Tell us some interesting facts about your company...

We are the only bespoke tailors in Bath and the the only tailors in and around Bath using a perfected traditional English tailoring technique to make perfect fitting bespoke suits for men and women.

01225 920263; www.citytailors.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 187

OFFICE SUPPLIES OFFICE FURNITURE OFFICE MACHINES

DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR...

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

Woods the stationers

OUR SHOP HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED IN BATH FOR OVER 200 YEARS

Come in for all your day to day and gift stationery

12 Old Bond Street, Bath Tel: 01225 445 347

BUSINESS SPECIAL MANAGE MY WEBSITE Allie Astell

Tell us a little about your business...

Manage My Website is a global team of approved Squarespace specialists. We build stunning Squarespace websites, train people on how to use the platform and advise on online marketing strategies.

We’re proudly based in Bath with team members also in London, Egypt and the USA. When was your firm founded and who by?

I founded MMW back in 2009 when a friend casually asked if I’d heard of a relatively new, unknown platform called Squarespace. That moment changed everything. Curious, I built my own website, learning about web design as I went along. Since then, we have created hundreds more. I’m over the moon to be celebrating my 10-year anniversary in April this year. Cheers!

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

The main reason we’re such fans of the Squarespace platform is that it puts you in total control. Once we’ve built a website we don’t have to be kept in the loop unless you want us to be. And we like that a lot. We spend at least two hours training our clients after the launch of every website so that they can make updates themselves, saving on the cost of having a middle man.

Tell us something interesting about your company...

We were added to the official Squarespace Specialists list in 2015 after being interviewed by their New York HQ and we now run training sessions, which have included workshops for Guardian Masterclasses.

We’ve also been accredited as an Authorised Trainer for Squarespace.

Allie Astell

We are honoured that many of our clients give us repeat business and refer their friends and associates to us. We believe that is testament to our personal approach and that we always take time to listen to, and understand, what our clients need and want from their website. We look forward to hearing from you!

0203 282 7591; www.managemywebsite.com

Professional studio • Families • Portraiture • Events • Weddings • Fashion • Architecture

When it comes to capturing not only your image but also the true you and the characteristics that many seek ... she’s as good as it gets.

BeataCosgrovePhotographer beatacosgrovephotography

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Making gifts on behalf of an incapacitated person

This can be a worrying topic for many attorneys and deputies. Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains…

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ifts can help preserve relationships with family and friends and may be made by the attorney or deputy, but only if they comply with their duties as defined in legislation and associated practice directions. Some decisions may be made without the consent of the Court of Protection; others will require the attorney or deputy to apply for consent.

First, it is important to realise what may constitute a gift, for these are not limited to buying something for someone from the represented person’s funds or handing their money or possessions to a third party. Donations to charities, paying someone’s school or university fees, selling any property of the person at below market price, making an interest-free loan from the person’s funds, allowing someone to live in the person’s property rent free or at a below market rate – all these will constitute a gift.

Gifts of an appropriate size may be made on customary occasions (birthdays, Christmas, a wedding or Christening, for example) and to a charity the person is known to support. They may not be made to third parties or organisations with which the person represented has no connection.

Even though the person represented may not have the capacity to fully manage their own affairs, they may have the capacity to decide whether to make the gift or not. If they have that capacity they must be allowed to decide.

Mental capacity is the ability to make a particular decision at the time it needs to be made. This will include understanding whether the gift is of an appropriate size to the circumstances of its making, whether it is proportionate to the assets of the giver, whether the gift may, by depleting the assets of the giver, compromise the ability to make gifts to others etc., so there must be an ability to process information and give a reasoned decision.

If the person cannot make a decision themselves then the attorney may assist them to do so and in the absence of any ability on the part of the giver they may make the decision for them, but in doing so they must have regard to the criteria listed above had the person made the gift themselves. They must also have regard to what family and friends think they would have wanted, the life expectancy of the person, the contents of their Will and whether the giver may regain capacity sufficiently to make their own decision. Crucially, when making any decision, the

“GIFTS MUST BE OF A REASONABLE AMOUNT THAT THE PERSON CAN COMFORTABLY AFFORD” attorney or deputy must have regard to whether it is in the best interests of the person they represent – so an interest-free loan, for example, is unlikely to satisfy that criterion.

Gifts must be of a reasonable amount that the person can comfortably afford. If an attorney or deputy makes a gift that is not of a reasonable value then they could be breaking the law.

Attorneys and deputies may not give away property in order to reduce the level of the person’s finances to a level which may qualify them for benefits or government help with care costs nor may they give away property to avoid the person having to contribute to current or future care costs. If they do the local authority is entitled to means-test the given as if they still owned the asset in question and may take action to recover the gifted asset or its value from its recipient.

If the proposed gift is to someone or a charity to whom the person might normally have given to, is on a customary occasion and is of a reasonable size, given all the relevant circumstances, then no permission from the Court of Protection is needed to make it.

Otherwise the consent of the court must be obtained before the gift can be made.

If no such consent is obtained then there are various steps which the court may take, including the removal of the attorney or deputy from office and arranging for him or her to repay what has been gifted. If in doubt check your position with your solicitor or the Office of the Public Guardian. ■

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 191

Taking steps for rescue pets!

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STONE SPECIALISTS

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CONTRACTOR

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D R Vowles & Son Ltd are highly reputable roofing contractors based in Bath, Somerset. We provide premier roofing services for residential, commercial and industrial clients with properties throughout the south west.

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01225 425232

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WWW.PONDANDAQUATICSYSTEMS.CO.UK GARDENING

THE CLASSIC GARDENER

Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

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PRIOR ENGAGEMENT

It’s all soon to change at Prior Park Landscape Garden; here’s the latest on the immersive new project on the horizon Photos by The National Trust

C

hange is afoot at Prior Park Landscape Garden this year. Usually a tranquil retreat from the city’s buzz, the garden will soon see the start of a formidable engineering project to restore its dams and lakes. But rather than closing its doors to the public during the works, the National Trust is using this one-off opportunity to make it that bit more engaging and immersive for visitors young and old.

The project is part of an ongoing move to restore the garden to how it looked at its full splendour in 1764, on the death of its creator, Ralph Allen. From relatively humble beginnings, Allen had become the Postmaster of Bath by the age of 19, soon taking on postal

adorned with shells. Here politicians, artists and writers would mingle and share ideas with garden luminaries such as landscape architect Capability Brown. Intriguingly, while we know Brown worked on the garden, no one knows just what level of involvement he had in it.

We know that Allen paid Brown for ‘surveys and making plans at or about Prior Park’ but Brown’s invoice for this had yet to be paid by the time the garden had reached its final stages of creation. Whatever Brown’s influence, the finished result was very much in keeping with his hallmark signatures, such as his ‘hanging’ woodlands on both sides of the valley in which the garden sits.

Allen’s death in 1764 saw the start of the garden’s gradual decline. With no direct heir, the estate was sold and the garden became detached from the house itself. When it was acquired by the National Trust in 1993, the garden’s layout was largely intact but in severe need of restoration.

Works to reverse this decline have been ongoing ever since and attention will move this year to the garden’s integral collection of linked dams and lakes.

Displayed in their full beauty in Thomas Robbins’ 1762 sketch, these man-made structures have sadly fallen victim to the ravages of both time and the invasive American crayfish which have burrowed into the dam and its adjoining banks. The resulting sinkholes have caused paths to be closed and led to the draining of the middle lake. The latter has been implemented to reduce the pressure on the dams themselves but has sadly meant that the reflections of the garden’s Palladian Bridge are currently no more.

Engineers and architects are working together to ensure that the visual impact of this extraordinary piece of 18th-century engineering remains the same, while futureproofing the waterways using modern engineering advances. A management plan will be put in place to control the crayfish

“Attention will move to the garden’s collection of dams and lakes” contracts across the country. He reformed these mail services, turning them into highly lucrative enterprises which allowed him to purchase two stone quarries in the city. The fortunes made from these quarries were in turn invested in the building of the Prior Park we see today. Designed by architect John Wood, the house was sited to perch dramatically at the top of its valley, looking proudly over the city.

Works continued through the 1730s and 1740s to create not just Allen’s home but also an advertising piece, perfectly extolling the virtues of the Bath stone taken from his very quarries.

The surrounding gardens were very much of their time, reflecting the burgeoning landscape movement’s love of classical and ruined Gothic temples, man-made cascades and grottoes

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

population, damaged banks will be reinforced and silt in the lower lake will be redistributed to limit the growth of weeds, thereby restoring those magical reflections within the waters. Extreme weather events have also been considered, with the lower dam being redesigned to maximise its water outlet capacity.

Specialised guided tours will take place throughout the works, allowing visitors to see this reconstruction project first hand. These tours will provide a fascinating insight into the engineering behind the works and the archaeological surveying that will be taking place at the same time. And for younger visitors, a natural play area, themed around construction, will be ready in time for summer.

Elsewhere in the garden, visitors will still be able to forage among the wild garlic this springtime; the National Trust will even be providing recipe cards for those needing some culinary inspiration for their freshly picked leaves. Opportunities for spotting birds such as kingfishers and herons will also be as plentiful, particularly in the top end of the garden, where most nesting tends to take place.

The National Trust is now on the home stretch of its fundraising for the project; so far £2.1million has been raised, with a further £100,000 needed to complete this vital and fascinating engineering undertaking. A keen philanthropist himself, Ralph Allen would have undoubtedly been very proud. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law on 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

© R ACHEL BEAUMONT

GARDENS

© ANNA KILKOOLEY

© ANDREW BUTLER

Reflect on this: here’s how the middle dam is expected to look once restored

Take off all of your cloves: visitors will still be able to forage for wild garlic while works are underway

The drained middle lake will soon be back to its former glory

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 195

FONTHILL garden centre A family run business that’s been growing since 1967.

We offer a wide range of services. From shaping and felling, to light pruning and complete removal of large trees.

We use the latest machinery and always leave your gardens and worksites clean and tidy.

PROTECTED TREES OF BATH The historic importance and architectural beauty of the City of Bath means that it is one of the biggest Conservation Areas in the UK, covering almost three quarters of the city.

It’s not only the listed buildings of Bath that are situated in the city’s Conservation Areas – there are a great number of trees as well.

This means that as local tree surgeons, West Country Tree Services Ltd are knowledgeable and well-versed in the laws pertaining to trees in conservation areas and those subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) If you are looking for qualified, professional and reliable tree surgeons in Bath and surrounding areas, then look no further.

Stump Removal means you benefit from:  No future management  No regrowth  Space for other land use e.g. planting, landscaping or building  No safety hazard  Reduce the source for pests or pathogen

T: 01225 345137 M: 07759 205453 E: enquiries@westcountrytreeservices.co.uk westcountrytreeservices.co.uk

BATH ROAD, BITTON, BRISTOL 0117 932 3110 OPEN MON-SAT 8.30-5.30 SUN 10.30-4.30

www.fonthill-lakeside.com

Good paving is an essential part of any Bath garden. Whether its creating a modern look with Porcelain, or re-laying timeless pennant flagstones, Selby Landscapes will be happy to assist you with your new project. Please get in touch for a free consultation. t: 07535 122 448 e: selbylandscapes@gmail.com w: www.selbylandscapes.com

f

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FOR THE HOME Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for spring

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

BEAR INTERIORS

www.clairstrong.co.uk

Clair Strong Interior Design is a small, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Her portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as sports clubs, offices and other commercial venues.

Contact Clair on 01225 426906 or 07855 79731

VERVE LIVING

Verve is an interiors store with a difference. This creative hub is all about mixing it up: an ever-changing collection of one-off vintage pieces sits alongside locally sourced contemporary furniture, art and accessories, all exclusive to Verve in Bath.

15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath BA1 6AD Tel: 07785 332536; www.verveliving.uk

ETONS OF BATH

Founded in 2006, Etons of Bath is the UK’s only specialist interior design practice focused on refurbishing, renovating and reinvigorating Georgian and Regency homes and hotels. Their team of 12 interior designers, planners and project managers can help you design and deliver classically inspired interiors that add value, turn heads and improve the use of space.

Tel: 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com 198 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MENDIP FIREPLACES

Bear Interiors are a small, approachable company delivering quality interior solutions at affordable prices. From advice on colour schemes to renovation, from initial planning to project completion, they can help you. To arrange a free consultation please call Lynette Labuschagne on 07977548340 or email lynette@bear-interiors.co.uk www.bear-interiors.co.uk

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, Barbas Belfires, Hwam, Stuv and Jetmaster. Get in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD. info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

CHEVERELL

CLAIRE RENDALL DESIGN

Cheverell is set in the heart of Wiltshire with a stunning showroom and workshop, offering a full bespoke design, manufacturing and installation service in kitchens, bedrooms, and interiors. Established in 1989 it has over 30 years of experience to guide you through the whole process. Cheverell, Waller Road, Hopton Park, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 2GH. Call: 01380 722722 www.cheverell.co.uk

BONITI

Boniti is based on the outskirts of Bath and offers a wide range of quality interior and exterior products: natural stone and timber flooring, Everhot range cookers, garden furniture and Kadai firebowls. As well as the vast selection of products on offer, a friendly and personal service is at the heart of all that they do.

Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton,Wiltshire SN14 8JA Tel:01225 892 200; www.boniti.com

From gently textured traditional interiors to gorgeous glitz, Claire Rendall Design creates quality interiors as varied as their clients. On time and to budget, both locally and internationally.

Please contact info@clairerendall.com; Tel: 07778 240223 for further information. www.clairerendall.com

WESTSIDE DESIGN

Westside Design is a family-run Bath based company offering a tailored design, manufacturing and installation service for all aspects of cabinet making and joinery. Specialising in contemporary bespoke kitchens and interiors.

Contact Michael on 01225 330843 or 07976 268458 or email info@westsidedesign.co.uk www.westsidedesign.co.uk

A PLACETO CALL HOME

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

BATHWICK HILL HOUSE © PETE HELME

One of the city’s finest Georgian villas is on the market; come with us on the virtual tour...

By Evelyn Green

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BATH LIFE I 201 141

© PETE HELME

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

PROPERTY

Q

uick! If you’ve got a spare £4.5 million handy, one of Bath’s finest Georgian villas is on the market, waiting to be snapped up and lived in immediately.

Bathwick Hill House is an important Grade II*listed city residence designed by Edmund Henry Goodridge, circa 1825, occupying an elevated, stately position overlooking Bath. Described in the listing as ‘an early 19th-century classical villa’, the architect’s work was identified by his Italianate villa style, and other examples of his work can be seen all over Bath.

He was influenced in the building of this house by the proportions of Grecian architecture, and the original site of the house was owned by William Harry, Duke of Cleveland, in the mid-19th century.

To this day, it remains an exceptional detached family-oriented property that retains well-proportioned

reception rooms and provides ample owner and guest accommodation as well as a vast entertainment space and a self-contained apartment on a mezzanine level.

The opulent and spacious accommodation sits across three floors around an impressive central stair hall. The transverse cantilevered stone staircase is adorned with lantern lights, and natural light floods down from the glass atrium roof above.

The principal reception rooms to three sides of the building spill onto a paved balustrade sun terrace which overlooks the manicured, landscaped gardens.

The views are simply spectacular, in a westerly aspect, across Bath. The original Italianate garden building, set 30 metres east of Bathwick Hill House, along a rose-lined avenue, has subsequently been redesigned by Watson Bertram & Fell to form a luxurious swimming pool and leisure complex encased in sliding glass doors and Doric columns. And to the outside of the pool house is a built-in BBQ for sunny-day entertaining.

A sweeping gated driveway winds up past a modern studio and double garage and comes to a stop by the main entrance and further garaging.

The Lodge sits at the entrance to the driveway and is a two-bedroom property with a single garage. Previously rented to staff or used as guest accommodation, this cosy house could also provide a regular rental income should the new owner wish it.

As for location, it’ll come as no surprise that Bathwick

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© PETE HELME

© PETE HELME

PROPERTY

Hill House, is perched on Bathwick Hill – a wide, grand street lined with historic homes, many of which are listed buildings, and is known as one of the most prestigious addresses in Bath. It climbs south east towards the University of Bath on Claverton Down, providing fabulous views over the city, and the desirable position is near to local shops and is close to the city centre. It epitomises an important country house while also benefiting from its proximity to the centre’s buzz.

To the north is the illuminated-at-night Sham Castle, a folly built in 1762 by Richard James, master mason for Ralph Allen, “to improve the prospect” from Allen’s town house in Bath.

The point is, the incredible opportunity to own a property like Bathwick Hill House is a rare one, so don’t delay, and don’t forget to invite us round for a swim and an overnight stay. Thanks.

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

HOUSE NUMBERS Square footage

11,527

Bedrooms

6

Bathrooms

4

Price Gardens

£4.5M 1.7 acres

What else?

A separate two-bedroom lodge house, a gym, a spa, a pool house, outbuildings, a wine cellar, panoramic views, a gated driveway Carter Jonas, 5 and 6 Wood Street, Bath, BA1 2JQ; 01225 747250; www.carterjonas.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Finding a home shouldn’t be this hard

E

Peter Greatorex from the APARTMENT COMPANY explains…

very day we are blessed to meet buyers and tenants looking to find an apartment to call home. People are often at different stages of the process, from those tentatively taking their first steps, to the seasoned movers who can’t wait to get started.

The funny thing about property is that each has a story to tell, and some of the tales we hear make us think that finding a home shouldn’t be this hard.

There are so many emotions when you’re searching for a home, from excitement to feeling completely overwhelmed. When you call an estate or letting agent you want to feel supported and valued, yet sadly some of the experiences we hear about show that this is not always the case. Every person who comes into contact with our agency, regardless of if they are looking to sell or rent a property, is treated in the same way.

We know the search for a property can be a tricky one, one that may see you decide to

compromise on space, location, or style. Reaching that compromise can be tough and may take time for you to work through what is really important.

Being part of your home search is important to us; we’re here to advise, guide and also show you something new that may just tip the scales in a completely different direction.

In the long run we may not have the right apartment for you, but we will work our hardest to try and find it for you. This is one reason why we encourage all prospective buyers and tenants to register with us. Not all properties are marketed in an obvious or visual way, in fact many of our apartments are marketed discreetly, so unless you are registered you won’t know about some amazing hidden gems waiting to be viewed.

WHAT SHOULD FINDING A HOME LOOK LIKE? Yes, there will be ups and downs, but at the end of the day, from the moment you contact The

Apartment Company, you will supported by a team of professionals who simply want to be the ones to show you that one apartment that steals your heart.

Communication on both sides is key to making the process as smooth as possible, as well as a willingness to trust our judgment on what to view.

Finding a home shouldn’t be hard, so if the whole saga is giving you a headache, come and chat to our team and very soon you could be moving. n

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870

BATH LIVES

“I have to limit myself to just the one litre of tequila per show”

JESS ROBINSON The singer is coming to Bath in April, and she’s keen to make an impression.

Well, several of them, actually...

Face looks familiar? You may remember Jess from Britain’s Got Talent (she made it to the finals in 2017).

Or perhaps you’ve seen her on ITV’s comedy show for impressionists, The Imitation Game. She’s currently in the middle of a UK tour, and will be bringing a whole cast of celebrities to Bath – during the Bath Comedy Festival – from Shakira to Streisand, Adele to Gaga, Kate Bush to Theresa May. Well, kind of...

What are your thoughts on Bath audiences?

I have always found Bath audiences to be warm, fun, up for a laugh, a bit wild sometimes, and very loyal.

What do you think of the Bath Comedy Festival?

I love it. I performed there with my first ever solo show a few years ago and have come back every year since. Nick Steel (who programmes it) is so supportive and nurturing of new and old talent, and I’m so glad he took a chance and gave me a slot. The programme he puts together is always fun and quirky; I’m buzzing to be back.

Do you have any connections to Bath?

Actually, one of the main reasons I’m doing this show here is because Philip Evry, my favourite music teacher, comes from Bath. He and his wife, Joyce, are great friends of my parents and were always so kind and supportive. I hope they’ll be able to come along. I got top marks in my GCSE and A Level music because of him.

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

What will you do with your free time while you’re in the city?

I’ll have afternoon tea, stroll around the beautiful streets, drink too much coffee and try not to spend too much in the shops.

What can we expect of your No Filter show?

I’ll bring more celeb impressions that you can shake a stick at, incredible music and vocal gymnastics, big laughs, cheekiness, a pinch of naughtiness, a great party atmosphere, maybe a bit of a tear-jerking moment, and a hugely positive, feel-good show.

I really love to mix up songs with singers who wouldn’t usually sing them; for example, Julie Andrews singing I Touch Myself, or Britney Spears singing I’ve Got a Brand New Combine Harvester.

So expect the unexpected and a bit of improv, as the audience will get to choose their own crazy combinations which we’ll perform on the spot.

face. I did my Stacey Solomon to Stacey Solomon and she just giggled and said I could be her best friend. I did Janet Street Porter to Janet for a TV programme last year – I was very nervous about that. Janet doesn’t pull any punches does she? But she didn’t punch me, so I see that as a success.

Best bit about your job?

I love to entertain people. I love getting big laughs from saying something irreverent about a celeb we all know and love/hate, depending on who it is.

Your biggest achievements?

Performing with my band – Jessington World of Adventures – at The London Palladium on a mixed bill including Harry Enfield, Rob Brydon and Dara Ó Briain.

And the most challenging part of all?

Looking after my voice. Boring but true. So I have to limit myself to just the one litre of tequila per show.

Who’s your favourite person to impersonate?

I love Billie Holiday and Amy Winehouse, because they had such distinctive voices. I really miss hearing the latter, so it’s nice to be able to recreate that sound myself. Also, she’s certainly not my favourite person, but my Teresa May gets a great reaction at the moment. Oh, and Nicki Minaj and Beyoncé are both fun if I’m feeling energetic.

Has anybody ever been insulted by your impression of them?

I don’t think so – or if they have been, they haven’t said it to my

Most treasured possession?

I guess it would be my engagement ring. It represents sunshine, adventure, the wonder of second chances, fun and, of course, love.

Tell us something naughty...

I cheated in my GCSE maths exam, and I still didn’t manage to pass.

And what about personally?

Number one would be winning the three-legged race at the Aldbury village fete with my dad when I was about seven years old.

A close number two would be leaving ‘Practice Husband’ and focusing on friends, career and fun again.

Surprise us...

Once, I was so desperate for a ‘day job’ that I pretended to be a makeup artist and ended up having to paint Gail Porter’s face for a TV shoot. I just about got away with it… apart from nearly putting black eyeliner on her lips when I wasn’t concentrating. n Jess will be performing at Widcombe Social Club on 5 April. The Bath Comedy Festival runs until 14 April.

For more, see www.bathcomedy.com