Bath Life – issue 427

ISSUE 427 / 25 SEPTEMBER - 8 OCTOBER 2020 / £3

#BathTogether ISSUE 427 / 25 SEPTEMBER - 8 OCTOBER 2020 / BEIGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

YOUTH OF TODAY

Meet the activists who care about tomorrow

FOLLOW THE HERD

Hearty, happy dining at Bath’s steak house

MAKING HISTORY

A gorgeous new build that tells an old story

NEUTRAL GROUND HOW LOCKDOWN INFLUENCED OUR HOME DÉCOR

CURTAIN UP!

Welcoming back Theatre Royal Bath with Danny Moar

PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING Beautiful baking accessories

THEY MEAN BUSINESS

Inspiring stories from the lockdown start-ups

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Bauwerk lime wash

paint as styled by Bath’s Hana Snow (page 16)

BELOW: Get good-looking

while you’re cooking (page 77)

I

recently found an old carver chair in the garage during my lockdown hunt of looking for things to do. ’d bought it for my first ever flat, years ago, and was so proud of it at the time. Now battered, neglected, forgotten about, it seemed to look at me reproachfully, so much so, actually apologised to it. t still didn’t speak to me so I set about winning back its love by sanding and varnishing it. We are now friends again as it sits in the bedroom, admittedly used as a dumping ground for tomorrow’s washing but hey, never said our relationship was perfect. What it is though is a reminder that some things should never have been abandoned, and without lockdown, this wouldn’t have happened. And after listening to our interiors e perts on how the pandemic has influenced our relationship with our homes and its contents, page 0 ’m not the only one showing a little more consideration to animate objects. We’re all just that little bit enamoured with our four walls and painting them shades of beige, which is all the rage. owever did get the urge to see if could find my old CN posters, and that one with the soldier falling, with the words, W written along the bottom, and relive my right-on youth. after reading about the fascinating Bath activists on page 58.

Another group of inspiring Bath souls can be found on page 0. While was rekindling my friendship with a carver chair, in between watching Netfli and taking leisurely sunshine walks, these guys were starting up incredible new businesses. It’s a testament to the spirit of ath that even during a world crisis, the spark of ingenuity is always there.

And on that note, anny oar, director, heatre oyal ath please take a bow for having the drive to bring live theatre back to the city page . here won’t be a dry eye in the house.

SARAH MOOLLA

Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

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

WOODHOUSE &LAW INTERIORS

&

GARDENS

Issue 427 / 25 September – 8 October 2020 COVER Colours of England by Little Greene available from Davies Of Bath; 19a Monmouth Place; www.rabart.co.uk

INTERIORS

20 In a time when home is more important than ever,

Bath’s experts highlight the biggest trends to come out of lockdown

THE ARTS

53 ARTS INTRO Seaside vibes at Adam Gallery 54 WHAT’S ON Exhibitions and virtual events not to miss

58 BIG INTERVIEW Theatre Royal’s Danny Moar on finally reopening the ath institution’s doors 65 BOOKS Reading for social change

FOOD&DRINK

71 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Catch up with the latest on

Bath’s food scene

72 TRY 5 Frome’s foodie highlights 74 RESTAURANT Revisiting an old favourite

SHOPPING

77 INTRO Cook in style 78 EDITOR’S CHOICE a e

is back on telly and we’ve got everything you need to take part from home

LIFESTYLE

16 INSIDE STORY The best of beige 66 MEET BATH’S ACTIVISTS he people fighting for

58

66

Bath’s social, environmental and cultural future

87 ANÉ Combat skin stress with these seven tips

BUSINESS

80 NEW BIZ The folks who didn’t let lockdown keep their

entrepreneurial spirit down

89 BATHWORKS The local businesses making the

headlines

PROPERTY

102 PROPER NEWS Market predictions for the new season 106 SHOWCASE Live in history at Beckford’s Gate

DEPARTMENTS 8 13 14 114

SPOTLIGHT FLAT LINE David Flatman wishes for the old normal BATH TOGETHER Greg Ingham LIVES Manoel Bolutife Akure

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Lydia Tewkesbury lydia.tewkesbury@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 Contributors Ané Auret, Matt Bielby, Charlie Metcalfe, Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Greg Ingham, John Mather and Philippa May 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 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 and Exeter. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT FilmBath

THIRTY AND THRIVING

Time to breathe a sigh of relief: the FilmBath Festival is returning. Back with a bang for its 30th birthday, this year FilmBath is taking over Green Park Station for a unique, Covid-friendly experience. It’s the perfect venue: large enough to allow for social distancing, with plenty of fresh air. Films will be shown using a top-end projector and -foot inflatable screen funded by the Theatre Royal Bath Creative Fund, and the audience

will each get a (sanitised, don’t worry) radio and headphones for a crystal-clear audio experience.

“This has been a very challenging year for so many people,” says Holly Tarquini, Filmbath’s executive director. “This wonderful venue will allow film lovers to watch safely and enjoy some of the best films around.”

Priority booking for the FilmBath mailing list begins 14 October and general booking on 16 October. or more filmbath org u

Dispatches from the spots we never get tired of photographing

Holly Tarquini has a socially distanced 30th FilmBath Festival planned

© www.chloemoorephotography.co.uk/ @chloemoore_photography

Westonbirt Arboretum

SEEDS OF CREATIVITY

Westonbirt Arboretum will soon play host to a new artist in residence, Deb Hoy. Thanks to funding from Arts Council England, Forestry England and Art Shape have been able to team up to launch The Arts Bridge Emergent project, which will see Deb lead a series of workshops for up-and-coming artists from underrepresented groups. In partnership with Deb, the artists will create pieces inspired by the arboretum’s magical surrounds, as well as an art installation inspired by ‘trees as the lungs of the earth’. The fruits of this exciting project will go on display in an exclusive exhibition at the arboretum from 3-6 November.

“As the National Arboretum, a large part of Westonbirt’s role is to connect people with trees, and we are always looking for new ways to be able to do this,” says Susanna Bayliss, interpretation officer at the arboretum. “Trees and nature have inspired artists for hundreds of years, and art is a wonderful way to engage Deb Hoy is now people with Westonbirt’s artist in residence stunning landscape.” at Westonbirt or more orestr england Arboretum u estonbirt

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

© Fraser Adams/ @frasertakesphotos

© Rhian Wirtz/ @rhianwirtz

SPOTLIGHT Live theatre returns to Bath

Theatre Royal

© BET T Y BHANDARI

TREADING THE BOARDS ONCE AGAIN

antastic news the heatre oyal is set to reopen its doors this ctober. he triumphant autumn Welcome ack Season will feature three modern classics: Pinter’s Betrayal, the award-winning Copenhagen by Michael Frayn, and Oleanna, the provocative piece from David Mamet.

“We’re very e cited about the prospect of welcoming our audience back to ath in just a matter of weeks. he plays we have chosen are modern classics which we know will o er the audience the uality theatre they have been craving for the last si months,” says Danny Moar, director of Theatre Royal. Audiences will be smaller to allow for social distancing, with other measures like mask-wearing in place. ou can find all the Covid safety details on the heatre’s website. or more on this story, flip to page .

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

World Mental Health Day

TAKE A MOMENT

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

Thank you for the music

Bath Abbey

ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC

© JASON DORLEY BROWN

It’s World Mental Health Day on 10 October, and the team at Bath Mind is encouraging everyone to get involved. From the beginning of ctober, ath ind will o er suggestions to promote mental wellbeing. hey have created a map of ath’s green spaces with photographs by ason orley rown, filled with the best spots for a mindful moment’ in the city’s parks and gardens.

“Covid- has increased the need for mental health support, in particular for those e periencing an iety, low mood and loneliness,” says Kate Morton, CEO of Bath Mind. “It has also highlighted the importance of kindness to ourselves, and to others. N S has proven itself to be a community full of kindness and compassion, as have seen first-hand while working within the Compassionate Community ub, ath’s community support organisation.

“From our crisis telephone support to our befriending, community services, supported-living services and mental health first aid training in the workplace and in schools, we are here for the people of N S.” Bath Mind is also hosting a webinar for businesses on 12 October, which you can find out more about by contacting hannah.roper bathmind.co.uk Bath Mind wants you to take a moment for self care For more: www.bathmind.org.uk

After a long si months away, the team at ath Abbey are thrilled to announce that from Sunday ctober they will once again host Choral Evensong. The numbers able to go and see the Abbey Choir in person will remain small to allow for social distancing, so services will also be streamed online to watch and sing along from home. “ uring the lockdown we have been sharing videos online and have received many comments and messages of grateful thanks for the music. n turn, we would like to thank everyone for their lovely messages, patience and continued support of our choir,” uw Williams, director of music at ath Abbey says.

For more information and to book your free tickets to view the service online visit: www.bathabbey.org

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

The same old ways

© TAKING PICTURES

Despite all the talk of the ‘new normal’, Flats is craving the days of commutes, charity fundraisers, and nuanced conversations

“I think more folks are craving the old normal than many seem to presume”

I

keep being told with great confidence that the world will never be the same again, and I’m not sure I believe it.

Of course, declaring that it won’t is every bit as guessy as declaring it will, so I shan’t headbutt hypocrisy by flying the other way, but I will say that, anecdotally at least, I think more folks are craving the old normal than many seem to presume. Lots of things just weren’t that bad before the pandemic, after all.

The obvious place to start is working from home. I have one friend who works for one of the world’s biggest accountancy firms and they’ve been told that they will, effectively, never have to come into the office again if they don’t want to. Ever! Roughly 20 per cent of the office space they once inhabited will be retained, and that’s it. I’ve other friends, though, who have been told that human interaction is quite essential in their roles and in their worlds. Business development, for example, would often seem far more difficult over the internet where chance meetings and nuanced, tangential conversations do seem less likely come about.

Sales jobs – be they shipping cans of soup or advanced financial software platforms – can, I am told, often work virtually, though the notion of physical meetings disappearing for good seems unthinkable.

I have friends who work in commercial property (well, they drink a lot and shoot a lot of pheasants and rarely seem to go to their respective offices and have enormous homes), and they assure me that business is booming (their new boats and watches seem like proof). They tell me that the huge brands we all know are sucking up as much land as they possibly can, with the intention of building continent-sized distribution centres on or near major motorways.

Housebuilding firms are buying up turf with similar voraciousness, and logistics and communications companies are queueing up to offer

their help, their eyes on the colossal budgets made available.

I work in corporate and charity events, and those have been deleted.

Some people assert that they will never return, but conversations I’ve had say something different. What about all the events companies who employ lots of people and rely on folks buying places at their fundraising dinners and lunches and exhibitions? These business owners are desperate to get events restarted, as are the big banks and insurance companies and law firms who like to show their most valuable clients a good time at Twickenham or the Royal Albert Hall or The Grosvenor. And what about all the wonderful charities who, because so many events have been cancelled, have received next to no money at all? They are desperate, too, as are the people and animals they work so hard to help.

Remember when the McDonald’s Drive-Thru in Bath reopened and the roads were jammed with cars waiting for Big Macs? Lots of folks online called the burger hunters silly or lazy, but I saw something different. I saw a load of families, just for fun, doing something that felt normal again.

And so what if they had to wait an hour? They’d nowhere else to be. I took my kids down a week or so later, and it had nothing to do with the food. It was about my kids’ excitement at doing something they hadn’t been allowed to do for so long. And it was lush.

Of course some things will look different once this thing disappears or we find an accessible vaccine and it becomes less dangerous. In fact, lots might change. But there is no shame whatsoever in wanting to go to work in an office, or wanting to get dressed up and hit the Bath Life Awards at the Assembly Rooms, or even commute a few times a week.

Take it from me, you’re not alone.

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic.

Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 13

#BATH TOGETHER GREG INGHAM

Testing times MediaClash’s chief executive Greg Ingham muses on the challenges after the Great Pause when, whisper it not, there might be reasons to be invigorated by this new world…

C

atullus wrote a poem, in times irrelevant, Odi et amo “ hate and love”. And it is something of that bald dichotomy that feel about these times. ate is perhaps too strong. ut it is evidently pretty bloody awful all round, on whichever scale of dismalness you choose to countenance. here’s the completely terrible [next 100 words redacted] and then the utterly unconscionable [ditto]. n that we can agree. ut it’s also a time, sheepishly, cautiously, to enjoy, if not uite love. t’s a time to feel what it is to be human fragile, defiant, vulnerable, adaptive, thankful. t is a time when we’re all tested parents, partners, workers, bosses, citizens, creators, buyers, sellers, educators, venturers, thinkers.

All of us have had our sense of self changed, even redefined. erhaps that’s just for hese imes and good luck with predicting when that shall end , perhaps for ever

more like the war generation, defined by themselves and defined by culture singularly and collectively as stoic, determined, united. n this atomised world where we all have narrow but deep interests, where infinite digital content means infinite lives lived di erently, we have all been united by our e perience of hese imes. Sure, our responses have been di erent. We’re in the same storm but in di erent boats. he mask-deniers have gone from almost as faintly absurd as the mask-wearers of the spring to downright pariahs now freedom of e pression really does not include freedom to infect, freedom to be thoughtless. he overly cautious have, largely, been proved smart.

Others have been that awrentian character running out into the fearsome rains, screaming and rejoicing that we are alive. And the rest of us have attempted to navigate this changing world, where the cummings if not goings of the

“We’re in the same storm but in different boats” 14 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

spring have lurched to briefly happy-eating late summer to rule of si autumn and looming uestions over Christmas.

Conventionally, and perhaps ierkegaardianly, “we live our lives forwards and understand them backwards”. hat there is a logical or at least connecting narrative which joins the dots which we can only see in retrospect. hat’s comforting. here is a pattern and maybe even a purpose to discern. ut it’s also plainly not true of hese imes, where there is no beginning, middle and end, just a se uence of jump-cuts which disconnect last month’s e periences from today’s reality let alone tomorrow’s.

Almost daily we are dropparachuted into a new terrain, having to interpret and react to our new world groundhog days where all is seemingly the same yet all is di erent.

And it is that which like. he challenge of interpretation. f lack of certainty “ oubt is uncomfortable, but certainty is absurd” as oltaire had it . f the need to think afresh about why we do what we do. f what we might believe our worlds, our ath might be like in si weeks, si months’ time.

We’ve been e ploring some of these deeper points in our Bath Life webinars, all trying to

understand hese imes, where there is no monopoly on wisdom, where the carapace of status or brand or job title is stripped away to reveal simple humanity. ’ve found that fascinating and have learned much also spent good time in the company of many who have shared truths deeper than they would have done had it not been for hese imes when we have all been more human.

Now, none of this may chime with you let alone convince.

When faced with the juggle of kids being made to isolate by schools due to a snu e the profound mental health issues that so many face the uncertainty of employment, of businesses and the unspeakable, unbridgeable depths of separation, even grief then finding positives of whatever hue must seem crass. et this uest is also, beneath the layers of convention, an unceasing feature of the indomitable human spirit finding meaning, if not perhaps love, even in hese imes.

#BathTogether – always…

INSIDE STORY PHILIPPA MAY

New eco brands such as Bauwerk are taking centre stage on social media

A LIVING BEIGE Philippa used part of her lockdown time to explore the myriad of neutral shades on the market

W

hat an une pected year it’s been. Since my last column the world, and our city within it, has shifted. We have seen some monumental societal changes in the last few months that have a ected every individual and every industry in many di erent ways. he design world in particular has been thrown upside down. t’s been an interesting time to reflect and see how interiors have and will adapt to the new way of life, with businesses feng shui’ing to the new pandemic protocol and brands innovating furniture that’s more easily wiped and cleaned. his new era is already proving to be a revolution in design and consumerism. rom a personal perspective, having more time to spend at home was a blessing. We were previously navigating a renovation

with very little time to get a lot of the important last bits done ourselves. With full time jobs and a full-on new baby, the house had been forgotten. We were happy treading the unfinished hallway, busy with our lives, until we were locked in’. Suddenly, the loose wires, unsanded floors and freshly plastered walls began to grate but we weren’t the only ones taking a fresh look at their home. uite uickly it became apparent that the market was about to become e tremely competitive. interest boards flowed, supply chains were disrupted, and paint cans disappeared.

All over the country, furniture, d cor pieces and home renovation materials were selling out. believe there was even a shortage of plaster, and that’s not just because the supply was down and tradesmen were missing out, but because there was a surge in the trend of just try to do it yourself,

“What could be more fitting than the colour that Bath is built on?”

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

and demand soared. laster is not something was willing to try my hand at ’m a big believer in it may be cheaper but it’s not necessarily better. ike in most trades, it’s not cheap for a reason. eople spend years mastering their craft and becoming the best, so if you want straight, smooth walls, just wait and pay the e pert. hat said, did enjoy seeing the te tured paint trends that came out of lockdown that mimicked a rough wall look. With new eco brands such as auwerk taking centre stage on social media, suddenly the more undone look of masonry surfaces such as render, cement and bricks became fashionable again. hese types of paint work di erently, a much more environmentally conscious base made with clay, minerals and beautiful natural pigments means the finish will never look the same, but it will look organically contemporary. his year interiors have taken a natural turn. one is the polished finish, now it’s all about rough te tures, undyed linens and messy curation that looks like it hasn’t been curated at all. t’s no surprise that ulu ’s colour of the year rave round’ was more beige than ever before. eige is all the rage. With a million faces, it is a one-colour-fits-all solution and what could be more fitting than the colour that ath is built on nce something that was tarred with the dreaded agnolia brush, it’s now a contemporary shade with a multitude of uses

and finishes. auwerk have monopolised the te tured finish and have the perfect shades for matching a chic, minimalist interior, arrow all have dibs on the traditional and natural with imity or Schoolhouse White still sitting proud in the must-have list, and there’s a new kid on the block with ick, a pigment-rich premium uality paint that has my heart with their reige collection. ’ve been eagerly learning through lockdown how to choose colours, where to use them to their full potential and how placement can invigorate a space. o avoid a beige disaster make sure you go for an unrefined and rustic aesthetic to successfully apply this trend, which when done well can be comforting and enveloping. Simple and versatile, the beige scale is an earthy palette that will work in any given space, whether it’s a rustic living room or chic kitchen. rganic materials like rattan my current obsession , bamboo and linen, paired with artisanal pieces of pottery try local brand arm or macrame from Whole otta nots, enhance the new hue to create a restful and rejuvenating space in your home that perfectly reflects the outside city in a lovely way too.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and is director of her own branding and marketing company Mayd Studio.

You can also find her on Instagram @_philippamay_

INTERIORS

DAWN OF A NEW BEIGE From calming shades to clever storage, Bath’s interior experts share their thoughts on how lockdown has affected our home styling

By Sarah Moolla

Warm neutrals come into their own in cooler rooms like this hallway styled by Woodhouse & Law

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

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t’s not just our lives, work and relationships that are being shaped and altered by Covid-19, it’s our homes too. For many of us it was our refuge, the place we felt most safe – we spent time in our homes like we probably never have before. This in turn meant looking at our spaces afresh – how did we not notice the hallway was such a mess, and what about that blank wall, just sat there doing nothing?

It became a distraction, but also a productive and creative way to fill our locked down time. And this love affair with our homes is set to continue, as we find out from Bath’s interior experts, who discuss both the impact lockdown has had on décor, and also share ideas and inspiration to dress and enjoy our spaces in this post-lockdown world.

IN NEUTRAL

Beige is back it would seem – Dulux has just announced Brave Ground, an earthy, biscuity shade, its Colour of the Year 2021. When it was launched, the company’s creative director Marianne Carlingford, said: “We continue to live through uncertain times. In 2021, the warm and grounding tones of rave round will allow us to find certainty in the strength from the very ground beneath our feet, emboldening us to go forward and begin to live again and giving us the fle to adapt to the ever-changing circumstances we face.”

It’s a colour our local experts had already noted was making a comeback, as John Law of the interior and garden design firm Woodhouse and Law, explains, “Whilst grey hues are definitely still fashionable, we have noticed a gentle movement towards warmer, sandy tones. This has been evidenced across the latest furniture collections showcasing natural materials in creams, with fabric houses using softer oatmeal grounds. Warmer neutrals really come into their own in cooler, north facing rooms and provide the perfect backdrop for fashionable rusts, terracotta and earthier tones.”

Vanessa Sayce, interior designer, furniture painter and trainer of The Marmalade House, believes the key to making beige work is paring it with bolder brights. “Mixing pinks and yellows, white and marine blues and still soft greys prevail. Neutral palettes can still be brightened up with accenting colour, and we have been using signature walls to bring in blocks of colour to make a statement within a room – under eaves, against a headboard, and a single coloured wall in a bathroom can be very e ective.”

Combining the neutral with colour to beautiful effect is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Scandinavian Pink, Honfleur and Old White

“Neutral palettes can still be brightened up with accenting colour”

INSIDE OUT

“Lockdown enforced a slower pace of life,” says architect and director Richard Asbury at Maack Architects.

“It taught us to appreciate the value of green space and to observe and enjoy the nature around us. With this in mind, we’re being asked to devise interesting ways to link interiors to gardens, to bring the outside in. The appeal of the bi-fold door shows no sign of waning, but clients are also looking at French doors, the ‘up and over’ glass extension, as well entirely glazed doors and roof.”

Mark Lord of Lord Architecture has also seen a rise in the desire for interconnecting spaces. “Where previously a hectic schedule has installed a general apathy towards the home as a place for intermittent rest and weekend hosting, the three-month hiatus provided us all with a unique opportunity for reflection.

“There is now a renewed focus on how our homes function and how the fluidity of the interconnecting spaces allow us to love, work, exercise, relax, connect with nature, entertain and teach our children all the while remaining inspired.”

Mark Lord of Lord Architecture has seen a focus on interconnecting spaces

Bringing the outdoors in with the help of Maack Architects

“We’re being asked to devise interesting ways to link interiors to gardens”

INTERIORS

Beautiful spaces to relax in are more important than ever, advises Sarah Latham of Etons of Bath

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

“With the possibility that the whole family will be at home for long periods of time undertaking a wider range of activities, we need our homes to give us the space to come together, but as importantly, allow us the space to be apart,” says Sarah Latham, founder and creative director of Etons of Bath. “When it comes to redecorating, bold colours are great in places where we need energy and perhaps use for shorter periods, but for concentration, we need harmonious schemes that do not fight in any way with our mood or the activity we need to focus on.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 23

Proud Finalist of

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INTERIORS

KITCHEN SINK DRAMAS

James Horsfall of Bath Kitchen Company says flow around the kitchen is increasingly important

From the ubiquitous banana bread-making to the endless planning of meals, since March we’ve been spending more time than ever in our kitchens, as James Horsfall of Bath Kitchen Company, the luxury kitchen designers, explains, “As lockdown commenced, people were thrown into acknowledging the reality of their houses. This meant that all the little things that were frustrating for them before were magnified now, like maybe how small a room might feel. The time has allowed people to notice for example how their kitchen is laid out – things like the distance of the saucepan draw from the stove, or the lack of pantry space. So open plan spaces are now at the forefront of most people’s minds, and the idea of wanting to open the kitchen to the dining room, and then flowing to the outdoor space.”

Director and interior designer Kelly Marie, who specialises in bespoke kitchens, agrees,

“ am finding that a new kitchen is certainly on a lot of people’s wish lists as it is now probably the most important place where friends and family can be while the restrictions are still around.”

Rob Cash, the managing director and kitchen designer of Kutchenhaus, the supplier of German manufactured kitchen furniture

notes that the heart of home has also taken a very di erent and une pected role of late, “ ue to the working from home situation, the kitchen has become an office for many, and people are asking us for help with making their kitchens serve both functions, which means the design has to be well thought out.”

An increase in using the kitchen as an office means better planning notes Rob Cash of Kutchenhaus

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

INTERIORS

HOUSE PLANTS

“Nature is food for the soul at the moment,” says interior designer Clair Strong. “We all learned to appreciate it more on our daily walks. And because of this, houseplants are everywhere. Choose oversized plants like the much-loved Swiss cheeseplant for that ’70s bohemian look or select indestructible succulents, which always look super cool dotted around the home, as do vases of wild flowers placed wherever takes your fancy.”

Atsu brass hanging planters from Homefront Interiors

JOY OF SMALL THINGS

Vanessa Clark, owner of Homefront Interiors, the independent homewares and interiors shop, has seen it’s the

little things that have helped people during this difficult time. “Nice accessories for the kitchen have been popular since lockdown lifted.

Sometimes it’s the finishing touches to a big kitchen project, but often it’ll be a treat like a ceramic, a utensil, a lovely mug, a hanging planter.”

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

Clair Strong suggests flowers and plants in the home to celebrate nature

RENEWED ENERGY

This renewed love of our homes is also about rediscovering and nurturing those much neglected pieces of furniture, as Clarissa Reilly of

Digger & Mojo, the Pewsey emporium and specialists antique renovation and restoration outfit, explains, “We’ve had a big

increase post-lockdown in the numbers of sofas and chairs coming in for reupholstery, and our rerushing and caning department is working round the clock.

“The comfort of chairs and sofas take on a new importance when you’re in them almost all the hours of the day, and plenty of people have simply worn their old upholstery out.”

Breathe new life into the old at Digger & Mojo

“The comfort of chairs and sofas take on a new importance when you’re in them almost all the hours of the day”

INTERIORS

SEE THE LIGHT

“By spending more time at home during lockdown, this has allowed us all an opportunity to contemplate and thoroughly assess how our interiors look and function. Light management has been a big part of that,” says Aspect Window Styling’s

Nick Hewett.

Julie Murray, interior architect at Esmond Murray Architects, whose company has seen many of their clients

Interior architect Julie Murray notes how the early good weather played a role in us reassessing our homes

now focussing on bringing light into their homes, says, “At the start of lockdown, we were fortunate to have fantastic weather.

Those lucky enough to have outdoor space were able to take advantage of it and see their homes in a di erent light.

“Hidden away no longer, the kitchen is where many clients spend a significant amount of their budget, rearranging the floor plan to create an inviting, entertaining and dining space. he use of bi-folding or sliding glass floor-to-ceiling doors generate a quality of light and depth.”

Looking at our light management has been a big part of lockdown, says Nick Hewett of Aspect Window Styling

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

INTERIORS

HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS

“In a time of huge uncertainty and challenge, people have shown us that they want to be in an environment that makes them feel happy, inspired and optimistic,” says Jessica Lloyd-Smith, director of Modern ArtBuyer. “ he first couple of weeks in lockdown were quiet for us, but since then we’ve been really busy selling original paintings, commissioned artworks, limited edition prints. Art brings a personal touch into the home, providing both connection and inspiration, and now more than ever buyers want to reflect their personal style and taste in their own spaces.”

And as interior designer Annabel Grimshaw says, “If we are going to spend a lot of time at home we want to look at things that we love and bring us joy.

Adding art is also a relatively easy and a ordable thing to add a new dimension to our spaces. This can be anything from traditional art to a series of pages from a beautiful book, framed or objects such as plates, baskets, framed pressed flowers, all of which add warmth and interest to walls.”

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

MAIN PICTURE: Interior designer Annabel Grimshaw suggests simple art can add interest to a plain wall INSET: James Jean

by Maria Rivans, available from the Modern Art Buyer

HALL TOGETHER NOW

As Vanessa Garrett, founding director of Broadleaf Timber, says, “Hallways, although they are often one of the smaller rooms in the house, are the first room we come into in any home, one we pass through most often, and during this period, have noticed more than we might have done before.

“Wood flooring is a practical and inviting flooring solution for a hallway in a space, which can be tricky to ‘furnish’ otherwise. It also has the advantages of being hard wearing and easy to clean.”

“Hallways are the first room we come into in any home”

Beautiful wood flooring is an easy way to ‘furnish’ a hallway says Vanessa Garrett of Broadleaf Timber

INTERIORS LIVING OUR BEST LIFE

For Nathan Sheppard, director of Saltford Building Services, the number of enquiries that

came in over lockdown alerted him to just how much thought people where putting into their homes.

“Our incoming projects have soared by 500 per cent and we were busy before anyway. People have had the time to spend with their families and really think and talk about their homes.

“People are moving to make changes or add additional extensions that they feel will improve their family time and make their homes more in line with how they want to live.”

Simon Wainewright, senior design consultant and project manager of Tile & Floor Bath, agrees, “I am convinced the phrase

‘our home is our castle’ resonates with all of us more than we could ever have imagined since Covid-19 came to darken our door… In a new world of lockdown, restricted group sizes, quarantine periods and politely sidestepping in the aisles, most of us feel liberated when at home. We have seen an unprecedented upturn in home design projects.

From kitchens to bathrooms and busy communal areas, there has been a huge increase in sales of tiles, wooden flooring and bathroom materials.”

Nathan Sheppard of Saltford Building Services has seen a recent 500 per cent increase in enquiries

THE LUXE EFFECT

Dale Gregor managing director of the familyrun Keystone Bathrooms has seen people

redirecting their unused holiday funds into their homes, and especially their bathrooms. “We are selling more special colour finishes than ever before. n particular, people are opting for special finishes for chrome taps, such as black brush nickel, in order to match other ironmongery in the house. he matte black finish is proving popular at present, as people try to create an art deco feel to their bathroom.”

Dale Gregor of Keystone Bathrooms has seen an increase in requests for special finishes

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

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INTERIORS DIRECTORY Local businesses poised and ready to help with all your home improvement needs this autumn

Homefront Interiors

ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES

Saltford Building Services

01225 941090/07518 677973

01249 716161; www.sovereigndpc.co.uk

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

Sydenhams

The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 445855; www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk

Ashlar Renovations

Ashley Collins Decorating

01761 431354; www.ashleycollinspainting.co.uk Burnford Architecture

6 Lansdown Rd, Bath; 07899 923789 www.burnfordarchitecture.com Esmond Murray Architects

21 Van Diemen’s Lane, Bath; 01225 447165; www.esmondmurrayarchitectscom Hawker Joinery

North End, Batheaston, Bath; 01225 858233; www.hawker-joinery.co.uk Lord Architecture

26 St Mark’s Rd, Bath; www.lordarchitecture.co.uk

01225 874676; www.saltfordbuildingservices.com Sovereign Damp Proofing

Hawthorn Grove, Bath; 01225 833585; www.sydenhams.co.uk Timber Windows of Clifton

29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www.timberwindows.com Youngs Roofing

01225 421499; www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk

BATHROOMS

Keystone Bathrooms

Unit 3 Caxton Business Park, Crown Way, Warmley, Bristol; 0117 332 0080; www.keystonebathrooms.co.uk

Ripples

Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971; www.ripples.ltd.uk

The Marmalade House

CURTAINS, BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND SOFT FURNISHINGS Aspect Window Styling

1 Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 469559; www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk Timber Windows of Clifton

29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www.timberwindows.com

FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS Ignis Stoves

Fire Engine Shed, Unit 6 Colliers Yard, Radstock; 01761 437366; www.ignisstoves.co.uk Kindle

Glenavon Farm, 331 Bath Rd, Saltford, Bristol; 0117 924 3898; www.kindlestoves.co.uk Mendip Fireplaces ( Bath )

The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

FLOORING AND CARPETS Bath Contract Flooring

4 Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 471888; www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk Tile & Floor

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

Boniti

Dunsdon Road, West Littleton,

Chippenham; 01225 89200; www.boniti.com Broadleaf Timber

134-136 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 463464; www.broadleaftimber.com Capitol Carpets of Bath

120-122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341; www.thecarpet.co.uk Haliden Oriental Carpets

98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Interior Harmony Flooring

5A Chelsea Road, Bath; 01225 483818; www.interiorharmony.co.uk One Tile

Cambridge Park, Redland, Bristol 0117 287 0121; www.onetile.co.uk Oriental Rugs of Bath

1 Hallatrow Business Park Wells Road, Hallatrow; 01761 451764; www.orientalrugsofbath.com Tile & Floor Bath

1 Mile End, London Road West Bath; 01225 31056; www.tileandflooring.co.uk

FURNITURE, INTERIORS AND HOMEWARE SHOPS The Bath Framer

7 Walcot Buildings, London Road Bath; 01225 920210; www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk Digger and Mojo

Unit A, Nursery Farm, Pewsey; 01672 851510 www.diggerandmojo.com

INTERIORS

Woodhouse & Law

The Framing Workshop

80 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 482748; www.theframingworkshop.com Homefront Interiors

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; 01225 571711; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk Modern Artbuyer

01225 839834; www.modernartbuyer.com Neptune

01225 331441; www.mossofbath.co.uk Multicoms Solutions

Victoria House, Netham Rd, Bristol; 0117 955 7140; www.multicoms.co.uk

INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd

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

One Tram Yard, Walcot St, Bath; 01225 465301 www.neptune.com/ our-stores/uk/bath

Etons of Bath

HOME ENTERTAINMENT

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

Moss of Bath

45 St James’s Parade, Bath;

108 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com Woodhouse & Law

KITCHENS

The Bath Kitchen Company

7-9 North Parade Buildings Bath; 01225 312003; www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Cheverell Wood

Cheverell, Hopton Park Waller Road, Devizes; 01380 722722; www.cheverellwood.co.uk Hobsons|choice

London Road, Bath: 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com Kelly Marie Hicks Kitchen Interiors

8 Pulteney Ave, Bath; 01225 481881; www.kellymariekitchens.com Kutchenhaus

5 Saracen St, Bath; 01225 634025

www.kutchenhaus.co.uk/ showroom/bath Neptune

One Tram Yard, Walcot St, Bath; 01225 465301 www.neptune.com/ our-stores/uk/bath Saltford Kitchens

439 Bath Road, Saltford, Bristol; 01225 874676; www.saltfordkitchens.com Shaker and May

L11 Marshall Way, Commerce Park, Frome, Somerset; 01373 764345 www.shakerandmay.co.uk

LIGHTING

Antique Textiles and Lighting

Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 310795; www.antiquesofbath.com

KEYSTONE BATHROOMS Your Trusted Bathroom Supplier Of Choice

y y y y y

Over 1,500 bathrooms supplied in 2019 Up to 40% off leading brands Over 100 years of combined bathroom experience CAD service available at your home Price match promise for any like for like quotation

THE SOUTHWEST’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT SUPPLIER OF BATHROOMS TO THE TRADE IS NOW OPEN TO RETAIL TOO!

Book your free design consultation today on 0117 3320080 or visit www.keystonebathrooms.co.uk

ENERGY EFFICIENT BLINDS

DUETTE® BLINDS Duette® blinds have a unique cell structure that naturally regulates room temperature, softens ambient noise and reduces energy costs for your home throughout the year.

Visit our showroom to speak to our designers about the benefits of installing Duette® blinds in your home.

01225 469 559 info@aspectwindowstyling.co.uk www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk or visit our showroom 1 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR

Digger & Mojo ANTIQUES & INTERIORS EMPORIUM & REPAIR SHOP, RESTORATION & REUPHOLSTERY

OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY 11AM-5PM ALL DAY FREE PARKING HANDWASHING + SOCIAL DISTANCING WOODBOROUGH GARDEN CENTRE, PEWSEY, SN9 5PF 01672 851 510 | www.diggerandmojo.com

9 IMPERIAL, STOTHERT AVE, BATH BA2 3FH

Company registration number 12450412

VAT Registration number 127087414

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

• Domestic and commercial roofing specialists • Covering Bath, Bristol and the South West • Trading since 1985 Tel: 01225 421499 Email: mail@youngsroofing.co.uk www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN Tel: 01249 716161 | Tel: 01225 811222 1 Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN www.sovereigndpc.co.uk | info@sovereigndpc.co.uk

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED NOW IN OUR 30TH YEAR IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST

9 8 Wa l c o t S t r e e t , B a t h B A 1 5 B G Te l 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E m a i l c o n t a c t @ h a l i d e n . c o m w w w. h a l i d e n . c o m

Interiors & Homewares Work from local artists and makers Prints, Cards & Gifts

14 & 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath BA1 6AD 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP homefrontinteriors.co.uk T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk

Handmade, Reclaimed, Sustainable & Vintage

t: 01225 920 210 kelly@thebathframer.co.uk www.thebathframer.co.uk

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

Classic to contemporary – concept to completion

Chesney’s . Barbas Bellfires . Hwam . Stuv . Jetmaster Contact us today or visit our showroom Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HD | 01225 722706 info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk | www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

EMMA ROSE ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

Café La Strada + Art Gallery Showing Original Paintings . Cards Limited Edition Giclée Prints . Canvas Prints

16th Century Building . Contemporary Interiors Continental + British Fusion Cuisine Open 7 days a week . Mon-Sat 9am-5pm . Sun 10am-5pm

Café La Strada + Art Gallery 13 Cheap Street . Frome . BA11 1BN

www.emmaroseartworks.com

ANDREW RICHMOND ORIGINAL WATERCOLOUR PAINTINGS

MAKES A PERFECT GIFT

For a one-of-a-kind gift please get in touch arichmond01@gmail.com arichmondartist

www.AndrewRichmondArt.com

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

INTO THE LIGHT

When Fred Cuming was elected to Royal Academy of Arts in 1974, he was the youngest member ever. Some 46 years and 5,000 paintings later, he is one of Britain’s foremost and most celebrated contemporary landscape painters. He attributes his love of far-reaching vistas to when he was an evacuee to the coast during the Blitz, the beauty and drama of horizons and the depiction of light and atmosphere, being such a stark contrast to his urban London.

The exhibition of new work by Fred Cuming RA can be seen between 29 September – 23 October at Adam Gallery, 3 Northumberland Buildings, Bath; www.adamgallery.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53

W A ’S ON 25 September – 9 October

Always check Covid-19 restrictions and instructions with venues before your visit

Fiona Campbell's new works were inspired by her lockdown gardening

Until 27 September

SCULPTURE IN A LANDSCAPE 1969 – 2020 In 1969, against the backdrop of a modernist architectural home in Wiltshire, a major exhibition of sculpture took place. It was one of the first e hibitions of contemporary sculpture held in a private garden in this country. he layout of the landscape in the garden is relatively unchanged and the group Friends of the Garden are holding an exhibition there again. It features thirty of today’s sculptors from across England and Wales as well as the work of a small number of those who exhibited in 1969.

The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham; www.poundarts.org.uk

Until 27 September

CRISS-CROSS: A KIND OF MUSIC Artists ony artin and artin Cody have teamed up for a tour. An ongoing series of drawings and prints that transforms with every gallery stop, artin’s work the A ind of

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

usic’ part channels the spirit of jazz and classical musicals, creating uni ue and frenetic line works. ony meanwhile the Criss-Cross’ of the collection , follows self-imposed rules stu like the number of lines he’s allowed to use – to create bold prints.

Mon-Sat 1-5pm; Sun 1-4pm; 44AD artspace; www.44ad.net

red’s works aim to give a fleeting impression’ of his surrounds and these atmospheric pieces do just that.

A word of warning: after viewing this e hibition your heart will draw you back to the seaside. ore on page 53.

Mon-Sat; 9.30am-5.30pm; Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com

27 September – 2 October

30 September & 4 October

READING IS MAGIC FESTIVAL A joyous si days of digital bookish fun for families and schools, this online book festival means children won’t have to miss out on seeing their favourite authors in the flesh’ this year. ig name authors like Cressida Cowell, asbinder ilan, Chris iddell and Nathan yron are set to appear along with many other kid’s favourites. www.readingismagicfestival.com

29 September – 23 October

NEW WORK BY FRED CUMING his selection of vibrant works from the prolific painter celebrate the seascapes of the South West.

MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE RED SHOES 2020 ilmed live at Sadler’s Wells in ondon especially for cinemas, atthew ourne’s The Red Shoes stars Ashley Shaw as ictoria age, Adam Cooper as oris ermontov and Dominic North as Julian Craster, and tells the story of the girl who couldn’t stop dancing.

Times vary; Little Theatre Cinema; £17.50; www.picturehouses.com

Until 4 October

LIFE IN THE UNDERGROWTH Fiona Campbell developed this enchanting film during lockdown. ike so many during those months,

she turned to her previously somewhat neglected garden as a route to wellbeing, peace and a renewed sense of purpose. he film, along with a selection of other mixed media projects, detail the inspiration she found there.

Visitors welcome by appointment; Venue 70, West Cranmore, BA4 4RH; call 07515537224 or email fionacam bell art s com to boo fionacam bellart co u

Thursdays until 5 November

WOMAD AT HOME W A and eter abriel’s eal World Studios have joined forces to o er an immersive 0 live’ music experience – from home. he eight-part e clusive series has been recorded with world-class sound technology, resulting in an audio e perience beyond anything you’ve heard before. he line-up includes stars of the new London jazz movement Sarathy orwar, lue ab eats and Native ancer, alongside the hanaian- ritish

WHAT’S ON THE REGULARS BATH FARMERS MARKET Every Saturday from 9am-1pm, Green Park Station transforms into a showcase for tip top local, artisan foodie fare. ou’ll find fresh bread, beautiful fruit and veg, treats for the sweet of tooth and so much more piled high for hungry visitors. www.bathfarmersmarket.co.uk

ABOVE: Chinese classical virtuoso Cheng Yu and her ensemble Silk Breeze will be part of Womad's immersive from-home listening experience LEFT: Emma Rose's striking, colourful works will grace the walls of La Strada BELOW: Chris Riddell will talk about his unique visual interpretation of Alice In Wonderland

WALCOT STREET FLEA MARKET When did you last pop down to the Walcot Street Flea Market?

Dig through a treasure trove of antiques, vintage clothes, bric-abrac and other such curiosities – you never know what you might find. Catch it from am riday (and 7am on Saturday, if you’re really keen!); www.walcotstreet.com LIVE MUSIC AT THE BRAZ n need of a live music fi ive jazz, funk and swing has returned

to Green Park Brasserie every Friday and Saturday night from 7-9.30pm. Enjoy some of ath’s finest musicians in the historic old booking hall at Green Park Station. www.greenparkbrasserie.com BATH FLEA MARKET n the first Sunday of every month, reen ark Station fills with an eclectic range of antique and vintage goodies. Serious thrifters and casual shoppers alike will inevitably find something they will fall in love with. www.greenparkstation.co.uk SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES icketed film screenings 7 0pm in the Wharf Bar, now with added old-school Pearl & Dean charm, cartoons/B-feature, intermission, ice cream, a bar and popcorn.

Cinema-quality projection and great sound. www.widcombesocialclub.co.uk

band Onipa, Welsh folk act 9Bach, Chinese classical virtuoso Cheng Yu and her ensemble Silk Breeze, and electronic music innovators Hinako Omori and Voka Gentle.

Thursdays 8pm; www.athome.womad.co.uk

the present; cast yourself in the role of ’30s femme fatale as you wander the display, picturing yourself at the wild parties of yesteryear.

American Museum and Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 8 November

GRAYSON PERRY: THE PRE-THERAPY YEARS We couldn’t be happier with the news of the extension of The Holburne’s Grayson Perry exhibition until next year. The return of the explosive and creative pots and plates he made back in the ’80s shines an intriguing light on his use of the pottery medium to address radical issues – some of them his own.

Mon-Sun 10am-5pm; £12.50; The Holburne; www.holburne.org

KEITH JANSZ This magical collection of paintings explore light – from the sparkling reflections of the sun glancing o the sea to the stretching shadows of a wintry afternoon. The artist, Keith Jansz painted the entire remarkable collection by holding a brush in his mouth. He’s tetraplegic, which means he is paralysed in all four limbs. He credits painting as the stepping stone he needed to cope with the trauma of his paralysis – now he is an artist for a living and has exhibited his work around the world.

Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-12.30pm; The Galleries Shop & Café, Freshford; www.keithjansz.com

Until 20 December

NIGHT & DAY: 1930S FASHION AND PHOTOGRAPHS First curated by the Fashion and Textiles Museum in London, this exhibition is the ultimate experience of 0s glam. hink floor length gowns in satin, velvet or crêpe – complete with diamanté accessories, obviously. It’s the perfect escape from

Until 3 January 2021

Ongoing

EMMA ROSE: ARTIST I N RESIDENCE Emma Rose takes up the delightful position of artist in residence at Frome’s gem La Strada Art Gallery/ Café. Showing her latest original paintings, limited edition giclee prints, canvas prints and cards, Emma’s artwork has brought a wave of colour and energy to the oldest retail building in Frome, dating back to the 16th century.

Mon-Sat 8.30am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pmLa Strada Art; www.cafelastrada.co.uk

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FOSTERING A LOVE OF LEARNING Jayne Gilbert, Head of KING EDWARD’S PRE-PREP & NURSERY talks to her Year 1 colleague, Stuart Boydell, about the start of the new school year…

As head of King Edward’s Pre-Prep & Nursery, what are you looking forward to this year?

I’m most excited about seeing the children enjoy learning outside. The Pre-Prep and Nursery’s outdoor learning environment is always evolving and the value for children’s development through learning outdoors cannot be overstated. We are fortunate to have fabulous resources to aid the children’s creativity and enquiry skills. The all-weather pitch is used for sporting activities and playtime. Teddy’s Garden and the Sensory Garden are perfect for stimulating the children’s investigative skills and for developing life skills associated with looking after birds and

FIND OUT MORE… • Typical staff-pupil ratio is 1:7.

• Specialist teachers in Art, Dance, French, Forest School, PE and Music.

• Facilities include Art & DT room, ICT room, library, all-weather pitch, multiple outdoor learning spaces.

• Before and after-school care is provided within a home-from-home environment, open between 8:00am and 5:45pm. A bus runs between the Pre-Prep and Junior / Senior School sites before and after school.

invertebrates and growing different plants. The outdoor equipment is a real show-stopper. It’s ideal for helping the children to enjoy challenging themselves physically, while developing core coordination skills, learning about perseverance and a sense of pride in their personal achievements. The new Reception outdoor space has been designed to provide the children with opportunities to interact with all of the Early Years learning areas through explorative play.

How will the start of this school year compare with previous years?

The new school year is always very special.

There are wonderful events throughout the year, but it is particularly delightful to welcome back children and parents we haven’t seen since July, and to welcome new families into our school family. The children love seeing their friends and meeting their new teachers as well as discovering the changes made within the school over the summer. This will be the same as in previous Septembers. This year, we have of course, made the necessary adjustments to classrooms and routines to ensure the continued well-being and safety of all the children. Apart from that, we remain committed to providing irresistible learning that will stimulate children’s creativity and sense of adventure. The gentle and encouraging environment, which defines the PrePrep, will continue to nurture every child.

What epitomises the School’s approach to ensure that children learn, grow and ultimately flourish at King Edward’s?

Unreservedly, it’s our focus on the individual child. Each child is at the heart of everything we do. We are very lucky to have a supportive community that works together to ensure the happiness of every child. We always strive for excellence. With excellence, comes an openness to new ideas, such as the Movement 4 Learning programme, which develops children’s perseverance, resilience and physical coordination. The school never stands still to ensure we always provide the highest quality care and teaching. Children flourish here because, no matter what their ability level might be, we will meet their needs and work tirelessly to develop their love for learning.

King Edward’s Pre-Prep & Nursery Weston Lane, Bath BA1 4AQ 01225 421681 pre-prep@kesbath.com; Our next Open Event is on 17 October.

For details, visit www.kesbath.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

“We cannot be without the arts, without live entertainment, and without the theatre” 58 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

THE BIG INTERVIEW

Six months ago when lockdown brought the curtain down on our cultural life, it was hard on all of us, but not least for Danny Moar, who has been director of Theatre Royal Bath for more than 24 years. He was missing the venue so much that he made walking to it part of his daily exercise route from Lansdown where he lives. “Every day I would walk down to town and around theatre – we had people checking on it, but I just wanted to make sure it was still there…”

Words by Sarah Moolla Pictures by Betty Bhandari www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

D

anny Moar, director of the Theatre Royal, is not a fan of lockdown. He’s not found it productive, creatively stimulating, or rewarding in any shape or form.

“I found it really, really boring. I know people did enjoy lockdown as a new way of being, but no, I didn’t,” he says emphatically. “I did read a lot of books which was good, I exercised, and I played tennis as soon as I could, but apart from that it was boring. Thankfully now it’s all a distant blur.”

This is partly because, as soon as it was permitted, anny was back in his Saw Close office, plotting how

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

“Maybe never before has it been so important to be able to think about the show, and nothing else”

to bring live theatre back to Bath. And what a plot he’s managed to conjure up amidst all this chaos and uncertainty. Starting this October, a season of three classic plays are on o er Betrayal by Harold Pinter, directed by Jonathan Church; Copenhagen by Michael Frayn and directed by Polly Findlay, and Oleanna by David Mamet, directed by Nicole Charles. (see overleaf for our chats with Jonathan and Polly).

To remind us just why the Theatre Royal’s reopening is just so special, we asked Danny about those dark days in March. “On the day after Boris’s announcement,” recalls Danny, “I was dealing with calls from London about Blithe Spirit which was in the West End at the time, calls from the producer for the show that was in the theatre that evening, Band of Gold. We had the everything ready to go, and the audiences were arriving, but we had to turn the audiences away. We were all just so shocked, bemused. It was all so strange – everyone in the country was feeling the same.”

One of the reasons why this unplanned hiatus felt

THE BIG INTERVIEW

particularly challenging for Danny and the Theatre Royal team was this blow came on the back of a tremendous run of success. “The theatre industry on the whole, but in particular Bath which I know intimately, for the year or two leading up to lockdown, we were having just the most fabulous time artistically, commercially – it was very, very buoyant. I think we were on track for one of our best ever years – in part thanks to shows like The Price with David Suchet; we had just hired the internationally famous director Deborah Warner to be the new director of the Ustinov studio; the egg was going great guns. And Blithe Spirit with Jennifer Saunders had started its West End run, was set to be one of the most successful tours we had ever mounted. I remember thinking at the time, I just want Blithe Spirit to finish because could see the advantages for us, the profit for the theatre.”

While it was obviously a blow that the pandemic struck during this period of prosperity and critical acclaim, it is also obvious Danny’s awareness of how close the theatre

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE: Danny in his

Saw Close office; changes will be in place for theatre audiences; three modern classics comprise The Welcome Back Season

was to financial success has facilitated his creativity and determination to get there again. “My main aim is to get back to that, and as quickly as possible. If I’ve learned anything from lockdown, it was about my job. Just how much I missed the theatre and how important it is to get it back to where it was.” He’s also quick to credit the whole Theatre Royal team for their dedication and motivation for making the Welcome Back Season a possibility.

“Their enthusiasm and desire to get on and do, what nearly all these people have done all their working lives, has been amazing,” says Danny.

Theatre Royal Bath does seem to cultivate a loyalty, not just amongst its sta , many of whom have worked there for decades, but also theatre goers. Built in 1805 and one of the oldest working theatres in the country, it’s an elegant, historical, yet often contemporary centrepiece to our theatre scene. But how might this 200-year-old venue evolve in this new strange world?

Danny gives an overview of what audiences can now expect: “For that hour and half, two hours you’re in the

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

© JOHAN PERSSON

auditorium, it shouldn’t make any di erence. es, we’ll be wearing masks but, because of seat distancing, there will be more space around us, more space to stretch our legs. Also when we’re sat there in the dark watching the show, maybe never before has it been so important to be able to think about the show, and nothing else.”

Along with masks and spaces between seats, other changes theatregoers can e pect will be staggered arrivals times, di erent e its, and temperature checks. he toilets will be open with e tra front of house sta to help ensure distancing and cleanliness, but the bar won’t be open for now. “ uckily for us the first show Betrayal doesn’t have an interval but am hoping by the second play, Copenhagen, which has got an interval, performs, we will have bars open in some shape or form. n the meantime there’s always the arrick’s ead pub just ne t door.” or backstage and cast, social’ bubbling will be the way forward. anny e plains, “ ehearsals will end up with various bubbles director, stage, management and technical bubbles for e ample. Actors of course won’t keep their distance from each other they’ll be in the same bubble. think if we’d had to do that with actors, we wouldn’t have gone ahead. rying to put on a play

he sta s enthusiasm and desire to get on… has been amazing”

POLLY FINDLAY

Director Polly Findlay’s recent credits include As You Like It, Treasure Island and Antigone at the National Theatre, and The Alchemist at the Royal Shakespeare Company. She is directing Copenhagen, which runs 4-21 November. Written

by Michael Frayn, the play is set in Nazi-occupied Copenhagen and tells the story of two Nobel Prizewinning physicists, once friends but now opposite sides of the divide.

“Five days before lockdown, I had closed on A Number by Caryl Churchill at The Bridge in London, and of course all the projects lined up have since been delayed or cancelled. One of these was a one-man show with Grayson Perry, which has been moved to next year instead.

So after this strange summer, it’s been so lovely to have this to look forward to. Like all classic plays, Copenhagen has universal and gravitational pull and it is about how and why people make decisions under pressure. What might lead someone to turn left, rather than right when you find yourself at a crossroads in your life?

There aren’t many moments when you can feel the world changing and the play is set in a moment where it is, and you can feel that tangibly. And while we are not in a war, it is not completely to dissimilar to changes around us now.

I think the feeling in the theatre will initially be very different, but I do think there will be a sense of celebration, and this could lead to a rejuvenation of live entertainment in many ways. I am so pleased to be a part of this experiment and this journey.”

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with a tape measure to ensure distance would’ve been an awful e perience.” here is the reality though that the theatre is only working to 0 per cent capacity, but for how long is that sustainable “ ur approach to this season is all we want to do is break even. he alternative was literally just being closed. ut actually believe we will do better than that. We’ve got some strong plans for Christmas, which we can’t share yet, but hope they’ll be profitable.”

While so many people are refusing to commit to any hopeful or upbeat thinking about the future, anny’s positivity and energy is a tonic. ne of the aspects of lockdown he admits he found both sad but also reassuring, was how many others missed the theatre like he did. “So many people would come up to me and ask me when we were reopening. t was evident that others missed it as much as did. “ aybe that’s one thing this whole episode has made us realise just how important live entertainment is to us all. ockdown did reinforce that we cannot be without the arts, without live entertainment, and without the theatre.”

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

JONATHAN CHURCH

Jonathan Church, who received a CBE for Services to Theatre in 2015, is Artistic Director of the Theatre Royal Bath Summer Season where his directing credits include The Price (which transferred to the West End), An Ideal Husband, and The Lady in the Van. He was previously Artistic Director for the Salisbury Playhouse (1995-99), Birmingham Rep (2001-05) and Chichester Festival Theatre (2006-16).

He is directing Betrayal by Harold Pinter, which is about adultery amongst the literary classes and runs 14-31 October.

“When Danny [Moar] called me about this season he was putting on it was like manna from heaven. It was just such a relief to be able to ring an actor, or a designer up to be able to say ‘come and make this piece of work.’ For many artists, their livelihoods have been very brutally taken away, and as so many are freelancers they have fallen through the cracks of the government’s support.

I’m doing Betrayal and I’m very excited about that. I knew Pinter and he directed a play for me at Birmingham, but I’ve never directed a Pinter play. I love all his work, but I think Betrayal is possibly his greatest play. It’s maybe got more heart than some of his other plays because it is based on his own personal experiences.

We have chosen plays that we think Bath audiences will be excited about – they are all late twentieth century plays – they’re modern, muscular, inherently theatrical, and give a lot to the audience.

As to how the new restrictions might impact on my directing of them, I don’t really have any concerns. We will adapt creatively and the actual intellectual process won’t be changed. I might have felt differently if we were about to start rehearsing a large-scale musical.

But then we might have looked at what South Korean theatres have implemented recently to cope, as they already had protocols in place after dealing with SARS 20 years ago.”

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“We’ve long been looking for a showroom with great views where our customers could try and compare the binoculars and scopes from a sheltered inside site” said manager Ian Reader- Schofield. “Having been in Bath so long we did not want to move out, this proved challenging until Hugh Warren of Derek Walker came up with 8 Belmont Lower Lansdown just a few minutes up from Green St. It has a garden with amazing views over Bath to Sham Castle and fantastic bird watching opportunities not least with Ollie the Owl at the end of the garden, all of which are perfect for testing out our optics range. We’ve designed the showroom to showcase all the latest state of the art optics from our leading suppliers along with a great range of preowned items including retro vintage cameras. Our team of long term staff pride themselves on their friendly expertise and knowledge which can be shared with our customers over a cup of coffee in our well appointed seating area.”

Ace Optics are one of the country’s leading specialists in binoculars and telescopes – with a big focus on birdwatchers – along with a wide range of digital cameras with a wide range of stock at the best prices in the market.

They are looking forward to seeing customers old and new at their new showroom.

8 Belmont, Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5DZ 01225 466364 www.aceoptics.co.uk

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

The great escape From plagues to friendships to opening our minds, Nic Bottomley looks at just a few of the books that made Bath’s lockdown reading lists

“In June came the social movement that more directl a ected reading habits than any I’ve ever witnessed”

I

t’s good to be with you all again. I hope you’ve kept safe and that you’ve been managing somehow. Perhaps with books as solace now and again.

Sitting down and writing my first book column for five months is a double-edged sword. On the one hand I’ve read a lot of books since I last wrote this piece; on the other hand it feels so odd to just start rattling on about them without acknowledging what’s been going on this year.

So next time I’ll start getting into some of the new books I’ve been enjoying and talking about some of the vast number of new releases publishers have planned for the autumn. But first up can’t resist a look back at how and what we’ve been reading during this most dysfunctional and distracting of years.

For us at Mr B’s, lockdown was all about recommending books even more vigorously than usual. Not face-to-face until sometime in June, sadly, but digitally we never stopped and we watched as the reading needs of the people of Bath and beyond seemed to shift. In March and early April the theme we kept hearing about was escapism. As our customers prepare for weeks stuck at home what they seemed to crave the most was books that took them swiftly and e ectively away from the fear and uncertainty of the day-to-day.

Readers sought friendship and laughter with books like Leonard and Hungry Paul by Ronan Hession (Bluemoose, £8.99) or comic mayhem in the form of Good Riddance by Elinor Lipman (Eye Books, £8.99). Books focussing on kindness, compassion and reaching out to others also started to fly o our virtual shelves. The essay collection The Empathy Exams by Leslie Jamison (Granta, £9.99) explores how we care for one another and how we e perience the su ering of others and empathise with those enduring pain and hardship. It seemed to really strike a chord with readers as we embarked on the lockdown marathon in earnest and began stepping out to clap our NHS heroes each week. f course there was a counter-trend too.

Some folk actively sought out dystopias and pandemic literature with The Plague by Albert Camus soon being in great demand.

Likewise, New York, 2140 by Kim Stanley Robinson (Little Brown, £9.99) which is set in a waterlogged Manhattan but, despite

the depressing and all too plausible set-up, is surprisingly upbeat in tone.

Personally I couldn’t have imagined reading worst-case scenario fiction at the very moment we were all living through the first major pandemic of most of our lifetimes, but everyone seeks di erent e periences from their reading and one of those experiences can be to reflect and help understand what’s going in our lives. Extreme times highlight the many ways that books can be our companions.

And then, in June, came the social movement that more directly a ected reading habits than any I’ve ever witnessed.

The resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, which began from such a tragic start point, brought fresh awareness to the inequities that pervade society and developed into something with so much potential for lasting change.

Our list of most ordered and requested books changed overnight. Readers began actively seeking out books that explain entrenched racism and dismissive white tendencies, that empower everyone to speak out against racial injustice and do a better job of combatting it. Our three bestselling titles across all genres in June were all key books in this area eni ddo- odge’s Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race (Bloomsbury, £8.99), White Fragility

by Robin DiAngelo (Penguin, £9.99) and Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad (Quercus, £14.99).

Simultaneously interest in novels by BAME women writers soared. he magnificent ooker-prize winning Girl, Woman, Other

by Bernadine Evaristo (Penguin, £8.99) became incredibly popular in its paperback form; as did books like Yaa Gyasi’s sweeping Homegoing (Penguin, £8.99) and Candice Carty-Williams’ funny and engaging debut Queenie (Orion, £8.99).

Long may engagement with these diverse perspectives continue. Fiction can allow us to explore every imaginable view of the world and it seems that, thanks to this crazy year, more people than ever are keen to join that exploration.

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

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ACTIVISM

FORCES FOR CHANGE

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Meet the city’s activists committed to creating change

By Lydia Tewkesbury

t has been a turbulent time for the country over the last few years – even before the pandemic hit. Stripped of our distractions during lockdown, we all looked on in horror at the murder of George Floyd in America – and were pushed to confront how racism impacts life closer to home. The climate emergency has reached breaking point, and social media has given a platform to often silenced voices demanding a cultural shift – in politics, how we view the planet, popular culture. If we have learned anything, it’s that we have work to do – on a global scale, but locally too. Bath has its own challenges and its own change makers, fighting to make our city, and our world, better. We met a few of them.

Manoel Bolutife Akure, anti-racism activist and freelance designer, photographer, cinematographer and creative director

What does activism look like for you?

I’ve been reminded of the importance of playing your part within your circle of influence that’s where the biggest di erence is made. t’s all good throwing posts up online to educate people, but the culture of social media means that the majority will simply glance and scroll. It is not felt the same way as when people really have those challenging conversations amongst their church members, within workplaces, and with their friends and family members. In those spaces you have influence. here is a place for social media activism, but face-to-face conversations speak more to the human heart. t is difficult, e hausting and scary, but it must be done if we are going to make change.

At the Bristol protests, you stood on the plinth once occupied by the Colston statue, and spoke. What was that moment like?

We stopped by the plinth on our way home from the protest to grab some photos of it. Soon a small crowd of people joined us, everyone marvelling at what had happened. We all got chatting, and the thought of sitting on the plinth came to me. felt an ious and scared because there were so many people… then I built up courage and with one quick hop, I was up there. I was overcome with so many emotions,

“Nothing gave me more hope for the city than the number of people who turned up to listen and support” 66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ruqia Osman was an organiser of the Green Park Black Lives Matter protest

thinking of all the steps that led to that moment. It really put into perspective how courageous activists like Martin Luther King Jr and Rosa Parks were, standing up for justice in a time that no one would have stood with them, putting their lives and careers – as well as their families’ lives – on the line. I was grateful that I could be there. I had all along wanted to pray over the protests and protesters since it started, but I kept hesitating as I felt quite nervous. From my place on the plinth I saw the importance of spreading hope in the fear, pain and anger of the moment. Then spoke to the crowd.

Tell us about moral defiance. What does that mean to you?

The anger many felt after George Floyd’s killing was instinctive. Many

© FELIX RUSSELL-SAW

This image of Manoel on the empty Colston plinth became iconic of the Bristol BLM protests

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for change. I was involved in creating tangible changes and mobilising black students in my role as Student nion education officer, and during my time as a student and African and Caribbean Society president.

Hamish Evans helped found XR Bath

of those protesting had never paid attention to racial injustice before because it was experienced by ‘the other’, but this time it was on full display. For my brothers and sisters in the struggle, it was an emotional expression resulting from years of repressed feelings. The pulling down of Colston’s statue by a multi-coloured and multi-ethnic group was the perfect e pression of defiance against the systemic racism that ensured previous lawful’ e orts to bring it down were blocked. here were tears and rage at that protest, and it energised people who had felt powerless before. Did people come planning to topple Colston? do not know, but believe as speaker after speaker poured out their hearts, the overwhelming emotions made it inevitable. Many people considered it morally disgraceful that Colston should continue to be cast as an epitome of virtue and wisdom. People’s moral persuasion ignited their emotions and the unpredictable nature of such group action led to the toppling of Colston, not by black hands, but by all hands an act of moral defiance. www.blouhaus.com

Ruqia Osman, anti-racism activist

Tell us about your activism rganising the lack ives atter protest in ath was truly a memorable and remarkable e perience. eeting others with the same passion for equality and diversity is always energizing, but nothing gave me more hope for the city than the number of people that turned up to listen and support. n my five years here, I would have never imagined there would be so many allies in a city that is majority white like ath. t was an incredible opportunity to share my story with people who were ready to listen, and hear other people share their inspiring stories too. Most importantly, it started discussions in a community where conversations around race are often shied away from.

Being surrounded by racism from an early age and hearing similar experiences from my peers at university really drove me to be more vocal with anti-racist activism. Seeing the lack of action when it comes to incidences of racial discrimination and harassment throughout the entire education system pushed me to demand change at the University of Bath, and then seeing the racial disparities that are present on a national level throughout the National Union of Students (NUS) further drove my passion

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How can people push for change beyond the protests?

It is important we continue to hold our local MP, Wera Hobhouse and the council to account for what they are continuing to do to support the black community and the incredible work local organisations are doing to create a city that is more inclusive for all.

Is striving for a society in which our curriculums are decolonised, with appropriate mental health support for minority groups too much to ask s it too much to ask for black students to be predicted grades fairly, and for black people to stop being subjected to police brutality? Are we being too demanding when we ask for black women to stop disproportionally dying during childbirth because of medical negligence due to racial bias We should all take responsibility for creating an anti-racist society. @bathonelove on Facebook, @bathanticism on Twitter and @bathagainstracism on Instagram

Hamish Evans, Extinction Rebellion

Tell us about your activism I helped to form the Bath Extinction Rebellion (XR) local group in autumn 2018, and the following year XR Bath Youth. Alongside this I founded the Bath Youth Climate Alliance, which mobilised the youth climate strikes in the ath area, and organised the largest protest the city has ever seen in September 2019 attended by thousands of people.

What’s XR done in Bath?

We protested at the Roman Baths, performed ‘Drowning in Oil’, a more creative theatrical action outside the most ecologically destructive banks, and we had the famous pink shed that popped up in the streets of ath during the Christmas market. he response has been generally supportive from local people, council and police. isual actions awaken a creative mischief in people and provide a positive way to make change happen locally, while also being part of a global movement and enacting wider systemic change. ocally Charlotte uses social media to empower others to make changes in their own lives

ACTIVISM we’ve seen a huge impact on policies, awareness and sustainability, but we have a long way to go to transition this city to net zero emissions and regenerate the land. www.xrbath.org.uk

Holly Tarquini, FilmBath

What’s the F Rating all about?

Back in 2014 two news stories hit the Bath Film estival office. he first was llen ejle, the director of Bio Rio, an art-house cinema in Stockholm, highlighting films which Holly Tarquini, creator for The F Rating pass the echdel est that is to say, films which feature two women on screen, having a conversation with one another about something other than a man (shockingly, the majority of films still fail even this most basic test . hen it came out that, of the top 00 films of the year over per cent of them were, as ever, directed by men. We were about to launch the 24th FilmBath festival and wanted to highlight films in our programme directed and or written by women, and so the - ating was born. he - ating is applied to all films written and or directed by women. f the film also stars women, in their own right, then the film receives a riple F-Rating: our gold standard. thought that my new rating might get a bit of local press but it didn’t. However, every national news outlet reported on it including the BBC, The Telegraph, Entertainment Weekly and The Independent, as well as multiple international newspapers, magazines and radio programmes.

Social media ignited global exposure and ever since, the F-Rating has gained a diverse and passionate following.

At the beginning of 0 7, the nternet ovie atabase b the biggest film website in the world added the keyword - ated to over ,000 films and the media went into overdrive. t’s important to say that the - ating is an intersectional feminist rating, which means that while a very privileged, straight, cis-gender, middle class, English speaking, able bodied, white woman) have only faced a minute amount of discrimination, someone who is also from an ethnic minority, and or working class, and or disabled etc, would face a multitude of barriers, each of which makes the chances of them directing a film smaller and smaller. filmbath org u

What are some actions people can take right now? mail your and ask them to support the Climate and cological Emergency Bill • Check out some of the amazing local growing schemes for great veggies with a low carbon footprint Shun fast fashion, become a proud outfit repeater and e plore some of the amazing vintage and second-hand shops in the city ake a look in your recycling bin. s there one switch you can make to reduce your plastic waste? ake a weekly meal plan and aim to only buy what you need f you are lucky enough to have a garden, build a compost heap. t will massively reduce your food waste while making free fertiliser @onlyoneworld on Instagram

Elizabeth Smithson, Bath Hunt Saboteurs

What are Bath Hunt Saboteurs about?

Bath Sabs are a non-violent direct-action group that aims to protect wildlife wherever it is being persecuted.

What are some of the actions you’ve taken recently?

We attended the ‘glorious 12th’, which happens every year in August at the start of the shooting season. We travelled to the eak istrict to join other groups from around the country disrupting the day so that grouse were not shot and killed in this senseless and outdated tradition. As well as preventing animals from being killed, it sends a strong message that there are members of society who know hunting to be morally wrong, and will not stand by and let it happen just because it always has.

Currently we are occupied with organising the sabotage of autumn hunting, also known as cubbing’, where juvenile hunt hounds are trained for the upcoming season by being taught how to kill baby foxes.

We will be actively protesting against the yearly badger cull, which is due to start any day. @bathhuntssabs on Facebook

Charlotte @onlyoneworld on Instagram

How do you use social media as a tool for activism? use nstagram to share a mi of information on uick, accessible actions people can take for the environment, specialising in reducing waste.

Why low waste?

Wasting less is probably one of the most accessible ways we can help the environment. t’s better for the planet, our sanity and our pockets.

Whether it’s food, energy, clothes, water, or dreaded plastic. We have a long way to go in our home, and try to write honestly on my platform about what has worked, what hasn’t and what we’d like to tackle next.

“It energised people who had felt powerless before”

Elizabeth takes part in regular direct action with the group

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

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

project from Bath’s allotments. Milly Carmichael, B&NES food poverty officer and r yn arham, chair of the Food Group for Transition Bath came up with the plan to collect surplus food from ath’s green-fingered residents and redistribute it to local charities tackling food poverty. CropDrop has supplied collection boxes to local allotments with food picked up for distribution every Monday by a team of volunteer drivers.

The creative solution to tackling hunger has drawn national attention, with UK hunger charity Feeding Britain reaching out to the fledgling organisation with a view to replicating the project around the country. If you’d like to get your allotment site involved or if you’d like to volunteer for deliveries please contact transition.surpluscrops@gmail.com For more: www.transitionbath.org

© ELL ACOUSINSPHOTO

DROP IT LIKE IT’S CROP CropDrop is a new food donation

Ella loves to let her creativity lead her bakes

ALWAYS TIME FOR CAKE

Ella Cox is helping Bathonians send love through the medium of cake How did you get to where you are?

Homemade by Ella came about when I left uni in my second year. I was studying Optometry, which was very structured and didn’t allow for me to be creative. I came back to Bath and started work again at Wild Café on Queen Street, and a small food blog, which heavily featured baked goods – and my interest grew. In the summer of 2018, I set up Homemade by Ella with the help of a close friend, while sitting in a café eating a large slice of cake. Ever since then, baking has been a way of life for me, and I love it.

What’ve the last two years been like?

Peter Heywood and team receiving CropDrop delivery from Monksdale allotments for the Weston Food Club and Welcome Café

I’ve put in a lot of hard work trying to get my name out there, creating bespoke celebration cakes, including wedding cakes and cakes for one – yes you can indulge on your own!

A significant proportion of my business is supplying cafés, who have been very supportive of my small business – massive shout out to Good Day Café, who I have

worked with since they opened. Although I enjoy bulk baking for cafés, I also really love creating personalised cakes for individuals.

For me, the most enjoyable commissions are for those who give me a rough brief and free rein on design. I once made a circus-themed cake [pictured] for a very lucky birthday girl, with the only instruction ‘make it fun – include lots of sweets and circus stripes.’

Cakes are a great way to show your love right now…

I’ve had a massive increase in custom celebration cakes recently, customers treating loved ones for birthdays and anniversaries, which is lovely. People can order all sorts, from simple cakes with minimal icing and decoration to very heavily decorated cakes cookies, chocolate, flowers, the whole shebang. I also do a lot of vegan baking, so if you’re not a fan of dairy or have a friend or relative who is vegan, I can help.

For more: www.homemadebyella.co.uk

The people have spoken, and the Roseate Villa came out on top

SIMPLY THE BEST

The Roseate Villa has won the 2020 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Best of the Best Winners Award. Based on a full year of happy reviews on the consumer website, the accolade names the hotel travellers’ ultimate favourite, and places it in the top one per cent of hospitality businesses around the world.

“We would like to thank our guests because it was their kind reviews of The Roseate Villa Bath and their valued patronage that made this award possible,” says Ravi Birdy, executive director for Roseate Hotels & Resorts.

For more: www.roseatehotels.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 71

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© TONY BROWN PHOTOGR APHY

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EAT OUT IN FROME A town driven by a strong sense of social responsibility and a commitment to local, rome’s foodie culture is no di erent. t’s hand crafted, eco-conscious and presented with love

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BISTRO LOTTE En Français vibes abound at this cute bistro and caf at the top of Catherine Street. The French all-day dining and boutique B&B is a warm and welcoming weekend hideaway. Dine al fresco on their pavement tables to add to the Parisian feel of the place. he menu is filled with utterly tempting goodies from the continent like French onion soup with baked Gruyère crouton, escargots, smoked trout niçoise salad and garlic and herb cannellini bean and potato croquettes served with minted crème fraîche. If you missed out on your French mini break this year, Bistro Lotte might go some way toward healing your hurting heart. bistrolotte rome co u

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RYE BAKERY Rye Bakery is a business driven by sustainability. A quick browse through their Instagram page and you’ll see that sourcing ingredients locally is a core value – and what gorgeous ingredients they are. astries filled with freshly picked fruit, lunches described as ‘from soil to sandwich’, bread baked in house and even butter churned on site. Designed with care to create a hub for the community, ye akery aims to be an a ordable, meaningful third space between work and home where visitors can have a cuppa and a cake in peace. r e ba er com

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FLOW The minds behind Bath Boutique Stays, Marcus and Hana Whittington have opened a brand-new venture in Frome. Also known as The Bar on The Bridge, Flow is an exciting addition to Frome’s nightlife. They specialise in super snazzy cocktails (most of which are also available to take away and have a full bar o ering with prosecco, carbon neutral Champagne, pale ale from the Frome Brewing Company and Mallets cider on tap. Wine-wise, their selection is curated

by Berkman Wine Cellars with something for every palate – and you can also take your bottle home with you if you prefer. They’re developing a food o ering hand in hand with other rome indies right now, which includes tasty tacos from Taco Dirty To Me, another local biz that came to life during lockdown. o bar rome co u

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NOOK nfluenced by the caf scene of yron ay, this Aussie-inspired eatery on King Street serves up a tasty and contemporary selection of granola and bircher breakfast bowls, Açai smoothie bowls, cold press juices, superfood smoothies, poke bowls and buddha bowls. We love their miso glazed aubergine buddha bowl [pictured], packed to the brim with baked aubergine, sweet potato, carrot salad, pickled red onions, spinach and quinoa with tahini dressing. Refreshing and healthy, Nook’s beautiful bowls are begging to go up on the ’gram. noo thesho co u

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© ED SCHOFIELD

TRY FIVE

EIGHT STONY STREET It’s hard to miss this iconic Frome institution. The bright and inviting restaurant’s huge windows overlook Stony Street, beckoning in peckish passers-by with the tempting smells of their wood-fired sourdough pizzas. If pizza isn’t your thing, there’s still something on the menu for you in this atmospheric restaurant; fresh small plates of local cheeses and West Country charcuterie, or the Sunday Roast might suit instead. Eight Stony Street is also a specialist wine merchant and wine bar, with a hand-picked list of wines from regions all over the world – 10 of them are even on tap and can be taken away in refillable bottles. www.eightstonystreet.com

THE HERD

Some restaurants barely change, and it’s easy to see why. hey got everything right the first time

By Matt Bielby

P

lant-based eating may be on the up, but many of us still adore the slightly gross delights of tearing into bloody slabs of bovine haunch – put it down to primal urges dating back to our mammoth-hunting forebears, maybe?

Steak never really goes away as a cool dining option, but it does have particular moments occasionally. One such was seven or eight years ago when The Herd launched, one of several new specialist ga s to rival the well regarded udson Steakhouse up on London Street. Over the years, though, the newcomers slowly started to fall away – Cau in Milsom lace being one high profile casualty leaving professional rugby players and other devotees of the monstrous slab of cow hip with a straight-up choice: Hudson or here.

The Herd is slightly the smaller and more strippedback of the two, but boasts a handier location, hidden away amongst the shops on Argyll Street. At street level there’s just a sign and a doorway, but trot down the stairs and you’ll find a craggy but welcoming basement, like someone whitewashed a cave. This place is tall, narrow and all business, with wibbly wobbly walls, metal chairs, wooden tables, stone floors and precious little else apart from the occasional picture of a cow, sometimes jaunty and hat-wearing but mostly butcher’s style, in case you’d

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forgotten where each cut comes from. Normally there are 36 covers here, but currently they’re down to 26 to allow the necessary table distancing: it still makes for a busy vibe when the place is full, mind. Think fun and buzzing, not romantic date night.

But though it’s an unabashed steak specialist, it would be wrong to call The Herd a one-trick pony. Certainly, they serve more than just red meat these days – I spotted twice as many vegetarian starters as last time I was here (a whopping two of them!) – and there are enough chicken, salmon and gnocchi mains to have most tastes covered.

Elsewhere on the simple, familiar menu are hearty starters (things like chargrilled halloumi cheese with a fennel and rocket salad, £6.95, or the chicken liver pâté board, £8.95), and a solid selection of suitably rich side dishes, from tru e and armesan fries . 0 to thick cut onion rings . . lip it over and you’ll find a chunky wine list, heavy on the reds. Bottles start at £19.95 and run to around 0, and since this felt like a push-the-boat-out sort of night, we went for one of the fancier options, the oger errin Ch teauneuf-du- ape . nky red and well balanced, with rich raspberry and plummy flavours, it proved the perfect accompaniment to steak.

To start, and with a deconstructed surf ’n’ turf being something of a boys’ night classic – hedonistic and slightly

RESTAURANT

kitsch, but not quite so gauche as having prawns and beef on the same plate – my pal and I went for seafood starters.

The chargrilled king prawns with garlic and chilli butter sauce (£8.95) are well-spiced and suitably messy, while the calamari 7. o ers the re uired mi of crunchy and silky smooth te tures. oth were devoured with fingers as much as fork.

All the steaks here come from a local herd of Aberdeen Angus and Hereford crosses, hung for three or four weeks. Though there’s a giant sharing platter available (three steaks, chips and onion rings for two, £49.95), the world isn’t really enjoying a sharing moment right now, so individual choices it was: the 16oz porterhouse (£29.95) and the 10oz sirloin (£24.95) – the 10oz rib eye, 8oz prime fillet and -bone would have to wait. ach comes served with crisp and flu y twice cooked chips, meaning you dodge an add-on cost you so often get at steak houses, but we took a couple of £1.95 steak sauces (the blue cheese and the mushroom and brandy) just because, as well as a pair of additional sides: the creamed spinach, and some rather fine garlic and parsley saut ed mushrooms (£3.95 each).

The sirloin was, well, a steak – although, as my companion put it, “it’s hard to imagine a better one.” Juicy, buttery and tender, it o ered all the rich, basic, umamiheavy pleasures of the best of its breed. My porterhouse, however, dwarfed it: looking pretty similar to its near-twin, the T-bone, this comes from the short loin of the cow and features two types of beef prized by those-who-know on either side of the central slice of bone. All steak depends on a deft hand in the kitchen, but cuts like this more than most, as the di erent sides cook at slightly di erent rates.

Happily, there are deft hands here, and everything arrived e actly as asked for, the perfect medium rare.

Was there room for pudding? We forced ourselves, taking chef ’s chocolate mousse (£5.95), which comes with a cute white choc spoon to eat it with (plus a real spoon, for when the first inevitably collapses , and adagascan vanilla rice pudding (also £5.95), a mini-meal in itself, with a novel cr me br l e topping to crack through and an e cellent accompanying bowl of home-made ginger ice cream. his was a great night out, o ering familiar, crowdpleasing fare in as packed and lively a venue as you’re going to find in these times. ndeed, there wasn’t a free table the night we went. hat erd also o ers particularly cheery and knowledgeable service makes a night here the same no-brainer it’s always been.

“Steak never really goes away as a cool dining option” DINING DETAILS The Herd, 12 Argyll Street, Bath, BA2 4BQ; tel: 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.com We ate Squid and prawns to start, followed by enough opulent chunks of cow to make Desperate Dan quiver Vegetarian options Should you be dragged here by carnivorous friends, you won’t starve: there are two starters (goat’s cheese and beetroot bruschetta, £7.95, and halloumi for a quid less) and a main (gnocchi arrabbiata, £14.95), plus assorted sides and fish options for pescetarians Prices Starters £6.95 – £8.95; mains £14.95 – £22.95; puds mostly £5.95; steaks £24.95 – £29.95 Drinks Plenty of reds by glass or bottle, mostly Italian or southern hemisphere, plus a few whites, rosés and sparkles. No beers, but plenty of spirits too Service / atmosphere Really top-notch service, friendly and fun, with a proper buzz to the place that verges on the loud at times What else? The Herd might be tucked away but it’s no secret; in fact, there wasn’t an empty table the night we went

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

BAKE WEAR

Forget the negative connotations of the apron being the uniform of the domestic drudge of yesteryear – the kitchen bib is back. It’s what all the best home cooks are wearing right now, helped in part by BBQ’ing hipsters, Game of Thrones blacksmiths, beautiful baristas in urban co ee shops, but also mainly by the fact wiping sticky baking substances on your jeans was never a good look.

Just looking at this pretty and practical number in duck egg blue by Thornback & Peel makes us feel more chef-like.

The sardine apron by Thornback & Peel costs £25 and is available from Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com

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BURLEIGH FELICITY LARGE BUTTER DISH, £46 Plan your ‘add butter’ baking because these are made to order as they are uniquely decorated using Burleigh’s centuries-old technique of tissue transfer, printing from handengraved copper rollers. rom ossiters o ath road treet ath rossiterso bath com

NADIYA BAKES BY NADIYA HUSSAIN, £22 Learn to bake incredible cakes, pastries, pies and puddings for every occasion with the former a e winner’s simple and achievable recipes. rom he ldfield ar oo sho oorland d ath theoldfield ar boo sho co u

FLOUR POWER

The Great British lockdown saw a ‘knead’ in us to get baking and with the Channel 4 show back on our screens, we predict this hobby will continue to rise…

LAMBERT CAKE STAND, £140 nspired by old lemish pewter, in a muted grey finish with a soft sheen, this lambert cake stand will put your bakes centre stage. rom India ane ilsom treet ath india ane co u

CONCRETE EGG TRAY, £12.95 Give your eggs the industrial chic(k) look with this minimalist concrete tray that holds up to a dozen eggs. rom raham and reen Walcot treet ath grahamandgreen co u

EKELUND FAGEL GRON TEA TOWEL, £19 Made by appointment to the Swedish Royal Family by Ekelund, this is a majesty of tea towel. It even comes beautifully gift boxed with the Swedish Royal crest. rom alcombe rading Walcot treet ath salcombetrading co u

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

ED’S CHOICE MAGNETIC TIMER, £9 The convenient magnetic backing means you can pop it on fridge or oven, or run about with it in your hand panicking like they do on the telly. rom ro oo uiet treet ath rocoo co u

CAKE TINS, £12 Made by the British company Wham, this box set of four round sandwich tins, which measure 23cm (9in), includes a recipe for your own ombre bake.

From Francis DIY, 39 Moorland Road, ldfield ar rancisdi com

MILK JUG AND SUGAR BOWL SET, £25 Serve tea with your cakes accompanied by this charming hand-painted milk jug and sugar bowl set with a herringbone design in pastel green. rom ilsom treet ath o a com

AGA ER3 SERIES 170, £14,995 AGA cookers have changed hugely over the last few years and the eR3 Series collection o ers the most innovative AGA cooking yet, with model, like this one in pistachio with stainless steel trim, that combine both cast-iron radiant heat cooking and conventional cooking, so they take fle ibility to a whole new level. rom ga ath Widcombe arade ath agali ing com

WOODEN SPOON, £1.65 The Tala 12-inch spoon by Chef ’s Aid is a kitchen essential and kind on non-stick surfaces. rom omecharmer helsea oad o er Weston tel

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PHOTOGR APHED BY BET T Y BHANDARI AT THE FORUM BATH, MAKE UP BY LOUISE MEAD. ADDITIONAL CLOTHING AND SHOES BY GR ACE AND TED, AND CHANII B SHOES.

“The name, Shirts Off Our Backs, is a nod to the feeling that the pandemic is really putting a lot of us in financial hot water”

YOU CAN’T KEEP A GOOD PLAN DOWN Meet the Bath entrepreneurs who didn’t get the memo about doing nothing over lockdown – instead they invested their energies into starting up brand new businesses

By Sarah Moolla

NEW BUSINESS

A desire to help the planet was the motivating factor behind Ella Macgregor’s new business; BELOW: Masks from her Raine range

ormer Hayesfield student, now a designer and seamstress, Ella Macgregor founded RAINE, a tailoring business, in May. Her face co erings are made to order so there is no waste stoc and per cent of profits are donated to charity What was the inspiration behind starting up Raine during lockdown?

It came from a deep desire to produce masks that didn’t cause any impact on our beautiful planet. It was breaking my heart to see pictures of masks flooding the ocean and causing harm to wildlife.

Any tricky moments during production?

he elastic sourcing was particularly difficult as there was only one company that produced it and many like-minded people were also after it.

And anything you’re particularly proud of?

One of the many highs was when I launched the website. I normally steer clear from anything computery but I had to make myself a website. t was so difficult, but then so rewarding when hit the live button and the orders came in. aine ailoring raine acemas s com

WOLF: THE SALOON is all day hangout ser ing co ee, craft

beer and natural wine. It launched 2 September and is owned by Samuel ‘Wolf’ Shaw, aka director of mystery.

What was the inspiration for setting up?

T

here’s a history of successful companies being born out of times of terrible recession – Disney, IBM and Hewlett-Packard – were all founded just before the Great Depression of 1929. More recently the economic crisis of 2008 spawned the arrival of Airbnb, WhatsApp, and Groupon. There’s a school of thought that says rising up during tough economic times makes you more equipped to survive long term. And looking at this inspirational crew of lockdown new business founders, we think their future looks bright indeed.

I’ve wanted to do this for the last four and a half years – I’ve always wanted to create a space where the best things can be enjoyed with awesome people in a chilled and unpretentious environment.

Director of mystery Samuel ‘Wolf’ Shaw

SHIRTS OFF OUR BACKS (SOOB) was co-founded in April by director Marianne Cantelo, along with Jessie Naish and Sarah Baker. It uses ethically sourced cotton with a percentage of the profit going to local charity orothy House Hospice Marianne, what is your background, and what prompted you to start SOOB?

I also work on local brand Ubiety for Dorothy House but while on furlough, I wanted to keep busy and try another project.

How did the idea of SOOB come into being?

Great name for a t-shirt company…

he name Shirts ur acks’ is a nod to the feeling that the pandemic is really putting a lot of us in financial hot water. owever, we continue to witness amazing charity and community e ort and it feels like local businesses are supporting each other to thrive. hirts ur ac s shirtso ourbac s co u

© DAN FLINTER

A quick WhatsApp chat with Sarah Baker, a marketing consultant and big supporter of the Bath creative scene, persuaded me to push the button and launch the site. I quickly corralled Jessie Naish of Bath Festivals, and Illu and Kin, a design graduate and former illustration agency director, to use her networks and experience and to sign up other artists and designers. Thanks as well to Jamie Ellul of Supple Studio who designed our logo.

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SUGARCANE STUDIO, co-owned by Fang-Yu Lin, has been trading at markets since December 2018 and is opening its own shop, a French patisserie with an sian twist, in the first wee of cto er What were you doing before?

I was a professional pastry chef in London and Taipei and in 2016 I trained at Le Cordon Bleu London. More recently had a full-time office job, but also sold my cakes at the Bath Farmer’s Market.

How was your time trading at Bath Farmer’s Market?

Actually I would like to specially thank Bath Farmer’s Market. They let us trade when the business was super young, and stayed open during the lockdown with the safety of all the traders and customers taken into account. The manager Laura is really friendly and inspiring, and we feel extremely lucky to be part of it.

How did lockdown affect your work?

When the lockdown started I was working from home, but I also saw a big increase in cake orders for delivery. nitially it was a little bit difficult with the flour shortage, but it was amazing to be able to help customers.

And now you are setting up shop…?

Jessie, Lisa, Jon and Alfie worked together during lockdown

What were the highs and lows of opening during this period?

Lockdown was a unique set of stresses and launching WOLF whilst maintaining and growing Wolf Wine was a lot to manage. But the amazing response we’ve had during lockdown and in the first two weeks of WOLF being open, as clichéd as it sounds, truly makes it all worth it. Everyone has been extremely complimentary and supportive, specially my parents and family who never once wavered in their faith.

And the team have been amazing.

Want to name check any of the team, and do they have as exotic job titles as yourself?

Yes please, and yes they do. Angus ‘Tipsy Goose’ Perkins – GM of the Cabin & Wholesale/Distribution Extraordinaire; Erin ‘Cry Baby’ Peacock – Content & Internet Executive; Fiona ‘Pickle B’ Mackinnon – GM of WOLF & Professional Badass; and Melvin ‘Merlin’ Young – ull lown Co ee Wizard.

WOLF: Saloon, 72 Lower Bristol Road, Bath. www.wolfwine.co.uk

BULLFROG BOTTLES came into being in March this year and was started up by Jon Brown with the help of his family. It is a reusable stainless steel bottle company devoted to reducing the use of single use plastic bottles.

What made you start Bullfrog Bottles at this time?

My career and my income completely stopped due to Covid-19, as did my wife’s. We always had aspirations to set up an eco-friendly company, and we felt it was the perfect timing as a family to get involved and to really make a di erence and to give us all, kids included a project to work on throughout lockdown.

This is more than just a business enterprise though isn’t it..?

It was important to us to try and give something back to the community, so £2 from every bottle will be donated to two local amazing charities, Southside roject and he ecord, who really do make a di erence in people’s and families’ lives. I myself have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD, so I know how important it is to have someone there to talk to and someone there to help.

Bullfrog Bottles; www.bullfrogbottles.com

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Yes, we are hoping to open on Grove Street around the start of October. We are so excited about it.

Sugarcane Studio 1 Grove Street, Bath; www.sugarcanestudio.co.uk Fang-Yu is a trained pastry chef

NEW BUSINESS Has it been difficult at times?

Barman Ro’melo serving up cocktails in the upstairs bar of the new Flow

ossibly the low point is still cooking and potting up in the early hours of Saturday morning, knowing there is only going to be three or four hours sleep before market time. But hey, at least you know your food will be as fresh as can possibly be.

How do you hope your business will develop?

’ve always been a team player, but being at the market and Electric ear rewing ap oom, where also sell, has placed me front and centre and given me a platform to talk about my food and ethos. I’m not sure where it is going to lead, but certainly enjoying the journey. ani a s itchen tel aceboo and Instagram ani as itchen

FLOW, situated on the bridge in Frome, opened on 4 July this year following an 18-month renovation. The independent bar specialising in cocktails is owned by Marcus Whittington, who also runs Bath Boutique Stays.

What was the inspiration for setting up?

It was highlighted to us the Frome community had a desire for a friendly fun bar with interesting drinks selection. And the way we’ve been massively welcomed in this fiercely proud and independent town shows we were right to follow our instincts.

Any obstacles?

Renovating a Georgian building on a medieval bridge had some interesting challenges.

What are your immediate, and your long-term plans for the business?

n the here and now, to keep serving the lovely rome folk what they want and need, consistently. Long term I like the thought that even if we are gone from here in 50 years, this stunning bar is set within a beautiful Georgian building that overlooks the river Frome and will be around for a couple more hundred years at least. lo he ridge rome o bar rome co u

JANIFA’S KITCHEN started trading on 4 July and is the plantbased foodie venture of Janifa Berridge, who previously taught at Demuths Cookery School for the past 20 years.

What led you to launching your own range of vegan food during this time?

he coronavirus lockdown a ected the hospitality industry hugely, but hit the cookery school massively. However while the world shut down, ath armers’ arket in reen ark, where ’ve shopped for years, managed to carry on. Conversations with traders helped convince me could create something fresh and exciting out of this crisis.

How long did it take to create Janifa’s Kitchen?

set up in two weeks during lockdown, and in that time managed everything from registering the kitchen, creating a brand image, sourcing the recyclable packaging, and curating the menu.

Janifa’s Kitchen was set up and selling within two weeks of having the idea

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NEW BUSINESS FOLDALL started in early March by commercial pilot and inventor Edward Chudleigh to produce face shields for front line and ey wor ers Within wee s of its launch, the non profit organisation had thousands of orders.

You invented the Foldall mask, can you tell us a bit about that?

was asked if could help with e ective visor , so designed a prototype using computers. sing e isting robots and a robot that built in my lab at one point was designing a new visor every hours in response to their feedback. would then redesign the product that night and it would be ready to ship the ne t day.

Were there shipping issues during the height of lockdown?

ovements and access to factories was e ectively illegal, but we found various ways around this and made what we could work.

Any particular memorable moments?

We received many letters and emails of thanks, including one from a children’s hospice where we’d helped make visits possible, which was very moving. ther high points were all the amazing volunteers who supported the project. here was an enormous amount of camaraderie, which is so important in such situations.

What are your plans for Foldall?

oldall has served its purpose. We filled the gap of missing to the front line when there was none, and it was a non-profit organisation that did its bit to help the heroes of the pandemic. nce A bills etc are paid, any money left will go on a volunteer’s book, a celebration for them, and to charity.

Foldall, Flat 15 Georgian House, Duke Street, Bath; www.foldall.co.uk

“There was an enormous amount of camaraderie, which is so important in such situations”

Always’ culinarian, Connor Pouncy with Toby Helley, front of house and senior mixologist

ALWAYS SUNDAY | TOWN+HOUSE is the new restaurant venture of Lexi Learmond, founder of the retailers Always Sunday Store on Walcot Street and the networking events space Always Sunday House. It’s set to open late September.

You helped coordinate an Always Sunday roast delivery service during lockdown. Was this the inspiration for a bricks and mortar venue then?

es, we felt that we didn’t want to end the connection to new people.

We needed a commercial kitchen to keep things going. We approached ing William on homas Street for a short lease on the kitchen space but were given the opportunity to take the whole space.

What was it like starting up in a pandemic?

o venture into something that you have never done before brings fear anywhere but there was also this voice shouting, “What am thinking We are in a pandemic ” but then ’d get a message on nstagram from our followers, or an email en uiry for an Always Sunday event that reminds me there are so many out there who want us to succeed.

What has been the reaction so far?

t has been incredible We have daily re uests to book for the first tables and many have thanked us for stopping the space being a boarded up empty pub. here are those who are disappointed the ing William has gone, but hopefully we can entice them to give us a chance.

Always Sunday | TOWN+HOUSE, 36 Thomas Street, Bath; www.astownhouse.com Lauren Guest, along beer curator Justin Wylde and Leanne Olivier, founder of Cru Wines, was about to launch the BOA BEER CLUB in March, when lockdown happened.

What is the idea behind BOA Beer Club?

Edward Chudleigh set up a not-for-profit organisation designing and helping distribute face visors to the NHS Lauren’s love of beer lead to the founding of the BOA Beer Club

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

uite simply love tasting new beers, talking all things beer and meeting new people so thought why not combine all three

The team came up with the Abbey Hotel Kitchen’s brand and concept whilst working remotely

Lockdown delayed your initial launch...

Yes, we were due to launch our face to face beer tastings and socials. owever the fact we have people asking us daily when we officially kick o is a reassuring sign.

And what happens when you kick off?

Our range will be via Cru Wines, both in store and online. Soon after our beer education sessions, socials and monthly subscription boxes will follow. We’ve also got plans to include vegan friendly, gluten free, and low/no alcohol beers, and hope to have a permanent evening space one day.

BOA Beer Club; Facebook @BOABeerClub; www.cruwines.co.uk

ABBEY HOTEL KITCHEN on North Parade opened its doors in July, and marketing manager Sarah Moon tells us what it was like in those early days and now.

Was it a tricky time for the Abbey Hotel Kitchen to open?

We were unsure of what the rules would be when we opened, with regards to if we would only be able to o er takeaway, social distancing rules etc. This made it hard to be proactive with our planning but as soon as we received guidelines, we came together to plan and make happen whatever needed to happen.

How was it communicating and working with the team?

Nearly everything was done via remote communication, and that was hard at times as you most definitely pick up on vibes when working face to face. Thankfully we are a real tight knit team that work well together even when we are apart. In fact it was a real sense of achievement that we worked under these strange circumstances to create the brand, the concept and the o ering.

Inspired by her love of makeup and belief in the importance of making women feel good about themselves, Natalie started her first business, Bath Makeup Artist Ltd and The Workshop, a few years ago. Now she’s entered a new phase, relaunching with her brand Wild Rose Beauty, when the industry was still very much in lockdown. “Opening up a new brand during a pandemic is certainly an experience!”

Natalie says. The continued restrictions were difficult, and the delays to resuming business

© SOPHIE CAREFUL

Owner and director of Bath’s newest beauty salon, WILD ROSE BEAUTY Natalie Heaver officially launched her business in June. LYDIA TEWKESBURY visited the salon in picturesque Church Farm Business Park in Corston to learn about Natalie’s experiences of trying to set up during lockdown, and also to discover if it really is possible to have a relaxing massage in this strange new world.

the beauty industry experienced whilst barbers were opening up, annoyed many. Especially because the beauty industry was well-placed for pandemic rules in the first place, Natalie points out. Hygiene regulations like face masks, glove-wearing and regular

Anything you might have done different?

We would have liked to have had a big launch to kick things o . As everyone knows Bath is well known for its big get togethers but we will be sure to make up for this once we can all get back together again.

Abbey Hotel Kitchen, Abbey Hotel, Bath, 1-3 North Parade, Bath; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

sanitising are standard in their line of work anyway.

More than ever, we need spaces where we can relax, and Wild Rose Beauty is utterly perfect for that. From the pure escape of simply arriving – right on the edge of Bath, it’s surrounded by countryside so you’re well and truly out of the hubbub – to the luxurious range of spa, skin, nail, and body services, makeup, brow and lash treatments on offer, stepping into Wild Rose Beauty feels like a treat.

“We seem to always be in a rush nowadays and have so much on our minds. Living in a world where time is a commodity, we often find ourselves neglecting the fundamental experiences that satisfy our senses,” Natalie says. With that in mind, Wild Rose

Beauty is meticulously designed to welcome you into the present moment. Clean pinks, rich golds and fresh greens give the place a Mediterranean feel, while well-chosen accessories, mirrors and furniture draw the eye; it’s a spotless, pretty microcosm away from the demands of the world.

I opted for a massage, a build-your-own affair with my therapist Bailey, where every step was tailor-made to ease out the ever-present tension in my writer’s shoulders otherwise known as The Keyboard Hunch – if you know, you know. The sweet-smelling grapeseed oil, magical tinkling massage music (you know the type I mean) and dimmed lights of the blossom-hued room, along with Bailey’s expert hands had me floating away from my stressed immediately-post-furlough-self faster than I would have believed possible.

Wild Rose Beauty, 10A Church Farm Business Park, Corston, Bath. tel: 01225 872810; www.thewildrosebeauty.com

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THE ONLY CLASSIC BARBER SHOP IN BATH 15 Lark Place, Bath BA1 3BA Telephone: 01225 287839 Tue - Fri: 10:00 - 19:00 Sat: 08:30 - 16:30

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BEAUTY ANÉ AURET

Skin deep Ané explores psychodermatology, the science behind the mind-skin connection

L

ife is looking so very di erent for us in so many di erent ways right now, and we’re all dealing with our own situations in our own ways. None of us have ever experienced anything like this before, so it has never been more important to prioritise taking care of ourselves.

We know our emotional and physical wellbeing are intrinsically linked – this applies to our skin too. There’s even a whole new field dedicated to the science behind the mind-skin connection: psychodermatology.

One of the key factors in the skin-mind connection and our stress responses is the release of stress hormones; cortisol in particular. While a little bit of stress can be good for us and even help us perform better in the short term, chronic stress – even low level – can wreak havoc with our skin through increasing oil

production or aggravating preexisting conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It can also lead to chronic inflammation in our bodies, which is one of the biggest causes of skin damage and ageing.

Here are 7 everyday steps to help minimise stress

• Stick with your am/pm skincare routine. When we feel stressed or overwhelmed it can be easy to let our normal routines slide. Create a ritual that you look forward to and take those few minutes for yourself each day.

• Keep moving. I’ve learnt that the 30 mins of exercise I do in the morning is probably the most important thing I do all day: it really sets me up in a way nothing else does. While I know it’s good for my skin, exercise also helps regulate stress hormones, boosts feel-good hormones and fights inflammation. f you can’t go to the gym, then try and get outside:

take a walk in nature, do a home workout (get the kids involved) –– whatever it may be. Just keep moving in a way that’s safe and works best for you.

• Sleep. When we sleep a number of chemical processes take place throughout our bodies, for example the release of growth hormones. While you sleep, your skin is working hard producing collagen, boosting blood flow, and regenerating cells. Without sleep, your skin can’t recover in the way it’s designed to each night – this can be one of the first places skin stress starts to show.

• Meditate. Regular meditation can soothe your mental state while boosting blood circulation and increasing oxygen levels in the blood, primarily through deep, regulated breathing.

Experience flotation therapy at The Pod in Bath

• Deep breaths. When we’re under pressure and feeling stressed, we can sometimes be taking only shallow breaths without even noticing. Remind yourself to take deep, slow and deliberate breaths any time you feel anxious or stressed and it will help regulate the stress response in your body.

• Set boundaries around stressful news and social media. We all know how easy it is to spiral down (often unhelpful) rabbit holes on social media. There is non-stop news coverage of disasters unfolding around the world. Although it’s important to keep informed, it’s also important to protect your mental health and head space.

• Get it out. Being worried, stressed and having obsessive thoughts without any outlet or purpose circling around and around in your head can cause more of a stress response in your body and trigger skin issues, anxiety and so on. It’s so important to reach out and ask for help, or just talk to someone about how you feel. If you find it hard to speak to someone it can be helpful to start a journal and write things down.

Commit to some ‘me time’ at a Bath indie spa. I love The Soul Spa, 2 Hetling Court, Bath; The Pod, 73 Lower Bristol Road, and Well Bath, a Yoga & Wellbeing Centre on Woolley Lane Bath.

Ané Auret is a self-confessed beauty obsessive and founder of Bath-based skincare brand Ané. Learn more at www.beautybyane.com and follow her on Instagram @beauty_by_ane

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 87

SERVICES GUIDE HOME CARE

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BATHWORKS © JON CR AIG PHOTOS

THIS ISSUE >>BATH DIGITAL FESTIVAL (89) >>WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY (91) >>TOM BURNFORD’S DESIGN MUST-HAVES (92)

The Bath Digital Festival will come to us virtually this year

Living in a digital world The Bath Digital Festival is set to return from 20-24 October.

We caught up with Becky Rock-Evans, festival event manager to find out what’s in store this year What’ve you got coming up?

We’ve got a packed programme of events over five days that champion digital technology in ath and the South West. ur focus this year is on recovery, education and talent. We’re also very e cited to be launching our new igital Skills change programme. here are too many events to detail here, but to give you a taster you can hear from artists about their e perience moving from a physical to digital space, learn about artificial intelligence and augmented reality, take your pick from a range of marketing events, learn to code and attend a cyber security workshop. f course, we are also running our usual flurry of activity for families.

How has the pandemic influenced programming this year? ather than face to face events, we’ll be hosting the festival virtually. estival attendees can still e pect the same great line-up of events, but enjoyed from the comfort of their home. What’s great about online events is that there aren’t the same boundaries as face to face. We’ve been able to cast our net far and wide for amazing content and speakers and there’s no room’ capacity limits, so even more people can enjoy even more events. ’ve mentioned the focus on recovery, education and talent. his is an important element of the programme for us this year. We feel we have a

responsibility to support our community, meaning a lot of our events will focus on skills development and business support. We’re really e cited about the programme this year and it’s a great time to get involved in the festival if you’re new to the tech scene.

Why would local business owners benefit from attending? he festival o ers a great opportunity for businesses to meet with other local businesses and like-minded individuals in their industries. We’ve got a line-up of events that support businesses who are having to adapt to a new, digital way of working. hese events will cover everything from accessing funding and support and understanding how to e ectively market to di erent audiences, to lowering or eliminating concerns about cyber risks, how to create a diverse workforce and much more.

We’re also aware that there’s a talent crisis in the city, which is why we’re launching the igital Skills change. he aim is to tackle the skills and jobs gap in the industry head on by putting local business on the map and supporting individuals who are looking to move into a digital career.

For more: www.bathdigitalfestival.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BATH LIFE I 115 89

SEHR GUT NEWS A brand-new kitchen retailer is coming to Saracen Street. Known for their contemporary German kitchens, utchenhaus’ first ever ath store will make a worthy addition to the city’s interiors shopping scene.

“It took six weeks to completely transform the space to Kutchenhaus’ high-quality standards,” says Rob Cash, business owner of utchenhaus in ath. “ here are a number of home improvement companies in this area

of ath, which makes it a perfect place to visit if you are planning to decorate. ur location is very similar to our ristol showroom, which gives us confidence we can be successful in the town.” n addition to service in-store, ob and the team will also provide virtual appointments using e citing new online planning and design tools that create kitchens remotely. www.kutchenhaus.co.uk

Kutchenhaus caters for all the latest design trends

© PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY

REFURBISHED AND READY TO GO

Smiles all around at last year’s ceremony

ollowing a massive 0. million redevelopment, ouble ree by ilton ath is finally opening its doors on ctober. he 7 -room hotel on Walcot Street’s refurbishment includes the romantic Secret arden, an intimate orangery overlooking the river perfect for whiling away the evening hours during a weekend escape, or perhaps afternoon tea. he stylish, contemporary home away from home also has a glam cocktail bar and restaurant, complete with terrace for outdoor dining, and a more casual style caf open to guests and locals alike. An in-house gym and meeting and events space with all the techy accessories you could hope for are also available.

For more: www.dtbath.doubletreebyhilston.com

MARKET LEADERS Nominations for the ath roperty Awards are now open. he ceremony celebrating ath’s property sector will return in 0 with a change of date to 22 January. Headline sponsored by ogers rewett, the roperty Awards are free to enter for any businesses in the sector just head over to the website and put forward a compelling case. he largest gathering of property professionals in the city, the afternoon ceremony at Ape ath sees hundreds of companies in attendance; it’s a popular networking opportunity as well as a celebration, and tickets sell out every year.

“We are delighted to be producing the ath roperty Awards again,” 90 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

says event organiser Annie iekus of MediaClash. “It’s a superb opportunity for companies come together to celebrate excellence and build or strengthen partnerships all the more needed in these times.” here are still sponsorships available for the event. Sponsorships are a key opportunity for business generation and to enhance awareness in the sector e isting sponsors include A S omes, Hawker Joinery, L&C Mortgages, Spaces, SW and Bath Life. imited tickets are available, too, including a handful of partner tables. ickets already purchased for the original date will be honored.

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

Open for visitors from 1 October

BATHWORKS

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE World ental ealth ay is coming up on 0 ctober, and as we all deal with the ongoing e ects of the Covid- pandemic, the mental health of employees is high on the list of concerns. Action o revent Suicide C S is a South West-based charity providing a variety of training to facilitate ongoing conversation and support surrounding mental health. n response to social distancing regulations, workshops have now moved online and their o ering includes mental health first aider training, suicide first aider training and safe A , a short three-and-ahalf-hour course that supports participants to begin to respond where suicidal thoughts are present and connect the individual with the right resources. “ ental ill health and suicidal thoughts don’t start from nowhere,” e plains Chukumeka a well, founder of Action o revent Suicide. “Startling statistics from ental ealth ngland show the cost in real terms. ental ill health sees 7 million working days lost per year at a cost some figures put as high as . billion annually.”

Action o revent Suicide is keen to support individuals, organisations and communities in preventing suicide, supporting people through mental health issues and promoting wellbeing. “We collaborate with a variety of organisations to consult and provide the most appropriate service for your company,” Chukumeka says.

David Flatman, Ian Gillard and Robin Browning at the office

For more information about the workshops available visit: www.actiontopreventsuicide.org

Chukumeka Maxwell, founder of Action To Prevent Suicide

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC HOME AT LAST

After five years out of the city centre, wens Chartered Accountants has returned with a new base at 7 Northumberland uildings o ueen S uare.

“We are delighted to be back in the city centre. ooking out our front door we can see both the firm’s previous city centre locations, so we feel truly back in the centre of the action,” says director an illard. ellow director obin rowning adds, “ espite Covid restrictions, we are looking forward to safely welcoming our clients to drop by for a visit and perhaps enjoy a cup of our great co ee ” www.pgtax.co.uk

OLIVIA’S NEW HOME

oughs’ commercial property and real estate team is growing.

Commercial property specialist livia olden joins the Wiltshire aw irm to handle a diverse portfolio of ac uisitions and disposals, property re-finance and landlord and tenant work. “ am delighted to be joining such a well-established firm with a great regional reputation,” says livia. “ am looking forward to e panding my network of connections within the Wiltshire community and beyond. As a real estate solicitor, thoroughly enjoy the technical side of the role, including investigating title and enjoying the buzz of seeing a matter from start to finish, while always ensuring clients are well-informed throughout.” www.goughs.co.uk

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

through all these demands and developed his own style of building that somehow bridged the old era with the new, in a way that was uni uely his own. he tone of his buildings always remained deeply generous and humane.

Tom Burnford’s passions went from books to buildings

© ANDRE PAT TENDEN

What are the key elements in a well-designed home?

BIZ Q&A

Tom Burnford

A one-time English Literature and History of Art student, Tom’s travels around the world revealed to him the irresistible draw of architecture and urban design. Following a move to London in 2000, he took the plunge and re-trained as an architect, graduating from the Architectural Association in 2010. He now heads up Bath’s Burnford Architecture What does a typical day look like for you?

I always bookend my day with some form of physical exercise.

I get up and out for a bout of cardio in the morning, and end it pushing some weights in my newly made, lockdown-inspired garage gym.

Up until recently I used to spend a lot of my working time in town, at one of Bath’s independent cafés like Society or Colonna. But that was before took on sta , and like everyone I’ve had to adjust to a new normal now. These days I work from the office that built in my garden. In between all of that I’m looking after my team, fielding en uiries from clients and contractors, attending site meetings, investing and shaping my advertising and social media campaigns and generally trying to juggle the various demands of my growing business.

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

Tell us about a project you really loved

The project I loved doing the most was one of my most challenging.

I moved to France when I was fresh out of university and carried out a scheme to re-landscape the grounds of a villa in Provence. I had no French and next to no experience, so it was a massive learning curve and one that was extremely challenging for me on a personal and professional level. But we ended up with a scheme that to this day remains really eye-catching and incorporates many of the things I still strive for in my designs.

What’s your favourite type of project?

The one I haven’t started yet. My favourite part of any of my job is that initial conversation with a potential client, where a new avenue for collaboration opens up and I can look forward to a new challenge and a new opportunity.

Good answer! Okay then, what’s your dream project?

Restoration and modernisation of residential schemes is always what I fall back on, as the variety of briefs are as numerous and uni ue as the individuals who inhabit them.

Having said that, with my background in literature, and a love for public buildings, my perfect brief would be to one day build a city library. At a time when society is being atomised even more by social distancing, I hope we can find ways to come together in beautiful communal spaces freely again in future.

Who inspires you?

One of my favourite architects was Edwin Lutyens. He was working at a time of extreme societal and technological change, during an era that raised unprecedented challenges for architects. Lutyens successfully negotiated his way

An architectural scheme of any kind combines three key elements: generous and proportionate spaces; a considered proposition for harnessing natural light and views; and a balanced, contextual palette of materials. But one must also remember that a home provides a canvas for the lives and activities of the people who are going to use it. Any home design needs to be responsive to this intangible element if it is to be successful.

What is important to you about the design of your own home?

The experience of lockdown this year meant I, like almost everyone, was forced to engage with my own home in a way that I haven’t really ever done before. Suddenly I wasn’t able to seek things re uired day to day out in the public arena. What became apparent to me was that my home’s fle ibility and adaptability was one of its greatest strengths. Being able to reinvent the spaces I had available to me, or repurpose them, showed me that this is one of the most rewarding and desirable elements you can have in a domestic property.

What are some of the trends you’re seeing right now?

It almost goes without saying that working from home has to be the biggest new trend we’ve seen this year, and I’ve seen people converting any spare spaces they can find into mini offices. As an architect, find it fascinating to see the many ingenious ways people have reinvented under-utilised corners, nooks and crannies. In the same vein, garden offices, garage gyms, and granny annexes are all also seeing a massive rise in popularity, as people bring under their own roofs the function of buildings that have recently taken on an air of risk. We have seen many more en uiries from home owners looking to add these to their own houses, and an increase in the number of briefs of this type. www.burnfordarchitecture.com

BATHWORKS

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2020

Three Ways School’s fundraiser Lucy Beattie and headteacher Jo Stoaling reflect on the school’s incredible double win at the Bath Life Awards You won! Congratulations! Talk us through the night...

We had absolutely no idea that we would win, especially not gain a double win! As a school we always rely on the support of the community for tickets to the Awards and it is usually last minute, so we didn't know we would be able to attend until a few days before the event. It is always a wonderful evening of networking and chatting to local businesses and charities, and enjoying celebrating the wonderful things happening in Bath – but the competition is always huge. here are a number of influential people in the Assembly Rooms and it is a massive opportunity to raise awareness of the school and the young people. It’s an honour to be a winner among such strong competition.

EDUCATION WINNER SPONSORED BY

PLATINUM AWARD WINNER SPONSORED BY

What prompted you to enter?

he Awards o er an amazing platform to champion our students, their achievements and capabilities, and to raise awareness of the work we do with young people with learning difficulties and disabilities. We want to share the work that our students do in 3 Café Kitchen and through volunteering and work experience in the community, to try and expand these opportunities and show employers the potential for employing or working with our students.

How did it feel to win?

We were totally blown away. It was a huge surprise to win Education but then totally unexpected to get the Platinum award too. We both felt really emotional. It was so lovely to see everyone's reactions and to be recognised for the work we do and our contribution to the community.

Where is your award now?

Our trophy is proudly displayed in reception of school and was greeted with a massive round of applause in sta briefing. ots of businesses and other people we work with were emailing and sending messages via social media to say congratulations.

What do you think it is about the school that helped you secure your Bath Life Award?

Still spreading happiness, even during lockdown

Three Ways School is such a creative learning environment. Many people don't realise where we are and what amazing things we do in school, from creating sensory art work in collaboration with students from Bath Spa University and taking our students on Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, to our award-winning 3 Café Kitchen – and much more.

We challenge and expand the young people s horizons and try to o er every opportunity for them to flourish and grow while supporting the families and carers, as well as the young people. We like to consider ourselves at the forefront of special needs education and supporting an often invisible community in Bath – that is what helped us win the award.

equipment we need to provide for our students. We have raised over £15,000 in the last two years with members of the community running the Bath Half Marathon to pay towards new playground equipment.

Brewin Dolphin has funded waterproof clothing for wheelchair users to ensure all young people can get outside, whatever the weather, creating a completely inclusive playtime.

Talk us through a recent example that best illustrates the work you do

During lockdown there was a large group of students self-isolating for the whole period – these students were included in their own school 'Happiness Bubble'. Each week a group of school sta prepared a box of goodies and activities the young people could do with parents, supported by sta in school via Zoom, including massage, dance and music equipment. Happiness Parcels were delivered by sta in fancy dress with sports equipment, treats and a distanced chat with a parrot, minimouse or a giant dog!

What has the impact of the pandemic been on the school?

The school has remained open to key workers and the most vulnerable young people throughout lockdown.

We have rapidly had to adapt to delivering lessons and supporting young people online. Sta all worked to ensure the young people and their families were safe and had everything they needed. We delivered over 100 food parcels, work and activities to our young people.

© SOUL MEDIA

Tell us about the other support you receive locally

Jo Stoaling and Lucy Beattie of Three Ways School

hree Ways receives amazing support from local businesses and other charities including St John's Foundation, Quartet and Bath Rugby Community Foundation to help fund and support the work we do and the

For more: www.threeways.co.uk

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Corporate tax planning

E

Matthew Rutter from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY offers some advice to businesses to navigate through these troubled times…

ven among those who follow good tax-planning practice and maintain forecasts running several years forward, none could foresee the dramatic end to the 2019/20 tax year. With the impact of Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdown, the economy shrank a record 20.4 per cent in April and 19.1 per cent in the three months to May. The impact on businesses across the board has been significant and although the economy is reopening slowly, it is clear a return to the ‘old normal’ is some time away – or may never return at all.

Looking forward through the next 12 months, tax management and planning could play an important role in helping your business survive these uncertain times. Now is a good time to review whether the tax planning strategies of your business both short and long-term are still relevant for the 2020/21 tax year, regardless of whether the coronavirus crisis has had a positive or negative impact on your trading profits.

COMPLIANCE & DEADLINES The first thing to consider is whether your business is staying on top of its compliance obligations in respect of all taxes and any liabilities due.

Where possible, you should continue to file all returns on time, whether that be VAT, PAYE or Corporation Tax etc., to avoid incurring any unnecessary late-filing penalties. If your business is experiencing cashflow issues following the lockdown and you have tax liabilities becoming due, you should contact HMRC as soon as possible and see if it is possible to set up a timeto-pay arrangement.

If you are running a VAT-registered business, you may have taken advantage of the automatic deferral of VAT payments due between 20 March and 30 June 2020. Any liabilities deferred during

“MOST BUSINESSES WILL LIKELY HAVE EXPERIENCED A DROP IN THEIR TRADING PROFITS DURING THE LOCKDOWN PERIOD”

this period do not need to be cleared in full until 31 March 2021. However, after 30 June, VAT liabilities should be paid in full and within the usual payment deadlines, unless you have come to an arrangement with HMRC. Companies House has automatically extended the filing deadline by three months for all private limited companies with an original filing deadline of up to and including 5 April 2021. It is important to note however that the Corporation Tax payment deadline remains nine months and one day after the end of the accounting period, so you may still want to have the accounts prepared within that timescale to ascertain the liability payable.

LOSS RELIEF & REDUCED TAXABLE PROFITS Most businesses will likely have experienced a drop in their trading profits during the lockdown period. Inevitably this will lead to a lower Corporation Tax bill than the business would otherwise have expected, but could the timing of this reduction help your business manage its cashflow better?

As mentioned above, companies pay Corporation Tax based on their taxable profits for the accounting period and payment is due nine months and one day after the accounting period ends. Therefore, a company’s year-end could make a significant difference to the size of its next Corporation Tax bill depending on how this date falls in comparison with the lockdown period. For a company with a year-end of 31 March 2020, little or no effect will have been felt in its trading figures for that year and it could find itself with a sizable Corporation Tax bill due by 1 January 2021, after nine months of potentially reduced trading conditions and cashflow. In the year to 31 March 2021, that same company may have made significant taxable losses as a result.

These trading losses can be carried back to the previous accounting year and used to obtain a refund on any Corporation Tax paid for the previous year. However, this means the company may have to wait the best part of a year to access this refund. The company could instead consider bringing forward the advantage of this loss by extending its year-end. A company can extend its year-end by up to six months to create a single 18-month period, subject to the agreement of Companies House and generally only if it has not already extended its accounting period within the last five years.

With a new company year-end of 30 September 2020, any losses generated during these six months are now absorbed within the trading profits of the 12 months to 31 March 2020. There will still be a Corporation Tax bill due by 1 January 2021 but in this scenario, it would be lower as a result since the profit for the whole 18-month period is apportioned between the first 12 months and the subsequent six months of the new accounting period.

VAT Last month, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that from 15 July 2020 to 12 January 2021, VAT in the hospitality and tourism sectors would be cut from the standard rate of 20 per cent to 5 per cent. The change in rate aims to stimulate consumer demand in these sectors, rather than reducing the tax burden for the business, but this does assume the full reduction in VAT is passed on to the consumer through lower prices. However, this is not mandatory and cashflow might be improved by not reflecting the full reduction in the sales price and retaining some of it within the business.

For some businesses in these sectors, additional thought will also need to be given as to whether their VAT liabilities could in fact be reduced by considering how they account for their VAT. Those that use the VAT flat-rate scheme, for example, may now need professional advice to work out whether the scheme is still worthwhile. This is far from straightforward as once you have left the scheme you cannot re-join it for 12 months and the VAT reduction has only been put in place for six months.

The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.

Matthew Rutter BSc(Hons) FCA CTA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge 37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491; mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MEET THE ACCOUNTANT Get your finances in order with the help of these local experts DAN KENYON

GENERAL PRACTICE DIRECTOR, MILSTED LANGDON 01225 904940; www.milstedlangdon.co.uk What measures have your firm taken as a result of Covid-19?

We were lucky in that we are very agile as a firm, so as soon as lockdown was confirmed all staff could instantly work from home with minimum disruption to client service. Our main focus was supporting our clients and our people, keeping them up to date with as much information as possible. We acknowledged that home working is not for everyone, so we were very quick to make

IAN GILLARD FCA FCCA DIPPFS BFP PG OWEN LTD 01225 422183 www.pgtax.co.uk

What measures have your firm taken as a result of Covid-19?

Our first move was to take stock of the situation and then look to support our clients to avoid becoming one of the 20 per cent of businesses predicted to fail. We sent out a daily Covid financial email update highlighting the various support and advice available. As government support has reduced we’ve moved to a weekly update, with ad hoc urgent updates as the need arises. This has been well received throughout.

How do you use technology in accountancy?

Technology has allowed closer working with our clients, and Making Tax Digital Difficult was the driver to change the way we work with clients.

Whether it is our monthly online accounting service or completing Self Assessment Returns and communicating with clients via our portal, technology allows more up-to-date financial information, which means we can be involved in better business decisions.

How does your accountancy practice differ to others?

As well as accounting and taxation advice, we are also qualified to advise on life assurance, mortgages, pensions and investments as well as probate. We also have a legal company, which works with a team of barristers to provide wills, trusts, powers of attorney and shareholder agreements. So we can advise from cradle to grave – and beyond!

sure our offices were compliant with government guidance including social distancing measures, installing screens and hand sanitizers, operating in small groups of people or ‘bubbles’ etc. to reduce any risk. We had a major rebrand project that had been many months in the making prior to Covid-19, which was due to go live on 1 May. As a result of the pandemic we made the decision to postpone the launch of the rebrand, which just went live recently on 1 September instead. So although it’s been a very strange time, it’s also an exciting one now as we look forward to the future with our new branding which better reflects who we are and where we’re going.

MATTHEW RUTTER

BSC (HONS) FCA CTA, PEARSON MAY 01225 460491; www.pearsonmay.co.uk Tell us a little about your business Pearson May is a leading firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers with a 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?

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 qualified accountants.

DEBBIE BOULTON,

DIRECTOR OF RICHARDSON SWIFT 01225 325580; www.richardsonswift.co.uk What key bit of advice would you give businesses in the current climate?

Be confident. Recently, we’ve seen some inspiring examples of clients who have successfully changed their businesses overnight to adapt in the current pandemic. Also, don’t forget cashflow – all those deferred payments for rent, VAT, self-assessment tax and corporation tax will still need to be paid, so make sure that money is ringfenced.

How do you use technology in accountancy?

Most businesses now use cloud accounting to give them instant visibility of their financials.

However, there are a huge number of add-ons apps available, and it’s hard to know if you’re using the best ones. We have a specialist team who can carry out digital health checks for clients and advise on the apps that are most suited to their needs.

Tell us a surprising fact about yourself?

A story I always like to tell new trainees is that, when I was training, I passed out during one of my accountancy exams. I was carried out of the exam hall but luckily felt better soon enough and could carry on. And yes, I still passed! www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

ADVERTISING FEATURE

GIFTS TO CHILDREN What should we consider when handing property onto our children? Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE looks at the potential problems and pitfalls…

T

the issue of handing on property to one’s children during one’s lifetime to minimise Inheritance Tax liability and ring fence assets against meanstesting for care fee funding is one which is at the top of many people’s minds.

All too often we are consulted by people who have already (a) transferred ownership of their home or other properties to one or more of their children and/or (b) laid out considerable sums – often several thousand pounds – for fancy looking schemes advertised in the Sunday supplements which, rather than solving problems, cause them.

What should you bear in mind when thinking about handing on property?

1. First, do you need to make a gift at all in order to minimise your exposure to taxes and care fees? There may be other ways of doing that.

Your solicitor can advise you what those are.

2. What will be the effect on your child(ren) of receiving the gift? How will it affect their own tax position?

3. A gift made to ring-fence assets against care fees can, if it brings the value of your remaining assets below the threshold at which the local authority will be asked to contribute to the cost of your care should you need it, be treated as a ‘deliberate deprivation of an asset’ and be disregarded by the authority for means-testing purposes. This means you may be assessed as if the asset is still in your ownership even though you have given it away – and your choice of residential home will be restricted.

4. A gift of your home is fraught with potential problems. For example: • If you remain living in it after the gift is made it will not be effective for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes until you either die or move out. While you are there you will be deemed to have a ‘reservation of benefit’ in the property, which makes the gift incomplete for IHT purposes.

• A gift to a child or children will be treated as a gift at the value of the property when the gift is made – and your children may be left with a substantial Capital Gains Tax (CGT) bill to pay if they later sell at a value higher than that. If

“WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF A CHILD TO WHOM YOU HAVE GIVEN AN INTEREST IN YOUR HOME DIVORCES? ” the gift were, instead, made when you die, the value of the property for your children’s own CGT purposes is likely to be higher and a CGT bill on later disposal by them therefore lower.

• What will happen if a child to whom you have given an interest in your home divorces? Or cannot maintain mortgage payments on their own home? Or has a business that fails and owes money to the bank and/or Revenue?

Or dies before you? Do you want your home vulnerable to claims by third parties in any of these situations?

• The ‘deliberate deprivation’ point mentioned above may apply.

5. A gift of other property can also be problematic: • It will trigger a CGT liability for you if you are transferring at a value significantly higher than the value of the asset when you acquired it.

investments – you will be deemed to have a ‘reservation of benefit’ in it. See above.

6. A gift of a property by way of a Trust such as those sold by the companies advertising in the Sunday supplements (which are a ‘one-size-fits-all’ product, not crafted to suit individual circumstances) can reduce or in some circumstances wipe out altogether IHT exemptions on gifts between spouses and/or the additional IHT exemption attributable to your home (currently £175,000). The sellers of these schemes are not required to be regulated and often shut up shop and disappear leaving no possibility of claiming compensation.

And this is just scratching the surface of this topic! The lesson here is to take advice from a comprehensively qualified, regulated (and fully insured!) professional – a solicitor – who can produce solutions appropriate to your own specific circumstances.

• And again, the base value of the asset for your children’s own CGT position may well be lower than it will be when you die.

• If you retain an interest in the asset – for example by continuing to receive rent from a property or dividends or interest on

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 99

PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

Gardens

OUTDOOR VALUES

House hunting is about so much more than what can be contained within four walls – and never more so than right now We’re talking about the garden, of course. If we learned anything from lockdown, it is the necessity of an outside oasis all of our own.

6 Cleveland Walk, a dreamy property on Bathwick Hill, is serious garden #goals. A terrace of meandering pathways among a cluster of specimen trees and voluminous shrubbery, this peaceful haven o ers a few di erent seating areas, one of which the current owners are using as a delightfully secluded barbecue area, complete with pergola. o top it all o literally, it’s at the top of the garden there’s a stone-built pavilion, which could be anything from your new home office to an artist’s studio, or perhaps even a home cinema there are so many possibilities for this magical little lodge.

Guide price £2.25M; Winkworth; 13 Argyle Street, Bath; www.winkworth.co.uk

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

PROPERTY NEWS

Property market

Quality of lifestyle is a massive factor in property choices right now

THE NEW SEASON It looks like the post-lockdown rebound at the top end of the UK’s housing market will maintain momentum beyond the summer, according to a major new survey.

People are done with indecision, says the head of Savills Bath, Luke Brady

C

onducted mid-August, the survey of 1,400 registered buyers and sellers revealed, perhaps surprisingly, there is actually greater urgency to move now than Savills found in an earlier survey sent out mid-lockdown. The trends that swept in with post-lockdown life look set to stay, despite earlier predictions that the significant shift in priorities the market saw in April was a knee jerk reaction rather than a permanent one.

As restrictions have lifted and people have slowly begun to resume their lives – albeit adjusted for these changing times – the market has not seen a reversion in consumer tastes.

Right now, demand is driven by a desire for the right home to suit the new lifestyle expectations so many have discovered in response to the events of this year.

“Buyer determination to avoid

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

compromise on lifestyle factors has intensified over the summer, boosting the appeal of more rural properties,” says Luke Brady, head of Savills Bath and the southern region residential division. uyer activity might have intensified, but pricing remains a sensitive topic. Of the survey’s respondents, 56 per cent reported they reckon house prices will fall in the next year, but over two-thirds anticipate they’ll be on the up again in the ne t five years. An optimistic 47 per cent think they will rise by more than five per cent.

“The uncertain economic backdrop and the end of the furlough scheme in October means short-term price expectations remain cautious, though buyers are willing to take a longer-term view on pricing.”

Hosted on 30 June, the Bath Home Truths webinar echoed the results of the

survey locally – values here are looking relatively good, but in terms of pricing and sales the most desireable properties selling in Bath itself are increasingly those on the edge of the city. “Keeping buyer and seller expectations on pricing aligned will be key to maintaining the summer momentum through the autumn and beyond,” says Luke.

For more: www.savills.co.uk

Savills’ Luke Brady

Space to entertain

Fabulous show apartment launches at Belvedere House, Lansdown Developer JUNIPER HOMES has achieved their uncompromising vision for this luxury development

Roof top view across Charlcombe Valley

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

F

rom the moment you step into Belvedere House, this select eight apartment development simply exudes style and quality. Designed to make the most of its unrivalled position, Belvedere House is perfect for discerning buyers.

The meticulous attention to detail and bespoke design shines throughout.

Set in a delightful landscaped environment, apartments are at ground and first floor levels. All four ground floor apartments enjoy private

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Master suite

Living space

courtyard space. Two of the first floor apartments have a private balcony and two are exceptional duplex penthouses, enjoying a rooftop terrace with far-reaching views.

There is also a residents garden with two charming arbours.

Internally, nothing has been left to chance.

From the open plan living space with highspecification kitchens through to superbly

Wide apartment entrance hallway

specified bathrooms and bedrooms that include thoughtful finishing touches such as walk in wardrobes – in a nutshell, the interiors are stunning.

“Lansdown is a much sought-after community,” says Anna Fairman, head of residential development sales for Savills in Bath. “Residents will enjoy large open plan living spaces, uncompromising in style and

Landscaped communal gardens

quality. Contrasting clean modern lines with the softer tones of Bath stone, the apartments strike an architectural balance that offers the best in contemporary living offset by the comfort of a warm and inviting space.”

With open countryside on your doorstep and Bath city centre a little over a mile away, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds; great gastro-pubs and Lansdown Golf Club on your doorstep, and easy access to Bath with its culinary expertise and cultural events.

Belvedere House is ideally positioned for it all.

Prices start at £575,000 and reservations are now being taken. Each apartment includes two dedicated private parking spaces.

Private parking

The Show Apartment is open to view by appointment, please call: 01225 474591 or visit www.belvederehouse.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 105

PROPERTY

HISTORY PROJECT One of Bath’s most exciting new developments Beckford Gate in Lansdown helps celebrate our city’s illustrious past

By John Mather 106 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A

property in one of the most glorious and sought-after parts of Bath is always going to be a sensible investment for the future.

But when it comes steeped in Georgian history, then you know you’re onto a Grade II, grade A winner.

First the history part, the walled and terraced garden of Beckford’s Gate, also known as the Embattled Gateway, was built around 1825-1830 by the celebrated architect Henry Edmund Goodridge for William Beckford (1760-1844), the eccentric and wealthy writer who had a passion for art, gardens and building towers.

Part of Goodridge’s design became known as Beckford’s Ride, and followed a series of structures from Beckford’s house at 20 Lansdown Crescent to Beckford’s Tower (seems he was also a little enamoured with his own name), which included an Italianate cottage, exotic planting, a rockery, ornamental pools and began with

the Embattled Gateway. t’s this almost castle-like structure that is now the focus of these four, newly-built, lu ury apartments on ansdown oad. he tower sits in the large communal garden which is accessible to all residents, who also enjoy with their own private outdoor space. he honey-stoned building itself, which has been named eckford ate, is designed in the classic Georgian Palladian style, using the golden ratio which creates the symmetry and balance seen in properties from this era. The development has incorporated

“The walled and terraced garden of Beckford’s Gate, also known as the Embattled Gateway, was built around 1825-1830”

traditional features from the period and combined them with luxurious modern amenity.

The villa provides four large, three bedroom apartments, is arranged over four floors and includes a large lateral penthouse with its own roof terrace and direct lift access. There’s a further lateral apartment, with direct lift access and its own private garden, and two large maisonettes each with private terrace and garden access. he apartments o er generous open plan living accommodation with features such as Chesney hand carved limestone fire surrounds, kitchens with Siemens appliances, marble bathrooms and solid hard wood flooring throughout. he generous ceiling heights with classic mouldings and architectural joinery are complemented by lu e finishes throughout including zoned under floor heating. urther benefits include o -road parking, a security system with video entry for peace of mind. As well as the stroll into the centre of town, the development is within easy walking distance of the golf, tennis, s uash and cro uet clubs, and ath acecourse.

HOUSE NUMBERS Three-bedroom garden maisonette £1.25m Three-bedroom garden maisonette £1.30m Three-bedroom large lateral apartment £1.35m Three-bedroom penthouse with roof terrace £POA Outside Communal gardens Landmarks The Embattled Gateway Where Lansdown, Bath Savills Bath, Edgar Buildings, 17 George St, Bath. tel: 01225 474500; www.savills.co.uk

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

How to style your balcony to appeal to buyers

B

Peter Greatorex from THE APARTMENT COMPANY explains…

alconies are a wonderful outside space that we know apartment owners cherish, a place where you can enjoy a coffee in the morning, or a sip of a tipple in the evening.

With stunning views all over the city, they are a little haven that you can make your own. Although enjoyed often, these areas, which are an extension of your home, can get ignored when people are decorating. It doesn’t matter the size of the space you have to play with, at The Apartment Company we have put together some ideas on how to style your balcony to appeal to buyers.

around the walls and railings, and you can create a warm ambience with lanterns grouped together in a corner.

weatherproof outdoor rugs that are hardwearing, which means no matter what the season or the weather, your balcony will always look stylish.

A LITTLE BIT OF GREEN It doesn’t matter how much space you have, every single place can be transformed with a little touch of something green, whether that’s flowers or a lovely leafy plant. Hanging planters are a great idea for adding some colour to railings and can also add some texture to those balconies that are on the smaller side. You can also use a shelving unit in a corner or against a wall to create a mini garden – or what about a living wall?

A LITTLE APPEAL When you add style to your balcony, you are truly increasing the appeal of your apartment to potential buyers. For more advice on how to style your home and grab buyers’ attention, give our team a call on 01225 471144.

A LITTLE LIGHTING As the night starts to set in and the light begins to fade, you may still want to remain sitting outside to finish some pages of a good book, or just to relax. There are an abundance of light choices available. Fairy lights look lovely draped

A LITTLE RUG There is so much choice when it comes to decorating your outside space these days, and one accessory we have seen used effectively is a rug – this can really transform the area and make it elegantly cosy. You can purchase specific

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870

ÂŁ2.2 million

ELM LODGE The Green, Biddestone

A beautiful period double fronted house with Coach House.

An enviable position on the village green in the picturesque village of Biddestone.

Entrance Hall | Drawing Room | Sitting Room | Kitchen/Dining Room | Study | Boot Room with access through the garage.

Master Bedroom with Ensuite Shower Room | 4 Further Bedrooms | Family Shower Room | Family Bathroom.

1 Bedroom Coach House | Stunning landscaped walled garden, in all approx. 1/3 acre Double Garage and off street parking space | Substantial dwelling totalling approx. 4,000 sq ft.

Matthew Leonard Director

Lucy McIlroy Director

Denise Latham Lettings Manager

Fleur Hawke Lettings

Lotte Veale Sales

ADVERTISING FEATURE

What every f lat owner should know about block management

I

Sarah Dedakis from BATH LEASEHOLD MANAGEMENT advises…

f you own an apartment you will probably appreciate that block management is extremely complex and often confusing.

Where do your responsibilities lie as the owner of the property?

Many Bath apartments are purchased with a share of the freehold. This means that you, as the owner, could be a company member or director along with being a leaseholder.

As such there are two sets of responsibilities; Your Limited Company duties and ensuring that the building compliance and maintenance obligations are met in accordance with the lease.

These responsibilities include: • company accounts and filing • budgets and service charge accounts • health and safety obligations • full insurance • contingencies for maintenance and repair obligations… and much more!

There is countless ever-changing and increasing legislation governing the leasehold sector and the

manager must be fully conversant in statutory laws and regulations.

Then there is the property itself. Whatever the reason you own an apartment, you will want the building to remain well-maintained and presented as it is the first impression of one of your most valuable assets. Having an impressive entrance will almost certainly be more enticing to any potential purchaser and will, without question, add appeal and value to your property.

You will want your building to look cared for and the secret of ensuring this is to find a managing agent who cares as much as you do.

The key qualities you will be seeking from your managing agent are: • excellent communication • transparency • proactivity • integrity The agent should be solely focused on block management. This is not a 'bolt-on’ business. It is an independent, specialist industry that should

only be handled by qualified experts within the leasehold field – look for the ARMA logo to determine this.

This is a very brief snapshot of block management, and we would be delighted to have a no obligation conversation with you regarding your building or if you have any specific leasehold questions. We pride ourselves on our industry knowledge, passion, commitment and integrity and offer an unrivalled service.

Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help.

01225 632179; office@bathleasehold.co.uk www.bathleaseholdmanagement.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FOR THE HOME Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for autumn

KUTCHENHAUS

Kutchenhaus have opened a brand new showroom in the heart of Bath bringing their beautifully designed and highly engineered German kitchens to the city. Owner Rob Cash and his experienced and talented team look after every customer through the journey from enquiry to completion, creating kitchens of the highest standard at a ordable prices. 5 Saracen St, Bath BA1 5BR; Tel: 01225 634025; www.kutchenhaus.co.uk/showroom/bath

SHUTTERCRAFT SOMERSET

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

MENDIP FIREPLACES

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 www.clairstrong.co.uk

ath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. rom classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, arbas elfires, wam, Stuv and etmaster. et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath in o mendi fire lacesbath co u Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

ETONS OF BATH

Shuttercraft Somerset provide premium madeto-measure shutters and blinds for your home.

Shuttercraft give you the best privacy whilst retaining style with a huge variety of colours and materials to choose from. Price matching available on like for like products from your local expert.

Contact your local expert, Simon today.

Tel: 01225 459 389; www.shutttercraft.co.uk

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. orth arade uildings ath Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

ounded in 00 , tons of ath is the ’s only specialist interior design practice focussed on refurbishing, renovating and reinvigorating Georgian and egency homes and hotels. heir team of 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

WESTSIDE DESIGN

CHEVERELL

BONITI

www.westsidedesign.co.uk

www.cheverell.co.uk

Westside Design is a family-run Bath based company o ering 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 in o estsidedesign co u

Cheverell is set in the heart of Wiltshire with a stunning showroom and workshop, o ering a full bespoke design, manufacturing and installation service in kitchens, bedrooms, and interiors. stablished in it has over 0 years of e perience to guide you through the whole process. Cheverell, Waller Road, Hopton Park, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 2GH; Tel: 01380 722722;

oniti is based on the outskirts of ath and o ers a wide range of quality interior and exterior products: natural stone and timber flooring, verhot range cookers, garden furniture and adai firebowls. As well as the vast selection of products on o er, a friendly and personal service is at the heart of all that they do. unsdon arn West ittleton Wiltshire Tel: 01225 892 200; www.boniti.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

© MOYR A EBELECHUK WU AKURE

BATH LIVES

MANOEL BOLUTIFE AKURE Designer, photographer, cinematographer, musician and creative director, there’s not much Manoel can’t do – including make headlines around the world You may not know his name, but Manoel’s image taken by Felix Russell-Saw went around the world in July when, during Bristol’s Black Lives Matter demo, he hopped up on that empty plinth, took the knee and gave the black power salute (Turn to our activists feature on page 66 for more).

The 20-year old, who lives in Snow Hill, moved to Bath from Nigeria as a little boy when his mother came over for her doctorate program.

He attended Larkhall’s St. Mark’s CofE School for his GCSEs, before going on to St. Brendan’s Sixth Form College.

After a spell of working in a fast food chain and clothes shop in Bath, he set up his own graphic design company Blouhaus, which has now expanded into cinematography and editing.

He also writes and performs music using the name Man0.

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

I am the youngest of four children brought up by parents,

my mum Ebele, and my dad Myke, who alongside their full-time jobs, are heavily involved in the church and in children and teenage ministry. Being the youngest, and the only boy, I was privileged to watch and learn from my older siblings who are strong amazing women.

My family are amazing. As well as mum and dad, I live with my immediate elder sister Moyra who is starting a Neuroscience degree at the University of Bristol.

My second-oldest sister Michelle read Chemical and Energy Engineering and she now works in Preston. My oldest sister Mirabel and her husband, both doctors, live in Swindon and they just had little baby Jathan – my nephew is just so precious.

I was mostly home schooled, which enabled me to become

“I want to be able to provide for the people I love, and help the people I don’t know” independent in my thinking

and learning. I have been very privileged to watch my aunties and uncles fight for change in the political, religious, academic, social, and economic sectors within Nigeria.

I played so much sports when I was younger from badminton,

to swimming, to squash and lawn tennis. Then at St Mark’s, I was introduced to – and fell in love with – football. I had a one-year stint with Bath City Under 18s club but now I mainly skateboard.

I live in the mini Mount Everest known as Snowhill. My favourite

part about it is the close proximity to town, as well as just how many people from so many di erent backgrounds live in one area.

It’s so cool. I’m trying to get to know as many of them as I can before I get to be cut and pasted in a new location.

Growing up I wanted to be a pilot, but then I started learning

they could crash, and decided maybe I don’t love the idea quite so much. Then I toyed with the idea of being an architect, and started working towards it, but I didn’t feel the technical side of things really spoke to me as much as the design aspect. My love of technology also led me to considering software engineering and computer science.

But once I found out I could make money from being creative, it was game over for

everything else! I plan to take up my o er for a Sc degree in igital Media at University of West of England, if I can raise the funds.

I love expressing myself, as well as evoking emotion through art, so I’ve always loved the idea

of speaking to the deeper parts of our humanity through my work. t gives me fulfilment and a satisfaction that I haven’t been able to find in any other area.

My idea of perfect happiness is balance, in every sense of the

word. I don’t want too much of anything, but I want to be able to provide for the people I love, and help the people I don’t know.

My secret Bath is the little

dock behind the train station, the Dell in Victoria Park, those 360° views at Alexandra Park, and Solsbury Hill.

To date my biggest achievement is being part of a moment at the Bristol protest

that resonated with a lot of people and meant a lot to others. I’m glad I was able to share some words and a prayer for the hurting, because it was needed. We also raised a lot of money for charity with the photo Felix Russell-Saw took of me.

I am currently setting up a media platform called The Everything Post. Long term,

I would love to build a media agency that creates opportunities for young people and disadvantaged individuals to get a shot at their passion. It will represent a diversity of opinions, abilities and so much more, whilst being a tool of education through the journeys and stories of the individuals involved.

For more: www.blouhaus.com/ www.manoelakure.com