Bath Life – issue 428

#BathTogether U

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B ISSUE 428 / 9 – 22 OCTOBER 2020 / £3

ISSUE 428 / 9 – 22 OCTOBER 2020 / £3 / I SEE YOU BABY, WORKING FROM HOME

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RESPECT YOUR ELDER

Field-to-fork fine dining comes to Bath

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Cosy up your garden this autumn

SMART THINKING

Home tech for work, rest and play

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11 page property section

S L O C K

WORK IT BABY! HOW TO MAKE YOUR WFH DESK HOT!

BEAUTIFUL, BUZZING BRUTON

Why this farming town is THE place to be

BARE NECESSITIES

The beauty treatments we missed most during lockdown

WARD WINNING

The RUH’s great works and good cause exhibition

EDITOR’S LETTER

above: The Elder bar (page 38)

below: Garden accessories (page 46)

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s I write this, I’m scrunched up in the back bedroom, with wafts of clanging freestyle jazz seeping under the door from an inconsiderate fellow WFH colleague (aka my husband) who seems to be commandeering the whole house. I can hear the boys back from school squabbling and yelling for snacks, and everybody’s ignoring the doorbell (which will undoubtedly be the delivery of another piece of esoteric vinyl). So instead of looking for the non-existent HR department to complain to, I’m staying calm and plotting my dream office (similar to our cover and those over on page 18.)

This is my vision: it’s going to have its own garden, full of beautiful accessories to cosy it up all year round, like those found on our Ed’s Choice edit (page 46), its own non-curfew outdoor bar (page 46); let’s throw in a swimming pool like the one on the glorious grounds of Swainswick Manor (page 78) because, well, because why wouldn’t you? I’d like an adjoining restaurant too while we’re at it – my private diner should be opulent, elegant, and the food second to none - in fact, very much The Elder, which we review on page 38.

I’ll conduct monthly book clubs inspired by the always on-the -money Mr B’s Nic Bottomley (page35); on my many leisurely work breaks (because I’ll of course be super productive in this glorious bespoke space), I may indulge in a little me-time pampering as suggested by our beauty professionals on page 54. Did I mention my cinema by the way? Oh silly me, yup, there’s a really cool and plush home cinema with full-surround sound thanks to the home tech experts on page 16.

And yes, of course you can swing by and say hi. Just don’t expect to hear any jazz, and bring your own snacks.

SARAH MOOLLA

Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

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Issue 428 / 9–22 October 2020 COVER Pimp your office space (page16)

WORKING FROM HOME

15 MY DESK Artist Emma Rose’s organised chaos 16 HOME OFFICE How to WFH with style

THE ARTS

29 ARTS INTRO Work from the heart at the RUH 30 WHAT’S ON The art, film and theatre happening in

October

32 BETRAYAL Stars Nancy Carroll and Joseph Millson

stop by to chat about Pinter

35 BOOKS Tales from the campus and beyond 36 FILM Horror, theatre, and Frida Kahlo, all coming

up at The Little

FOOD&DRINK

38 RESTAURANT It’s game on at The Elder 42 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Catch up with life on the

Bath foodie scene

SHOPPING

45 INTRO They’re bound to know your usual with your

own garden bar

46 EDITOR’S CHOICE Make your garden frost proof

48

16

with these cosy accessories

LIFESTYLE

48 OUT OF TOWN Exploring beautiful Bruton 54 HAIR & BEAUTY This winter’s must haves 56 ANÉ Do-it-yourself beauty 58 GARDENS The not-so-secret Iford Manor Gardens

BUSINESS

61 BATHWORKS The local businesses making the

headlines

PROPERTY

69 PROPERTY INTRO Innovative and eco-friendly

living in Bruton

70 PROPERTY NEWS Keep up to date with Bath’s

property scene

72 RESIDENCE Antiques and curios accent this pretty

Bradford on Avon cottage

78 SHOWCASE A Swainswick manor, with its own

cottage and heated pool

DEPARTMENTS

7 SPOTLIGHT Celebrating Haile Selassie 11 FLATLINE Flats likes his tech kept simple 13 BATH TOGETHER Greg Ingham 82 LIVES Bath City Farm’s Helen Fisher

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, Betty Bhandari, Matt Bielby Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Greg Ingham, John Mather and Nick Woodhouse Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine. walker@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk 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

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

SPOTLIGHT Black History Month

ROYAL TREATMENT For Black History Month, (until 31 October) Fairfield House is working with schools in B&NES to educate students about one of Bath’s most famous residents: His Imperial Majesty, Haile Selassie I, former emperor of Ethiopia. Fairfield House is offering a presentation to schools that can be used as an assembly or in the classroom.

The story of the legacy of HIM Haile Selassie I to Bath is timely and thought-provoking, embracing themes of race, gender equality, war and peace, international statesmanship and morality.

“Haile Selassie is the most significant world historical figure ever to have lived in Bath” says William Heath of Fairfield House Bath CIC. “It’s Bath’s piece of black history, and his legacy to our community has never been more important.

We’re determined to work with B&NES to ensure it’s better appreciated and cared for in future.”

For more: www.houseofhismajesty.com

CLOCKWISE: HIM Hailie Selassie; Fairfield House is Bath’s piece of black history; A blue plaque was placed to commemorate Selassie’s legacy in Bath last year

Bath Central Library

© AL ASTAIR MUIR

LIBRARY BIRTHDAY CARDS

So wrong it’s right: The Play That Goes Wrong

Theatre Royal

THE PLAY THAT SAVED CHRISTMAS

Theatre Royal will have a show this Christmas after all.

Following the postponement of this year’s panto, hit comedy The Play That Goes Wrong will bring the city some much needed festive family fun.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring back the fantastic Mischief Theatre and one of the most popular shows of the last ten years, The Play That Goes Wrong, to keep families and theatregoers laughing and smiling at the end of a very difficult year,” says Danny Moar, director of Theatre Royal Bath.

The multi award-winning show follows the fictional Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society’s 1920s murder mystery, but as you may have gleaned from the title, things don’t quite go according to plan…

Panto lovers – don’t fear. It’ll return in 2021 with this year’s postponed show, Cinderella.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Bath Central Library hit a milestone at the end of September. The space in The Podium turned 30 years old. The library’s team celebrated by asking locals to submit stories of their best memories of the building, from childhood story times to the change-making librarians at the heart of the institution.

“Bath Central Library is a cornerstone of the local community in Bath that goes beyond a book-borrowing service,” says Paul Crossley, cabinet member of Community Services at B&NES council. “It’s so important for people of all ages to have access to literature – throughout the pandemic the team developed a wide range of virtual resources and activities alongside our e-books to ensure that our residents still have a library service.”

As well as a quiet place for study and research, the library provides free internet access and has been vital to nurturing generations of Bath’s young readers with its story times and the Summer Reading Challenge.

“The library has always been a community space where people can come together,” says Paul. “I’m so pleased that the library has reached this milestone.”

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

Celebrating thirty years young

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SPOTLIGHT University of Bath

TABLE TOPPERS

University of Bath has placed in the top 10 of three major national league tables. Cue the celebrations: the University is officially ninth in The Times and The Sunday Times University Guide 2021, 2021, sixth in The Guardian University Guide 2021 and ninth in the Complete University Guide 2021.

2021.

“I am tremendously proud that Bath has placed ninth in the latest national league table, particularly as it marks a trio of top tens in national university rankings,” says vice-chancellor and president of the University of Bath, Professor Ian White FREng. “As we approach the new academic term in unprecedented difficult circumstances, I am sure this accolade will inspire all in our community at Bath who have worked so hard over a number of years to provide an outstanding learning and teaching environment.”

For more: www.bath.ac.uk

Dispatches from the spots we never get tired of photographing

A top tier experience

Upper Church Street © @annalisemaybath

Beechen Cliff

HOMEGROWN SUCCESS

Beechen Cliff School had even more reasons to celebrate Bath Rugby’s recent win against the Worcester Warriors in the Guinness Premiership. No less than five of the school’s former students played for the winning team. Home of the Bath Rugby Pathway Programme, the school has a long-term partnership with Bath Rugby to develop players throughout their secondary careers, establishing them in an outstanding rugby and academic programme from age 16.

“We started the programme five years ago and it has very quickly borne fruit,” says Sean Turner, Beechen Cliff’s director of rugby.

“The backing of Bath Rugby through the professional rugby coaching, strength and conditioning expertise, medical support and match analysis has made it possible for everyone in the school community to see that teamwork, determination and a professional Gabriel Hamer-Webb, Kieran Verden, Miles Read, Orlando Bailey and Tom De Glanville approach can bring great success.”

For more: www.beechencliff.org.uk

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St James Square © Tom Patch @notapatchontom

The tow path © @seeninbath

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

Flats unplugged

© TAKING PICTURES

Too much cutting edge puts our columnist on edge

“My robot lawnmowers are actually brilliant, but…they constantly need rescuing from bushes they shouldn’t be in”

I

have a good friend who, since we were young, has been obsessed with gadgetry and technology.

So much did he love these things that he started a business selling sound and televisual equipment for the home, and it has done extremely well. I recall him controlling my laptop from his laptop from the back of the rugby team bus, and having no idea how he’d done it.

I recall, too, the sheer excitement in his voice when I told him, eight years ago now, that I’d finally like him to kit my house out and make it cutting edge.

He went mad. There was even a small room dedicated to my ‘home network’ (I still, genuinely, do not know what a home network is). There were speakers concealed in ceilings, and rainproof ones outside that automatically switched on and played my music if I walked out of the back door with my phone in my pocket. It was cool, it really was. The thing was, though, there was the odd glitch in the network.

Nothing serious, but knowing nothing about it all meant that every time something didn’t turn on, I was on the phone to him and he was walking me through assorted settings. These anxious little episodes diluted the joy of the tech I’d so wanted when the house project began, and I left it all there when the house was sold.

Fast forward to the present day, and his advice is somewhat different: “You want as little as possible,” he said to me, “as little as you can get away with.” I expect that this advice comes from both a place of real knowledge and a desire to not have to field phone calls during date nights or holidays from friends and clients who can’t work their remotes.

I did used to feel guilty about calling him so regularly, but that didn’t stop me calling. After all, I’d paid for it, and I really wanted to watch Making a Murderer, so it was worth it.

I’m ready to be convinced otherwise but, having gone down the route of linking everything – from televisions to doorbells to CCTV to washing machines – to apps on my iPhone, I think a lot of it is entirely unnecessary. And unnecessary is fun, until it doesn’t work. And it always doesn’t work.

Timing your tumble dryer to come on while you’re at work? Use the little time delay button. You want different light settings in your sitting room? Get one of those twisty fader switches that came out 50 years ago. You want everyone who rings your doorbell to pop up on camera on your phone? Good luck when you’re in meetings at work or doing 80 on the M4.

I love home technology, but so little of it seems to endure.

My Sonos speakers get properly used, and have done for years. My robot vacuum is fun and has never broken down, but it doesn’t do anything like the job I do myself, so it does not serve to remove a job entirely from my list. My robot lawnmowers are actually brilliant, but they don’t quite get to the edges, and they constantly need rescuing from bushes they shouldn’t be in. So many of these things are a fun idea at the time – like the automatic ironing machine I bought a while back – but they so often do not work seamlessly and simply, and they often don’t quite solve the problem they are bought to solve.

Maybe I’m just a grumpy old bore, or maybe keeping it simple makes life easier. Give me decent broadband, a strong mobile signal, and Netflix, and I’m happy. You can keep your home networks.

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

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#BATH TOGETHER GREG INGHAM

Outside office hours

How and where we work is one of the major changes brought about by this pandemic, says MediaClash‘s chief executive

I

t’s simple. Everyone’s got to be in. If they don’t want to be – fine: they just don’t work here.” Just as today’s heresies are tomorrow’s orthodoxies so it is that many of yesterday’s certainties are so much more permeable, corroded by the experience of these times. The quote comes from the boss of a Bath business in the opening weeks of the pandemic psychodrama, months that feel like years ago, convinced that working from home was neither desirable for his company nor needed by his team.

Now? Less certainty – and more awareness that the tectonic plates have shifted. Again, the Great Pause has become the Great Accelerator: underlying change has met the propulsive force of necessity. It’s hard to see that the 9-5 world of office work can ever now return; and nor, perhaps, that it ever should: not every day, at least.

For individuals, it’s liberating if challenging. We all have to

take responsibility for our time; all have to do our allotted roles without the tramlines of the office and managers and peers; all also have to navigate the home/work divide so that we’re working from home not living in the office. In countless surveys, a few want to work only in the office; a few more wish to be solely at home; and clear majorities want a combination of the two, valuing flexibility, variety and choice. Most report that they like it, enjoying the liberation, often the ability to get more done, and commutes measured in seconds rather than the daily currency of frustrated minutes. For others, it’s far from straightforward, particularly given the litany of demanding children, intermittent WiFi, and lack of space.

But the work itself is recognisably similar, however protracted it is to get decisions in a distributed world. Technology provides work-arounds. Marginal practices may change – half conversations are now via Teams rather than leaning across a desk

“It’s hard to see that the 9-5 world of office work can ever now return”

– but the essence of most officebased roles is immutable.

The biggest change has been to managers, culture and companies. That passiveaggressive technique of management by wandering around is no longer an option, as timecast to its era as measuring input rather than highlighting output.

Some companies have sought to replicate old school checking procedures, such as being able to see when people log onto servers, the digital equivalent of clocking-in cards (as though logging on is anything other than the thinnest proxy for meaningful activity, a latterday cousin of presenteeism). If anything, forms of surveillance are yet more intrusive in the private space of home. (In passing, the London-based multinational network of firms PwC, introduced a facial recognition tool to log when employees were away from their computers while working from home. While there was some notional context about compliance issues in a heavilyregulated sector, it didn’t exactly play well…) Instead, companies have learned to rely on the valuable preciousness of trust.

Hierarchies of management have concatenated. Checking up frequently has become checking in occasionally. The ranks of those who manage rather than act is reducing. Long is the journey from time and motion

studies through to distributed working where trust is the key performance criterion. The office, meantime, is not dead.

Just changing. No longer a control mechanism model, for smarter zeitgeisty companies it’s becoming a place where more people will actively want to go – to collaborate, work with their peers, see their work friends, present, discuss, meet clients.

But not just to do what can be done more efficiently from home.

When people have a choice of where to work so employers need to give them reasons to choose the workplace.

Companies will wish their teams to be together, at times if not always. Culture is better face to face (if in doubt, ask a theatre). There is a different intimacy of talking on screen, seeing into each other’s homes, where domesticity percolates the professional.

But it’s not the same as being with people. Seeing their body language. Having half chats while making coffee. Joining in conversations; wandering out at lunchtime; walking back to stations or parked cars. For our distinctive cultures and friendships – and yes, sometimes even actual work – offices matter.

We just really don’t have to be there all the time.

#BathTogether – always…

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MY DESK

MY SPACE

Artist Emma Rose, an old hand at this working from home business, gives us a tour of her office desk Picture by Betty Bhandari That’s one heck of a desk you have there Emma. It looks chaotic! Is there a method to the seeming madness?

Ha ha! Well, yes, sort of. The truth is when I am in full throttle of painting, then admin comes second. There is a vague pattern of organisation but it frustrates me having to get the right side of my brain going to sort out the paperwork, so I tend to put it in piles on the desk. When I’m finally ready to make sense of the piles, they are, by then, in an awful mess.

How long have you worked here, and where is your office situated?

It’s been 12 years now, and I have The Art Studio, which was converted from a tumbledown stable in the garden. It is next to our holiday let The Art Cottage (which was converted from

stables and pig sheds). But what also really helps is I have the tiniest office in our kitchen, in what was a pantry – this means I can carry on working in the evening while cooking and seeing our girls.

What’s that amazing view behind you?

It is a gobsmacking south facing valley view. At the bottom of the garden is the old steam railway line, long gone sadly, but it looks over Wellow Brook, the ridge and over to the Long Barrow.

How much time at your desk, say compared to your art studio?

I would say I spend 50 per cent on admin and 50 per cent painting.

Where’s your desk from?

It is an old dining room table – it is covered with very old

hessian that my stepfather, who was a sculptor, artist and photographer, gave to me. It is ancient and cherished. …and the chair?

The chair is some manky old thing – no idea where it came from, probably my husband’s old office. It is covered in paint and dog hair, thanks to my lurcher Kizzy who spends a lot of time with me.

Talk us through some key items on your desk...

Art books, paint brushes, paint, measuring tapes, notebooks, palette knifes, old aprons caked in old paint, a press book, printer, loads of coloured markers and calligraphy ink pens.

And on your mood board?

The mood board is 12 years of

colourful inspirational art/design postcards – work by admired artists, including Fred Cuming, Monet, Sue Wales, John Eaves, Rothco, Richard Twose, colour charts, silly drawings by our girls, and family snaps.

Anything sentimental you couldn’t be without?

There are a couple of family portraits that were done in an arcade booth, where the photo is turned into a Great Master’s pencil drawing. I love those.

Do you eat at your desk?

Yes, I’m dreadful really, I often dip my brushes into tea and coffee if I have run out of water. n

Emma’s Art Studio, Knight’s Barn, Bath, is open every day, by appointment; www.emmaroseartworks.com

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© PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY

© PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY

clockwise from top left: Your own viewing room is a perfect immersive way to escape the world; much of Multicoms Solutions’ work is about improving and expanding WiFi connectivity; BrownHen Solutions has seen an increase in requests for outdoor cinema spaces

SWITCHING OFF Why home entertainment is more important than ever

By Sarah Moolla

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

WORKING FROM HOME

W

hile our homes are increasingly becoming places of work, paradoxically they’ve never been more important as places to relax in.

We need designated areas to switch off, to find calm, and to regroup as a family. We asked the Bath home entertainment and technology specialists just how this aspect of lockdown has influenced their industry.

“Prior to lockdown the product mix we were seeing was, as expected, evenly spread across a wide range of audio/visual goods,” says Tim Moss, the managing director of Moss of Bath, who specialise in audio visual retail and installation.

While for Matt Trott, company director of Multicoms Solutions, which offers a range of installations including communications, security and custom audio visual, their main business pre-Covid “was home security such as CCTV and intruder alarm systems – it was about ensuring your property was safe while unoccupied.”

Then the coronavirus lockdown came along, and many of us were in and around our homes much more, for both work and leisure, and with this came new demands, as Matt notes, “Since lockdown a lot of people are spending a lot more time at home, either remote working or on furlough, and as a consequence have decided to convert unused rooms to offices needing better home networking, and also upgrading existing audio and visual systems for family entertainment.”

Jools Browning, director of BrownHen Solutions, the awardwinning technology integration company, agrees, “There is an increasing appreciation for the importance of reliable, high performing internet and WiFi as people become much more dependent on their internet for work, education, entertainment, and health/wellbeing.”

“Most of our requests are now about large screen televisions, smart speakers and turntables,” says Tim. “There is a huge

“There is a huge increase in the demand for televisions, particularly larger screens”

above: Spectral Audio Möbel, sold at Moss Of Bath, is a pioneer in smart furniture with added features such

as built-in speakers and docking stations; inset: Kef wireless also available through Moss of Bath

increase in the demand for televisions, particularly larger screens and those that feature smart functions such as BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon etc. Increasingly clients want their TVs wall mounted (without visible cables) which has kept our in-house installation teams extremely busy.”

Tim adds, “This year the impact of social distancing restrictions will inevitably result in a rise in TV sales. We are already experiencing a high demand for our goods and services, with a global shortage of televisions. As we approach the colder seasons we know that statistically households spend more time watching television, live or streamed.”

Many are taking this screen time a step further and going for the full-on silver screen treatment, as Jools explains, “With less opportunity to visit cinemas or sporting venues, movies or the big match are instead watched at home. Hence there is a growing trend to transform rooms into their own private home cinema for films and sport given the reduction in opportunity to enjoy these elsewhere. The advantages of installing your own cinema room in these pandemic times is plentiful.

“With people spending more time at home (both indoors and in their gardens) there is an increased appetite for home improvement and a greater appreciation of the part that technology can play in those improvements.”

This is reflected in the type of work Multicoms Solutions are now doing. “A lot of our jobs now are about improving and expanding WiFi connectivity around the home, and installing bespoke audio visual

including home automation ideal for cinema rooms,” says Matt.

And a home cinema isn’t as remote a possibility as you might think, as Jools explains, “Capabilities across the entire home technology spectrum are more relevant than ever – there are opportunities now to transform everyday rooms into home cinemas at the touch of a button. Customers want more than just a picture and some sound, they want a truly immersive experience so other aspects such as seating and lighting control are involved in the design.

“The use of acoustic treatment is increasingly popular. Dramatic improvements to the sound quality can be achieved by relatively small investments in strategically placed and carefully designed sound absorbing and diffusing panels, which reduce echo and enhance the aesthetics of the room. It can also significantly improve the sound quality in your home cinema or wherever you choose to watch your favourite box set or movie. The ‘calm’ environment that this creates, which is great for relaxing at home, often surprises people.”

The trend of increasingly sophisticated home entertainment is unlikely to disappear any time soon, Jools predicts, “The recent increase in time spent at home is simply accelerating the trend for home technology.

An increasing number of smart gadgets are catching the eye of homeowners, and more are considering integrating some level of home technology.

“The infrastructure that supports home technology integration should be looked at in the same way as other services such as electrics and plumbing, leading to some level of smart home becoming a standard feature in all of our homes, both new and old.”

For more: www.brownhensolutions.com; www.mossofbath.co.uk; www.multicoms.co.uk

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WORKING FROM HOME

DO YOUR HOME WORK

How to make your WFH space a cut above the usual 9–5

FROM THE DULUX 2020 CARE PALET TE R ANGE AVAILBLE FROM DAVIES OF BATH;W W W.R ABART.CO.UK

By Sarah Moolla

A great view can really help with creativity and productivity

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

“Create the perfect holistic space to achieve that ever-important work/life balance”

L

ast year it was estimated 1.7 million people, out of a UK workforce of some 32.6 million, were based solely at home, while 4 million were working from home sometimes. Come the lockdown and the figure was nearer to half of the working population. And aside from Covid-19 itself, working from home was what we were all talking about. We were learning about VPNs, remote servers, Team Talks and Zoom. The phrase, “You’re on mute” must have been the most commonly spoken exchanges between colleagues in 2020.

Now we are all a little bit more settled into this new way of working, and starting to realise WFH could be here to stay, we’re taking stock of our surrounds. Laptops on laps whilst lounging in the lounge just isn’t going to be conducive to productivity long term. We asked the Bath interior and design experts for their help in how to plan the ideal home office space, big or small. As Richard Asbury, director of Bathbased Maack Architects, says, “The Covid-19 restrictions means we’ve been forced to look afresh at the kitchen table, the loft or that dusty cupboard under the stairs as potential workspaces.”

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WORKING FROM HOME “You don’t need much space,” says Bath-based interior designer Clair Strong. “Create a mini office in a corner of your sitting room, on the landing, in the spare room or in a space under the stairs. Try not to work from the kitchen table though, where it is hard to separate family and home life.”

“Many of our clients already work from home and have a dedicated office space for this purpose. However, what has changed is the need for multiple work stations within one room, or indeed multiple offices within one household to accommodate several people working and studying at once,” says Nick Woodhouse, director at Woodhouse & Law, the interior and garden designers.

“Where the space isn’t available, we’ve assisted clients by designing multi-functional live/work spaces, with a dedicated office area concealed by sliding panels or large doors. This has worked well in guest rooms that are used only occasionally, where a bespoke solution really comes into its own. By designing each element of the study area carefully, it’s possible to ensure adequate provision for files and IT equipment, as well as a comfortable desk space and a backdrop that’s worthy of all of those Zoom sessions.”

Jody Myerscough-Walker, founder of BON, a fabric and lifestyle brand, got inventive when it came to planning her WFH space. “My workspace is actually in my bedroom, so it proves you can successfully marry the two if you are clever with zoning. I had a big overhaul of my home workspace at the start of lockdown, so I could work in a more inspiring, efficient space. I wanted the space to be creative and inspiring, but not cluttered, and I added a potted plant for some greenery.”

AVAIL ABLE FROM FARROW & BALL SHOWROOM BATH, 124 -126 WALCOT STREET, BATH; W W W.FARROW-BALL.COM

IN THE ZONE

The best lighting to work in is daylight

“Blues and greens are said to be calming whereas more vibrant colours increase productivity” DAY BREAK

“Where you create your home office space is important. If you can, position your desk near a window with lots of natural light,” advises Clair. “A view of the sky and some trees will really help you be productive. Try not to face a wall; it will stifle all creativity, but if you have to, stick a few pictures or quotes up to inspire you.”

Richard agrees, “The best lighting of all is daylight, but many desks are set against a wall or hidden in alcoves to maximise space so a good solution is if you can rearrange the space so that your desk faces the room to provide a broader sense of perspective. Good artificial lighting will help and is important to create an atmosphere conducive to work.

Mood and task lighting will help you focus, but be careful where you position any screens to avoid glare and eyestrain.

“Don’t forget to make your space your own; artwork, personal ‘objet’ or photographs will inspire you and remind you of your mission – as well as giving colleagues something interesting to stare at on those endless Zoom calls.”

ALL SORTED

Woodhouse & Law have assisted clients by designing multi-functional live/work spaces

“Good storage is essential so try and incorporate either shelving above your desk, or drawers below,” says interior designer Annabel Grimshaw. “Shelving can again either be built into the nook or across a wall, and painted in a beautiful colour to tie in with your colour scheme, or for a more modern look use a modular system like String or Vitsoe. A desk with built in drawers can be really handy if you have lots of odds and ends you like to keep to hand.

“Try and keep the more mundane items hidden away, and style your shelves with good looking files and storage boxes from places like Harris and Jones, prop pictures up on your shelves, add a nice candle, a vase of flowers, a beautiful paperweight. Your work place should still look good

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 21

WORKING FROM HOME Clair Strong advises to invest in a desk, so you can separate work from home life

OUT OF OFFICE

Simon Scott, CEO of Push Entertainment, has been coaching and developing his remote team of 40 from his Bath home for 15 years. Here he shares his 10 top tips to making it work from home.

1

HAVE A WORK UNIFORM It becomes your entry point to the day. I have 10 black t-shirts exactly the same, I never wear them socially and when they are on, I know I am at work.

2

HAVE A GOOD CHAIR You cannot work from home long term from a laptop in your lap. You will just get a bad back. If you have space, a standing desk extender really helps you to do your 7,500 steps.

3

INVEST IN TECHNOLOGY AND YOUR TECHNOLOGY SKILLS Fastest broadband, external screen if you can, back up to the cloud, good set of headphones with microphone, become friends with Slack, Hangouts, Zoom, Google Docs, Dropbox.

4

“It’s important to get your desk and chair set up properly” and make you feel happy to spend time there. An office cat is an added bonus!”

Richard adds, “Whilst organised storage, a good data connection, and power supply are critical to provide a neat clutter free workspace; you should also think about how your home office supports you mentally and emotionally. Introducing colours can enhance your mood; for example, blues and greens are said to be calming whereas more vibrant colours increase productivity.”

DESK JOB

“If you haven’t already, invest in a desk, so you can separate your work from your home life and have an organised office space,” advises Clair.

“A slim desk or a fold-away bureau and some storage is all you need. ” You could also get inventive like Jody did. “My desk is a large piece of high-grade plywood that I got cut to size and positioned to look out of the window. It’s mounted on the wall on one side and under the other I have a large chest of drawers that houses my art materials.

“I love pops of colour, so I surrounded the space with my favourite pieces from my travels and things I have collected. I also upcycled an old 1950s desk lamp of my mum’s by spraying it neon pink.” .

TAKE A SEAT

“If you are seated for most of the day you need to be aware of posture and physical health too,” advises Richard. “It’s really important to get your desk and chair set up properly to avoid back and shoulder problems. It’s worth investing in a good chair and there’s lots of advice online about the optimum set-up – or get a stand-up desk.”

And as Clair points out, “Office chairs don’t have to be ugly; look for an Eames inspired leather chair for a 1960s Mad Men vibe or a light natural wood chair with clean lines and minimal detail if you’re after more of a stylish Scandi look.”

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

ENFORCE VIDEO CALLS We enforced video calls about six years ago as we could see that people were simply not understanding each other. They were not listening, getting distracted and I am pretty sure eyes were rolling.

As soon as we got eye contact back, people started interacting properly with respect and as a team.

5

HAVE A DAILY STAND UP This works for teams of up to about 20. At 9:15 every morning we have a series of ‘all hands’ team calls. These should not last more than 15 minutes and each person should say a) what they are working on that day and b) who else in the team they expect to have contact with. It means that your team bonds right from the off.

6

TAKE THE TIME TO BE CLEAR Communicate exactly what you want people to do, and follow up in writing so that there can be no misunderstanding.

7

ESTABLISH YOUR CHAT CLIENT ETIQUETTE Never video call someone without establishing the right to do so.

A request to ‘Speak?’ in whatever chat client you use will suffice.

8

REVERSE THE PERMISSION PARADIGM Understand that as soon as you have team members e-working from home, life will get in the way so it is better embrace rather than fight it. The ‘Can I pop to the shops?’ becomes ‘I’m just popping to the shops’. In return for this freedom the understanding is that you have no outstanding uncommunicated obligations to a fellow team member before you leave your desk.

9

IT IS A SIN TO KEEP A COLLEAGUE WAITING Co-worker respect becomes all when remote working, no matter your position in the company.

10

ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO SHARE PERSONAL STUFF We run a few group slack channels including PushThingsI’veMade for the creative and PushCinemaClub where some of us go and watch the same movie in the same week.

Push Entertainment is an ecommerce services company that works with music artists, entertainment brands and influencers to help them develop their online businesses.

For more: www.pushentertainment.com

There has been a significant rise in setting up garden studios

If you have to face a wall add artwork to help inspire you

OUTSIDE OFFICE HOURS

It could be worth looking further afield for your new office space as Mark Lord of Lord Architecture explains, “We have seen a significant rise in the garden studio, the separation of a working environment from the home no matter how closely detached, being a must for many.

“When considering where and how to carve out a portion of your home to facilitate your work, it is important to first consider the significance of this decision and the impact it may have on your wellbeing.

“From our perspective the physical attributes of a successful working environment are; natural light, garden or sky views, adequate ventilation and a functional work-top to suit your profession, be it for painting, reading, writing or poring over a laptop. The use of nature and integration of art within the immediate vicinity or even visible at a distance can drastically improve wellbeing and thus increase productivity.”

For Vanessa Sayce of the Bath-based interiors company Marmalade House, working away from her house was a natural progression as her business grew, “I work from my barn studios at home, and have done so successfully for the past three years. For our design and painting work, space and light are hugely important, and so we began the process of converting one of our old pillared barns into a habitable space. We are lucky enough to have high A-framed ceilings, and so there is a real sense of space around us.

“I wouldn’t change my working environment for the world now.

I have the peace to concentrate, no overheads, the ability to juggle more than I could when I was at a designated location away from home, and the joy of feeling rural yet completely connected. Social media has done wonders for home-workers.

“With a little creativity, you can create the perfect holistic space to be both productive, creative and achieve that ever-important work/life balance.” ■ For more: www.annabelgrimshaw.com; www.bon-maison.co.uk; www.clairstrong. co.uk; www.lordarchitecture.co.uk; www.maack.co.uk; www.themarmaladehouse. co.uk; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

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

The colour popping work space of Jody Myerscough-Walker, founder of BON, is actually in her bedroom

‘HAVE YOU TRIED SWITCHING IT OFF AT THE WALL?’

Dave Edwards of Bath-based Computers Direct, who specialise in direct remote support and software support, tells us how the working from home revolution has impacted on his work.

“Before lockdown a lot of my work centred around mobile phone and tablet developments, but since March, many people have needed to use computer systems. Everyone was trying to get their systems working as well as possible, not just for work communication, but also for home-schooling. Often these machines had been neglected and were older than five years, so needed attention and updates etc, to help make them work efficiently.

“I always advise people to think of the ergonomics of their needs when deciding on new systems and quite often, once they do so, they realise the most expensive solution isn’t always necessary.”

For more: www.computersdirect.org

CUPRINOL GARDEN SHADES IS AVAIL ABLE FROM FR ANCIS DIY, MOORL AND ROAD,BATH; W W W.FR ANCISDIY.COM

WAITING FOR THE NIGHT BY PAUL BENNET T IS AVAIL ABLE THROUGH MODERN ARTBUYER

WORKING FROM HOME

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Surround sound Discreet full range music from MOSS OF BATH adds just the right atmosphere to a large, newly designed outdoor terrace at a luxury country hotel near Bath

N

estling within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Beauty, Homewood is a privately owned boutique hotel promising fine dining and bespoke service within a secluded ten-acre country house setting.

Recently completely refurbished, the large Georgian manor house provides a stimulating mix of period and modern design, indoor and alfresco dining experiences, twenty-one luxurious bedrooms/suites and a spa, all expertly curated by owners Ian and Christa Taylor to offer a refreshingly-individual approach to hospitality.

According to the Taylors, “Homewood offers us an opportunity to create a truly luxury boutique country property and to do something different to what everybody else is doing locally.” A major part of this ambition focuses on the completion of an elegant new outdoor terrace as a restaurant space for the summer months. Ian has devoted all his energy and vision to create an authentic outdoor dining experience serving breakfast, lunches, afternoon teas and evening meals cooked on the terrace, involving big sharing plates, an imaginatively stocked bar and just the right level of high quality audio from a discreetly installed Sonance Landscape 16.2 channel outdoor sound system.

Playlists especially created for different times of the day are designed to draw his guests to the terrace, adding atmosphere while stimulating conversations rather than dominating them. By complementing the cuisine on any night, the music helps to evoke the mood of an Italian piazza or a Mediterranean terrace, for instance, making Homewood’s alfresco dining truly memorable and unique to the area.

THE PROJECT For specification and installation of the sound system, Ian turned to Tim Moss, managing director of Moss of Bath, an established and respected local audio/visual retailer and custom installation specialist. Tim takes up the story, “Moss of Bath had previously been involved with other Bath hotels under Ian’s ownership, notably Number 15, The Abbey and The Bird. Last year we had supplied and installed the bedroom televisions, the UHF distribution system and internal audio installation within Homewood.

With the new terrace project, I knew that Ian wanted an outdoor speaker system that would reflect the quality of the Homewood experience.

“Having just completed a similar installation at a property in Dorset using the stunning Sonance Landscape product, I immediately recommended the system to Ian. My colleague and Moss of

Sonance Landscape LS4T satellites discreetly surround the new terrace at Homewood

Bath sales director Harvey Samways, was so impressed with the Landscape product that he installed a system at his home – this allowed Ian to audition the speakers.

“We’ve discovered that the excellent detail and bandwidth available from Sonance actually allows the system to run at a lower volume level while keeping the perception of audio quality.

In this way, the system produces a relaxing backdrop, encouraging social interaction without competing with it. It’s perfect for the subtle but enveloping audio quality and control that Ian was seeking for the terrace.”

THE PLAN Working with Habitech, Tim selected a Sonance Landscape system in a 16.2 configuration to deliver even coverage of full-range sound over the terrace’s substantial 460 sq m area. Sixteen Sonance LS4T 4.5” 2-way landscape satellite speakers mounted on ground stakes and two LS12T 12” in-ground subs are discreetly installed within a surrounding gravel soakaway and powered by twin Sonance DSP2-750 twochannel amplifiers. Camouflaged in a dark brown all-weather composite to the highest 810G

The new outdoor kitchen on the terrace

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

Twin Sonance LS12T in-ground subs are hidden from view behind planters

ADVERTISING FEATURE

“IAN HAS DEVOTED ALL HIS ENERGY AND VISION TO RECREATE AN AUTHENTIC OUTDOOR DINING EXPERIENCE INVOLVING BIG SHARING PLATES, AN IMAGINATIVELY STOCKED BAR AND JUST THE RIGHT LEVEL OF HIGH QUALITY AUDIO”

THE SYSTEM LS4T (SON-93369) • Two-way loudspeaker • Tweeter Diameter: 25 mm (1.0”) PEI dome • Woofer Diameter: 114 mm (4.5”) • Frequency Response: 75Hz - 20kHz ±3dB • Transformer Taps: 70V: 40W, 20W, 10W, 5W; 100V: • 40W, 20W, 10W; 8Ω • Listening Area: 60˚ coverage, 10’- 50’ distance

LS12T SUB (SON-93104) • In-ground subwoofer • Woofer Diameter: 305 mm (12”) • Frequency Response: 22Hz - 100Hz ±3dB • Transformer: 70V: 300W, 150W, 75W; 100V: 300W, • 150W; 8Ω

SONAMP DSP 2-750 MkII (SON-93379) • Output Power: • 8Ω: 500 W RMS per channel (all channels driven) • 4Ω: 750 W RMS per channel (all channels driven) • 8Ω (Bridged): 2000 W • Frequency Response: 5Hz - 50kHz ±3dB • Auto-on (audio / trigger) • Dimensions (W x H x D mm): • 438 x 98 x 427 (with feet) • 482 x 88 x 427 (with rack ears, without feet)

and IP66 standards, the satellite speakers and subwoofers are positioned to project inwards from the perimeter in accordance to traditional Sonance garden sound design. They blend with their environment with the help of strategically placed planters and pots.

“The installation went like a dream,” says Tim. “Which is just as well because Covid-19 restrictions gave the team just ten days to survey the site and install the system before the hotel reopened on 4 July in line with Government guidelines. We are indebted to Habitech, who pulled out all the stops with specification, coverage plan and the timely delivery of everything we needed, including the accessories and cable.”

THE PERFORMANCE Both client and installer are delighted with the outcome. “The team on-site were so impressed with the audio quality reproduced by the

speakers they were sending video back to me in the office. The audio distribution is so evenly spread that you can enjoy just the right level of richly detailed sound no matter where you sit on the terrace. Ian, as well as his general manager and the staff at Homewood, have been bowled over by the success of the Sonance installation, and have received positive feedback from the guests, who have noticed the clarity and depth of the system.”

Word is spreading. Friday nights on the terrace have become very popular for their party atmosphere and the ‘Instagrammability’ of the setting. “Great dining and music quality are putting Homewood on the map for a very wide demographic,” says Tim. “Especially during the lockdown recovery phase when everyone feels a little safer outside. Ian Taylor invited us to create an ‘unforgettable’ experience, and with help from Habitech and Sonance, I think we have accomplished exactly that.” ■

SCP 14-4 direct burial gel speaker cable

Moss of Bath, 45 St James’ Parade, Bath, BA1 1UQ; 01225 331441 www.mossofbath.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 27

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

WARD WINNING

The Royal United Hospitals of Bath are currently have more than 700 artworks on display across their sites, many of which are for sale, with a third of every purchase made going back into the hospital’s RUH Arts Fund.

The collection includes The Bath Society of Artists members’ exhibition, which occurs every two to three years, and this year is being held in the main corridor of the RUH, and can be viewed online. Works include Bluepool by Mary-Jane Evans (pictured here), Lurcher

by Sally Muir, and Alex’s Attic 2020 by Tom Elliott.

The exhibition runs from 7 October – 14 January, Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org

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

WHAT’S ON 9-23 October

The Bath Contemporary Art Fair will feature an exciting range of artists, including Frances Cooley’s figurative collection

Until 16 October

BODY OF WORK This new selection of works by Alyson Minkley explores cerebral relationships with the body. Her works are emotive, using a range of disciplines to tell a story of bodies and the many and complex ways we consider them.10am-4pm; The Art Cohort; @the_art_cohort on Instagram and @theartcohort on Facebook

around the UK’s museums – and the Roman Baths is one of his stops.

Hunt for Wally’s iconic striped shirt amongst the Bath’s collections.

Each mini Wally has a letter hidden alongside spelling out a spooky secret message. Find all the Wallys to receive a special ‘I found Wally!’ bookmark. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat and Sun 9am-6pm; price included in entry; Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

Until 23 October

Until 8 November

NEW WORK BY FRED CUMING This selection of vibrant works, from the prolific painter, whose art has an impressionist quality celebrate the seascapes of the South West.

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

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

Until 1 November

WHERE’S WALLY? SPOOKY MUSEUM SEARCH Wally is taking a Hallowe'en tour

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

KEITH JANSZ This magical collection of paintings explore light – from the sparkling reflections of the sun glancing off 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;

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

The Galleries Shop & Café, Freshford; www.keithjansz.com

Thursdays until 5 November

WOMAD AT HOME WOMAD and Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios have joined forces to offer an immersive 360° ‘live’ music experience – from home.

The eight-part exclusive series has been recorded with world-class sound technology, resulting in an audio experience beyond anything you’ve heard before. The line-up includes stars of the new London jazz movement Sarathy Korwar, Blue Lab Beats and Native Dancer, alongside the Ghanaian-British band Onipa, Welsh folk act 9Bach, Chinese classical virtuoso Cheng Yu and her ensemble Silk Breeze, and electronic music innovators Hinako Omori and avant-garde folk band Voka Gentle. Thursdays 8pm; www.athome.womad.co.uk

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 1930s glam.

Think floor length gowns in satin, velvet or crêpe – complete with diamanté accessories, obviously. It’s the perfect escape from 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 3 January 2021

GRAYSON PERRY: THE PRETHERAPY 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

© AMERICAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS

WHAT’S ON

radical issues – some of them his own. Mon-Sun 10am-5pm; £12.50; The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Until 14 January 2021 above: Dress goals at The American Museum top right: Black Panther is showing at The Little Theatre on 11 October in memory of its star, Chadwick Boseman left: Keith Jansz’s spectacular seascapes are something to behold and can be seen at The Galleries Shop in Freshford until 8 November below: Billy Kidd is a regular performer with Krowd Keepers at the Bath Ale House

ART AT THE RUH We love the exhibits lining the walls of the RUH’s various sites which can be viewed on line. There’s a huge range of work on show from local artists, as well as exhibitions dedicated to the work of RUH staff and volunteers. See page 29 for more about this exhibition. Mon-Sun, 8am8pm; Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust; www.artatruh.org

9 & 10 October

KROWD KEEPERS MAGIC THEATRE Bath’s resident magicians are finally returning to their regular show upstairs at The Ale House.

Every Friday and Saturday night a selection of the world’s top magicians will step onto the stage to entertain, inspire and utterly mystify.

Let’s face it, we could all use some magic in our lives right now.

Every Friday & Saturday from 8pm; £12.50; Upstairs at Bath Ale House; www.bathboxoffice.com

© FERL A PAOLO

11 October

BLACK PANTHER We’re all still reeling from the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman in August. At The Little Theatre they are celebrating his legacy with a screening of Black Panther, the iconic and transformative film that propelled Boseman into the limelight. T’Challa (Boseman) returns to the secretive and technologically advanced land of Wakanda to claim his throne, only to find himself thrown into conflict with a would-be contender, Kilmonger (Michael B Jordan).

11.45am; £8; Little Theatre Cinema; www.picturehouses.co.uk

11 October

BATH CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR A brand-new venture from the former

associate director of the English Shakespeare Company, the Bath Contemporary Art Fair (BCAF) will be a regular affair showcasing a range of unique and exciting works from established and up-and-coming artists alike. The BCAF is committed to creating opportunities for artists of all mediums to exhibit and sell their work commission-free in an affordable way – a laudable mission, we think.10am-5pm; Green Park Station; www.bcaf.co.uk

14–31 October

BETRAYAL A couple of years after ending their seven-year affair, Emma and Jerry meet for a drink. Emma has just discovered her husband, Robert – also Jerry’s best mate – has been having an affair of his own.

The Theatre Royal returns with Betrayal, one of Pinter’s most popular works. A classic love triangle, this compelling piece travels through time to examine the complexities of long-term love. Turn to page 32 for an interview with the leads, Nancy Carroll and Joseph Millson.

Mon-Sat, 7.30pm; Thurs & Sat 2.30pm; prices vary; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

20–24 October

BATH DIGITAL FESTIVAL The BDF is forging ahead with an online festival. The programme includes a mix of expert panels, discussions and interactive workshops. The focus this year is recovery, skills and talent – so the selection of events is tailored toward helping businesses adapt to the challenges of 2020 and matching talent with need in the city. With events on everything from learning to code and sharpening your social media marketing skills to getting informed on AI, there’s something for all interests and abilities. www.bathdigitalfestival.co.uk

Ongoing

EMMA ROSE: ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Emma Rose takes up the 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-5pm, La Strada Art; www.emmaroseartworks.com n

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

Joseph Millson

© BET T Y BHANDARI

THEATRE

Nancy Carroll

CURTAIN CALL

Live theatre returns to Bath this month with Betrayal, the first of three plays in the Theatre Royal’s autumn season. We sat down with stars Nancy Carroll and Joseph Millson to learn more

By Lydia Tewkesbury What have you missed most about live performance?

Nancy: I’ve really relished coming back the

words, ideas and things that, in the mundanity of lockdown – although we were doing what everybody needed to do in order to get on top of the pandemic – felt lost. As creative people when you don’t use that creative energy it doesn’t go anywhere, it sort of turns in on itself.

It’s great having a vent for it again.

Joseph: I found myself doing quite dangerous

sport activities in the whole of lockdown – only after a while did my wife point out it was all so I was still doing something scary, because I didn’t have theatre.

For a lot of people in this multi-faith world we’re in, theatre is a kind of all-purpose church. There’s communion and a sense of togetherness that you can’t get anywhere else.

Were you ever scared theatre was gone for good?

Nancy: No, never. Theatre has survived wars,

other pandemics, plagues and revolutions.

People need stories. It’s why everyone went

“Sometimes we’ll keep stirring the coffee as we end our marriage” 32 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

nuts for Netflix and Amazon Prime during lockdown – they needed some sense of human contact, human story.

Joseph: Theatre’s been happening for

thousands of years – it’ll survive this handsomely. Danny Moar has said he’s not going to make any money out of this season at all, but that doesn’t matter because it is an exercise in making sure people remember what the experience is like, making sure that they don’t lose the habit.

Have you ever performed at Theatre Royal before?

Nancy: Not for years! I did a Peter Hall season,

I think in about 2005. Other than that, though, I was last in Bath last year, filming Agatha Raisin nearby.

Joseph: I’ve done one Peter Hall season at the

Theatre Royal in 2003, and I’ve toured to Bath in The Rivals, The Dramatist, Loot, Salad Days – I’ve visited a lot. I filmed a whole TV series for Channel 4, Campus, at University of Bath too.

What should we know about Betrayal?

Nancy: Harold Pinter famously had an affair

with the broadcaster and writer Joan Bakewell.

She was married to Michael Bakewell from 1955-72, but from 1962-69 she was involved with Pinter. He was with Vivian Merchant at that time. He basically wrote this play about those relationships. I think, reading between

the lines, the betrayal really refers to the relationship between the two men, but not necessarily the cuckolding that the physical affair created. It was to do with the fact that for four years Michael Bakewell knew that the affair had carried on, without his best friend Pinter knowing that he knew.

The story is told in reverse, and by putting the getting together at the end of the play you actually finish at a point of hope, potential and love, not with the despair and difficulty that you start the play with.

Joseph: It’s bittersweet and weirdly funny.

Pinter is all about characters casually saying things like, ‘Oh I was going to stab you in your sleep last night but you woke up.’ It feels very realistic. We don’t all actually go in for Greek melodrama, sometimes we’ll keep stirring the coffee as we end our marriage.

Nancy: Because of Covid guidelines, Danny has put together a season of two- and three-hander plays which invariably entirely concentrate on intimate relationships. They are ultimately about the human condition and that’s what people want at the moment.

Although Betrayal is very specifically about Pinter’s affair with Bakewell, it’s also just about marriage and love and the difficulties of friendship.

Betrayal runs from 14-31 October at Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Young changemakers Pupils at KING EDWARD'S show us that children are never too young to make a difference, explains Stuart Boydell, year 1 teacher

A

s Greta Thunberg demonstrates, the younger generation are never too young to make an impact on the world and society.

At King Edward’s Pre-Prep and Nursery, children are actively encouraged to help shape their learning and make a difference to the world.

The School embraces and nurtures the unique qualities of each child in its care. One way it achieves this, whether the child is just starting in Nursery or coming to the end of Year 2, is to continuously encourage and nurture each child’s personal passions and interests. This sense of empowerment gives the children important opportunities to shape their learning and steer the curriculum in some of the most important directions.

Whether it is gathering children’s designs for the school gardens; contributing ideas to help inform teachers’ planning or rallying the whole school with fantastic ideas for charitable

events, the children are at the centre of all key developments and initiatives within the Pre-Prep.

One of the remarkable aspects of the children in the Pre-Prep is their desire to help other children, animals and the environment. This year, following the heart-rending images of the terrible Australian bush fires in January a number of children in Year 2 encouraged the whole of PrePrep to help the plight of the millions of animals affected by the terrible conditions. Through their leadership and the generosity of their parents, the school was able to raise over £400 for the WWF. Prior to that, a Year 1 child who had been so engaged in his learning about penguins during the Year 1 topic based on the Oliver Jeffers story Lost & Found that he donated part of his birthday money to sponsor a penguin in Bristol Zoo. Encouraged by their own successes and sense of purpose in helping to improve the world around them, the children were also instrumental in setting the topic for the school’s Book Week & Arts’ Week, which was dedicated to learning

Pupils seen here with James Dennis from Longleat Safari Park, who visited the school after his trip to Australia to care for injured animals.

about the importance of trees to the environment.

The children are very much at the heart of everything that the Pre-Prep strives to achieve.

Each child has become a wonderful ambassador for their futures and their knowledge and passions never cease to amaze the staff. No one in King Edward’s Pre-Prep is too young to make a difference. â–

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

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BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Study guides Young love, coming of age, and microbiology postgraduates on campus – Nic suggests a reading list for the autumn uni term

“Taylor conjures up the tensions of fraught friendships subtly and brilliantly”

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tudents have recently begun arriving at University of Bath and Bath Spa University for what has to go down as the oddest freshers’ week ever.

That first week away from home is one that has never previously been defined by social distancing, quite the opposite, and yet somehow this year’s new undergraduates (and those returning to continue their studies) have got to somehow combine avoiding unnecessary socialising, while creating the friendships that will see them through their studies.

It’s a cocktail that doesn’t really work (now that’s something familiar to every student!) but then those first years of adulthood have always been a heady combination of delirium and stress. Fortunately there has never been a shortfall of books that feature late teen/early twenties angst and the flipside of hedonism and excess; so those going through it all can find solace, and the rest of us can reminisce.

Real Life by Brandon Taylor (Daunt Books, £9.99) is one of six books shortlisted for this year’s Booker Prize for Fiction. It is a campus novel set in a mid-Western university, albeit one featuring microbiology postgraduates rather than freshers. Wallace is the central character though not the narrator. The book is told in the third person which contributes to its rather detached observational style – reminiscent of the way the characters obsess about the contents of their petri dishes.

Though it is set on a campus there are concerns at play that are more reminiscent of an office-based novel at times. Early on Wallace admits to his friends to feeling trapped – to wondering when this long stretch of academic life will, or should, end. When he should move on to real life.

That admission comes during the novel’s first long atmospheric scene. Wallace decides, against his better judgment, to join his friends for a summer’s evening at the lakeside, drinking cider and beer on peeling picnic tables and squabbling needlessly over what snacks to buy. Taylor conjures up the tensions of fraught friendships subtly and brilliantly; introducing undercurrents of jealousy, recent grief, unspoken attraction and tired relationships between the students as their moods loosen with alcohol and fatigue. Secrets are revealed; unexpected

kisses are exchanged and further themes that will pervade the novel begin to emerge – privilege, sexual awakening, misogyny and, in particular, Wallace’s isolation as a black man amongst a predominantly white student body.

Similarly, inequities and presumptions caused by the colour of a person’s skin, is the predominant theme in the magnificent short novel by James Baldwin, If Beale Street Could Talk (Penguin, £8.99). The young adults at the heart of this Harlem love story are facing an altogether more immediate crisis than those on Brandon Taylor’s campus.

Tish is pregnant but the father of her child, Fonny, is in prison, falsely accused of rape.

As Tish and her family seek justice for Fonny they repeatedly encounter police corruption and racism and the false convenient assumptions that pervade the justice system.

Though this is a book full of heart-rending injustice and unfairness, the story’s principal takeaways are around the power of hope and tenacity. Above all this is a tale of young love and about people fighting for what’s right and fair in an environment where that’s really hard to come by – and through its heroine Tish we get to witness the lengths a lover will go to in order to protect and redeem their soulmate.

Finally, a mention for a favourite book of one of my newer bookselling colleagues, Nicole. She has been raving about The Falconer by Dana Czapnik (Faber, £8.99) ever since she arrived at Mr B’s in March just before this dysfunctional year really kicked in. The protagonist here, Lucy, is just 17 years old and is living in New York, balancing a persona full of self-consciousness and confusion in everyday life with a contrasting swagger whenever she’s in her safe space of the basketball court. Like many coming-ofage novels, The Falconer is a novel about a character trying to understand their own identity, dealing with the whirlwind emotions of love and friendship and pushing back against the need to seek the approval of others. All matters that no doubt will be being played out on campuses up and down the country this autumn whatever rules are in place.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; tel: 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

FILM

FROM ABOVE, CLOCKWISE: New documentary I Am Greta; Exhibition on Screen returns with a study of the life and work of Frida Kahlo; Saint Maude is a fantastically dark and twisted horror film

Back in motion

A haunting psychological horror story, a powerful drama about family brutality, plus Greta, Frida, and Chekhov – SOPHIE-CLAIRE MACLEOD previews this season’s best cinema releases

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aint Maud is a new tense, terrifying horror film hitting the big screen soon. Maud (Morfydd Clark) is a shy young nurse; her impressionable personality has led her to pursue the path of absolute devotion to Christianity, spurred on by an obscure trauma in her past. Now, having been charged with the hospice care of Amanda (Jennifer Ehle), a retired dancer in the late stages of cancer, Maud’s faith quickly inspires an obsessive need to save her ward’s soul, no matter the cost.

Writer and director Rose Glass has created a fantastically dark and twisted story. She plays on the audience’s understanding of a psychological condition and Godly intervention, leaving us constantly guessing and intrigued. The intense story is not just about horror, but is an in-depth look into the life of someone who is truly devoted and how it affects their world view. Receiving high praise from critics, this heart-stopping horror will leave you feeling haunted.

Herself is the outstanding new drama from Mamma Mia! and The Iron Lady director Phyllida Lloyd. Sandra (Clare Dunne) is a young mother who is struggling to provide a warm, safe and happy home for her two daughters, as her controlling husband, Gary (Ian Lloyd Anderson), tries to use force to keep the family together. With the council unwilling to provide housing for her and her children, Sandra decides to build a house from scratch herself. With basically no money, Sandra uses her ingenuity to build her ambitious dream.

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

With the support of her friends and the love of her daughters, Sandra finds the strength to do what she must to keep her daughters safe.

Although Sandra is doing it all herself, contrary to the title, the film highlights how her community of friends help her through the struggles she faces. It’s a beautiful film of people uplifting each other and supporting those in need, reminding us that there is good in the world, even when times are tough. Clare Dunne’s performance is

“It’s a beautiful film of people uplifting each other” incredibly moving, and you can tell she cares about the character and her journey. Her vulnerability and strength makes the story completely believable. For all the pain and hurt Sandra goes through, there’s joy and love surrounding her to help her through.

For the art lovers, Exhibition on Screen returns with EOS: Frida Kahlo, a study of the life and work of the Mexican-German painter, famous for her self-portraits. It’s an intimate look at her vibrant paintings and how she became an icon of the 20th century.

Idiot Prayer: Nick Cave Alone At Alexandra Palace is perfect for all music lovers. Playing a collection of stripped back songs, Nick Cave recorded this stunning

performance in June 2020, just as the UK was starting to emerge from lockdown.

Conceived as a reaction to lockdown, this performance serves as a souvenir from a strange and precarious moment in history.

The new documentary I Am Greta comes to cinemas for one day only with an exclusive recorded Q&A. Following the life of young climate activist Greta Thunberg, the film uses never-before-seen footage that shows her rise in prominence and her global impact that sparked the school strikes around the world. Starting from her solo strike outside the Swedish Parliament, it’s astonishing to see how far her words have reached.

The stunning production of the Chekov classic play Uncle Vanya also comes to the big screen. Following the critically acclaimed opening earlier this year in London, Sonia Friedman’s fantastic production was abruptly halted when lockdown was enforced. This hybrid of film and theatre is a production like no other theatre performance you’ve seen before.

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

THE NEXT EXCITING STEPS

An encouraging number of students from DOWNSIDE SCHOOL secured places at their first-choice university this year…

A

s we start the new academic year, we draw inspiration from the success of our recent leavers as they embark on the next exciting step of their lives beyond Downside.

It was encouraging to see how many secured places at their first-choice university, with an increasing number choosing to study STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Destinations included Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, Exeter, Sheffield, St Andrews, Cardiff, Durham, Edinburgh, Manchester and Leeds.

We hope that whatever they have chosen to do – whether they further their academic interests, follow the vocational route or opt for a gap year – that they continue to grow and develop as young men and women of principle and act to make a positive difference in the world.

If you are interested in joining Downside for Sixth Form, please reserve your place on the Virtual Sixth Form Subject Fair on 3 October by emailing or calling the Admissions Team. n admissions@downside.co.uk; 01761 235103.

Alternatively, you can book a virtual visit on a date to suit you. For our full report on the 2020 Public Exam Results, please visit: www.downside.co.uk/public-examresults-2020/

THE ELDER

Bath’s newest hotel also boasts one of its most impressive restaurants, with a distinctive theme, real character, and top-notch talent in the kitchen. Game on! By Matt Bielby

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utumn is here, and it’s time to start kicking through the leaves, breaking out the woolies, and reconsidering our relationship with wild animals: how bewitching and natural and bonny they are, and the best places to currently eat them.

Bath hasn’t really had a game specialist before, but in The Elder – the restaurant offering at the vast, just-opened Hotel Indigo on South Parade – we now boast one to be proud of, a purveyor of out-of-the-ordinary meats which manages to be wholesome, comforting and downright delicious on the one hand, and on the other somewhat fancy. That it never veers into the fussy – fancy’s regular bedfellow – shows just how well judged an offering this is.

Hotel dining isn’t always exciting – it’s too often a parody of itself, stuffy and generic – but things don’t have to be that way. Rather than some vast, impersonal dining room – which Hotel Indigo lacks, being built of endless Georgian terraces, each knocked through into the next – you eat in a series of more modest (though still impressive) rooms running along the front of the building. There are three main ones, each offering twenty covers or so – the entire restaurant has maybe 55 in all, at least in these socially distanced times – so you don’t need too many people to get it nicely buzzing.

Much of what makes The Elder so good is that there’s a guiding intelligence behind the whole thing, from the

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gentleman’s club leather banquets and stuffed pheasants on the walls to a game-heavy menu that dovetails with the look perfectly. Much of this is down to executive chef Mike Robinson, a proper outdoorsman with a true ‘field to fork’ sensibility – he’s a Saturday Kitchen regular, owns the Michelin starred Fulham gastro pub The Harwood Arms, and delivers venison to London’s best restaurants (some which he shoots himself). Also on hand, and more regularly in the kitchen here: group head chef Gavin Edney, who shares his time with sister restaurant The Woodsman in Stratford Upon Avon.

You’ve got to be impressed by the fact that these guys manage the deer herds on local estates themselves, and grow their own herbs and veggies in a kitchen garden.

Before dinner we enjoyed a pleasant half hour sampling the extensive cocktail menu at the bar, with its fancy light fittings and ’40s New York vibe. We took one classic (an Aviation, a gin slipper from the early 20th century) and another more recent invention (a Jalisco Picante), both of which were confidently put together but less punchy than we’d hoped for, the Aviation (for instance) lacking its traditional vibrant violet hue.

From this point on, though, The Elder really upped its game, barely putting a foot wrong: everything was high quality, convivial and gently surprising, a true feast of foresty foods. The a la carte menu – constantly changing with the seasons and availability – offers two courses for £37.50

RESTAURANT

or three for £45; if you’re vegetarian or vegan, there are separate versions and you can mix and match between the three.

We ate from the meaty menu, which offers five choices of starters, mains and puds, semi-accidentally picking two neatly contrasting meals, one all game (Berkshire hare faggot with mushrooms and heritage carrot, followed by Bathurst Estate fallow deer with red cabbage purée, beetroot, dirty mash and sauce grand veneur, awash with blood and red currant), and the other somewhat aquatic. This began with warm Dorset crab tart, before moving onto monkfish with salt-baked celeriac, pickled onion, lovage and bacon.

Piled artfully under a bubbly yellow sauce, my hare was a great entry-level game dish, rich and tasty, while the crab tart was super light, with short, melting pastry. A generous slick of lemon mayo cut through the rich filling, while the herb and shallot topping – described as ‘chimichurri’, though a deconstructed one – added to the impression of freshness.

Both mains, meanwhile, offered a beautiful combination of the heartily basic – great slabs of pink meat; fish covered in bacon panko crumb to resemble giant fish fingers – with unexpected additional elements, be they hedgerow fruits or petals of pink pickled onion. Perhaps most pleasing of all was the little side dish of delightfully decadent ‘dirty mash’, demanding more ingredients than we’ve space to go into here (but each one earning its keep).

This overall impression – of major items coming exactly as you’d want them, and the support acts offering intriguing twists – was reinforced by a handful of unexpected betweencourse treats, of which we’ll mention just one, a tartare of bream, smoked eel and apple, with accompanying squid ink crackers. Amazing.

Puds, too, eschew the obvious: there’s little that’s chocolatey here or lemony, but instead the likes of blackberry tart and wild damson soufflé. We took a very pretty lime meringue pie with its accompanying coconut sorbet, and the caramelised pear mille-feuille, like the poshest version ever of a childhood favourite. “It reminded me, in the best way, of the tinned pears with ice cream and chocolate sauce my mum used to make,” said my companion.

Overall, this was an immensely satisfying evening out, The Elder offering solid service, a great look, and almost note perfect food, the sort you can imagine a hunting party devouring around a campfire – if they happen to have brought a Michelin star chef along. No faff, little fuss, just warming classics made with love and invention. It seems excellent value for the quality on offer, too. n

“Everything was high quality, convivial and gently surprising, a true feast of foresty foods” DINING DETAILS The Elder, Hotel Indigo Bath, South Parade, Bath, BA2 4AB; tel: 01225 460441; www.bath.hotelindigo.com We ate One very gamey selection (hare faggots followed by fallow deer), and another from the sea (crab then monkfish); lime meringue pie and caramelised pear for puds too, plus a few unexpected (but very welcome) little treats in between Vegetarian options There’s a separate vegetarian a la carte menu, and a vegan one too – just ask Prices From the standard a la carte you get two courses for £37.50, or three for £45 Drinks An extensive wine list (over 30

whites alone) covering almost every style, ranging from around £25 per bottle to the low hundreds; there are 17 by the glass too (the super smooth, fruit-filled Givry red we paired with the monkfish, for one, was immense), plus two pages of cocktails and endless spirits and beers from the bar Service / atmosphere Masked servers can throw you a bit – not a fixture of course, except in these Covid times – but the guys here are excellent and let their human sides shine through; they know their dishes and wines too What else? It’s hard to remember a Bath launch that has seemingly got everything right straight out of the traps like this; The Elder is immediately one of the city’s very best hotel restaurants, and a must-try addition to the local dining scene

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Raise your glass

Great wines, good times is the motto of local independent business CRU WINES EMPORIUM...

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ow more than ever is a time to show local businesses our support. Cru Wines, a local independent wine emporium, is more than just a wine shop. Not only does it have an online selection of over 200 quality wines from around the world, but they also offer wine subscriptions, weekly tastings and events, and invaluable advice when it comes to buying wine.

No matter where you explore, what your personal taste is, or what you choose, Cru Wines believe it isn’t just where the wines are from, but where they take you. Visit the emporium in Bradford on Avon to discover hundreds of different wines from around the world, where friendly staff are on hand to help you pick the perfect bottle. With hundreds of different grape varieties, wine regions with a variety of styles, and more accessibility to off the beaten track regions and vineyards, there’s even more choice.

You can now also support local on the go and shop online at www.cruwines.co.uk, where you can find an array of wines, spirits, ciders, beers and gifts. n

Handpicked Wine Subscriptions Explore the world of wine with flexible monthly plans to suit your taste and budget.

From just £45.00 per month for six bottles.

Weekly Tastings & Events Informal and interactive small group wine tastings from just £10pp and supper clubs from £30pp. Booking essential!

Gifting & Special Occasions Whether you are looking for the perfect present or a special bottle, we have plenty of options including gift vouchers and free gift wrapping.

Cru Wines Emporium & Tasting Rooms; 4 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1JX; 01225 862289; info@cruwines.co.uk; www.cruwines.co.uk

BRINGING CRAFT BEER TO WILTSHIRE! Festive feasting For tasty seasonal dining and an easy-going atmosphere head to Grey’s Brasserie. Our festive à la carte and set menus are served from November 18th. Our set menu is ideal for up to 6 guests, starting from £29.50 per person.

Come and explore the world of craft beer with us.

Continue your Christmas shopping online, in front of an open fire, whilst tucking into an indulgent afternoon tea with a festive twist! £29.50 per person.

Christmas carol concert with Noctis choir Sunday 13th December Evening commences at 6.30pm The evening will commence with a Champagne and canapé reception in the Drawing Room followed by the carol recital and a four-course set dinner with wine, coffee and treats. Dinner will be served in the stylish Grey’s Brasserie. The dress code is elegant and smart.

Includes: A Champagne reception and canapés. The carol concert in the Drawing Room. A four-course set menu with wine, coffee and treats served in Grey’s Brasserie.

Price: £110.00 per person Book online, email events@whatleymanor.com or call 01666 834 026

Brought to you by two beer lovers in partnership with Cru Wines.

Cru Wines 4 Silver Street, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1JX

BOAbeerclub.co.uk

instagram.com/BOAbeerclub facebook.com/BOAbeerclub

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

MASTERCLASS

BY MASTER CHEFS Richard Davies

TAKE IT OUTSIDE Following positive feedback from locals, B&NES has agreed to extend the vehicle access restrictions on Kingsmeade Square and York Street from 10am until 10pm.

“The introduction of temporary access restrictions at Kingsmead Square, imposed as a result of Covid19, has given us the opportunity to support businesses to gain pavement licences for tables and chairs outside, while still maintaining clear pedestrian routes, facilitating social distancing,” says councillor Joanna Wright, cabinet member for Transport Services.

In addition to aiding the allimportant social distancing, the new, café culture style of the outside seating areas has proved popular with locals enjoying the continental vibe more familiar to a Parisian street than Bath.

For more: www.bathnes.co.uk

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Bath College has launched an exciting new virtual culinary masterclass. The Chef ’s Forum Academy will see top chefs and now patrons of the academy, Richard Davies of Calcot Hotel & Spa, chef consultant Michael Nizzero and The Olive Tree’s Chris Cleghorn share their secrets with Bath College’s catering students. Current restrictions mean chefs can’t come to the college and teach in-person, so the team – who all boast their own Michelin star – will teach virtually, presenting filmed recipes followed by a live Q&A over video link.

“The Chefs’ Forum Academy initiative offers the opportunity for accomplished professional chefs to give back to the industry and pass on our knowledge and expertise to the next generation,” explains Richard Davies. “I am delighted to have been asked to become a patron of The Chef ’s Forum Academy at Bath college.”

It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to further their culinary skills, but also one for networking in the industry. Students can forge relationships with visiting chefs who will then see them as a familiar face after they graduate and begin the hunt for work.

For more: www.thechefsforum.co.uk

Soaking up the sunshine

FAST FOOD MADE GOOD

Bring a touch of Vietnam to your kitchen

Cà Tím Nướng – Chilli & Ginger Aubergine stir fry

by Noya’s Kitchen Serves 2 Ingredients 1 medium aubergine 2 shallots or a small onion, finely sliced 1 clove minced garlic ½ tablespoon ginger, julienned Sauce 1 tablespoon brown sugar 3 tablespoons soya sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 to 3 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon dried chilli flakes ½ teaspoon corn flour 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying Method • Cut the aubergine in half and then lengthways into 2cm thick sticks.

Steam the aubergine in a steamer for about five minutes.

• Mix the soya sauce, sugar, chilli flakes, salt, rice vinegar and water in a small bowl.

Mix well and set aside.

• Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a hot wok, before adding the steamed aubergine pieces to be browned off for a few minutes.

• Move the aubergine to the side of the wok. Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and the shallots, frying until fragrant. Then add the ginger, fry until translucent. Add the garlic, fry for a few seconds and then mix all the ingredients together.

• Pour the sauce mixture all over the aubergine and stir until the sauce has thickened. This can happen very quickly!

For more: www.noyaskitchen.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK NEWS

Award-winning Jersey Curd from Corsham

THE BIG CHEESE After 14 weeks of judging thousands of entries, The Old Cheese Room in Corsham has won three stars from Great Taste for their Jersey Curd. An absolute treat, judges called it ‘silky and smooth, perfectly firm yet soft’ and praised its ‘wonderful combination of lactic acidity and creaminess.’ Okay, we’re sold.

Julianna Sedli who runs The Old Cheese Room with her husband Karim, was thrilled to learn of their win. She says, “We were really pleased – it feels great to get recognition for the fruit of your labour. Judges were really complimentary and our Jersey Curd seemed to appeal to everyone. It is a great boost to our business and it will help to get people acquainted with our other products like the Natural Live Yoghurt, Baronet and Lypiatt.”

For more: www.theoldcheeseroom.com

Claire at Dexter’s on Bathwick Hill

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Dexter’s Coffee Shop, the new must-visit spot on Bathwick Hill has proved a massive hit with locals since it opened – just as lockdown restrictions started to lift.

“It’s always been in my mind that I’d have a café of my own one day, it was just a case of finding the right property, and timings,” says Claire Hardy, owner of Dexter’s.

“I am a mum to four daughters, so it’s only once they started to leave home I could do something for me, and Dexter’s became my little big project. I always had the vision, so it was easy: a dog-friendly coffee shop with beautiful interiors serving great coffee, delicious pastries and amazing cakes.”

Known for that top-notch coffee and cake, as well as Dexter, the cute pup that is the café’s namesake, we sat down with Claire to learn more about her foodie dos and don’ts.

What’s your desert island dish

Pasta – any sauce will do!

What’s your best food memory?

My father and I sharing moules frites in the South of France – always eat them by the beach, they taste way better in the sea air – and him telling me the shallot juice is the best bit, and dunking French baguette in to soak up the flavours a must. He was so right. We still share them today when we go away together.

What’s your dinner party staple?

Dauphinoise potatoes are an absolute classic for any dinner party, with a side of beef casserole.

What’s your failsafe fast food recipe?

A really cheeky British classic: baked beans on toast with a big handful of grated cheddar cheese piled high on top. It’s not gourmet by any means, but ticks the box every time.

For more: www.dexterscoffeeshop.com

ABSOLUTELY NUTS! Bath’s nut-mad residents, the Squirrel Sisters are set to release a brand-new range of no added sugar snacks. The upcoming range by the real-life sisters, otherwise known as Grace and Sophie Tyrrell (and who aren;t squirrels_ includes smoked almonds, salt and cider vinegar almonds, chilli cashews and sea salt and black cracked pepper cashews as well as their crunchy crackers in smoked paprika and crispy onion flavours.

Grace and Sophie are driven by a passion for creating tasty, sugar-free snacks.

“Sugar is a huge issue. It’s detrimental to our health and it frustrates me that it’s taken a global pandemic for the government to start taking action,” says Sophie. “We have been and will continue to campaign against sugar by offering our consumers a fantastic and delicious alternative.”

You’ll find the new Squirrel Sisters range in Holland & Barrett from next month.

For more: www.squirrelsisters.com

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Consciously You Sustainable Mindful Living

Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

Luxury & local The most sophisticated audience is just a call away

CONSCIOUSLY LIFE. CONSCIOUSLY STYLE. CONSCIOUSLY YOU! A sustainable gifting and lifestyle boutique Organic Collections • Vegan Collections • Fair Trade 1 Kennington Rd (adjoining Chelsea Rd), Bath BA1 3EA www.consciouslyyou.co.uk

@consciouslyyoubath

consciously you Bath

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

RAISING THE BAR

The solution to all this can-we-pub, can’t-we-pub, could be your very own drinking den where everybody knows your name. Exclusive guest list of six, preferred closing time, favourite tipples on tap, and open whatever the pandemic.

Outdoor Bar Company is a new Bath-based business which specialises in custom-made boutique hotel style bars for the garden, with prices starting at £6,500.

Founder Chris Jones says, “Being able to socialise in our own gardens has provided a great relief for many, and having access to your very own charming, hi-spec, bar will be an enjoyable asset, even when the world starts to free up again.”

For more: The Outdoor Bar Company; www.outdoorbarco.co.uk

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

COLLINGWOOD OF SOMERSET CANDLE, £38 Made in Somerset, these hand-poured candles are made using only non-GMO, palm oil free waxes. Place in the centre of your garden table and let the aroma of smoky cedar and birch unfurl to reveal bergamot, vetiver and warm amber.

From www. collingwoodofsomerset.co.uk

FARROW & BALL EXTERIOR PAINT, £22 Too good just for indoor use, Farrow & Ball have durable exterior eggshell and full gloss paint finishes available in all 132 shades on their colour card. And with the exterior masonry available in 108 – you can really brighten up your great outdoors.

From Davies Of Bath, 19A Monmouth Place, Bath. tel: 01225 423749; www.rabart.co.uk

OUTSIDE FAVOURITES With the focus on outdoors spaces becoming so important once again, we’re cosying up our gardens

WEBER GENESIS II E-310 GBS GAS BBQ, FROM £799 When the family shout, ‘What’s for dinner?’, you can shout back, ‘Let’s take this outside!’ The GS4 high performance grilling system takes the lead while you focus on what really matters – barbecues with the people you love, in the comfort of your garden.

Stockists Prior Park Garden Centre, Prior Park Road, Bath; www. priorparkgardencentre.co.uk

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

FREESIA SHAWL, £165 Extend your lounging garden time with a handwoven made in Bath, beautifully soft merino shawl with a striking geometric pattern.

From Katherine Fraser, 74 Walcot Street, Bath. tel:01225 461341; www.katherinefraser.co.uk

YELLOW SIMONA POT BY BERGS POTTER, £35 This sunshine pot, inspired by a French flea market find, is entirely waterproof thanks to a speciality silicone treatment, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use From Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com

ED’S CHOICE

ROYAL BOTANIA DOME SMALL OUTDOOR LIGHT, FROM £830 This outdoor light is a modern take on a lantern, and with its teak handle it is perfect for creating different lighting depending on where you choose to place it.

From Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www. woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

GARDEN SUMMERHOUSE, PRICES START FROM £4,800 Luxury garden summerhouses from octagonal, corner, contemporary, traditional or bespoke, can be double glazed and insulated for all year round use.

From Garden Affairs, Trowbridge Garden Centre, 288 Frome Road, Trowbridge. tel: 01225 774566; www.gardenaffairs.co.uk

CUPRINOL GARDEN SHADES, PRICES START AT £12.99 Protect, refresh and re-colour your tired and worn wooden garden furniture.

From Francis DIY, Francis DIY, 39 Moorland Road, Oldfield Park; www.francisdiy.com

GERANIUMS, FROM £3 Did you know that, with a little love a common geranium can last up 40 years? Lots of light, do not overwater, cut back when dormant, and repot occasionally and these simple flowers can keep bringing cheer to the smallest of outdoor spaces.

From Bathford Nurseries & Garden Centre, Box Road, Bath; www.bathfordnurseries.co.uk

LA HACIENDA TANA STONE EFFECT CHIMENEA, £69.99 This traditional clay chimenea has an appealing, modern look to it that would suit most styles of garden. The wood fire creates a focal point to gather around in the evening, providing a gentle, enjoyable warmth.

From Hillier Garden Centre Bath, Whiteway Road, Bath; www.hillier.co.uk

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OUT OF TOWN

SMALL WONDER Bruton is a testament to the old adage that good things come in small packages Words by Lydia Tewkesbury

O

n arrival in Bruton some people are surprised by how small it is, given that it’s got such a growing reputation for being a hub of activity. But it truly is a powerhouse in terms of creativity, forward-thinking restaurants and independent businesses – so don’t be fooled by its size.”

This sage advice from Merlin Labron-Johnson, chef and founder of Osip, one of Bruton’s multiple high-quality dining options, is definitely worth keeping in mind when you first step off the train into Bruton.

Don’t worry, for a tiny town, it packs a punch – and not just because of its various famous residents (Stella McCartney, Mariella Frostrup and George Osbourne all live nearby) – but its thriving, innovative community. The cute, narrow streets are home to a slew of inventive indies, from foodies breaking new gastronomic ground, to design-led shops packed with the sort of carefully curated goods you’d expect to see in a much bigger city. We went off to explore...

SHOP Common Farm Flowers

Caro

Natalie Jones launched her design brand for home and life, Caro, after she left the city behind for the quieter climes of Bruton. The brand comprises a shop, B&B and events space, and each are curated to perfection. Natalie chooses products that speak to her heart, favouring pieces that inspire sense memories of places travelled to and moments shared between loved ones.

“We are excited about our newly launched curated dining concept called Wanda,” Natalie says. “We are due to launch a box in November centred around the chestnut with a menu written by Nicholas Balfe, founder of Levan, Larrys and Salon.”

18-20 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AA; www.carosomerset.com

“In the nearly 20 years I’ve lived here I’ve always been inspired by the people”

“I know Bruton has become rather smart and fashionable recently, but in the nearly 20 years I’ve lived here I’ve always been inspired by the creativity of the people,” says Georgie Newbery, owner of Common Farm Flowers. “There are authors, publishers, artists and all kinds of artisans who keep the heart of the town beating – yes, there are the big names who’ve moved in more recently, but Bruton has always had a creative heart.”

Common Farm Flowers births around 2,000 bouquets a year. Even with the loss of wedding season, business hasn’t slowed by much –

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

bouquets by post have been flying out the door. Flower arranging workshops have remained popular too, though with smaller classes outside under their new bespoke, all-weather sail – or online via Zoom.

Barrow Lane, Charlton Musgrave; BA9 8HN www.commonfarmflowers.com

Rose & Lyons

Nicky Mendoza-Wilson, owner of clothing and lifestyle shop Rose & Lyons has been busier than ever since lockdown lifted. Unsurprisingly, loungewear has been flying off the shelves.

“We have recently started stocking a brand called American Vintage and they do great classics in comfortable fabrics, but with a high fashion edge,” she says. “We have also had a great run on cashmere jumpers so far this season, even before the cold hit. I think a lot of people are planning for sitting outside in the colder evenings.” Rose & Lyons’ new homewares section, which began a mere two weeks before lockdown, has also proved a hit.

Nicky’s now launching a new Off The Shelf box in time for Christmas, so customers can buy hamper-style gift boxes from the comfort of home.

21 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AH; www.roseandlyons.co.uk

CREDIT COURTESY HAUSER & WIRTH. PHOTO: KEN ADL ARD © EMMA LEWIS PHOTOGR APHY

clockwise: Installation view, Nicole Eisenman ‘Fountain’ 2017, Hauser & Wirth Somerset 2020 © Nicole Eisenman; We loved wandering Bruton’s charming streets; beautiful blooms from Common Farm Flowers

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

OUT OF TOWN

Love for art and food combine at the Roth Bar & Grill

Ape or Eden

An indie bookshop that also sells toys, arts and craft supplies, homewares and unique pieces from local artists and makers, Ape of Eden welcomes you in with a ‘open every day (pretty much)’ sign.

“Our best sellers this year have included limited edition prints of watercolours depicting Glastonbury Festival by esteemed local artist Luke Piper and acrylics and oils on canvas and zinc by our nearneighbour Colette Woods,” says owner, Lisa Pickering. “The Ten Little Robots and other books in the series by one of Bruton’s highly-regarded authors, Mike Brownlow and The Witches of Selwood by our very own resident author, Andrew Pickering, have also proved popular.”

78 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AJ; @apeoreden on Facebook

The Flower Shop

“I can walk down the street here and know that nine times out of 10, I will bump into someone that I know. I can be sure that if things go wrong or if I need a helping hand, there is always someone that I can call upon to help me out,” says Jo McPhee-Clarke, who has owned The Flower Shop for almost a decade. A lot has changed in that time, but not the town’s heart.

In her beautiful shop – which she says running means she is ‘living her dream’ – Jo sells a selection of blooms as well as made-to-order bespoke bouquets. “Currently there is a big demand for dried flowers, natural-style fresh flower bouquets and house plants – cheese plants and spider plants have definitely made a comeback.”

8 High Street, Bruto, BA10 0AA; www.theflowershopbruton.co.uk

EAT At The Chapel

“At the Chapel is a restaurant, bedrooms, bakery, terrace and clubroom, housed within a beautiful Grade II listed, 19th-century remodelling of an 18th-century house, a former congregational chapel,” says Bryony Fox, the restaurant’s marketing manager. The fully stocked bakery in the entrance of At The Chapel is quite something to behold – and we defy anyone to walk past without experiencing the irresistible pull of the freshly baked bread and cakes piled high on the shelves.

28 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AE; www.atthechapel.co.uk

Master baker Tom Hitchmough preparing the tasty treats for At The Chapel’s bakery

Roth Bar & Grill

Art meets foodie excellence at Roth Bar & Grill. In the old cowshed of Durslade Farm out at Hauser & Wirth, the atmospheric spot retains much of its former character and architectural detail. Art lines the walls, and owners Steve and Jules Horrel even go so far as to collaborate with their artists to design unique cocktails and dishes inspired by their works. Excitingly, this November, Steve and Jules are expanding the business with an adjoining shop, Durslade Farm Shop.

“We really want this farm shop to be a place for the community – it will celebrate all the best local growers and farmers in Somerset. You’ll be able to buy fresh produce from the surrounding farm, Durslade Farm – from meat, fruit and vegetables to foraged finds,” Jules explains.

There’ll be gifts on sale, too.

Durslade Farm, Dropping Lane, Bruton, BA10 0NL; www.rothbarandgrill.co.uk

© TORI O’CONNOR

Godminster Shop

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

“Our business is primarily based around the production of organic milk at Godminster Farm, less than a mile from Bruton town centre,” says Richard Hollingbery, founder and owner of Godminster Shop and cheese. “The milk is bottled fresh and available in all food stores around Bruton, as well as many cafés and restaurants in Bath. But the main focus is creating Godminster

“Bruton really is the gastronomic epicentre of Somerset”

Vintage organic cheddar.”

They upgraded the shop during lockdown so you’ll now find a variety of cheeses, gifts and other food and drink at the shop just down the road from Bruton train station. We recommend the black truffle cheddar – there’s nothing else like it.

Station Road, Bruton, BA10 0EH; www.godminster.com

Matt’s Kitchen

Open Thursday-Saturday nights, Matt Watson, owner and chef offers an all-inclusive ever-changing sharing menu. “My restaurant will be 10 years old this December,” he says. “Having never trained as a chef, I’m thrilled that my simple, one dish idea has gone down so well for so long.

I have a Travellers’ Choice Award 2020 from TripAdvisor, which I feel is a great thing to celebrate. The people have spoken!”

51 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AW; www.mattskitchen.co.uk “Bruton really is the gastronomic epicentre of Somerset,” says Merlin Labron-Johnson, chef and founder of Osip. “We have Westcombe Dairy producing the most amazing cheeses, Yonder Brewery making craft beers and ales, and great locals like The Bull Inn. I’ve spent many a Sunday at At The Chapel, or at Roth Bar & Grill after an inspiring visit to Hauser & Wirth gallery. There’s such a great sense of community here, with our small but mighty high street.” Merlin spent lockdown growing his own crops, so since Osip reopened the menu has filled with dishes based on what he’s grown, foraged or been gifted by friends. “There is no menu – people come in, sit down and we bring them good food and drink. I like to think that Osip celebrates the landscape of Somerset surrounding Bruton,” he says.

1 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AB; www.osiprestaurant.com

Hive Bruton

Rebecca and Oliver Gibson, owners of Bruton newbie Hive only moved to the town in March a mere week before lockdown hit. Named to reflect Bruton’s buzzing local community, the restaurant serves up tasty homemade British dishes from head chef Matthew Briddon (previously of Michelin-starred Heathcote’s). Matthew is active in growing, rearing and curing his own produce, and has a passion for charcuterie that’s reflected in the menu; it’s packed with Hive’s own hams, salamis and bacon, along with jams, pickles, ferments and sourdough bread.

95 High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AR; www.hivebruton.com

DON’T MISS...

MILL ON THE BRUE Family-run and not for profit, this outdoor activity centre provides exciting experiences (think: climbing, raft building, etc) for children and adults alike. Head down on 19-30 October for Autumnal Adventure Day Camps with a range of activities daily.

Bruton, BA10 0BA; www.millonthebrue.co.uk THE WALKS According to Nicky of Rose & Lyon, they’re unmissable. “My favourite thing of all about Bruton is the walks,” she says. “The views are just fabulous. You can walk in any direction from Bruton and come across a lovely village with a good pub.”

The handy website www.walks.brutontown.com is a great starting point.

BRUTON DOVECOTE This striking structure is one of the first landmarks you’ll spot as you walk from the train station into town. Erected in the 16th century as a watch tower and then converted into a dovecote in the 18th century. www.heritagerecords.nationaltrust.org.uk.brutwww, org.uk

Merlin Labron-Johnson spent lockdown cultivating fresh produce for Osip

© ED SCHOFIELD

Osip

Bruton Wholefoods

“Bruton Wholefoods is a little unusual in that we’re an independent community co-op: we grew out of local people wanting to be able to get good value, organic foods that were ethically made or sourced,” explains Christine Kaltoft, who works for the co-op and is a member.

The shop is known for its vast range, which includes a diverse selection of foods, zero waste products and fresh fruit and veg.

57A High Street, Bruton, BA10 0AW; www.brutonwholefoods.org.uk

GO Hauser & Wirth

“The local landscape and wildlife surrounding Bruton is truly breath taking and provides endless inspiration for our team and visiting artists, most of which spend months in our residency studios,” says Debbie Hillyerd, director of education at Hauser & Wirth. The arts centre does seem like a dream, surrounded by gardens crafted by internationally renowned landscape designer Piet Oudolf and the thoughtful, diverse exhibitions in its gallery. “We’re excited to present two concurrent solo exhibitions this autumn by Lee Lozano and Nicole Eisenman, two artists working in New York, generations apart,” says Debbie.

“Alongside the gallery presentations we’ve installed a major outdoor work by Nicole Eisenman, Fountain (pictured on page 49), in front of Durslade Farmhouse, one of the original Grade II farm buildings. The work reflects traditional meeting places and the oldest form of public art, which feels particularly poignant in this moment.”

Debbie also encourages visitors to head down the road to Make, H&W’s contemporary craft gallery on Bruton High Street.

Durslade Farm, Dropping Lane, Bruton, BA10 0NL; www.hauserwirth.com

The Newt

Whether you’re looking for a luxury weekend escape, a spectacular garden, an exceptional meal or a spa treatment from heaven, there’s something for you in the gorgeous grounds of The Newt. Take a guided tour of the Cyder Press and Cellar, or experience their ongoing The Story of Gardening exhibition; accessed via the treetop walk way. ■ Hadspen, Bruton, BA7 7NG; www.thenewtinsomerset.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

ANDREW RICHMOND ORIGINAL WATERCOLOUR PAINTINGS

MAKES A PERFECT GIFT

Repairs, Restoration Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build Stone Cleaning Stone Carving Fireplaces

Tel: 01225 462688 / 07968 697091 Email: Julian@bathstonemasons.co.uk

www.bathstonemasons.co.uk

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

www.AndrewRichmondArt.com

HAIR & BEAUTY

Charlotte Hurd in the zone

Bath’s hair and beauty experts share their must haves for the winter

By Lydia Tewkesbury

B

eauty might have been the last thing on our minds back in March, and with the hairdressers shut our hair long and with the beauty salons closed our eyebrows went haywire, nails got gnarly, and massages were a distant dream. But now as our favourite Bath parlours reopen, and the nights start to draw in, we’re in need of, and ready for, a little pampering, top beauty advice, and self-care indulgence. Here, a few of Bath’s experts share their tips and tricks for emerging, butterfly-like come spring.

What’s one treatment you just couldn’t live without over the last few months?

Katherine Spreadbury, owner of Little Lab says, “ARK Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer (RRP £36). It’s the ultimate multi-tasker; an award-winning primer, sunscreen and moisturiser, all in one. You can use it as your daily moisturiser, or on top of your regular moisturiser for added hydration – and as a great base for your make up.”

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

© K ATHLEEN SPEARS

THING OF BEAUTY

Emily Mander specialises in creating perfect beachy hair

Natalie Heaver, director of Wild Rose Beauty says, “Our favourite product over the last few months to help brighten complexion during dark times has been without doubt the Delilah Pure Light Liquid Radiance illuminator (RRP £32) – Holly Willoboughby and Vogue Williams are reportedly fans. It can be used all over the face to create a gorgeous, glow-ey look.”

Emily Mander of Emily Mander Hair, says, “OLAPLEX! I think people really used the lockdown period as a chance to give their hair a break from the constant washing, styling etc. OLAPLEX played a huge part in this as their products are specifically designed to repair and protect your hair. It uses a patented ingredient, bis-amino diglycol dimaleate to restore your hair from the inside out.”

Ann Perry, owner of Consciously You says, “We needed aromatherapy candles, and lots of them. After a long day of home-schooling, working from the dining table or simply sitting

on the sofa watching Netflix, there’s nothing nicer than lighting a candle and letting the aromas drift through your home. The talented founder of Tiger & Co., Penelope, makes her candles with high-quality essential oils and sustainable soy wax.” (RRP £15.50).

Charlotte Hurd of Charlotte Hurd Beauty says, “During lockdown I couldn’t live without Heliocare SPF factor 50 sun cream (RRP £31) with the lovely weather we had. I gave my skin a full break from any makeup and used lockdown to get out for lovely walks, so of course sun protection was needed.”

What’s one beauty must-have for the new season?

Natalie Heaver, director of Wild Rose Beauty says, “Wearing masks – though vital – can cause an imbalance of bacteria and congestion in the skin, so it’s even more important to be looking after it with a good regimen. We stock a fabulous skincare range called Environ – it’s also what we use in our

We weren’t the only ones working on our transformations during lockdown.

Works to expand BA1 Hair were already underway when lockdown hit. The timing of the extension – if not anything else! – was fortuitous, allowing the BA1 team to reopen in July with a space much more suited to social distancing.

“Phil, my business partner and fellow director and I worked on the salon throughout lockdown. I turned into a carpenter and loved having the time to create and build things for our new space,” says Zac Fennell, director of BA1 Hair. “We painted during lockdown, and used the time to upgrade and make key changes so when opened we could give the best experience to our guests.”

© SOPHIE CAREFUL

GLOW UP

Natalie Heaver and the team at Wild Rose Beauty

Relax with an aromatherapy candle from Consciously You

Zac and Phil get their DIY on

facials. Their products contain Vitamin A, which promotes the skin’s natural moisturising capabilities, strengthens its outer layer to keep it looking firm, stimulates the production of natural protein, supports your skin’s immune system and helps prevent breakouts.”

Katherine Spreadbury, owner of Little Lab says, “Everyone is trying our new Temptu 24-Hour Hydra Lock Airbrush foundation (RRP £60 for six). It comes in 16 colours to help find the perfect match, and includes a mix of amino acids, which are a building block for healthy, well-moisturised skin, and hyaluronic acid, which helps fight the effects of aging. It also contains Goji berry extract, which is a powerful antioxidant.”

Zac Fennell, director of BA1 Hair says, “The Aveda Botanical Repair range. It’s an amazing treatment that repairs the hair’s bonds, which makes it feel instantly healthier and look softer and shinier.”

Abgail Beszant, marketing manager with Frontline Style says, “We’re excited about the new launch from Caudalíe this month.

The number one skincare brand in France and reportedly one of Victoria Beckham’s favourites, their new Firming Cashmere Cream (RRP £42) is an anti-wrinkle treatment that promises to leave skin soft, nongreasy and super comfortable. Also, if you buy a Caudalíe product from us you earn loyalty points towards a Caudalíe facial worth £65.”

Emily Mander of Emily Mander Hair says, “I’m a massive fan of ELEVEN, an Australia-based company whose products are incredible, and less well known in the UK. Their I Want Body Texture Spray is a game changer.”

Hannah Paradise, owner of Enhance Medispa says, “Cleansers are everything right now. We have the new Elemis Superfood AHA Glow Cleansing Butter (RRP £30) in stock, which is fantastic for the change in seasons. It uses pumpkin enzymes to munch away at dull dead skin cells to create a clean, bright and nourished complexion.”

“Who doesn’t love a product with a multitude of uses?”

Ann Perry, owner of Consciously You says, “Wren and Willow Hero Balm (RRP £22) is a must-have for anyone looking for an organic, natural skincare routine. Handmade in small batches, it’s a true skin saviour. Not only does it moisturise and nourish your skin, but you can also use it as a hot cloth cleanser or a soothing face mask. Who doesn’t love a product with a multitude of uses?”

Matt Carr, director of Artizan Hair says, “Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer (RRP £23) – it gives straighter hair kink and kinky hair curls. It also smells fantastic as it contains certified organic lemon, geranium, bergamot and orange among other pure flower and plant essences.” n

YOU HAVE BEEN READING… Little Lab 20 Broad Street, BA1 5LN; www.littlelab.co.uk Artizan 8 George Street; BA1 2EH; www.artizanbath.co.uk BA1 Hair 5 Bartlett Street; BA1 2QZ; www.ba1hair.co.uk Charlotte Hurd Beauty 29 James Street, BA1 2BT; www.charlottehurdbeauty.com Consciously You 1 Kennington Road, BA1 3EA; www.consciouslyyou.co.uk Emily Mander Hair Walcot Yard, Walcot Street, BA1 5BG; www.emilymanderhair.com Enhance Medispa Miles Buildings, Lower Ground Suite 3, George Street, BA1 2QS; www.enhancemedispa.co.uk Frontline Style 4-5 Monmouth Street, BA1 2AJ; www.frontlinestyle.co.uk Wild Rose Beauty 10 Church Farm Business Park, Corston, BA2 9AP; www.thewildrosebeauty.com

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

BEAUTY ANÉ AURET

It starts at home

Ané shares her top three do-it-yourself skin saviours learnt over lockdown

H

ere in Bath, we have some of the best beauty salons, spas and aesthetics clinics in the country right on our doorstep. We are truly spoilt.

But while no at-home treatment can compare with professional expertise, lockdown gave us no choice other than to test our own beauty skills. And we’ve come to realise that there is actually quite a lot that can be done from the comfort of our own home.

Pre-2020 who knew we could get rid of our own roots, dye our own eyebrows and perform a pretty decent gel mani? Results aside, the joy of at-home treatments for me is the chance to escape our daily routine. They are so much more than something to tick off a To Do List. They come under the wonderful umbrella of taking care of ourselves, and I think developing rituals and treatment time is a lovely way to prioritise ourselves. I’ve been seeing the term ‘skin-vestment’ doing the rounds on social media and I love it. You really do get back what you put in both in terms of products and time.

Here are three of my absolute favourite at-home skin saviours.

Sit back and relax: all you need to do is decide which one you want to try first.

1

Facial massage and toning

We hold a lot of tension in our face, and fluid retention, fine lines and wrinkles are often the first tell-tale sign of stress showing on your skin. The benefits of methods like facial massage, face yoga and using a manual facial toning device like a gua sha (a face massager used in traditional Chinese medicine) are two-fold.

Treating your skin and your mind, these tools relax the facial muscles whilst actively boosting circulation and lymphatic drainage, and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.

Try out the Hayo’u Beauty Restorer Face Massage Tool (RRP £30) alongside your favourite face oil for a truly relaxing and restorative experience. www.hayoumethod.com

2

At home beauty devices

With a reported increase of 144 per cent in LED (lightemitting diode) facials in 2019, it’s no wonder that more brands are launching home devices to complement skincare routines. They can help target inflammation and acne, while also improving circulation and boosting collagen.

Try out the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask, the latest generation in wearable antiageing technology that combines anti-ageing red and near infrared light therapy (RRP £349)

“Who knew we could get rid of our own roots, dye our own eyebrows, and perform a pretty decent gel mani” 56 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ABOVE: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask; Hayou Beauty Restorer;

Dr Dennis Gross Clinical Grade Resurfacing Liquid Peel

to improve skin tone, texture, firmness and tightness. www.currentbody.com Another option is the NUFACE Mini Facial Toning Device (RRP £167), which is a portable device that harnesses micro current technology to lift jowls, contour jawlines, reduce folds and wrinkles, and smooth complexion. www.spacenk.com

3

At home face peels

Chemical peels are one of the top 10 most commonly performed aesthetic procedures in the world. They’re flexible, can be tailored to your particular skin concerns and get great results in treating balancing pigmentation, treating photo-damage, acne scarring, wrinkles and dullness. If you’re short on time and money, you can absolutely use at-home chemical exfoliants 1-2 times a

week to complement your routine.

At-home face peels contain the same potent ingredients used in office peels (like Alpha Hydroxy Acids) but in concentrations safe enough for you to use in your bathroom. Make sure to choose the right option for you, always follow the instructions and don’t overdo it. Best avoided by very sensitive skin types.

Dr. Dennis Gross is one of my go-to’s for at home peeling solutions. Try the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel (RRP £19 for five) or Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Grade Resurfacing Liquid Peel (RRP £102). www.spacenk.com 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

THE SECRET’S OUT It’s a silver-screen debut for the historical and magnificent 900 acre estate Iford Manor Gardens Words by Nick Woodhouse

T

hree years ago, the owners of Iford Manor received an unexpected and intriguing phone call. A location scout had discovered an image of the Spanish Patio within Iford’s Harold Peto garden and was keen to visit. In search of locations for the new film adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel The Secret Garden, the scout’s call was duly followed by his arrival, and that of several colleagues, in a minibus to see the gardens first-hand. The minibus became a coach on the next visit, with the following summer seeing the arrival of the crew themselves, ready for filming.

release over the Easter weekend earlier this year, with Iford owners Marianne and William Cartwright-Hignett hoping to offer screenings within the gardens over the subsequent summer months. This year of course took its own uncertain course and the film’s release was delayed, with the gardens staying closed throughout the season.

The garden team at Iford, led by Troy ScottSmith, has continued however to work behind those closed gates, keen to create some muchneeded positivity from this turn of global events.

In place of daily preparations for visitors, they were able instead to concentrate on those larger projects that form part of their far-reaching ten-year plan. The restoration of the gardens has been accelerated, with re-planting schemes taking the place of daily deadheading.

Troy has been further developing their volunteer training programme too, ensuring it continues to be a meaningful scheme where those passionate about gardening can share their ideas and learn from the best.

The manor’s extensive arts programme was also sadly put on hold, apart from four days in August. Here, with lockdown restrictions eased, Marianne and William were able to launch the Bounceback Festival, a way of supporting musicians who hadn’t been able to work or perform in recent months. Over 600 tickets were sold for the event, with music spanning from classical jazz to gypsy folk.

Next year will not only see the return of the festival and April’s re-opening of the gardens to the public, but also a new multipurpose space to welcome guests, host events and sell local produce, including that from the wider Iford estate. After a particularly wet winter that prevented the digging of foundations of the space, this project had fallen six months behind; now, they are making up for lost time, the circular saws humming in the background whilst I interview William.

There will undoubtedly be further ways in

“John dedicated almost four decades to restoring Harold Peto’s original design” It was ultimately the Great Terrace, rather than the Spanish Patio that took centre stage. It was to become one of six gardens that feature within the film, a list that includes the National Trust’s renowned Bodnant Garden near Colwyn Bay. It may however take viewers a little while to recognise their favourite spaces. At Iford, a three-week set-up saw the famous Great Terrace turfed, colonnades temporarily added and the arrival of some 1,500 potted plants.

The plants would stay in their pots, strategically placed to ensure a riot of colour from all angles.

Filming itself took place over three sundrenched days and included some of the key scenes from the magical story; the reconciliation for example of Mary’s cousin and his father, Archibald Craven, played by Colin Firth. By this stage, the manor’s magic had cast its spell on the film’s production designer Grant Montgomery, who later chose to return to Iford to film a series of indoor scenes for ITV’s Regency drama Sanditon there.

The Secret Garden was due for its theatrical

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

which the gardens will look different to how they might have in days before the pandemic. The restaurant will most likely have an alternative layout and offer at-seat service, and audio guides may be on offer to counter any restrictions on numbers joining a guided tour. Marianne and William are keen however that the space doesn’t become just another museum, wishing instead to reflect both its vibrancy and the enthusiasm of the very people that continue to be so core to the garden’s story. Any audio guides will therefore include contributions not just from William, Marianne and Troy, but also from William’s parents, John and Elizabeth, both so formative to the Iford we see today.

When Elizabeth, aged 25, purchased Iford in 1964, the gardens were largely neglected, her future husband John dedicating almost four decades to restoring Harold Peto’s original design. It is the more intimate setting of the smaller evening tours of the gardens that really allows William the opportunity to share those stories, over a glass of fizz, of his family’s work and their plans for the future.

Fortunately, those plans will soon include being able to watch The Secret Garden on screen.

The secret’s finally out; the film is set for general release later this month, hopefully followed by those much-anticipated outdoor screenings at Iford next summer.

The Secret Garden starring Dixie Egerickx, Colin Firth, and Julie Walters will be released in cinemas, and on Sky Cinema, on 23 October.

For more: Iford Manor, Iford, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 2BA, tel: 01225 863146; www.ifordmanor.co.uk

Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law on 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

GARDENS

Celebrated Edwardian garden designer Harold Peto made Iford Manor his home from 1899-1933

© STUDIOCANAL UK

The film tells the story of a young orphan Mary who discovers a magical secret garden on her uncle’s estate

Colin Firth plays Mary’s uncle, Archibald Craven

© STUDIOCANAL UK

© IFORD MANOR

Filming took place at Iford Manor Gardens for three days

© STUDIOCANAL UK

© STUDIOCANAL UK

Dixie Egerickx and Amir Wilson in The Secret Garden

It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>FRESH IDEAS AT SETSQUARED (61) >>INTRODUCING DIGITAL WONDERLAB (62) >>BATH LIFE PRESENTS (63)

© UNIVERSIT Y OF BATH

clockwise: Carpenter House, home of SETsquared; Sean Devane will help start-ups, small businesses and SMEs develop their offering

Out of this world

There’s a new face at SETsquared, Bath’s innovative business incubator for the automotive, defence, maritime, energy and space industries There’s a new entrepreneur in residence at business incubator SETsquared Bath’s Advanced Engineering Business Acceleration Hub (AEBAH). Sean Devane brings 25 years of experience working with start-ups, small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) and global companies in product development and innovation.

“As a business growth consultant I enjoy helping start-ups develop and grow,” Sean says. “I’m very excited to be joining the SETsquared Bath Innovation Centre, which is recognised as a world-leading business incubator and enterprise partnership. As entrepreneur in residence for the Advanced Engineering Business Acceleration Hub, I’m looking forward to supporting high-growth businesses across the region.”

The AEBAH is a three-year programme funded by the European Regional Development Fund supporting start-ups and SMEs in

the West of England in the automotive, defence, maritime, energy and space fields. In partnership with the University of Bath and SETsquared, the programme offers 12 hours of business support that could lead onto research opportunities with expert academics at the university.

“There are many benefits for participants of the AEBAH,” says Brian Prescott, SETsquared centre director. “Not only the bespoke, fully funded business support but opportunities to collaborate with world-class academics at the University of Bath and the IAAPS propulsion centre, where support will soon be available to help business acceleration and SME growth through their new £70 million research and innovation facility.”

For more: www.bath-setsquared.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

Phat Yaks is getting a new lease of life

NEW FRIENDS

Phat Yaks has a new owner. The authentic Nepalese lunch spot on Kingsmead Square has been owned by Sarah and Sher Gurung, who also run Yak Yeti Yak on Pierrepont Street, since 2016.

Taking over is Abdul Hmid, and the new owner has big plans for the Grade II listed spot and its prime location. He says, “I am currently finishing my refurbishment of the business premises, which I hope will be ready to launch in early October. My new restaurant will be called Friends, with a burger and pizza theme.” Friends will be dine-in and takeaway friendly.

Phat Yaks only operated during lunch periods, so the launch of a new business sees a huge opportunity to expand trading hours and make the most of the Square’s heavy footfall, notes Christie & Co, the specialist business property adviser and facilitator of the sale.

For more: www.christie.com

© DERRYN VR ANCH

Hundreds of property professionals gathered for last year’s awards

ONTO A WINNER It’s time to start gearing up for the Bath Property Awards ceremony on 22 January. Nominations are now open for the 2021 Awards.

A snazzy lunchtime networking celebration at the Apex Hotel, the Awards are open to all local companies and organisations with connections to the property world. The Awards are completely free to enter and can be won by anyone, you’ve just got to impress the independent judges – a team of handpicked local experts in the sector.

There are 17 categories to enter, including Architect, Interior Designer, Supplier, Commercial and Residential Agent and Transformation to name but a few. For the full list of categories and to submit your nomination for free, please 62 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

visit the website.

“Any business working within the property industry is encouraged to get involved, whether by sponsoring or by entering the Awards,” says event organiser Annie Miekus. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new clients, connect socially in the city and, of course, to have your business recognised in front of peers.”

For more information, and to find out more about nominating your company, please contact events@mediaclash.co.uk The Bath Property Awards have seen unprecedented support since their inception, with category sponsorships sold months before the ceremony in previous years.

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

SEASONS CHANGE

OJO Solutions has revealed its exciting next phase. The digital organisation is relaunching with a new name: digital wonderlab.

This new season comes with a strong new look for the awardwinning team of strategists, designers, UX specialists and developers all focused on the mantra ‘technology with purpose’.

“It is the start of the next part of our story, our new name and identity have been created to really convey not only who we are and what we do, but why we do it. They will give us a stronger and clearer presence and help us grow by doing more of the things we love doing,” says Nathan Baranowski, chief wondermaker at digital wonderlab. “Our ‘why’ is to delight the people our clients care about the most, to make life easier for society, to help organisations develop and flourish, to give new businesses a great start using digital to lead the way. We help you see new digital possibilities and make them happen through beautifully crafted technology.”

For more: www.digitalwonderlab.com

Nathan Baranowski, Tom Passmore and Kevin Triggle of digital wonderlab

BATHWORKS

TALKING HEAD In September, MediaClash CEO Greg Ingham hosted the first Bath Life Presents… a new live Zoom series where we explore how consumer-facing organisations and businesses are adapting their offer in response to the challenges of 2020. The first episode was an education special, with Andrew Gordon-Brown, the brand-new head of Kingswood School stepping into the hotseat.

At the beginning of his career, it was hard to see how a few years down the line Andrew would end up working in education. Beginning his career in the world of finance and investment banking, the day-to-day of school life couldn’t have seemed further away but, Andrew argues, they aren’t really so different.

“I was an enquiry analyst, so my job was to come up with investment recommendations and pitch them. It’s not such a big leap, pitching to investors to teaching a room full of a sixth formers economics,” he says. Perhaps the biggest change is his own sense of satisfaction – in addition to wanting more family time after the birth of his first daughter, the desire to make a positive impact was a major factor in his decision to leave the city behind.

Fee-paying schools like Kingswood have come up against their own unique set of challenges with the onset of the pandemic, and the push for fee discounts while maintaining the school’s offering now and into the future was significant. This, coupled with the loss of income-generating activity like facilities hire – the school is a popular spot for weddings, conferences and events – dealt a financial blow.

“It is difficult for schools to deliver on strategic objectives on fees alone and so we look at profit-driving activity like summer residentials for that,” Andrew says. It was tough to lose that income stream, but the school is adapting. “When it comes to new projects the question is always: are you investing in something that will generate additional income?”

When making those decisions, Andrew is keen to include Andrew the thoughts of parents and Gordon-Brown students – he said over the next few months the school community can expect surveys seeking to understand their priorities for the school over the next few months.

It’s an investment all around, but one Andrew firmly believes is absolutely worth it. “Buying into Kingswood is unlike any transaction you’ll ever make,” he says. “You’re buying into a community, an ethos and a set of values with kindness at its heart. You’re buying into a place where the teachers fundamentally believe it is their job to educate the whole person – mind, body and spirit.”

For more: www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

Heidi Cardoza has joined the family law team at Goughs Solicitors

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

Goughs Solicitors welcomes Heidi Cardoza to its family law team. A member of the national organisation of advocates for a non-confrontational divorce, Resolution and previously head of the family department as Frettens Solicitors in Dorset, Heidi champions the human element of each case, paying close attention to the individual needs of her clients.

Heidi says, “Joining Goughs is a real privilege. The firm have a fantastic reputation alongside great people and values.

This forward-thinking approach ensures Goughs continue to go from strength to strength. I am looking forward to building my own case load with a variety of work and assisting clients through a difficult time to achieve the best results for them.” www.goughs.co.uk

PURE INTENTIONS

Pure Planet, Bath’s renewable energy supplier has signed a United Nations pledge to support the environment, human rights and anti-corruption in the wake of the pandemic. They join many of the world’s largest businesses in signing the statement, which reaffirms their commitment to the UN Global Compact, which the company was already a signatory of.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has seen a retreat from global cooperation, compounding global crises including climate change,” says Andrew Ralston, Pure Planet’s CEO. “Proactively signing up to the statement challenges us to live up to the commitments of the UN Global Compact through the culture we build and nurture at Pure Planet.” www.purepla.net

BATHWORKS

BIZ Q&A

Mark Lord Mark Lord is an architect, artist and founder of Lord Architecture Ltd, an award- winning Bath based RIBA Chartered Practice Tell us a little about yourself I initially studied a BA in Fine Art at the Oxford School of Art in 2004, making the decision to shift focus in 2005 and pursue a career in architecture. My father-in-law, a successful architect and prominent figure in the industry, inspired me to make the transition early on in my education, which set me on this path.

What does it take to become an architect?

Architecture is a seven-year qualification split into five parts; formally the RIBA Part I, II and III, interspersed with a minimum requirement of ‘in practice’ experience between each qualification, or during, if you like a challenge. I undertook my RIBA Part I and II qualifications at the Oxford School of Architecture (Oxford Brookes University) and completed my studies at the University of Westminster where I obtained my RIBA Part III. Did you work during your studies?

Yes, in a practice in central London, initially in Fitzrovia for a small firm, and then for a larger scale practice in Parsons Green.

Tell us about a project you really loved and why One of our recent projects is a Grade II Listed C17 Priory in Bath. We have been appointed to design and deliver a bespoke contemporary extension.

There are a number of complexities to this project: its statutory listed status, World Heritage and Green-Belt setting, as well as an extension each century to contend with. Our proposals draw inspiration from the existing listed 64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Mark Lord believes the greatest creative inspiration comes with constraint

“I AM CONSTANTLY SEEKING INSPIRATION” building whilst remaining clearly contemporary in nature, the junction of new and old is celebrated in crisp architectural detailing and the overall scheme provides a number of heritage benefits.

What would your dream project look like?

Most would assume that a blank canvas and an unlimited budget would be the answer here, however, I have often found that the most innovative design is born of constraint. For example a listed building, a commercial conversion or a tight residential plot can drive the architect and the client to work together imaginatively within the parameters of the brief, the budget and the planning system to produce a high-quality scheme.

Could you tell us about an architect whose work has inspired you, and why?

Rather than focus on any one individual or practice’s body of work I am constantly seeking inspiration from a range of sources; art, nature, the form and order of historic buildings, the crisp detailing of modern architecture and the continually evolving way in which we inhabit spaces.

Tell us about your own home My wife and I purchased our home in Bath at auction in 2016. A restoration project, it was not for the faint of heart; severe subsidence had caused the entire west elevation to pull away from the terrace, leaving the first floor rooms tentatively cantilevering with no structural support, and the southern aspect of a double valley roof on the verge of collapse. The principle north elevation had a crack separating it from the adjoining cottage wide enough to see daylight and internally vegetation and damp were rife.

How have you fixed it up?

Within the historic part of the cottage all rooms have been lovingly restored, period fireplaces sourced, bespoke joinery created, and skirting, cornicing and historic oak flooring introduced.

Throughout the property a muted interior palette allows the artwork and

books to fill the spaces with colour, complimented by statement pieces of furniture. To the rear a minimalist white open plan kitchen-dining space is housed within a light, contemporary glass box extension.

Exposed steel, minimal framed sliding doors and a full height slot window provide a contrasting modern, yet complimentary aesthetic and a clearly defined junction between new and old.

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

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

With the recommencement of relative normality, we have seen a reflective client-base and a tide of shifting focus, with emphasis firmly placed on the ability to adapt internal spaces, particularly in city centre locations where space is at a premium.

For more: Lord Architecture, 26 St Mark’s Road, Bath, BA2 4PR; @lord_architecture on Instagram; www.lordarchitecture.co.uk.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Rediscover Bath this autumn Rediscover Bath and fall in love with the city once more…

A

s always, the Bath BID is working to promote the businesses in the city, who need our support now more than ever. But this is no hardship, as beautiful Bath is even better under a cloak of autumn colours and the crisp weather that October brings. Now is a great time to take advantage of a quieter city centre and rediscover the city’s sights and attractions.

Get a breath of fresh air with a wander around one of the city’s wonderful parks and green spaces. Meander along the Kennet and Avon Canal or take a brisk walk up to the Bath Skyline to enjoy views of the city at its best, before rewarding yourself with a warming drink at one of Bath’s tempting cafés.

We are pleased to see so many businesses spilling out and making the most of outdoor spaces. Wrap up warm and enjoy some open-air dining around the city centre. If you’re concerned about social distancing, there are some real gems in some of Bath’s more tucked away spots – remind yourselves of the delights of Bartlett Street, Walcot Street and Broad Street.

If you haven’t yet discovered Mrs. Potts Chocolate House, which opened in York Street at the end of last year, then now is the perfect time.

With a variety of delicious hot chocolates, cakes and cookies on offer, it’s a great place to treat yourself.

Mrs. Potts Chocolate House joins a delicious foodie corner in the city centre, with fudge, luxury chocolates, ice cream, Bath Buns and the Sally Lunn bun all available within easy walking distance.

If it’s an autumn wardrobe update you’re after, how about heading on a city centre shopping spree?

We are delighted to welcome the newly opened Suave Owl to Milsom Street, who specialize in tweed suits.

We are also pleased to see Hotel Indigo Bath open their doors, adding to the city’s fabulous and diverse hotel offering.

The Hilton Bath City hotel has recently been renovated, with their newly opened Secret Garden restaurant enjoying stunning River Avon views.

In these challenging times, we are heartened to see the city tentatively coming to life once Luxury hot chocolate at more, with plenty to rediscover on Mrs. Potts Chocolate House your doorstep.

Find more inspiration at visitbath.co.uk/rediscover. ■

Brought to you by:

NEW BIZ

Sarah McNally Bespoke Cakes

While the rest of us were wondering if we should join in the banana bread lockdown craze, Bath-based Sarah McNally took it one step further and set up her own cake company What jobs were doing before you set up your own business?

I’ve worked in finance since leaving university and held a number of roles across distribution, strategy, and product innovation. This was very much intended to be a stop-gap job before finding my dream job, but seven years later I was still there.

I’ve met some amazing people and learned a lot along the way, but never really felt passionate about the work I was doing. I finally plucked up the courage during lockdown to quit the 9-5 and commit my time to building my cake business.

What gave you the courage to make the change?

I’d been baking and recipe testing for friends and family for years and it’s been a passion of mine since I can remember. The feedback was great and I was getting more and more requests, so I decided to take it seriously and see where it could take me, never thinking it would be more

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than the odd order here and there.

But once I started taking orders, the volume started to become unmanageable fitting it into just evenings and weekends, around a demanding full-time job and my very busy two-year-old. So it becoming my main work focus felt like a natural progression.

What was the reaction of family and friends when you told them you intended to go full-time cake making?

It was a resounding, ‘about time’ from most of them. They knew how much I loved it and how thinly spread I’d been trying to manage it around my day job, so it was a no-brainer.

How did lockdown impact on your business initially?

Unsurprisingly the vast majority of the wedding orders I had for the summer were cancelled or rescheduled to next year, which was a real blow to my plans to take the business full time, and also to build up my wedding portfolio. It was

so disheartening to see so many talented and well-established wedding suppliers shutting up shop, and this really did knock my confidence for a while.

Did you struggle to get flour along with the rest of us?

One of the main challenges for me over the past few months has included the availability of ingredients during lockdown and trying to make deliveries and collections as safe as possible for my customers. It’s unchartered territory for everyone and so navigating that has been a constant source of anxiety.

How has the business been progressing more recently?

With big events cancelled, people are looking for a way to make their at-home celebrations a little more special with a lovely cake.

What’s the one piece of advice you’d pass onto someone else thinking of doing similar?

It’s a real cliché, but just do it! I’m

“I FEEL SO LUCKY EVERY DAY THAT I GET TO CALL THIS WORK” obviously still in the early days of my business journey but I really can never see myself going back to the 9-5. There’s never a perfect time to take the plunge, but I feel so lucky every day that I get to call this work and that feeling alone makes it all worth it.

Is there anything you might have done differently?

I’d have got my admin in order earlier! It’s far less exciting and glamourous than the creative side of the business, but sorting out my business finances, invoicing, booking processes, inventory management (and so on!), has taken a lot of time to do retrospectively.

What are your immediate plans for the business?

Immediate plans include a new website, planning a Christmas collection, looking at new kitchen spaces which would allow me to scale the business, and testing out some new ideas and products for the New Year. …and long term?

I’d love to offer in-person workshops, for example cake baking and decorating, both on an individual and group basis.

I’d also love to set up shop one day, and what better city to do so in than Bath.

For more: Sarah McNally Bespoke Cakes, tel: 07740 951339; www.sarahmcnallycakes.com

BATHWORKS

© SOUL MEDIA

multiple fitness events, including TONIQ Games, Bath Games, a Spinathon and the Bath Half to name a few.

Laura Androsoni, TONIQ manager with Arron Collins-Thomas, founder of TONIQ

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2020 Arron Collins-Thomas, founder of TONIQ LIFE You won! Congratulations! Talk us through the night It’s always nerve-racking being in the running for any awards, but this was our second year of entering the Bath Life Awards and we had worked hard to develop the brand and our service, so we felt this was our best chance out of any of the years.

Competition is always tough in this sector and we were up against some really strong businesses, so it was most certainly an exciting evening. It was such a huge honour to have our hard work recognised and rewarded.

Tell us a little about the company TONIQ is Bath’s premium group fitness community and gym, focused on a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. We offer full lifestyle support to our clients and recognise that stress is one of the main culprits holding people back from getting the results they want.

We combine cardio and strengthfocused classes with mindfulness practices such as yoga, qi gong,

HEALTH & WELLBEING WINNER SPONSORED BY

breath work, mediation, nutrition and motivational talks to help our clients get the best results possible in a safe and sustainable way.

It’s a true balance.

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

TONIQ is often referred to as a special and magical place, by both instructors and members.

We put this down to the people and the fact that we focus on all areas of health and wellbeing, and continually stress the importance of this to all members. We encourage

members to attend our free, weekly chill sessions. Every new member receives a nutrition guide and has access to our nutritionist.

We hold mental health and stress management workshops and talks led by experts that are all about ensuring everyone is as happy and healthy as possible.

How you have you reached out to the community?

We have always worked to unite everyone, whether in our immediate community or in the wider Bath fitness community.

We launched and hosted the first ever Bath Games, a fun, friendly and challenging fitness competition encouraging gyms across the city to enter a mixed ability team, to reinforce a united and inclusive Bath fitness community. All proceeds from the event went directly to charity.

Is giving to charity important to the business?

Yes, very much so. We raised over £4,000 for charity in 2019 through

Do you collaborate with other local businesses?

We are always working with other businesses – that’s one of the best things about being in a close, tightknit city. We have worked with a number of other venues over the years such as Walcot House and collaborated with other wellness providers on fitness events.

This year we have added The Soul Spa to our list of partners. Our members get reduced-price access to their mindfulness workshops in their studio and online.

How did you cope with lockdown?

We quickly realised that in order to be there for our clients we needed to offer practical and relevant options that were manageable and provided more support than ever. We did all of this at a muchreduced monthly fee as we were well aware of the circumstances that many people found themselves in, which I see as testament to our dedication to our clients, our community and their wellbeing.

How did you maintain the sense of community?

We held virtual nutrition and wellbeing talks with live Q&As, provided recipes, held live online classes via Facebook and Zoom and upped our offering of mindfulness classes. This was to ensure that every individual felt that they were still part of the community and getting as many of the benefits they would hope to achieve from coming to TONIQ as normal.

For more: TONIQ Life, The House, 5 Green Park Station, BA1 1BQ; www.toniqlife.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 67

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

The eco-chic and environmentally aware design of Cubis Bruton is attracting a wide and diverse range of buyers

New build

THROUGH THE ROOF Demand for homes in the new Cubis Bruton development soars

Key reasons for moving are rural location, up-sizing and down-sizing

As the property market reopens with estate agents conducting inperson house viewings and buyers able to move home, there are signs that the post-pandemic boom will be of benefit locally. One nearby development demonstrating this is Cubis Bruton, which provides 56 contemporary designed three and four bedroom houses, each with ‘eco’ features including green roofs and timber cladding. It has seen a recent 217 per cent increase in website traffic, a 373 per cent increase in enquiries, and four homes sold in as many weeks.

Sue Macey, managing partner at Lodestone Property who are marketing the homes, explains: “Cubis Bruton is creating a great deal of interest with purchasers who include downsizers, up-sizers and families as well as couples.

“The town’s reputation and popularity, particularly with buyers considering schooling, continues to grow as the lifestyle that the town offers is exceptional. Cubis Bruton’s contemporary design meets an increasing demand for and interest in homes that are innovative, more environmentally considered and offer more family friendly open plan living.”

Turn to page 48 where we explore the beauty of the increasingly fashionable and always charming Bruton.

For more: www.acornpropertygroup.org

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PROPERTY NEWS Charity

TOUCHING BASE

Developing Health & Independence (DHI) have announced a three-year charity partnership with Touchstone, the specialist property management company based in Bath.

Through the partnership, Touchstone are helping to provide affordable accommodation for DHI clients by refurbishing three houses locally, and providing homes for vulnerable families.

Tristram King, director at Touchstone says, “Being based in Bath, it was important for us to find a local charity we could partner with to help make a real difference. The work that DHI does to tackle homelessness and social exclusion is crucial and we are delighted that we can lend our support to such a fantastic cause. We look forward to continuing our partnership with DHI, helping to provide a new start for people in difficulty.”

For more: www.dhi-online.org.uk / www.touchstoneresi.co.uk

The Touchstone team helping to refurbish a property before lockdown

Bath Leasehold Management have experienced strong growth in their first year

Interior design

ROOM WITH A VIEW

© PEDRO SZEKELY

Room, a joint architecture and interior design practice in Bath, have recently completed the renovation of a Grade II listed Georgian apartment on Bath’s artisanal Walcot Street.

Room’s co-founder, the interior designer Nina Cooley, explains, “The Curator’s Apartment is an art-filled, stylish and relaxed space available as a luxury short-stay home. The client, a former resident of Bath, acquired the property with the aim to offer a luxury stay that is more home than hotel, an authentic experience of Bath and to showcase original artwork in the space, imagining this would be the home of a well-travelled curator.

“The property was sensitively updated and given a warm, understated scheme, finished with an eclectic mix of iconic contemporary and vintage furniture sourced from around the world, and original artwork by British artists. The colour palette was drawn from the heritage colours of the city.”

For more: www.room-studio.co.uk

Appointments

BOTH IMAGES © TOBY MITCHELL

NEW TO THE MARKET

The colour palette of the Curator’s Apartment was drawn from the heritage colours of Bath

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Confirming that Bath is still booming despite all the difficulties of 2020, Bath Leasehold Management have just taken on a new member of the team.

Autumn Cohen-Stanbury, who came to the city to study at University of Bath, is the property management company’s new senior property manager.

Autumn says, “I previously worked for a large organisation, and now I am really looking forward to working for a professional independent residential

Autumn joins the team

management company. This will be where I can utilise and develop my skills along with dealing with clients on a very personable basis.”

For more: www.bathleaseholdmanagement.co.uk

ÂŁ2.25 million

CLEVELAND WALK Bath, Somerset, BA2 Sought after location on Bathwick Hill, looking over green space.

Entrance Hall | Kitchen/Breakfast room | Large living room | Dining room | Snug | Shower room | Utility room Boot room | Pantry | Downstairs guest bedroom with en suite/Jack & Jill shower room | Family Bathroom Upstairs 4/5 additional bedrooms | 3 further bathrooms | Off street parking for up to 8 cars | Double garage Delightful mature rear Garden with a colourful assortment of mature trees and shrubs and a stone-built pavilion.

Matthew Leonard Director

Lucy McIlroy Director

Denise Latham Lettings Manager

Fleur Hawke Lettings

Lotte Veale Sales

RESIDENCE

A GOOD VINTAGE Words by Lydia Tewkesbury Photos by Chris Wakefield

Thoughtfully selected antiques and American folk art-inspired decoration blend in this cosy Bradford on Avon bolt hole

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M

oonwind Cottage is the beautifully curated home of Elizabeth Munday. Owner of Heritage Trading Goods on Etsy, the keen antiques enthusiast spent many hours scouring local markets and auction houses to find the considered period pieces that accent her recently renovated Bradford on Avon home.

How long have you lived in your house and what did it look like when you bought it?

When we moved in August 2016, the previous owners had not long completed the extension, which is light and modern. However, the original house had not been touched in years – swirly Artex ceilings and wood chip wallpaper everywhere. It felt like a period cottage but not in a cosy, welcoming way, – particularly upstairs. All four of us lived in the two-room extension for six months while we stripped the rest of the house back to bare bones and built up from there.

What was your vision for the décor of the interior of the house?

As the original house dates to 1670, I felt the interior should reflect some of that history, so I have kept it quite classic but used a mix of antique styles to add interest.

I designed each room around a key piece or collection that means something to me personally and although the rooms consequently have distinct styles, I wanted them to flow together quite naturally. For example, in the spare room I covered a whole wall by framing my grandmother’s sheet music from the 1930s and took the style of the room from there.

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RESIDENCE What are the common pitfalls that people fall into when redecorating?

People often decorate for others rather than themselves, whether they are thinking resale or they lack the confidence to trust their own imagination. This approach does stifle their inner flair as they buy and house what they think is fashionable and don’t use what actually has meaning to them. In the short term this can still result in a pleasing room but in the long run, they are often not truly satisfied with it and have to do it all over again in five years.

In your opinion, which room should you start with when redecorating and why?

There’s always one room that you have a vision for before you even get the keys. Start with that room and get it just how you wanted it. The success boosts your confidence in tackling the rest of the house and, if it doesn’t work out, you have limited the mistakes to one room and learned in the process.

Teenage years spent in the US influenced Elizabeth’s aesthetic

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Who or what are your inspirations when it comes to style and décor?

My grandmother and mother both filled their houses with antiques and I can’t now consider a room complete without some period accent as they add so much interest. I also spent my teenage years in America, where vernacular architecture and folk art is revered and this was catching. For example, I usually paint the accent colour on the woodwork in a room rather than on the walls, which is traditional across the pond, and I like clean lines. When all else fails, frankly Pinterest is a great source of inspiration.

What local shops did you source your décor, homeware and accessories from?

For environmental reasons, I try to buy second hand as much as possible and obtain most of my accessories and homewares from flea markets such as the Frome Independent or local auction houses. However, that is hard when it comes to the fabric of a house, so we used Farrow & Ball paint, and went to OKA and Jim Lawrence for lights, switches, and window and door catches. We also used Newmans Joinery to replace some of our sash windows.

RESIDENCE

Elizabeth Munday (ABOVE) has filled her home with antiques and second-hand finds sourced from local markets

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What are your favourite independent homeware shops in Bath?

I am always impressed by the stock at The Salcombe Trading Company and I love Rossiters, where every nook and cranny is stuffed with temptations.

Do you have a favourite room or is there any part of the house you are particularly proud of?

I love the master bedroom, which was also the most challenging room to redesign as it was very asymmetrical and originally had an ensuite bathroom shoehorned into the space. It is the only room with dual aspect windows, out of one of which you can see the Westbury White Horse. I designed the room around the antique

Elizabeth carefully sources pieces that are visually interesting, regardless of value

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framed Rossetti print which hangs over the bed and which was my parents’ 21st birthday gift to me. It is a pre-Raphaelite piece and so the wallpaper had to be William Morris. All of the furniture, including the cupboards my husband painstakingly built, has an Arts and Craft feel to it which keeps the room simple and restful.

What do you want people to feel when they enter your home?

Interested. I love it when people ask about a piece and what the history is behind it. I want people to treasure these bits of our collective past, and inspiring them to use them in their own homes is a good place to start.

RESIDENCE What did you learn from designing your own home?

There’s no one right way to do it and if you do it with sufficient confidence, it generally looks right in the end.

Whose house would you like to have a snoop around?

Belcombe House in Bradford on Avon is a stunning Georgian house with amazing gardens that are occasionally open to the public. I was lucky enough to see the Iford Opera there last summer and so wished I could sneak inside the house itself !

Does the interior of your home reflect your personality?

I am a magpie and inveterate collector. Mercifully, I also sell antiques through my Etsy shop, Heritage Trading Goods which allows some of my finds to pass through to new homes.

Like me, the décor is not motivated by trends and has generally gone its own way.

Does your job impact on your home at all or how you have decorated?

Hugely – appreciating antiques has become a way of life for me. I’m interested in their aesthetic appeal rather than their value as museum pieces, so I source visually interesting pieces for both my home and my online shop.

Finally, what’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said about your home?

A friend of mine said it should be in a magazine and approached Bath Life on my behalf !

For more: www.etsy.com search HeritageTradingGoods for Elizabeth’s shop

Got an amazing local home?

Want it to feature in Residence?

Contact lydia.tewkesbury @ mediaclash.co.uk

“Like me, the décor is not motivated by trends and has generally gone its own way” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77

IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING We’re talking a Grade II Swainswick manor house with spectacular views, swimming pool, a separate annex and its own cider gardens

By John Mather

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

I

f you were going to tell somebody else about this five-bedroom country pile you might have trouble getting the words out because your breath would’ve been well and truly taken.

This stunning and substantial part of a Grade II listed manor house is found just two miles from the edge of the city in the prettyas-a-picture village of Swainswick and commands magnificent views across a rural valley.

On approach, the formal gates lead onto a cobbled path through the manicured lawn bordered by evergreens, trees and shrubs bursting with flowers, and that leads up to the garage at the side of the property.

Above the garage, with self-contained access, is a newly renovated two-bedroom annexe, originally known as The Cider House, but more on that later.

First the gorgeous property itself. It has that rustic, wooden beam, charm but with an airy lightness and wellthought layout normally associated with more modern builds. Arranged over two floors, the good-sized formal drawing room and substantial dining room are linked by a grand reception hall, both with large open fireplaces and mullion windows, plus there’s golden parquet wooden flooring throughout.

At the rear of the house, opening onto the garden, is

PROPERTY

a spacious kitchen/breakfast room with high ceilings and steps up to a garden room, creating a lovely informal entertaining space. Off the kitchen is a cute and cosy snug with a wood-burning stove. There’s also the always useful utility room for laundry, plus a separate downstairs toilet.

On the first floor there are four bedrooms, the principal bedroom with en suite shower room. There are also two further bathrooms, and on the top floor, in the converted roof space with a high vaulted ceiling, is a fifth room, perfect for occasional guests or as a home office.

The landscaped south-facing gardens at the back of the home are mainly laid to lawn, which means easy to care for, and are bordered by mature shrubs and fruit producing trees, including apple trees. For al fresco dining and entertaining, there’s a pretty patio terrace, but to really astound and impress those visitors, lead them to your swimming pool with its own very summerhouse for changing, lazing and sipping poolside cocktails. The pool is heated so you don’t even have to wait for summer.

Indeed, if you did decide it was high time to kick back and relax a little more, cocktail in hand, you could always rent out the two bedroom annexe which adjoins the house. The scrumptious and recently refurbished Cider House has its own separate access, and is already currently a very successful holiday let.

This self-contained cottage is full of period gems and features such as exposed beams, circular windows and Bath stone walls. The modern, open-plan kitchen leads to a cosy living/dining area which has double doors opening out on to the delightful walled garden at the rear. There is a separate room, currently with a sofa day bed and desk, leading to a downstairs bathroom. A small staircase winds up to a principal en suite bedroom nestled in the eaves of the old barn, with a generous shower and separate bath offering an impressive view of the valley skyline as you bathe.

The patio outside the Cider House’s entrance looks out over the back garden, and there’s an elevated seating area in the front garden with such far reaching and wonderful vistas you may even be tempted to move into this gem, and let out the main part of the house.

Swainswick village itself is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is renowned as a great spot for walking and horse riding. As well as its own highly regarded primary school, it is well-placed for the muchcelebrated nearby schools in Bath. With easy access to the M4 and Bath city centre so close, you can see why properties in this village don’t come on the market very often. So if you want this rural beauty, it’s time to stop pondering, and time to get procuring.

HOUSE NUMBERS Bedrooms

5

Self-contained annexe

1

Swimming pool

1

Sq ft

4,328

Guide price £1.850m For more: Savills Bath, Edgar Buildings, 17 George St, Bath. tel: 01225 474500; www.savills.co.uk

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

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 affordable prices. 5 Saracen St, Bath BA1 5BR; Tel: 01225 634025; www.kutchenhaus.co.uk/showroom/bath

KELLY MARIE KITCHEN INTERIORS

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

www.clairstrong.co.uk

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, Barbas Belfires, Hwam, Stuv and Jetmaster. Get in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD. info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

ETONS OF BATH

Working from her beautiful showroom and with over 15 years’ experience in the kitchen industry, Kelly Marie has built a strong reputation. She combines technical aspects of design with an intrinsic creativity, producing functional yet beautiful spaces. Her portfolio includes luxury German made kitchens and Italian painted shaker kitchens.

Full design and installation service. Tel: 01225 481881

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. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003

WESTSIDE DESIGN

CHEVERELL

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www.cheverell.co.uk

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Westside Design is a family-run Bath based company offering a tailored design, manufacturing and installation service for all aspects of cabinet making and joinery. Specialising in contemporary bespoke kitchens and interiors.

Contact Michael on 01225 330843 or 07976 268458 or email info@westsidedesign.co.uk

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.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

Cheverell is set in the heart of Wiltshire with a stunning showroom and workshop, offering a full bespoke design, manufacturing and installation service in kitchens, bedrooms, and interiors. Established in 1989 it has over 30 years of experience to guide you through the whole process. Cheverell, Waller Road, Hopton Park, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 2GH; Tel: 01380 722722;

Founded in 2006, Etons of Bath is the UK’s only specialist interior design practice focussed on refurbishing, renovating and reinvigorating Georgian and Regency homes and hotels. Their team of 12 interior designers, planners and project managers can help you design and deliver classically inspired interiors that add value, turn heads and improve the use of space.

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BONITI

Boniti is based on the outskirts of Bath and offers a wide range of quality interior and exterior products: natural stone and timber flooring, Everhot range cookers, garden furniture and Kadai firebowls. As well as the vast selection of products on offer, a friendly and personal service is at the heart of all that they do.

Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton,Wiltshire SN14 8JA; Tel: 01225 892 200; www.boniti.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

BATH LIVES

“Our targeted projects help those most marginalised in the community” Jonathan Dimbleby used to be the Patron of Bath City Farm

and once came to our AGM. Whilst he was here a lamb was born. It was too weak to suckle from its mother, so Jonathan spent a couple of hours with me helping her latch on to the mother’s teat.

He used to keep sheep when he lived in Bath and he was such a natural with animals.

HELEN FISHER Bath City Farm, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, keeps chickens, goats and pigs, as well as running a café, nature trails, and community events. No wonder farm manager Helen loves her job so much…

Helen has spent most of her working life at 37-acre Bath City Farm, when she started as a volunteer in 2002 at the age of 24. She became the farm’s first paid volunteer co-ordinator, thanks to a government scheme that supported businesses to help young people get into work.

I’ve been here since back in the day when the farm was little known to anyone but local residents. There were no

buildings and just a handful of rare-breed sheep, but some really positive ideas and beginnings of exciting community work, which really captured my imagination.

I hadn’t gone to university like many of my peers, and instead

lived my later teens going slightly

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

off the rails and doing jobs I wasn’t content with. All I knew was that I wanted to spend my working life outdoors and had a strong passion for the environment.

It is amazing to see how much the place has changed over the years. We have over 40,000

visitors per year and support over 800 people with our targeted projects to help those most marginalised in the community.

The TV show DIY S.0.S came to the farm in 2005 and completed the farm’s first ever building. It was such an exciting

week and probably had the single most-biggest impact in terms of the farm’s development. It meant we finally had toilets, an office, electric and running water on-site.

Many people that work in the third sector do it for love rather than money and go above

and beyond to help people, or the causes they support. I get to meet so many inspiring people in my line of work. Everyone is very down to earth and all have a common love for wildlife and being connected to nature.

I ran the Bath Half Marathon

earlier this year to raise money for the farm.

One of the worst times was at the beginning of lockdown

when we realised the site and all of our projects were going to have to shut. The amount of people affected was huge and we just didn’t have clue when things were going to re-open. Our finances took a massive hit and it looked like we were facing closure at one point.

We launched an appeal to help us to keep going and

managed to raise an amazing amount of money, thanks to the generosity of so many local individuals and companies.

I am keen to increase the biodiversity of our beautiful 37-acre site. During my time

here, I have seen a steep decline in very common species such as the

house sparrow, house martin and many species of butterflies and am keen to help reverse that trend.

The farm is on the cusp of some really great developments with a new indoor café in the pipeline

and lots of new exciting partnerships developing with other organisations. Our work development and therapeutic projects are all interlinked into the café project and it’s really huge development for us. It will help make us more financially sustainable and provide a fantastic resource for the local community.

I really fell in love with Bath in

my early teens when I moved to Box with my mum and stepdad. I now live in Batheaston, and I truly love it. The river is just stunning and it has easy access into Bath city centre along the cycle path.

I live in an amazing and vibrant community and it feels so safe for children to grow up.

I have two children aged 10 and 12 called Iona and Staffa.

They are named after two very beautiful Scottish Islands, and they make me laugh and cry every day! I’m a single parent so it can be challenging at times juggling work/school/home but I have some very amazing friends and wider family that help me. I also have Teddy, a very cute terrier. n Follow @Bath City Farm on Twitter and Facebook for the online celebrations marking the farm’s 25th Anniversary For more: Bath City Farm, Kelston View, Whiteway, Bath; www.bathcityfarm.org.uk