Bath Life – issue 431

ISSUE 431 / 20 NOVEMBER – 3 DECEMBER 2020 / £3

TAKE ME

#BathTogether

ISSUE 431 / 20 NOVEMBER – 3 DECEMBER 2020 / ALL PRESENT AND CORRECT

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PRESENT GUIDE

LOVELY, LOCAL, AND ALL AVAILABLE ONLINE RIGHT NOW

HOME COMFORTS EXPLORING A BEAUTIFUL BATHWICK FAMILY HOME

100

GORGEOUS GIFTS

STAY GROUNDED

EXPERT ADVICE FOR FABULOUS FLOORS

GOOD TO GO

DELICIOUS INDIE TAKEAWAYS

A CLEAN PLATE

EXQUISITE DINING AT THE BIRD HOTEL

POP GOES THE EASEL

THE VIBRANT ART OF JASON DORLEY-BROWN

BY THE BOOK

RIVETING READS TO WHILE AWAY THE LOCKDOWN HOURS

(

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL (PART 2) ➝

)

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Explore a cosy Bathwick residence (page 90) BELOW: Shop the online indies (page 15)

I

’m a little bored of talking about lockdown two. Lockdown one chitter chatter was tiresome enough, so instead this issue (like most of our issues to be honest) is all about accentuating the positive. On our spotlight pages (page 8) we start with reasons to be cheerful and then continue in that vein throughout – from the super-stylish and pretty darn cute Bathwick home on our cover (page 90) to the round up of some of our clever local foodie indies adapting to the times by offering takeaways and deliveries (page 46).

One of my favourite ‘reasons to be cheerful’ features are the stories behind the NHS heroes over on page 54. Amazing Grace, a Critical Care nurse, and her RUH colleagues share their upbeat and positive experiences despite their demanding work.

Getting into the Christmas spirit, which is certainly one galvanising and collective prospect to look forward to, we’ve sourced 100 online festive gifts from our indies (page 15). You know how this goes – use it or lose it; support the indies; keep it local; and #BathTogether.

I think we’ll do it, and that there is one huge reason to be cheerful.

SARAH MOOLLA

Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

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

Issue 431 / 20 November – 3 December 2020 COVER The beautiful home of Alice Gaskell (page 90)

CHRISTMAS

15 FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE An absolute tinselly treasure

trove of indie gifts that can be bought online

THE ARTS

33 ARTS INTRO Celebrating black history 34 WHAT’S ON The best in online events, as well as a few

things to look forward to in December

38 JASON DORLEY-BROWN Bath artist on his pop art and

pansy potholes

42 BOOKS Mr B shares his lockdown literary list

FOOD&DRINK

44 RESTAURANT The Bird’s new restaurant warms our

hearts on a chilly evening

46 BATH’S BEST TAKEAWAYS A few of the spots that’ll be

feeding the city through lockdown

LIFESTYLE

52 WALKING A trail from Lansdown to the city centre 54 RUH The stories behind our NHS heroes, in their

own words

BUSINESS

61 BATHWORKS Local businesses making great headlines 64 BIZ Q&A Kat Dawe Schmeisser on how local businesses

38

can support The Art Cohort

66 BATH LIFE AWARDS Pure Planet celebrate their win

PROPERTY

71 PROPERTY INTRO A new chapter for Toppings 72 PROPERTY NEWS Bath gets a brand new bridge 76 SHOWCASE Embrace country living in the picturesque

Millie’s House

82 FLOORING Experts take to the floor to talk wood,

carpets, rugs and vinyl

90 RESIDENCE Alice Gaskell shows us around her stylish

Bathwick home

DEPARTMENTS

8 SPOTLIGHT Reasons to be cheerful 11 FLATLINE David Flatman shares his office rules 69 BATH TOGETHER Chief exec Greg Ingham on Lockdown Part II 98 LIVES Writer and former editor David Kernek

44

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 Nic Bottomley, Elsie Chadwick, 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

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SPOTLIGHT We’ve rounded up just a few reasons to be cheerful (part 2) during lockdown (part 2) Competitions

POETRY IN MOTION

Two pupils from Bath’s King Edward’s School, Elise Withey and Anna Winkelmann, have been recognised as among the top young poets in the country when The Poetry Society recently announced the winners of The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award 2020. The pair will see their poetry published in a printed winners’ anthology.

Catherine Bruton, an English teacher at KES, says, “I am so thrilled for Anna who is possessed of the most glorious imagination and the very soul of a writer.

“Elise’s achievement is all the more remarkable, in that she has made the top 100 two year’s running.

She spins words into pure gold, her use of language is breath-takingly beautiful and insightful.”

For more: www.kesbath.com

Elise and Anna, the KES poets

2021

DEAR DIARY With vaccines on the horizon and better treatments available, we can start believing in 2021 again. In fact, dare we say it, but go ahead and buy that diary and start jotting down all the glorious events that have been rescheduled.

From the Bath Half Marathon (5 September) to our very own Bath Life Awards (27 May), there’s also the Bath Festival (29 – 30 May) featuring Fun Lovin’ Criminals and Billy Ocean; Sophie Ellis Bexter is at the Forum (14 May); and there’s comedy from Reginald D Hunter at Komedia Bath (6 May).

For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

from top to bottom:

Huey Morgan, Reginald D Hunter and Sophie Ellis Bexter are due to perform in Bath next May

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

Vicky’s headed to the rescheduled Tokyo 2020

Olympic Games

GOOD SPORT

Vicky Holland has become the first University of Bath-based sportsperson to be officially selected for Tokyo 2020 after being named in the Team GB triathlon squad for next summer’s rescheduled Olympic Games.

She says, “I’m delighted to have been nominated for a third Olympics next year in Tokyo. The Olympic Games has always been the driving force behind my athletic career and to have another opportunity to race on the biggest stage of all is something I do not take for granted.”

For more: www.teambath.com

The sculpture Literary Hangover by Caroline Waterlow is part of Bath Society of Artists Online Exhibition

Art

PAINT THE TOWN

We’re lucky enough to live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and here’s the proof

Creativity will always have a way of rising to the surface, pandemic or no pandemic, and our Bath artists have proved themselves to be a resourceful bunch. The Bath Contemporary Arts Fair took their work to the open space of Green Park station, the Bear Flat Artists displayed their wares outside their homes so the September art trail could still happen, and now the Bath Society of Artists Online Exhibition, which would normally be at the Victoria Arts Gallery, can be seen online (for more turn to page 34) For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk

We can still wish each other a very abbey Christmas

St Johns from Bathwick Meadows by @brilliantbath

Christmas

enterprising team at Visit Bath have been working hard to ensure there’s still festive spirit during the season of goodwill.

Visit Bath’s Emma Frayling says, “Stilt walkers, street performers and entertainment will be taking place from 5 December, as will the charity gazebo. Bath Carnival activities and lantern parades are still scheduled to happen and the illuminations are now up.”

For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

MERRILY ON HIGH

We’re going to be looking at the updated events for Christmas in greater depth in our next issue, including a round up of the online Bath Christmas Market, but rest assured, Yuletide in Bath has not been cancelled. The

© JOHNNY HATHAWAY

There’s always light at the end of the tunnel

Pulteney Bridge by @chloemoore_photography

Recreation

GIVE US SOME SPACE

Public parks and botanical gardens are allowed to remain open during the national lockdown, meaning that people can still enjoy green spaces, including Westonbirt Arboretum, for recreation and exercise.

Westonbirt’s Enchanted Christmas Illuminated Trail will also be going ahead in December, with pre-booked tickets and staggered start times.

For more: www.forestryengland.uk

Street scene by @rhianwirtz

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

Man for the job

© TAKING PICTURES

When Flats made up the office rules, a Christmas shopping day was on the rota, along with pillow days, and ketchup buns

“Annual leave was unofficially deleted as a concept”

W

hen I (relatively briefly) had a proper job involving external and internal comms (no, I didn’t quite understand it until I’d left), I wrote down a few ideas to run past the team that I thought might make people happier.

For whatever reason, pay rises weren’t a thing there, so I did some research and read repeatedly that giving people time can go down just as well. One idea that got through the thirty-seven-stage sign off was Wednesday morning bacon sandwiches at 9am. It was only half an hour of chomping and slurping cheap coffee and chatting rubbish, but it was half an hour of work time where no work was allowed to be done. And don’t worry, we had buns with ketchup for the vegetarians; it was incredibly inclusive.

Then I went for early finishes for all, every other Friday afternoon.

Somehow, this got signed off, too, and every second Friday indeed ended at 3pm. Folks seemed to like this a lot. Except that, about one Friday into the new initiative, a very upset person approached my desk with a palpably belligerent gait and a jaw set and ready to fire off a prepared monologue surrounding why this initiative didn’t work for her. She often had things she had to do past 3pm on Fridays, so why should everyone else get to go home early?

I mean, she had a point. If 100 of the 108 employees could benefit, that sounded okay to me, and we could work something out that could help the others, given time.

Still, it taught me that one person’s treat is another person’s trauma (see bacon for veggies).

A few other ideas were tossed out almost before the big bosses had finished reading my carefully typed justifications. ‘Pillow Days’ was a favourite of mine. I just thought that if somebody woke up in one of those moods – you know the ones – and just couldn’t face it, they could stay at home (this was pre-everyone

staying at home thanks to a deadly virus, obviously). So long as there weren’t folks arriving to meet them from a thousand miles away, or they weren’t presenting to the board, just text me and go back to bed. The bosses weren’t having that.

Annual leave was unofficially deleted as a concept for my little team of six grafters and blaggers. I just didn’t think we needed to fill out forms if we wanted to book a few days off. Again, run it by me and check you’re not loading your crap onto the shoulders of colleagues, then see ya!

The general reaction to one idea in particular, though, did shock me.

I quietly emailed my team while sipping a herbal tea, and suggested that everyone in the business should be given a Christmas shopping day in December. Nobody really does anything in December anyway, let’s face it, so why not score a quick win and make the staff love the boss?

“I’ll gladly take the extra day off, but I won’t be shopping,” was one answer. “As if anyone will actually use it for Christmas shopping, but yeah, sure,” was another. The third answer, from a particularly base man called Bazz (who has two zs in their name anyway? He actually wrote a column for Bristol Life for a while and remains a friend, but I do ask him not to tell anyone else I know that he spells his name this way), who said: “Do people still actually go Christmas shopping?”.

He was right. I didn’t, and don’t. I hate shopping, like really, really hate it. That’s why this issue’s list of local indies from whom I can buy things online is so important. I’m going to use all of them. The death of the high street is a genuinely sad thing but, being frank, it’s just less awful to me than actually having to go there to buy things. I’m going to support these indies and I’m going to attack my Christmas shopping hard, all in my pyjamas, from my sofa.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

PRESENT PERFECT We made a list, and we’ve checked it twice, of beautiful Christmas gifts, all local, all lovely, and all online

T

his year more than ever it’s about spreading love and bringing joy. So not only have we hunted down the best gifts to suit all budgets, we’ve also made sure they’re local and available online.

We can all and easily make our Christmas shopping more meaningful by keeping it Bath-based and supporting our indies. It strengthens our communities, plus we get to make it on to Santa’s nice, not naughty, list.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

Christmas matches, £14.95, www.frenchgrey.co.uk Ekelund Skogstomte table runner, £35, www.salcombetrading.co.uk

Starburst light copper, £25, www.rossitersofbath.com

Fairtrade red robin felt decoration, £8.95 The Art Cohort; www. the-art-cohort.com

Pampas grass wreath £40; www.flowersofbath.co.uk

9, at £1.9 s start s, price tre.co.uk le b u a as b ncen Christm itehallgarde h www.w

FESTIVE DECORATIONS Deck the halls, the walls, and the kitchen sink with glitz, sparkle and shimmer

Gold pillar candle £20, www.graceandmabel.co.uk

Deck T cards he Halls C www set of 6, £ hristmas 22 .metic ulous ; ink.co m

Hand made glass art baubles, £45, www. bathaquaglass.com

Christmas cracker mistletoe kit, £65; www.inqstudio.co.uk

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

Alfa Shelf Sitter, £7.99, www.vinegarhill.co.uk

British grown Christmas trees, prices start from £14, to order call James on 07891 537528; www.rainbowwoodfarm.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

.95, tub, £8 zle in a z u p w sa k map jig World artcohort.co.u e h .t w w w Moomin LED Light from Disaster Designs, £17.99, www.flockbath.co.uk

The Postman Game by Londji, £30, www.mysmallworld.co.uk Bath Rugby dog bowl, £7.50, www.bathrugbyshop.com

BIG KIDS, LITTLE KIDS, AND THE DOG Oh tidings of comfort and toys

Stanley red star collar, £21, www.rossitersofbath.com

Patch the Dog, £168, www.bonniebinary.co.uk

Code Nam e Bananas Walliams,

by Dav £ from The 14.99, order and id collect O ld field Park www.the Boo oldfieldp arkbooks kshop; hop.co.u k

Dinkum Doll Roo, £49; www.mysmallworld.co.uk

3, 12.5 kit £ uk t o b .

Ro .co hort bling Tum .theartco w ww

Tiger rug, £145, www.rossitersofbath.com

Jellycat huge pineapple, £22, www.rossitersofbath.com

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18ct rose gold pearl and diamond dress ring, £1,865 www.coppinsofcorsham.co.uk Sterling silver bracelet with mystic topaz, £145, www.nickieportman.co.uk

Blue pansy and faceted crystal cocktail ring, £105, www.graceandmabel.co.uk

Wolf & Moon orange necklace, £32, www.juliadavey.com

JEWELLERY TO SHINE BY So much more than just five gold rings

18ct yellow gold ruby studs, £1,075, www.nicholaswylde.com

18ct yellow gold rub set round cut emerald stud earrings, £900, www.mallory-jewellers.com

Round brilliant cut diamond and ruby oval cluster pendant 0.15ct, poa, www.spgreen.com

Semi precious stone gold statement ring, £45, www.theartcohort.co.uk

Pebble ring with pink topaz, £155, www.jodycory.co.uk

Sapphire stacking rings in 18ct gold, prices start from £875; www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

Brass wavy hoop earrings, £28, www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

Hand crafted floral design gold ring, £1,200, www.nigeldando.co.uk

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

are, t silk squ n pocke e re g e om lim Thomas .thomasfortin.c w £52; ww

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Electronic Sound - issue 67, £11.99, www.magalleria.co.uk Patek Philippe Complications Annual Calendar Regulator 18ct Dial Watch, £42,810; www.malloryjewellers.com

5, 2.9 ’, £ a c i l aio ‘M ror e.org r i t m rn cke lbu Po w.ho w w

A LITTLE INSPIRATION

Need help for that one person who is always difficult to buy for? Your Christmas wish has come true…

Highclere ebony and walnut luxury chess set, £366.47, www.regencychess.co.uk

Blue, black and white socks, £9.50, www. flamingobath.co.uk

, , £22 .com flask op Black rugbysh .bath www

Cocoa Sugar by Young Fathers LP £19.99, www.ravesfromthegrave.com

Moorland Road calendar and print by Andrew Richmond, £10, www.andrewrichmondart.com

Circle Of Life by Emma Rose, print prices start from £35, www.emmaroseartworks.com

Panasonic LUMIX DC-G90 camera with lens kit, £879, www.aceoptics.co.uk

9ct yellow gold chain back cufflinks, £795, www.nicholaswylde.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Nimrod doublecloth shawl, £165, www. katherinefraser.co.uk

Fluffy slippers, £35, www.lasourcetrading.co.uk

Deck the Trees sweatshirt by Hannah Corkery, £35, www.shirtsoffourbacks.co.uk

CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES

Santa baby’s going to look pretty stylish in these threads

Folk Fracture t-shirt in navy, £65, www.mazeclothing.co.uk , 130 12, £ e z i s K irt – U Missoni knitted flared sk k u . o c www.graceandted.

Gold block handpainted silk velvet duster coat, £950, www.carolewaller.co.uk Ov ers iz £3 e squ 00 ; w are s ww un .cu glas tle ran ses in dg ros burgu s.c om ndy,

Faux fur gloves, £12.95, www.nickieportman.co.uk Herring Exmoor boot, £385, www.thebroguetrader.com Pointure - light leopard high heels, £235, www.chaniibshoes.com

Mulberry oversized Alexa in deep amber, £1,295, www.mulberry.com 20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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To view our full range of cakes, please visit our website: www.didicakesbath.com We are staying open for pickup, takeaway and we continue to offer FREE contactless home delivery to many local postcodes!

132 Walcot Street, Bath, England, BA1 5BG | 01225 444465 contact@didicakesbath.com | www.didicakesbath.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Rosemary & Bay candle, £38, www.collingwoodofsomerset.co.uk Lambeth right hand chaise in velvet material and flame colour, £1,317; www.sofasandstuff.com

Filigree set of two wine glasses, £28, www.agacookshop.co.uk

HOME AND INTERIORS

Whether they’re driving home for Christmas or they’ve not gone anywhere, you can’t go wrong with a gift for the house

Avani etched glass coasters, set of 4, £26.95; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

n, cushio opard rs.co.uk le n e io ll r e oo ontint felt w Green ww.homefr w , 0 2 1 £

Queen Victoria life size bust, £820, www. modernsouvenir.com

‘Pin-stripe’ Calathea sanderiana, from £14, www.botanicastudio.co.uk Bath Spa te a www.flamin towel, £12, gobath.co. uk

The Turleigh bookends, £89, www.charliecaffynfurniture.co.uk

Marimekko oiva coffee cup, £15, www.foundbath.co.uk

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

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP homefrontinteriors.co.uk T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk Ethical, Sustainable & Handmade Homewares and Gifts

Tilian Kids

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES AND SHOP WITH US THIS CHRISTMAS ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING RINGS HANDMADE BESPOKE JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND REMODELLING

9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LY 01225 460072 jody@jodycory.co.uk | www.jodycory.co.uk

Tilian Kids Children's Boutique 14 2 Wa l cot S t r e e t , B a t h B A 1 5 B L w w w. t il ia n k id s. com t il ia n . k id s

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Columbian drinking chocolate by Coco, £9.95, www.juliadavey.com

Pure Hea ve £7.95; ww nly chocolate adve nt w.conscio uslyyou.co calendar, .uk

The Best of Bath hamper collection, £55, www.taste-of.co.uk

Raspberry marshmallows 8 pieces, £5, www.sugarcanestudio.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK What could be better than a foodie treat on the feast of Stephen?

Still Sisters Lavender London dry gin, £30 www.cruwines.co.uk Celebration cakes, prices start from £26.50, www.didicakesbath.com

Christmas tiered cake of four classic, artisan cheeses, £60, www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk

Best of British Signature Fudge Selection, £25, www.fudgekitchen.co.uk Champagne Paul Deville Carte Noir, £34, www.wolfwine.co.uk

Ultimate craft cider advent calendar, £75, www.craftynectar.com

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CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

White moss & snowdrop cologne, £105, www.jomalone.co.uk

Glow in a Bottle facial oil, £29.95, www.beautybyane.com

, £3.85, soap bar Red vine iouslyyou.co.uk sc www.con

BATH AND BODY After the year we’ve all had, encourage a little pamper time

5; lm, £ ep ba rse sle vey.com o g w Yello w.juliada ww

Organic Rose Geranium Body Butter, £9.99, www.consciouslyyou.co.uk

Bluebell and honeysuckle handcream, £12, www.neptune.com

KIND by Ripples sweet orange and rosemary body wash, £10, www.itskind.co.uk

Birch water & neroli cooling facial mist, £16 to raise money for Dorothy House Hospice Care, www.findubiety.com

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

Eye Shadow by MUD, £16, www.littlelab.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Bringing some magic to Bath this Christmas

Design ed by L

iz Hugh es

BATH BID have been working with Visit Bath, Bath Festivals and Bath & North East Somerset Council to ensure there will be plenty of opportunity to soak up the seasonal atmosphere.

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

E

very year at Christmas, Bath sparkles with glittering lights and the streets are filled with festive spirit. Although Christmas will look slightly different than usual this year, we are all in need of a bit of cheer, so there will be lighting around the city centre to brighten up the dark days. Some of Bath’s most iconic streets and buildings will be brought to life by magical illuminations, with extra sparkle in Abbey Green, Kingston Parade, Kingsmead Square, Old Bond Street, Northumberland Place, SouthGate Bath, outside Bath Abbey and in lots of other areas around the city centre.

There has never been a better moment to celebrate the NHS, and as

ADVERTISING FEATURE ADVERTISING FEATURE

such, the old Mineral Hospital building in Upper Borough Walls, which was home to the first national hospital in 1738, will also be illuminated.

We are committed to ensuring Bath looks magical, even during lockdown. We hope that on your socially distanced strolls around the city centre, seeing the city’s illuminations will offer some hope in the lead up to Christmas, and encourage you to come back to the city centre when businesses reopen.

The BID will also be filling the city streets with beautiful pictures designed by locals who entered our Bath at Christmas Art Competition.

Over 30 winning designs will be reproduced as two-metre-long giant bunting and displayed on lamppost pennants around the city centre, creating a rainbow of festive artwork designed by our community.

When the city reopens, subject to lockdown restrictions being lifted, we are looking forward to some traditional treats.

“WE ARE COMMITTED TO ENSURING BATH LOOKS MAGICAL, EVEN DURING LOCKDOWN.” Perfect for the young and the young at heart, every day between 3 and 24 December, Father Christmas will be visiting a different business around the city. The Bath BID will be posting clues online to help you find where Father Christmas will be stationed each day, and visitors are invited to give him a wave and post their Christmas wishes through his socially distanced post box. If you include a stamped addressed envelope, he will even send you or a loved one a special Christmas greeting in the post.

The Bath Festivals team have been working with other festivals, arts organisations, schools, and Bath Spa University, to schedule festive events and activities around the city.

Bath Carnival and ArtSeen will be creating lanterns with community groups and schools, with illuminated lantern sculptures promenading Bath’s open spaces. Keep an eye and an ear out for Bath Carnival’s upbeat musical walkabouts, and the Natural Theatre Company’s Christmas shows without a theatre, with pantomime and Christmas characters wandering around the city.

Comedian and bestselling author David Baddiel will be in Bath to introduce his brand-new blockbuster for young readers, The Bath Festival Orchestra will be introduced as the resident chamber orchestra of The Bath Festival, FilmBath will be showing great films over six days in the Covid-safe Green Park Station, and Iford Arts will present an enchanting evening of popular arias and ensembles.

Throughout the year, the Bath BID’s friendly team of volunteer Welcome Ambassadors are on hand to answer questions and offer advice to people visiting the city centre. Although they aren’t currently out and about, they are looking forward to welcoming people back into the city when lockdown is eased. This festive season, you will find them in their very own Welcome to Bath chalet outside Bath Spa Train Station, to provide the warmest of welcomes to visitors and residents alike.

The health and safety of residents, visitors and staff in the city is of paramount importance to us all, and we and the business community we represent will be doing everything we can to ensure that a visit to Bath this festive season is a safe and magical one.

Support local with Welcome to Bath

Shop safely and support local businesses in Bath this Christmas...

B

ath’s businesses are facing the toughest challenge this November. Usually the highlight of the high street calendar thanks to Christmas shopping and the opening of the popular Bath Christmas Market, this year, they have no guarantee of the sales they need to keep going.

Here at the Bath BID, we urge you to remember that Bath’s businesses need your support this year more than ever – not too challenging a request, given the city has such an impressive array of wonderful places to do your Christmas shopping, from one-of-akind independent boutiques to major high street names. Even during lockdown, there is plenty of opportunity to shop local.

In an effort to step up to the challenge of helping businesses through lockdown, the Bath BID has launched Welcome to Bath, a website which brings together all the ways people can shop local safely.

Many businesses in the city have remained open as they have been deemed essential by the government. The Welcome to Bath website includes details of all Bath’s essential businesses, including post offices, healthcare services and banks, so you can pick up all your essentials with ease.

Although Bath’s cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars have temporarily shut their doors, you can still enjoy a taste of the city’s foodie scene.

Whether you order in, click and collect, or pick up a takeaway drink or bite to eat while stretching your legs on a stroll around the city centre, Bath has plenty of options for a delicious meal.

One of the easiest ways to support local businesses during lockdown is by ordering your groceries in. Having tasty, fresh produce delivered to your door and also supporting local businesses is the ultimate win-win.

Whether you are looking for the perfect Christmas gifts for your loved ones, or a special treat for yourself, Bath’s shops have you covered. Although you can’t currently go on a shopping spree in the city, many of the city’s retailers have an online shop, offering a great way to spend your money locally from the comfort of your sofa.

We encourage people to make the most of the click and collect, delivery and takeaway options that businesses are offering over the lockdown period. You’ll find plenty of inspiration to help you on your way on the Welcome to Bath website.

Find out more at visitbath.co.uk/christmas n

Find out more at welcometobath.co.uk n

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Brought to you by

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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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

UNFORGETTABLE

CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCES Gifts that truly last…

CALMING SPA DAY GIFT VOUCHERS

£140

The Garden Spa by L’Occitane at The Bath Priory is a sanctuary of tranquillity to refresh anyone’s senses and retrieve peacefulness and inner balance.

PP Our Calming Spa day includes a choice from our restorative range of 60-minute treatments tailored by our expert therapists. Enjoy and re-connect with nature in the haven of our gardens or rejuvenate in the calm of our spa and relaxation areas. Also includes a two-course lunch with a glass of Champagne in The Pantry, use of robe and slippers.

To explore our full range of gift vouchers, visit: www.thebathpriory.co.uk/gift-vouchers

20% OFF

PUT YOUR LOVED ONE OUT OF THEIR MISERY THIS CHRISTMAS! Purchase a voucher towards a course of MBST therapy, the pioneering technology from Germany successfully tackling the effects of ARTHRITIS and injury for over 20 years.

At The Core is a physiotherapy and wellbeing clinic in Bath, specialising in arthritis, rehabilitation and exercise. Treating people with worn-out knees, hips, back, hands and feet… and we’re pretty good with sports injuries too!

Relief from ARTHRITIS

Visit www.atthecore.health to see our Christmas offers and learn more about our services.

Tel: 01225 461205 Email: info@thecore.health

GIVE THE GIFT OF SPA Spa Vouchers make a great gift for friends, family or colleagues.

From £37, a ‘Thermae Welcome’ gives full use of the indoor Minerva Bath, the multi-sensory Wellness Suite and the open-air rooftop pool. As a special treat, a spa package lets you enjoy Bath’s natural thermal waters, a delicious meal in the Springs Restaurant and a choice of lovely spa treatments.

FROM

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Find out more and buy your spa vouchers online at www.thermaebathspa.com or call 01225 33 1234

F o r mo re in fo rmatio n ab o u t th e se e xperiences a nd their terms a nd conditions, plea se visit the compa ny’s webs i te. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 31

LOCAL . HANDMADE . BRITISH . UNUSUAL CHRISTMAS GIFTS

ORIGINAL CONTEMPORARY PAINTINGS . LIMITED EDITION GICLÉE PRINTS . CARDS . COMMISSIONS The Art Studio . Knight’s Barn . Wellow . Bath BA2 8QE 07885 235 915 . www.emmaroseartworks.com . theartcottagebath.com 13th December . 10-5pm . Bath Contemporary Art Fair . Free Entry . Green Park Market

COPPINS GOLDSMITH & SILVERSMITH

Shop Online at coppinsofcorsham.co.uk for delivery or click and collect 1, Church Street, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 0BY 01249 715404 info@coppinsofcorsham.co.uk

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

LOUD AND PROUD Bath-based graphic designer Jacob Law’s latest art project, which he is showing via his Instagram account @jacoblawdesigns, is a celebration of Black British culture. Inspired by the actions of the Black Lives Matter Movement, he is using his platform to show his vivid, energetic portraits of the figures from Black British culture too often left out of the history books.

Jacob grew up a mixed race child in a small Cornish town where he and his family experienced racial discrimination.

“This year, for the first time I felt able to tell my story and my experiences of racism, and that experience enabled me to listen to the stories of others,” he explains.

“It made me want to tell the vast, diverse array of stories in the Black British community. This particular project has enabled me to highlight those in the community who have educated and inspired me, and I’ve felt privileged to tell their stories and spread their messages.”

Lady Phyll is co-founder and executive director of UK Black Pride, which celebrated its 15th birthday in August.

Europe’s largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Latin American Heritage, UK Black Pride was the first event of its kind.

For more: @jacoblawdesigns on Instagram www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 33

Tim Carroll‘s works are for sale in the RUH’s online catalogue

WHAT’S ON 20 November – 18 December

ARTS

Until 3 January

BATH SOCIETY OF ARTISTS: VIRTUAL OPEN EXHIBITION 2020 For the first time in its 115 year history, the Bath Society of Artists Annual Exhibition will be displayed online. Ordinarily held at the Victoria Art Gallery, you’ll find it instead on their website, where you can browse the exciting collection of works. They’re all available to buy at a range of different price points.

Online; www.victoriagal.org.uk/bsagallery

Ongoing

ART AT THE HEART OF THE RUH You can now see the RUH’s fabulous art collection online.

Buying an artwork from this collection not only helps support the artist but also the RUH Arts Fund, which enables the project, spanning 700 artworks across the different sites of the RUH, to continue.

Online; www.artatruh.org

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EXERCISE/ WELLNESS THE HIVE YOGA STUDIO ONLINE CLASSES During lockdown it is more important than ever to prioritise self care. Signing up for a few online classes with The Hive Yoga Studio is one great way to take a moment for yourself during anxious times.

As well as teaching a range of styles of yoga, they also offer HIIT classes with Olympian Amy Williams and pilates among other options. They hold classes seven days a week.

Online; www.jointhehive.co.uk MEDITATION ROCKS Lucy Stone of The Hive also runs meditation classes. She launched Meditation Rocks during the first lockdown, a service offering a new way to weave meditation into your life, through a combination of live streamed short sessions in the morning and in the evening.

Online; www.meditationrocks.co.uk

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

UNTIL 22 NOVEMBER

AMPLIFY!

FilmBath might be off for the time being (rescheduled for 11-16 December), but its associated event, the AMPLIFY! online film festival is still available for frustrated film buffs. Choose from a selection of features and shorts to get your teeth into this lockdown, including: LOS LOBOS A vital narrative of immigrant experience, this endearing piece sees two young brothers reinvent themselves as The Wolves (Los Lobos) to pass the time in their tiny apartment they stay in alone when their mother is working.

MY MEXICAN BRETZEL This remarkable film is comprised of found footage taken in the years of World War II. It follows the glamorous Leon and Vivian Barrett as they travel around the world. The entire film is punctuated with text from Vivian’s diaries.

THE INNOCENCE Teenage Lis dreams of running away to the circus. Meanwhile, her kind but ill-equipped parents are unable to meet her needs and desires as she barrels towards adulthood.

TO BE CONTINUED TBC tells the unusual story of Dick Perceval through a series of short films. Using his diaries, discovered in a pile of rubbish, the films employ voice, sound design and archive film to narrate the story of his life in mid-20th century England.

Online; prices vary, with a selection of free and ticketed films. www.amplifyfilm.org.uk

WHAT’S ON DANCEFIT BATH There’s no better spiritual lift than dancing it out. Fortunately, Dance Fit Bath has shifted online for lockdown, with a range of Zoom and pre-recorded classes in their unique and joyful fusion of dance, aerobics and Zumba.

Online; www.dancefitbath.co.uk

TALKS/ SEMINARS/ WORKSHOPS Every Wednesday

PAINT YOUR WAY Participants are invited to join artist David Chandler on a painter’s pilgrimage across the north coast of Spain on the legendary Camino Del Norte. Each week, he’ll lead a class taking inspiration from a stage of this ancient pilgrim route from Irún on the French border all the way to Santiago De Compostela. Paint and sketch your way over hills and valleys, through towns and villages, along the coast and over the mountains, following the 860 kilometre route.

Online; www.davidchandler.net

By appointment

SHY OF MAKEUP Transform your look in lockdown with a makeup class from the experts at Little Lab. With eight years of teaching under their belts and over 4,000 students now able to achieve that perfect eyeliner flick, they’re offering workshops in everything from getting your daily routine down to looks for special occasions.

Online; www.littlelab.co.uk

Every Wednesday

KOMEDIA LUNCHTIME CHOIR: ONLINE EDITION This free lunchtime choir might be just the emotional lift you need – especially during this period of lockdown. Download song sheets online, tune into the live stream and get ready to sing your heart out.

Online; www.komedia.co.uk

27 & 28 November

FUTURES2020 Hosted by the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, FUTURES2020 is a programme of events celebrating innovative scientific research. Enjoy an hour of science comedy (yep, it’s a thing) with Steve Cross, hear thrilling tales of Victorian shipwrecks and maritime disaster from Dr Joan Passey of the

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

University of Bristol or take part in The Big Family Quiz – among other events.

Online; www.futures2020.co.uk

30 November

A NIGHT IN WITH STEPHEN FRY Have a cosy night in with Topping & Company and Stephen Fry. To celebrate Troy, the final book in the Heroes trilogy, Fry will join you from the comfort of your sofa to explore the finale of his classical marathon, the tragedy of the Trojan War and how its effects were felt in the proceeding centuries.

Toppings have teamed up with Penguin for the event, so the ticket price includes a book that’ll be posted to you in the days following Stephen’s talk.

Online; 6.30pm; £28; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

RESCHEDULED EVENTS 5 December

INTRODUCING BATH FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA This show marks the introduction of the Bath Festival Orchestra, the festival’s brand-new resident chamber orchestra. Directed by violinist Maren Boasma, Bath Festival Orchestra’s leader and creative artist, the programme of Beethoven, Schubert and Reicha will showcase the talent of this exciting group of young musicians.

2pm; £22; Guildhall; www.bathfestivals.org.uk

above: Winner of the BSA Young Artist Award for 2020, Constance Regardsoe is showing her work in the Victoria Art Gallery’s virtual exhibition right: Start the day off right with a virtual yoga class with The Hive below: Get cosy with Stephen Fry for an evening of classic literature

11–16 December

FILMBATH FESTIVAL A 23-foot inflatable screen will take over Green Park Station to show two extraordinary hand-picked films a night at this year’s socially distanced festival. Films include Miss Juneteeth, the story of a single mother desperate to see her daughter follow in her footsteps and turn beauty queen; Cocoon, an evergreen tale of a shy wallflower falling in love for the first time; and Another Road, a provocative piece starring Mads Mikkelsen as a depressed school teacher who persuades his friends to turn to alcohol-fuelled destruction.

Various times; £12 per film; Green Park Station; www.filmbath.org.uk

12 & 13 December

OPEN STUDIO: JESSICA PALMER A perfect shopping opportunity, Jessica is opening her St Mark’s Road studio for Christmas shoppers. She will be selling a plethora of her unique collages and papercuts as well as copies of all her published books. Visitors will have the chance for a behind-the-

scenes peek in her studio where she’s worked on projects for clients as diverse as Disney-Pixar, Burberry and the National Trust.

Sat 10.30am-4.30pm, Sun 10.30am4pm; 7 St Marks Road; www.jessicapalmerart.com

13 December

THE FAST AND THE FOODIES Super cars and tasty food – a spectacular combination. Organised by the new Innox Mill development site owners along with Wiltshirebased car enthusiast community Driven Life and The Anonymous Travellers Market, on this day out for gear heads you can expect to see brand new Lamborghinis, Porches and Ferraris as well as classic British and American Cars like the Capri, Mustang, an American hot rod and a 1933 Austin. All that and delicious food? We’re so in for this day out.

10am-2pm; next to Trowbridge Station Car Park; www.innoxmills.co.uk n

Give the gift of Whatley Monetary vouchers, spa days, afternoon tea

Buy online whatleymanor.com or call 01666 822 888

Easton Grey, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 0RB

ARTS

POP CULTURE

Y

Bath artist Jason Dorley-Brown on photography, potholes, and pansies

By Sarah Moolla

ou may not recognise him but Jason Dorley-Brown has been responsible for many of Bath Life’s most striking covers including the collectors’ issue of five pop art historical figures from Bath back in March 2018. Jason, who is not quite born Bath but definitely bred, tells us about his career path that includes a Bath bar, a London darkroom, and discovering his artistry later in life.

Hi Jason, first tell us a little about your Bath upbringing..

I lived on Highbury Place, between Camden and Snow Hill through my years at Beechen Cliff school. I left school after taking my ‘O’ levels and started working at Sweeney Todd’s as a kitchen hand. I became the bar manager before moving to Evelyn and Owens, eventually becoming the bar manager there. It was pretty much the only ‘cocktail’ bar in Bath and many a story, both notorious and hilarious (especially about the Happy Hour) are still being told to this day. I look back fondly on my time at E&O’s, and still remain tight friends with many of the people I worked with there.

other without the constant replays of the towers collapsing. Anyone who has visited New York prior to this period, will know that one of the constants is the sound of car horns blaring as traffic lights turn green.

That stopped after 9/11.

When did you first start painting?

I spent a week in Barcelona in 2006, with my future wife, and was struck by the use of mainly primary colours in art and advertising.

I am attracted to mainly the abstract and Jean Miro’s art was, and still is, an inspiration. I started painting on my return to the UK. Did you like art at school?

I have to admit that my school days were not amongst my happiest. There wasn’t much parental control or support so I was fairly wild. I studied photography at school but have never had any formal education in art.

You came relatively late to the prospect of being an artist then?

Have you always worked in Bath?

I worked for a company in London that finds and supplies audiences for TV shows. The Graham Norton Show, Ready Steady Cook and the wonderful music show The White Room among many others. I also owned and ran my own black and white photographic darkroom, Browns, in London in the late 1980s through to the mid 1990s.

“We filled three or four potholes with compost and pansies”

What was a career high?

Probably the best job I ever had was in New York. In 1996 I was offered a job as a manager of the top colour and black and white photo lab in NYC. I was there two weeks later on a tourist visa (naughty!) but quickly had a work visa. I lived in an apartment in midtown Manhattan and worked two blocks from home. Working with the top fashion photographers, fashion houses, and magazines was wonderful and I was living an incredible life. That all ended on 11 September 2001.

What was that like, being in New York during 9/11?

You would need an entire issue for me to talk about that time. I will say that my decision to stay and be a part of the healing process in anyway I could was the most important decision I have ever made. New Yorkers came together with compassion and empathy. It was remarkable to see TVs in bars turned off so that people could talk and support each

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

I had never considered myself an ‘artist’ until very recently! I always used art as a creative outlet. My creative process has been a tool to gain and maintain good mental health. It was only when I created a website as a library for my images that my friends and my wife suggested that my work was good enough to show, and so I did.

When did you actually start calling yourself an artist?

After receiving a mainly positive reaction from my first couple of shows and with my wife’s incredible support, we decided I should concentrate on my art. This was in 2015. I now have the confidence to describe myself as an artist.

How do you like to create?

Being a photographer and artist is a very solitary life. Saying that I have always loved collaboration and I try and work with other creatives whenever possible. So you will either find me wandering with a camera, or camera phone in hand, or I will be at home editing or creating on my Mac. Music is a huge part of my personal and creative life. Music creates mood. It can inspire and energise and is one of the greatest tools that I rely on to bring something positive to the creative process.

Who were your early influences?

I would say that Ellsworth Kelly, Piet Mondrian, Jean Miro and Francis Baudevin and Andy Warhol are my art influences. In photography

clockwise from top left: Getting the Jason

pop treatment is Beau Nash; Audrey Hepburn; Jane Austen; Marilyn Monroe; Elvis Presley; and David Bowie

Bleed digital painting of the Royal Crescent: Jason uses image software from phone apps and Photoshop to manipulate his work

it will be photographers that I have worked with or met. So, Helmut Newton, Norman Parkinson (I had the great privilege and honour to help print an exhibition of Black and White images for him before he passed) and Albert Watson among many more.

You must have met many famous people throughout your work..

As well as Norman Parkinson, Eve Arnold (Marilyn Monroe’s friend and photographer) stand out. Helena Christensen was a client when I was a photographer in NYC and is as lovely as she is beautiful. I met Hugh Grant in NYC on a shoot and he was a true gentleman, generous, incredibly handsome and witty. When working on the music show The White Room I met so many of my musical heroes including, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie and Paul Weller.

Has your style evolved over recent years?

My wife has always been my biggest inspiration. She is my toughest critic, my collaborator, and has always been incredibly supportive and patient. I am far more inspired and influenced by the criticism, support and character of friends than by any particular artist.

In a professional sense, the photographer Rick Guest has been a huge inspiration. His attitude toward our industry, his incredible work ethic,

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

You curated the upcoming Andrew Polson exhibition – how did this come about?

Andy and I were introduced by a mutual friend. We soon discovered that we shared a passion for photography and when Andy showed me a few images from a series he shot in Tokyo, while he was there for the Rugby World Cup in 2019, I was impressed by his eye for portraiture and composition and his use of symmetry is something that repeats in my own work. When Andy was given the opportunity to exhibit at the BRSLI, he asked me to meet him to cast a critical eye over the series of images. It was at that meeting that Andy asked me to design and curate the exhibition for him.

“The genesis of all of my imagery is an original photograph”

I guess that ‘contemporary’ would be a general description for my work. I produce a wide range of images from abstract to pop art, to pure photography. I use image software from phone apps to Photoshop to manipulate the vast majority of my work. The one constant is that the genesis of all of my imagery is an original photograph.

Who has inspired you along the way?

his professional and personal generosity, his boundless energy, and creative style have always been so inspirational. He is also one of my closest friends and confidants and my love for him knows no bounds.

Have you curated before?

This is my first time and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I do have 30 plus years experience of working with and editing photos for photographers and magazines – I would say that it’s a passion.

When can we see the collection?

Hopefully the public can visit from 4 – 21 December. The images will be for sale with profits going to the wonderful Dorothy House.

Where, and when can we see your own work?

I currently have work on display at the Abbey Hotel Art Bar and restaurant. I will also be exhibiting my first collaborative pieces with

ARTS And this is where the flowers come in…?

Mark had seen an image from the US of a pothole that had been filled with flowers to highlight the problem and we decided to do the same in Bath. We filled three or four potholes with compost and pansies and took photos to put on Facebook for our friends to see and react to. We had agreed to do it in a way that was not aggressive or confrontational and also with a thought to which potholes we ‘decorated’. We made sure not to use potholes on corners, or in a position that would cause a sudden surprise.

ABOVE: A ‘mirror’ image of the Griffin Inn on Monmouth Street;

BELOW: Pulteney Bridge built in 1774 gets a contemporary makeover

It was a very effective campaign wasn’t it?

Within 24 hours I had been contacted by the Chronicle, the BBC and ITV. Then several national newspapers wanted interviews. We realised that we had already achieved our aim of highlighting a problem that affects all road users but decided to carry on. We would like to think that, even in a small way, the council felt pressured to spend the budget they had received due to our highlighting the real risk to people’s safety, let alone the staggering cost of repairs due to the damage caused by these holes in the road.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I want to continue to collaborate with other artists on creative projects and keep developing my own creative and photographic eye. I would also like to help show that Bath has a rich pool of incredibly talented artists and creative professionals that could, and should, be used to reclaim Bath’s reputation as a creative centre of excellence in the South West.

How do you believe this can be best achieved?

I believe that combining creative with retail, while investing in local businesses, is the key to reinvigorating the high street with longevity in mind. We must invest in the people of our city to insure its future. ■ For more: www.jasondorleybrown.com

the wonderful Bath artist Tracy Rees Oliviere at The Abbey Hotel restaurant, post lockdown.

What sort of art do you have in your own home?

We have lots of contemporary art. From Warhol’s Debbie Harry to work by Jamie Reid, James Cauty. Also Norman Parkinson black and white photos, and my favourite artist of the moment, Siena Barnes.

The biggest selection of work in our home though is from swapping and bartering with artists and photographers I have met over the years We hear you spent a summer filling Bath potholes with pansies…

In 2017 a friend and I were discussing the huge number of potholes in Bath and how dangerous they were. My friend Mark is a car and scooter owner, and I am a cyclist and thus we both had experience of swerving potholes to avoid physical injury. We looked into BANES funding and discovered that they had received £4.4 million to repair potholes in 2017, which we both found outrageous as nothing seemed to have been done.

A Week in Tokyo is a collection of photographs by Andrew Polson, and curated by Jason Dorley-Brown. The exhibition is planned for after lockdown at BRSLI, 16-18 Queen Square, Bath. Prints are available for sale with all profits donated to Dorothy House.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Story time More lockdown means more time, which means more lovely books

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“Two playful mysteries, that are also full of comic touches, could offer much needed levity and escape this lockdown” 42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ith Christmas browsing needing to be done at a distance the Bath Life editorial squadron has offered up a larger than usual space (even my column needs social distancing) for me to bombard you with some of the books I think would be especially well received if they appeared under the tree this year, and.

So here goes, six books that might appeal to different readers and that represent some of our current favourites here at Mr B’s.

Let’s start with the youngest readers.

More than ever this year, we’re going to need weaponry on hand to combat cabin fever amongst the kids this Christmastime. In fact I’m getting just a little bit shaky thinking about the worst case scenario of lockdown running straight into a largely indoor sugarfuelled Christmas.

A great book for lengthier distraction is the third instalment of the Pierre the Maze Detective series, The Curious Case of the Castle in the Sky by Hiro Kamigaki (Laurence King, £14.99). Don’t worry if you’re new to these, each dastardly maze and mystery mash-up is separate and so there’s no need to have tried the previous volumes.

On each page you are greeted by a vibrant twisty-turny overfilled scene with a fresh maze that might ultimately lead Pierre and Carmen to the fabled castle in the sky. At least it will if you can help them navigate it and, along the way, track down the many well-hidden objects needed to unpick the mystery of the missing Maze Egg. For young readers in need of escapism, and laughter, try out InvestiGATORS by John Patrick Green (Macmillan, £9.99). Illustrated in comic-book panel style, this is an exciting

BOOKS

double-mystery as our snappy secret agents try to figure out where the local baker has gone and what caused an explosion in the science laboratory. The hilarious Mango and somewhat stricter Brash often descend into comedy arguments as they use their ‘Very Exciting Spy Technology’ to solve clues and travel great distances at speed by flushing themselves down the loo. A brilliantly oddball addition to the world of misfit crimefighting duos!

Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri (Levine Querido, £12.99) is a memoir that is officially aimed at teen readers but that any adult would enjoy as well. It’s also Juliette’s (my wife and Mr B’s co-owner) book of the year by just some distance. Daniel tells his remarkable life story from the perspective of his 13-year-old self, weaving memories together like Scheherazade.

By that point in his life he and his mother and sister were living in Edmond, Oklahoma where Daniel was attempting to fit in at school whilst his family tried to make a life and a living from scratch. But it hadn’t always been that way. Through fragmented childhood memories (fragmented because he had so few people to corroborate them) we hear how Daniel’s family were forced to flee the secret police in Iran and leave their lavish lifestyle behind. That was the start of the journey that would end in Oklahoma, but only after it had taken in a prince’s palace in Dubai, a refugee camp in Italy, and plenty of dramatic, almost cinematic, misadventures.

Despite the hardships along the way, this is an overwhelmingly funny book, particularly as Daniel recalls the utter disbelief of his schoolmates when this kid who, to them, was just poor, strange and smelt of weird foreign food, described an early childhood lived in grand houses surrounded by saffron fields and with aviaries between the walls.

Two playful mysteries, that are also full of comic touches, could offer much needed levity and escape this lockdown. Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club

(Viking, £14.99) has been one of our bestsellers for the last few weeks and that’s likely to continue throughout the season.

Pointless fact-machine Osman has turned his trademark tongue-in-cheek wit to the crime genre. The result is a charming and gripping story set in a luxury retirement home with four amateur sleuth residents who suddenly find themselves closer to actual criminal activity than they’d anticipated.

Meanwhile, The Mystery of Henri Pick

by David Foenkinos (Puskin, £9.99) features a young editor who discovers a masterpiece amongst a Breton library of unpublished manuscripts. The author is apparently the eponymous Henri Pick, a deceased pizzeria owner. However when the book is published under his name, the locals cast doubt on the whole affair; because the Henri Pick who they knew, and whose pizzas they ate, had never read a book in his life let alone written one.

Henri Pick would make a great gift for anyone who loves a story set in and around the book world, as would Cathy Rentzenbrink’s Dear Reader (Picador, £12.99). This is part-memoir and part ode to the way that books can act as guides and companions through the trials, tribulations and joys of our lives. Now an author, previously a bookseller, and always a booknut, Rentzenbrink has had books beside her throughout and credits them with changing her life in all kinds of ways.

This beautifully written love affair to books and their potential for positive impact also, of course, happens to be a treasure trove of the author’s own book recommendations.

Which makes it that most beloved of items for any bookseller – a dangerous gateway for any reader to more must-reads, and so to ever more crammed bookshelves.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

PLATE BATHWICK

Lydia Tewkesbury celebrates the last night before lockdown 2 in style at The Bird’s brand-new restaurant

O

ur review of Plate Bathwick was scheduled for the day before lockdown. That strange, purgatorial Wednesday that also happened to be the first frost of the season, the suddenly frigid air reflective of the general mood of the country.

That evening, I wrapped myself in my coat and scarf, pulled on my gloves (the cosy, rather than antibacterial, kind), checked the news for updates on the US election for perhaps the 10,000th time that day – there were none, of course – and tramped along the tow path and down Bathwick Hill to meet a friend for a pre-lockdown last hurrah at Plate Bathwick, the new restaurant at The Bird Bath hotel. The team have installed chef Leon Smith at the helm of their newest venture. With experience at The Pony and Trap (known for being one of only a handful of pubs with Michelin stars) and a spell at The Royal Oak at Paley Street, where he earned three AA rosettes, and

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a pedigree in great British meals made from the best, locally sourced produce – seriously, he forages some of it himself – Leon’s new menu is filled with hearty, warming dishes that are comforting to the soul and a luxurious treat all at the same time.

Within moments of deciding to order a small glass of wine, I was talked into a cocktail I wasn’t planning on – it wasn’t hard, to be fair. A posh twist on a classic, the Champagne Colada was creamy, sweet – and a little bit too drinkable, to be honest. My guest stuck to her guns with the wine, and on advisement from our waiter, went for a rich Rioja Crianza from Sierra Cantabria – she had her eye on the venison (we’ll get to that shortly) and we all agreed it would make for the best accompaniment.

While the menu is undeniably heavy on the meat, Leon is known for his passion for veg, and this shone through – which, as Bath Life’s current resident vegetarian, I appreciated. We selected our starters from the West Country Tapas menu – me going for the spiced parsnip

RESTAURANT

soup with chewy, salty parsnip crisps and a thick wedge of fresh bread, and my pal the beautifully presented braised shoulder of Beeswax lamb, caper jam, goats curd and zingy caramelised chicory. We both took a bite, stared at each other in wonder – and then that was it for conversation for the next few minutes. These starters were of such quality, such enveloping warmth and freshness that for ten whole minutes, neither of us even checked the constantly buzzing The Guardian app, intruding with news that there was no news yet about whether or not Biden had won Pennsylvania.

Onto mains: like I said, my guest went for the Wiltshire venison haunch, which came with heritage carrot, braised shoulder and a hint of juniper and was, by all accounts, cooked to perfection. For me, it was the delectably creamy squash gnocchi, chard, tangy pecorina, pumpkin seeds and rich truffle. We barely resisted the urge to wolf it down, forcing ourselves to go slow and savour every second – as one should their last meal out for a while, not least when the quality is this high.

The dishes were classic, but rich and complex in flavour – proper, grown up food of the sort you need to warm your bones on such a chilly and emotionally complicated evening.

It’s worth noting, too, that the portion sizes were spot on.

Each dish complemented the next, building in richness to the finale, dessert. My friend went for cheese – she’s one of those people who always goes for the cheese – leaving me obligated to pick the most indulgent alternative on the menu, the valrhona chocolate mousse with raspberries, Chantilly and berry ice cream. Not only was this one of the prettiest desserts I have ever consumed – think dark, smooth chocolate piped with whipped Chantilly and sweet, shining fruit – it managed to be light in consistency but deep and rich in flavour. The contrast of bitter chocolate, creamy Chantilly and sweet berry were utterly heavenly – in truth, I’ve been dreaming about that mousse ever since.

In this funny old year of separation, a good meal with a friend has taken on a new significance – the moments feel stolen, somehow, and all the more special for it. Plate offers a great venue to share these treasured times for conversation and food-based awe – I recommend you book a table as soon as lockdown lifts. n

“I’ve been dreaming about that mousse ever since”

DINING DETAILS Plate Bathwick, 18-19 Pulteney Road (South); Bathwick; BA2 4EZ; tel: 01225 580438; www.thebirdbath.co.uk Opening hours Lunch, Wed-Sat 12-3pm; dinner Tues-Sat 6-9.30pm, Sun 6-9pm Type of food served Hearty, classic British meals driven by fresh veg including locally foraged goods Prices Starters cost between £6.50-£9, mains £16-£24, desserts £6.50-£10 Vegetarian options A couple, and staff are on hand to advise those with allergies Drinks choice Extensive – whether you’re into cocktails, wines or spirits Service/atmosphere Cosy with the decorative curious typical of The Bird, and super friendly with it. Staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the menu

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

For the first time in its history, Sally Lunns is now delivering buns

TAKE ME OUT

We’re locked down. For the second time. There’s never been a better reason to treat yourself – and support Bath’s indies while you’re at it

O

ur huge range of cafés, restaurants and pubs have more than stepped up to the challenges presented by both lockdowns, with a huge amount pivoting to takeaway and delivery models to make it through. We’ve done our very best to name a fair few of them here, but keep an eye on our social media – more are springing up all the time.

SALLY LUNNS

For the first time in its 300-year history, Sally Lunn’s buns are available for home delivery.

Priced at £9.49 for four and £4.98 for two, they can be ordered online for delivery to the whole of mainland UK. The team at Sally Lunn’s will be baking and despatching Monday-Thursday. While next day delivery is not guaranteed, the team are sending orders as quickly as they can after they are placed.

Delivery; www.shopsallylunns.co.uk

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

Satisfy your pasta cravings with Dr Al Forno

FOOD & DRINK

“Get your avocado on toast fix to your door and brunch with a friend over Zoom” SIMI’S KITCHEN MIDDLE EASTERN SUPPER CLUB

Since the pandemic halted her cookery classes and tours of Iran, Simi Rezai has pivoted to providing delicious takeaway suppers every Friday, with Persian, Azeri, Turkish, Arabic and Indian influences, made with produce from her organic allotment. The menu is released every Monday, and you have to get in quick – orders close by Tuesday at 7pm.

Delivery or collection from Simi’s Kitchen, Great Pulteney Street; www.simiskitchen.co.uk

Tickets for Landrace’s new pizza nights are flying

12” pizzas for collection every Thursday night.

Book your slot online, select your pizza from the menu at the door and they’ll make it in front of you. Keep an eye on their Instagram @landracebakery for when slots are released – they book up fast.

Collection from Landrace Bakery, 61 Walcot Street; www.landracebakery.com

DR AL FORNO

WILD CAFÉ Rogel cakes: your new favourite treat

BAKED BY FABI

Fabiana Greco bakes traditional Argentinian goodies and delivers them right to your door.

With a menu including alfajores de maicena (shortbread biscuit sandwiched with dulce de leche and rolled in desiccated coconut), rogel cakes (dulce de leche sandwiched between thin crisp pastry and topped with roasted swiss meringe) and mini pasta frola tarts filled with either quince paste or sweet potato jam, she has more than enough options to see you through lockdown.

Delivery; @bakedbyfabi_ on Instagram

THOUGHTFUL BAKERY

Freshly baked bread, pastries and cakes are all available for delivery or collection from the shop on Barton Street. That’s not all – their beautiful lunches and pantry provisions are available for order too. To cater to the increased demand over lockdown, they are back to delivering five days a week, Tuesday-Saturday.

Delivery or collection from Thoughtful Bakery, 19 Barton Street, Bath; www.thoughtful-bakery.myshopify. com; tel 01225 471747

LANDRACE BAKERY

Thursday night is Pizza Night at Landrace Bakery. The spot on Walcot Street is offering

Wild Café is now doing takeaway

© FR ASER ADAMS/@FR ASERTAKESPHOTOS

An expert in Al Forno from Puglia, ‘the Dr’ – as we like to think of him – is providing a mouth-watering range of pasta dishes for collection or takeaway via UberEATS and Deliveroo. Pesto lasagne, courgette and butternut squash lasagne, parmigiana and the delectable chocolate salami and more, is available every day from 12-3pm and 6-11pm.

Delivery or collection from the side gate of The White Hart Inn, Prior Park Road, Widcombe, @dr.alforno on Instagram; tel 07796 924073

Do not fear, everybody’s favourite brunch spot is still operating during lockdown. Wild Café is offering collection and is now on Deliveroo.

Get your avocado on toast fix to your door and brunch with a friend over Zoom – you might as well.

Delivery or collection from Wild Café, Queen Street, Bath; @wildcafebath on Instagram

SWEET LITTLE THINGS

Afternoon tea delivered to your door – we certainly can’t think of anything we’d like more right now. SLT is also offering hampers, which make for a perfect gift for those lockdown birthdays.

Delivery; www.sltbath.co.uk

A FEW MORE TAKEAWAY AND DELIVERY OPTIONS TO KEEP YOU FED UNTIL DECEMBER… Dexter’s; www.dexterscoffeeshop.com Sugar Cane Studio; www.sugarcanestudio.co.uk Sarah McNally Cakes; www.sarahmcnallycakes.com Underwood Bath; www.underwood.kitchen Always Sunday Townhouse; www.astownhouse.com Farleigh Road Farm Shop click and collect and deliveries; www.farleighroadfarmshop.co.uk Alice Park Café; www.alicepark.co.uk Heidi’s Cakes; @heidiscakesbath on Instagram

Lucknam Park; www.lucknampark.co.uk The Wheat Free Kitchen deliveries; @the.wheat.free.kitchen on Instagram Good Day Café; www.gooddaycoffee.co.uk Widcombe Deli; @widcombedeli on Instagram Noya’s Kitchen; www.noyaskitchen.co.uk The Oyster Shell; www.theoystershell.co.uk The Mint Room; www.mintroom.co.uk Whatley Manor; www.whatleymanor.com Panahar; www.panahar-bath.com Magu Burgers; www.magudiner.com Bath Pizza Co; www.bathpizzaco.com

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ASSET PROTECTION TRUSTS How effective are Asset Protection Trusts in protecting the value of a person’s home against depletion through payment of care fees? Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE takes a look at the pros and cons…

I

n a previous article I have explained the potential pitfalls of gifting or selling your home to your children during your lifetime. An arrangement of this sort is rarely advisable. In most cases it will neither save Inheritance Tax nor protect the value of the home against means testing for care funding purposes. In many instances it will cause expensive problems.

However, many people believe that a ‘safe’ alternative is to set up an Asset Protection Trust (APT) and transfer ownership of their home into that. In certain and very limited cases this can work, but again there are risks!

I am not going to consider the Inheritance Tax issues here; I have not room – but let us have a look at the possibility of protecting the value of one’s home against means-testing for care funding purposes by using an Asset Protection Trust.

If it is decided that a home placement is needed for an individual, the Local Authority must carry out an assessment of that person’s ability to pay for that care. If the individual has assets worth more than £23,250 they will have to pay for their care in full.

For a permanent care placement the value of the person’s share in their home will be taken into account in calculating their worth, unless it is occupied by their partner, spouse, older or incapacitated relative or a dependent child.

First, the good news. If your Will is properly drafted it is absolutely possible and acceptable for you to ring-fence the value of your share in your home against means testing and depletion should your partner or spouse need to be in residential care after your death, using either an outright gift to individuals other than that partner or spouse, or a trust (the latter usually being the more attractive option to retain some flexibility in the arrangement of their affairs for the surviving partner or spouse).

The bad news is that if you dispose of an asset during your lifetime with the intention of taking it out of the equation for means testing by the Local Authority should you yourself need care, then the Local Authority is entitled to regard that disposal as a ‘deliberate deprivation’ of capital and assess you as if the asset was still yours.

The term ‘Asset Protection Trust’ is in itself a bit of a give away here. The phrase is used not to describe one particular type of trust (it can apply to a variety of different sorts) but the purpose of the trust – which of course is to

“IF YOUR WILL IS PROPERLY DRAFTED IT IS ABSOLUTELY POSSIBLE AND ACCEPTABLE FOR YOU TO RING FENCE THE VALUE OF YOUR SHARE IN YOUR HOME AGAINST MEANS-TESTING AND DEPLETION”

purposes – or alternatively incurring an annual charge to Income Tax under the ‘previously owned asset’ taxation rules.

Once the home is disposed of to someone other than the occupier, the Capital Gains Tax ‘principal private residence’ relief on it is lost, and in addition there will be no tax-free uplift to the market value of the property when the person who disposed of the property dies.

And of course, once disposed of, you lose your control of your own home.

So – tread carefully and seek proper advice should you be tempted to part with the ownership of your property. All is not as simple as it may at first appear. ■

protect the assets in it against means testing and use for care funding and/or tax liability.

The problem is the same whether you give or sell the asset to the Trust. In the latter case you may well incur a liability to Stamp Duty Land Tax as well as the expense of a formal valuation of the property and a Land Registry fee. If you gift the property or sell it at an undervalue you may also find yourself having made a ‘gift with reservation of benefit’ for Inheritance Tax

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

© CHLOE MOORE PHOTOGR APHY

The glorious sight of Bath Abbey heralds your finish

Bath Race Course

THERE’S AN ABBEY ENDING

Pub Lansdown

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Kelston Round Hill

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Penn Hill Newbridge A4 31

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A four-hour Bath walk to lift the spirits

Primrose Hill Weston Park

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Golf Course

Victoria Park 4

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Royal Crescent P&R

Bath

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

5

Bath Abbey

W

ith a little bit more time on our hands thanks to lockdown the sequel, we’ve chosen a longer walk from Bathscape.

This four-hour trail starts in Lansdown, slides from the open hill top of the southern end of the Cotswold Way, winds its way around open farmland and down bustling alleyways to its crescendo at the majestic splendour of Bath Abbey.

1 Walk to the end of the Park & Ride (away from Bath) to gates into football fields. Cross the playing field heading diagonally left to a kissing gate. Pass through the gate and turn left along Lansdown Lane for 60 metres and carefully cross the road and go through a gap in the wall on the opposite side with a finger post pointing towards the race track.

On reaching the race track barrier, cross and keep left and walk between the barrier and the wall to the pub forecourt. Continue across the pub forecourt, and on the far side follow the footpath left across a small area of scrub.

Turn right immediately before the racecourse,

© IAN REDDING / FLICKR

WALKING

above: Admire the tree-topped dome of Kelston Round Hill on the way below: The blue limestone disc out Bath Abbey is mirrored by a similar marker at Chipping Campden and together they act as bookends for the Cotswold Way walking route of 102 miles

and follow the track between the maintenance sheds and the drystone wall. Head around the edge of the golf course, keeping the wall on your left, and continue on past the racecourse main entrance. When you meet the main access road, turn left between the buildings towards a sign marked ‘centre course’ and pass through the narrow gap between the gate and fence ahead. Turn right and follow the racecourse boundary fence all the way round until you reach the far corner, being careful to avoid the track itself. At this point you join the Cotswold Way and will not be leaving it until the end of your walk.

2 Turn left and follow the trail until you reach the viewpoint. Pass through the kissing gate and turn left to follow the track downhill.

Continue on towards the tree-topped dome of Kelston Round Hill as wonderful views over Bath begin to open up to your left – a sight that has given comfort to the road weary for thousands of years. Stay on the Cotswold Way through three kissing gates as it heads around Shiner’s Wood and onto the track passing the hill up on the right. When you meet the farm road, head straight on over the stile and around the top edge of the field, passing through the metal gate at the far side. Follow the path round past a view point on your right and through another metal gate to head down towards the recreation ground.

3 Head straight across the playing fields as the Cotswold Way crosses the boundary between countryside and city. At the far corner, pass through a gate and head left to pick up the Cotswold Way signs as they change from weathered oak to green and white metal fingers. Continue to follow the signs over a zebra crossing, past a church and up some steep sections of path between houses. Pass through a kissing gate and turn right to follow the path along the bottom of a field, known

as Primrose Hill, pausing at the end to glance all the way back up to where the walk began.

Keep following the trail down a shaded path, across the last of the rough grassland and up another steep section. Stick with the signs as they guide you right towards Sion Hill, and then down a path through the middle of the golf course. Cross the road at the bottom, past the last of the green and white signs, and follow the path around the edge of Victoria Park.

4 At the bottom of the park, turn left and pick up another style of Cotswold Way signing; from now until the end you will be looking out for black stickers with gold arrows attached to lampposts and bollards etc. Head past the war memorial and through the ornate park gates, then instead of making for the second set of gates, turn left and cross the road to follow the path below the Royal Crescent. Turn left at the end, then right down Brock Street towards the picturesque tree-filled Circus. Turn right and head down Gay Street, crossing over at the lights to carry on down the other side. At the bottom, turn left onto Wood Street and carry straight on until you meet the junction with Milsom Street. (For the return journey, turn left up Milsom St; the Park and Ride bus stop is halfway up on the right). Turn right and head down Old Bond Street to the right of the central line of shops, then left at the bottom and immediately right onto Union Street. Keep straight on across the next road, then left into the Colonnade as the wonderfully welcoming sight of Bath Abbey is revealed.

5 Walk towards the Abbey main door, passing the Pump Room and Roman Baths entrances which are on your right. The large circular Cotswold Way plaque is set in the ground just before you reach the Abbey main door. This is the This is the start/ finish of the Cotswold Way.

For more: www.bathscape.co.uk

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RAINBOW WARRIORS We call them heroes, sing their praises, and clap for them on our doorsteps. Now it’s time we heard from them. The staff of the RUH tell us their own pandemic experiences and their plans for a working Christmas Photographs by Rich Howman; Words by Elsie Chadwick

T

he Forever Friends RUH Christmas Appeal has always been a vital source of funding for the hospital’s patients, families and staff. To help give us some insight in to the direct value of this appeal, we speak to four key staff from the hospital. Yes we call them angels, heroes and lifesavers, but they are also mothers, students, colleagues, and neighbours, all with their own story to tell.

Grace Mugagga, Critical Care nurse

“I’ve been qualified as a registered nurse for nine months and this is my first role as a nurse. I’ve always wanted to do nursing, I just didn’t know what type so I’m so pleased that I have found my place in Critical Care.

“I studied at the University of the West of England (UWE) and did a seven week placement at the RUH in the Critical Care department.

I had two mentors and they were very inspiring. I saw how they gave excellent care to the patients and I went home feeling that I had given it everything during those days.

“It was because of one of my mentors that I wanted to come back and work in this team. I saw how my mentor Jaz cared for her patients.

She did everything with a smile even when she was having a tough day.

She was so inspiring to me and such a good role model, and the unit gave me a really good foundation to build on my knowledge and skills.

They gave me the time and support I needed.

“When I started here I was so excited to be working as a Critical Care nurse. But nothing prepared me for Covid-19. It was terrifying when we heard it was coming. I was worried about it but I thought that we are all in it together. I looked at everyone else working around me and how they were coping and we were all getting on with the job. By following all the advice and guidance, gradually I felt less anxious and just got on with it so I could care for my patients. I got to the point where I was looking forward to coming in and seeing my patients getting better and I felt that I wanted to give more.

“Going through Covid-19 there have been times when people asked if I would stay in my role, and the answer is always ‘yes’. I’m still smiling and that just confirms my dream is to have a career in Critical Care.”

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

COMMUNITY Grace Mugagga says being a Critical Care nurse is her dream career

“I saw how my mentor Jaz cared for her patients. She did everything with a smile” Forever Friends have launched their RUH Christmas Appeal

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

COMMUNITY

“As soon as I started here, I loved it and knew it was the right place for me”

above: Orthopaedic Practitioner Baz Harding-Clark attended university whilst at the RUH to get his diploma; left: Cleaner Maria Brinkworth takes time to get to know and chat to the patients

around me does. I love the management aspect of the job. Not only are you helping manage that patient’s life but you are managing the surrounding environment. For example, if a really poorly person is brought into the resuscitation unit from an ambulance, I’m immediately assessing what needs to be done.”

Maria Brinkworth, Cleaner, Haygarth Ward

Baz Harding-Clark, Orthopaedic Practitioner and Senior Health Care Assistant

“I didn’t grow up wanting to go into nursing, but now I’ve been doing it for 17 years! I used to be a community youth and play worker, working with vulnerable young people. I then came to the RUH as a healthcare assistant on the cardiac ward in 2004.

“As soon as I started here, I loved it and knew it was the right place for me to be. When I joined I saw what the other wards were doing, which gave me an insight into the whole hospital. Mandy Rumble (now Head of Nursing but formerly the Emergency Department Matron) was always pestering me to further my career and work in ED. She finally got me to work there and I was funded to do a university course to become an Orthopaedic Practitioner. Considering I left school at 15 with no education at all, for me to go to university and get a diploma is amazing.

“Things are now a bit different with Covid. Before I can help a patient, I have to check that I have the right PPE, as well as everyone

“It has been hard at work since the start of the pandemic. The job has got more time consuming. At breakfast time there always needs to be two of us to avoid cross contamination. We are washing our hands constantly, wearing gloves, changing PPE – though it does all become second nature once you have done it a few times. Together we work great as a team, and I have certainly made some friends for life whilst working here.

“Some days our patients might only see me for a chat. I like to spend time in the side rooms with our most poorly patients, chatting to them so they know that they are still a person, and not just a number. What I love about being a cleaner is I can give that little bit of extra to our patients. I even have a pot of nail varnish in my cupboard. If a patient is really sad, I might paint their nails to help cheer them up – if I have time of course.

“I used to work as a Dementia Support worker, but two years ago I moved to the RUH and started cleaning. Before that I was a stay at home mum – I have two boys. My eldest son has a rare bone disease, and my youngest has ADHD, so life can be quite mentally draining at times. When I started at the RUH, I was going to be a health care assistant, but then I got quite comfortable with the cleaning. I have found my balance in life and that is why I am so happy.

“I am working on Christmas Day this year. My teenage boys are growing up, so I thought, ‘I am needed elsewhere’.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

COMMUNITY

Senior Sister Niki Hartley had to self-isolate at home whilst working

“Together we work great as a team”

Niki Hartley Senior Sister on Waterhouse Ward

“The staff here make me really, really proud more than anything – how they go above and beyond every day. One example is when we had a homeless gentleman on the ward – one of the staff took his clothes home to wash and iron them for him. That might not seem like a big deal, but to that patient it meant the world. That action just shows how much they care. My team work so hard. There is no hesitation to provide cover when another staff member is sick, because they know our patients still need to be cared for.

“We have 13 different nationalities on our team, so once a month we have a culture week where everyone brings in a dish from their own country. They bring in the most delicious food. But our good old cheese and pickle and scones with clotted cream have proved very popular too!

“Another example of how the staff really make a difference to our patients was when we threw a Remembrance Sunday party last year.

I brought in a brigadier and a lady who had just retired from the Army.

They came dressed in their uniforms and with all their medals to chat to the patients.

“It was so lovely to give them this opportunity as they couldn’t go to church and couldn’t make it down to the Atrium as they were too poorly. One of our staff crocheted them all a poppy. Frankie from the Art at the Heart team joined us and sang some war-time songs.

“The Covid pandemic had a huge impact on the hospital. It’s so difficult when patients aren’t allowed visitors. We use Facetime and the phone for them to keep in touch with their friends and relatives. We made a pledge to each other that we would never let anyone die alone – we managed to keep that promise, and will make it again this time.

“It had a big impact on my home life as well. Both my partner and I are key workers and we have a young son. If any of us got Covid it would have serious repercussions. During the first wave I had to basically isolate within my own home. As soon as I got home I would have a shower. I washed my laundry separately, slept in the spare room and didn’t share a sofa with them. The toughest bit was not being able to put my son to bed or hug them.

“The pandemic has taught me to worry less about the little things, yet at the same time it has made me appreciate the smaller things in life.” ■

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

Cosy up on the sofa and help raise funds for the RUH

WAYS YOU CAN HELP WITH THE RUH’S FOREVER FRIENDS CHRISTMAS APPEAL MAKE A DIRECT DONATION This Christmas, rather than donating gifts such as toys and confectionery to patients and staff in the hospitals, Forever Friends ask that you consider making a cash donation instead.

KEEP IT COSY ON 16 DECEMBER Get your school, group or business ready to Keep It Cosy with some virtual fundraising events on 16 December. These could include a Zoom coffee morning or quiz, and a social bubble cosy camp-in with hot chocolate and your favourite Christmas movie.

STAFF CHRISTMAS HAMPER Help make this festive season special for staff working over the holidays by sponsoring a hamper for £150.

For more: www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk

BATH & BRISTOL

BRAND NEW SHOWROOM IN BATH NOW OPEN 5 Saracen Street, Bath BA1 5BR | 01225 634 025

Proud Finalist of

BUY NOW PAY 2022

SUPPORT A LOCAL BUSINESS AND BENEFIT FROM THE FOLLOWING: ● Premium, Sleek, German Engineered ● Luxury Kitchens at competitive prices ● All kitchens delivered pre-built ● Supply only or Fully installed ● Free Design and quotation service

T&C’S APPLY. CONTACT THE STORE FOR MORE DETAILS

Find us 5 Saracen Street, Bath BA1 5BR

Opening times Monday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm Sunday by appointment

Contact Email: Showroom@bath.kutchenhaus.co.uk Tel: 01225 634 025

Inside Clifton Down Shopping Centre, Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2NN

Monday - Saturday: 9.30am - 5.30pm Sunday by appointment

Email: Showroom@bristol.kutchenhaus.co.uk Tel: 0117 213 0497

S T O R E S N AT I O N W I D E

It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>KINGSMEAD SQUARE PARKLET OPENS (62) >>NEW BIZ SOAP AT NO.9 (63) >>SUPPORT THE ART COHORT (64) Bath’s indies need your support more than ever

Bath online

The second lockdown has been a blow to businesses across Bath. In what should be their busiest weeks of the year leading up to Christmas, lights are off and the streets quiet. As far as online and takeaway are concerned, though, it’s another story.

Bath BID has produced a resource in record time that makes it easy for locals to find and support the retailers that remain open as usual, as well as those continuing to offer takeaways, click and collect, and online shopping.

“The Welcome to Bath website was originally planned to be a what’s on guide, providing up-todate information about large and small events and special offers across the city, but has been rapidly reconfigured to become a guide to local businesses that are continuing to trade during lockdown. There are already over 300 businesses listed, including big names and independent favourites,” Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath BID explains. “I hope that

our contribution to supporting businesses via the Welcome to Bath website will be welcomed by the community and businesses as a helpful guide, and that everyone will make the most of the click and collect, delivery and takeaway options that businesses are offering.”

The website is just one of the ways that the Bath BID levy payers, who pay an annual contribution to fund the BID, benefit over the lockdown period. The BID’s Ranger service is also operating as normal, with the Rangers making the most of the city being a little quieter by conducting thorough deep cleans around the city centre. The Rangers are also doing a daily security check, and will contact businesses if they find a problem with their premises.

“We are sending out regular e-newsletters to our levy payers, featuring the latest business support information, which we are also sharing on our website and social media channels. As always, we are

The Bath BID rangers are taking advantage of the quiet streets to get some major cleaning done

available by phone seven days a week, so businesses can get in touch whenever they need our support.”

For more: www.welcometobath.co.uk

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BATHWORKS

SMALL BUT MIGHTY Have you spotted Kingsmead Square’s new parklet? This adorably named addition has been installed as part of ongoing works to improve the evening economy and create a cleaner, greener public space.

“The new parklets look great and fit well into the vibrant square where a European-style, socially distanced, café culture is now blossoming in the traffic-free environment,” says councillor Joanna Wright, joint cabinet member for transport. “So far the feedback we’ve received has been really positive and we’ll be consulting on a permanent vehicle access restriction for Kingsmead Square in the coming months.”

Milsom Street is set to get its own parklet soon.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

Nuray Morris’s love of nature is evident in the brand

FEELING CHILDISH

Rear L-R Councillor Joanna Wright, Councillor Sue Craig, Jane CampbellHoward and Wendy Maden; front L-R Lindsay Holdaway and Councillor Andy Furse celebrate the new parklets

We can’t wait for the return of the Bath Life Awards in 2021. There are still a few category sponsorships available to local companies keen to reap the benefits of involvement in the Awards – an annual highlight of the Bath business calendar. We Another opportunity to get are, as ever, expecting your hands on one of those another sell out coveted awards... celebration on 27 May. Sponsors benefit from months of promotion prior to the event, and an exclusive Spaces, Stone King, Truespeed and invite to the prosecco-soaked Finalists’ Bath Life itself are among the prestigious and Sponsors’ Reception and the glitzy category sponsors. “From sponsoring a Champagne reception on Awards night category to benefiting from our shoulder proper. As well as sponsoring awards events, sponsorship of the Awards not only categories, there are opportunities for means involvement with a remarkable sponsorship of supporting features like event, but also reaps the benefits of the beloved-by-Instagram ‘Live Cover’ months of high-profile marketing, peaking photo booth. in May,” says Annie. “We’re thrilled The coveted headline sponsorship has to have once again had such a positive been snapped up by longstanding partner response from so many companies, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, who will months ahead of the big night.” lead an exciting line-up of sponsors for Only a few category sponsorships remain 2021. MediaClash’s brand manager Annie and they are flying fast. For sponsorship Miekus says, “We are thrilled to have such enquiries and info, please contact a perfect headline sponsor and one that is annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk deeply rooted in Bath.” Apex City of Bath For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk Hotel, Marsh Commercial, Novia, Savills, @bathlifeawards

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© SOUL MEDIA

PARTY PLANS

Bath has a beautiful new children’s boutique. Tilian Kids on Walcot Street is an ethical, eco-friendly store filled with sustainable clothing and high-quality gifts for babies and small children. Tilian’s founder, Nuray Morris, Tilian is filled began her career as an with beautiful early years practitioner hand made and that experience, as pieces like these woven well as her love of nature, rainbows is infused in the brand.

“As a small business, trying to become established in the current climate has been challenging but I am determined to make a success of it,” says Nuray.

“Everyone has made me feel so very welcome and I feel extremely lucky to have this exciting opportunity. Bath’s Artisan Quarter, Walcot Street is packed with fun, interesting, independent shops and I already feel quite at home here.”

Tilian is drawn from the old English word ‘tillian’, which means to strive and cultivate; it reflects Nuray’s belief that from small beginnings, big things are possible and it’s an ethos plain to see in her imaginative and optimistic collection. Most of her products have Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) certificates too, which means they are 100 per cent organic and free from harsh chemicals – exactly what you want for the little people in your life.

Tilian Kids is currently closed until the end of lockdown, but keep an eye on their social media for updates on how to shop in the meantime.

For more: @tilian.kids on Instagram

NEW to Bath Meet the new faces on the Bath business scene Jonny Harbottle and Hannah Lamputt's business started as a way to get to know their neighbours

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC TOP OF THEIR GAME

Four Mogers Drewett lawyers have made it into the new Chambers 2021 Guide for their standout contribution in their respective practices. Tom Webb, Rebecca Silcock, Victoria Cobham and Jonathan Cheal all received a mention for their work with the local firm.

“We pride ourselves on the quality of our people at Mogers Drewett and are delighted to be recognised by Chambers,” says Sean McDonough, employment partner with the firm. www.mogersdrewett.com

THE DIGITAL DILEMMA

How did Soap at No.9 come to life?

We started Soap at No.9 in the first lockdown. Leading busy lives, we never spoke to our neighbours, but when lockdown happened, we found that we wanted a way to connect with them and let them know that if they needed anything then we were there to help.

We’d already been dabbling in soap making as a hobby and with such a huge emphasis on hand washing all of a sudden, we thought that a handmade soap and a small note was the perfect way to offer a helping hand. We never could have anticipated that it would turn into a business! Now we’ve just finished building our website ready for the Christmas gifting season. We can’t quite believe it.

BUSINESS CLUB

What’s special about your soap?

We are self-confessed soap snobs. It’s important to us that our soaps are the best they can be – for us and the environment. All of our soaps are made with organic oils and butters and scented with essential oils, which makes them perfect for those prone to acne or sensitive or dry skin.

Not to mention they are also vegan friendly, palm oil-free and there’s no plastic packaging in sight.

What have you found most challenging about starting a business?

Trying to be a master of all trades – other small businesses will be able to relate to this one. It’s been a steep learning curve, but one we are trying to relish in.

For more: www.soapatno9.co.uk

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN Nominations for the Bath Property Awards close on 26 November. Agents, developers, architects, designers, propertyfocused financial and legal services – any company in the industry – are invited to get involved.

“It’s been wonderful to Last year’s celebrations see how enthusiastically of Bath’s dynamic the city has embraced property market the Bath Property Awards yet again with so many involved in what has been a difficult year,” says Annie Miekus, brand manager at the event’s organiser, MediaClash. “We’re looking forward to revealing the full line-up of impressive finalists for the Awards. Best of luck to all and make sure to get your nominations in quick!”

The Bath Property Awards and Property Symposium will be held on 13 March 2021 as an afternoon event, and will celebrate all aspects of the dynamic property market.

Finalists will be announced on 2 December on Twitter (@BathPropertyAwd) and via the Awards website. www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

Virtual one hour sessions, all free to attend Search Bath Life on LinkedIn for upcoming dates and registration If you would like to get involved, please email events@mediaclash.co.uk

© ADAM CARTER

Hannah Lamputt and Jonny Harbottle started Soap at No.9 to keep themselves entertained during the first lockdown. Now, heading into the second, it’s a fullyfledged business with a range of six different soaps as well as gift boxes, launched just in time for Christmas.

Professor Adam Joinson of the University of Bath is set to lead a new £3.5 million research collaboration into the social science of digital security. Known as the DiScriBe Hub+, the project aims to bridge the gap between security engineering challenges and the people who will implement them.

“Addressing the cybersecurity challenges we face now – as well as anticipating those we might face in the future – is a major undertaking that needs deep engagement and collaboration between social scientists and technical experts,” says Professor Joinson. “This is a ground-breaking initiative.” www.bath.ac.uk/research

BATHWORKS

WHAT DO ARTISTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE ART COHORT?

Kat is inviting thriving businesses to support Bath's local arts scene

BIZ Q&A

Kat Dawe Schmeisser The Art Cohort is an inter-generational community focused artspace, gallery, art shop and studio workshop.

They champion emerging artists and encourage people of all ages to nurture their creativity How has the business been impacted by Covid?

In pre-Covid times our studio workshop programme of art classes and workshops for adults and children paid the rent and bills and enabled us run exhibitions at 13 Chelsea Road.

As a self-funding, artist-run artspace we now find ourselves in a very vulnerable position.

Is losing the premises a possibility?

Things have been difficult in relation to the rent. We know we need to find new streams of funding to support our exhibitions programme, otherwise we will not be able to maintain the premises in 2021. This is a scary and sad prospect as we support an expansive community of artists and creators across Bath.

What are your plans for funding?

We’ve now developed an artspace sponsorship programme for 2021, which has a number of entry points for

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

support: • Sponsorship of individual exhibitions with sponsors named in the exhibition and all supporting materials • Sponsorship of the studio workshop programme, e.g. sponsored installation of new equipment • Sponsorship of artist residencies, which includes their eventual exhibition. Sponsors named in the resident artist studio space, exhibition and supporting materials • Artspace sponsorship. This is top level sponsorship for the total programme of activity at The Art Cohort for 2021

Who are your potential sponsors?

We’re very keen to reach out to businesses in Bath that are flourishing in the present climate and may be keen to support the arts sector in the city during this extraordinary time. This type of cross-industry partnership and collaboration is a creative and rewarding way to keep Bath buoyant as we navigate this.

Why should businesses sponsor The Art Cohort?

The sponsorship model is a great way for businesses in the city to directly support and nurture artistic and creative talent within the city. This year alone we have programmed work exploring a range of social and cultural issues including local community history, a series of exhibitions highlighting the plight of endangered and extinct animals, body positivity, menopause and black culture.

How do you support artists?

Mentoring is a huge part of what we do, and our work with emerging artists ranges from development of a new body of work to supporting the professionalisation of their art practice. We work with most artists for a 12-month period to develop an exhibition from idea through to execution. We also run eight-week residency programmes to nurture artists through early stage research to the final exhibition.

“Having just finished a Masters at Bath School of Design, and being in such an early stage of my career, it was an amazing opportunity to be able to exhibit at The Art Cohort,” says Millie Clake, whose exhibition Fluorescence showed there last year.

“Having a gallery and artspace in Bath that embraces emerging and new talent across the whole art and design spectrum is a real asset to the city. The Art Cohort is the perfect balance between an engaging art gallery, a shop containing handmade and unique products, and a workshop space that encourages the local community to connect with art and design.”

How can individuals support The Art Cohort?

Shop with us! Our full range is on our website. You can also make a regular contribution via our Patreon, www.patreon.com/theartcohort

What’s coming up?

We have some very exciting projects in the pipeline working with hugely talented artists across many disciplines – including a programme of events on overcoming isolation, community clay workshops, street art, social sculpture projects, creativity for mental health, finding freedom in making art, and so much more. We really hope to see these projects come to fruition in 2021 with the support of Bath businesses.

For more: The Art Cohort, 13 Chelsea Road, Bath; tel 01225 635017; www.theartcohort.co.uk

BATHWORKS

Luc Powell, digital marketing team member at PURE PLANET reflects on winning a Bath Life Award You won! Congratulations!

Talk us through the build up / the nerves/your reaction to winning…

We were absolutely thrilled to win in the Environmental category as everything we do at Pure Planet is driven by our commitment to sustainability. The environment is important to us, which is why we’re determined to get Britain to netzero carbon.

Where’s your Award now?

The award is recognition of a whole team effort involving more than 120 staff so it is displayed proudly in our office on Lower Bristol Road, Bath.

What prompted you to enter the Awards?

The Bath Life Awards are not only prestigious, but also specific to Bath, our home city, and being involved in these awards gives us the opportunity to represent the renewable energy sector while surrounded by our fellow local businesses. We are very focused on the Bath community and tackling problems like air pollution through zero-carbon commuting.

Bryn Jones – one thrilled CTO celebrating Pure Planet’s win

ENVIRONMENTAL WINNER SPONSORED BY

What does Pure Planet do?

Pure Planet was born in 2016, founded by three friends, and we now employ more than 100 people.

We’re Britain’s first digital green energy supplier. We are a Which? recommended energy provider 2020, and the first domestic supplier to offer 100 per cent renewable electricity and 100 per cent carbon offset gas.

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

Our values cover three key concepts: sustainable, smart and shared. These echo through everything we do. We encourage our team to get smart about sustainability, and we support

“WE ARE VERY FOCUSED ON THE BATH COMMUNITY AND TACKLING PROBLEMS LIKE AIR POLLUTION THROUGH ZEROCARBON COMMUTING” 66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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BATH LIFE AWARDS 2020

them in doing this by providing the resources needed, such as books on sustainability. Our ‘shared’ values mean we aim to make renewables accessible to everyone, and we believe we’re the first private UK company to carbon offset our teams’ commute to work at no cost to our team.

What does winning the Award mean to Pure Planet?

It’s wonderful recognition of our commitment to sustainability, and of our innovative approach to making renewables available to all.

To receive an award from Bath Life is particularly rewarding – it’s special to be celebrated amongst our peers who also call Bath home.

How does being based in Bath benefit the work you do?

Being based here allows us to access the wealth of talent and innovation that the South West has to offer.

We’re also surrounded by miles of natural beauty, and there’s really nothing better than that to remind us why protecting the planet is, and always has been, so important.

Tell us about any local collaborations We recently featured in Bath Unlimited, a new campaign that showcases all of the talent, innovation and potential offered by individuals and businesses in Bath. The website launched on 1 October and showcases a range of companies from different sectors.

We also work with Rocketmakers on

our app and web development, and SearchStar on our analytics. Our team regularly make contributions to Julian House, and when the full team is in the office there’s a weekly lunch together.

What’s your philosophy?

We believe in making renewables cheaper and more accessible for all.

What has the impact of the pandemic been on your business?

This year has changed everyone’s way of working and the approach to the office. Pure Planet has ensured all staff are equipped and supported to work from home. It’s not just them alone at a laptop. Days are filled with check in calls from the leadership team, informal meetings, and provide the flexibility to cope with others sharing the home too.

How are you supporting your team through the pandemic?

We have two fully trained Mental Health First Aiders, who team members can go and meet with to discuss any issues. We also have an external Employee Assistance Programme, as well as private healthcare, and a Health Cash Plan that covers things like dentistry and optometry. Overall, we’ve made sure that everyone feels supported and empowered to do their best during this time.

For more: Pure Planet,The Square, Cramer House, Lower Bristol Road, BA2 3BH; www.pureplan.net

#BATH TOGETHER GREG INGHAM

We get locked down We get locked up again…

Turns out that the new, new normal isn’t quite the same as the old abnormal of spring. MediaClash’s chief exec GREG INGHAM ponders bouncebackability and Chumbawumba…

S

o here we are in another lockdown, eh? Say hello through gritted teeth to Lockdown 2.0: The Frankly Slightly Dull Sequel. In theory, as you’re reading this Bath is now already over halfway through this – though, in truth, halfway is more dependent on what the government decides than on when you picked up this issue.

Well, in theory – and this pandemic makes a mockery of any assumptions – yes, in theory this will have been an easier lockdown than the spring, even if it may go beyond the planned 2 December. As ever, we should all be careful not to under-react or deny an unwanted reality or not be unempathetic to those materially affected: this is an unwelcome change and we’ve had to adjust responsibly.

But also we should likewise be careful not to over-react, either as individuals, families or in our working life. At least some of the rhythm of life for many will have been the same as it has been. We’re all more experienced at navigating our way through these times. Human beings are endlessly adaptable. Businesses, organisations, and even governments, likewise. Many went into Lockdown 2.0: Déjà vu All Over Again with an easy determination: we can do this.

Our streets haven’t been eerily empty, making central Bath even more of a film set. We’re not all locked away, hunkered down.

Far fewer people have been furloughed, even if there will be many more days of furlough before the end of March; far many more businesses are trading – normally on many cases, ingeniously in new ways in others.

“From the first lockdown we learned from the actions of each other. Many helped set examples to each other”

Our schools, colleges and unis are open, with schools being especially significant for parents (and yes: kids, obvs) not having to labour with home schooling or be as limited on home working.

Everyone is more experienced at working differently: WFH and/ or switching to, say, deliveries and takeaways Lockdown 2.0: Groundhog Day homage is capped to four weeks – or at least was planned to be. There was no time-limiting plan before. The first lockdown was shrug-shoulder, no-oneknows open-ended and lasted longer than virtually all would have expected. By contrast with now, there wasn’t the equivalent major national collective holiday looming when we locked down in March. Maybe individual plans for endless days of shoeless summer but not a time which unites us all: Christmas will happen in some form.

Further apart yet closer still.

Also, we have learned from the spring. We learn from each other.

Language is a virus (forgive the phrase); actions are mimicked; clothes and music and TV and attitudes and values – and everything is picked up from each other. So from the first lockdown we learned from the actions of each other. Many helped set examples to each other.

And, impressively, the vast majority of Bath people and companies set the best of

examples. ‘By your actions today shall ye be judged tomorrow’: this may be a tad Old Testament for some tastes but there’s a resonating truth here.

Some key takes from the spring: Buy local. Who adds to the living culture of our city? Who pays their taxes here? Who contributes? Our independents.

Disproportionately, always.

Indies add hugely to the social and living culture of our city.

They’re more distinctive. They attract people to the city. Support them: right here, right now. You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone.

Lockdown made everything local. Don’t forget that spring sensation. Make it a lasting holiday romance.

The good that people do.

What was truly inspiring in the first lockdown is that in the worst of times people showed their best. Supportive, thoughtful, empathetic.

We’ve been echo-chambering that via our #BathTogether campaign.

It’s touching.

And it didn’t, shouldn’t, mustn’t stop. Decency will endure. Revival will happen.

This too shall pass.

So welcome to Lockdown 2.0: the Chumbawumba Remix “We get locked down – we get up again…” #BathTogether – always…

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

Relocation

PAGE TURNER

Toppings is on the move after 14 years on the Paragon

Visualisations for the planned internal and external changes to the former Friends Meeting House

It’s a blockbuster of a story – one of city’s most delightful bookshops Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath is moving after 14 years on The Paragon to start a new chapter on York Street. The conversion will create the largest independent bookshop to open in England for over four decades.

A spokesperson for the shop says, “We are delighted to announce that we will be moving to the magnificent Georgian building formerly known as the Friends Meeting House. The superb location – opposite the Bath Abbey on York Street – will place the bookshop right in the centre of Bath.”

The new store, which has been designed by the Bath-based Mark Wray Architects, will have a mezzanine and multiple floors, lined with handcrafted bookcases and the signature rolling library ladders which will allow for a bigger selection of books.

External changes to the listed building, which was designed in 1817 by William Wilkins, are planned as well, as Mark Wray Architects explains, “Our proposal for the conversion of the former Friends Meeting House proposes the removal of the blind opening below the portico to create interaction with the street.”

For more: www.markwray.co.uk / www.toppingbooks.co.uk

*T&C’s apply

1% OF THE FEE YOU PAY IS DONATED TO YOUR LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL* With normal fundraising for schools being non-existent they need our help more than ever.

Help us to help your school by selling your home with Bath Stone Property.

Sales and Letting Contact the Bath Stone Property team today for help and advice on how we can get you moving safely.

Visit us online: www.bathstoneproperty.com | Tel: 01225 422224

PROPERTY NEWS Hope House was transformed with the help of heritage specialists Nash Partnership

Etons of Bath specialise in interior design practice for Georgian homes and hotels

New appointments

THE INSIDERS

Transformation

HAVE HOPE

Despite restrictions and lockdowns more than 70 per cent of the Hope House development has now been sold. Developed by Galliard Homes and Acorn Property Group, the scheme comprises a magnificent restored Georgian mansion alongside newly-built apartments and townhouses, providing 58 homes within the landscaped grounds.

The transformation of Hope House was undertaken in partnership with heritage specialists Nash Partnership, with specification by award-winning design house Lambart & Browne, and landscaping by Matthew Wigan Associates.

For more: www.acornpropertygroup.org

Etons of Bath, the specialist interior design practice for Georgian homes and hotels, has recruited two more interior designers to cope with increased demand and new projects.

Trudy McGregor, who has joined as senior interior designer, has an architectural background and has relocated to Bath from London where she was most recently working at Kelly Hoppen. Lydia Mattock is an interior designer and project manager who has a wealth of experience of heritage projects in Bath and Bristol to her name.

Sarah Latham, founder and creative director of Etons of Bath, says, “We’ve recently had a huge increase in enquiries and projects for large Georgian houses in Bath and Clifton. Adding the talent of Trudy and Lydia to our team has really helped us take on more large projects to renovate and rejuvenate some of the finest Georgian homes in the area.”

For more: www.etonsofbath.com

Bath Quays Bridge will provide greater connectivity in the city

Bath Quays

BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER AVON The first new crossing point over the River Avon in Bath for a century is now successfully in place at Bath Quays. On 7 and 8 November two spans of the 60 metre long, 140-tonne Bath Quays Bridge were lifted into place using a 600-tonne crawler crane.

The bridge spans arrived in the UK in May in four pieces after having been fabricated in Belgium and were then

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

assembled into two spans on site, ready for the lift to take place ahead of the bridge’s completion in 2021.

Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Housing, Planning and Economic Development, says, “The new bridge is a stunning addition to Bath and will make it much easier to get around our city by foot or by bike.”

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

Trudy and Lydia (above) join the team

PROPERTY

RURAL HEART Millie’s House is the safe haven we all crave

By Matilda Walton 76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I

n 2020, our year of exploring the great indoors, cosiness has taken on a sacred quality. Throughout these peculiar months, kitchens around the country have filled with the scent of freshly-baked sourdough, and longabandoned crafting ambitions found themselves dusted off and embraced, again. A lot of us began to yearn for some alternative to the minimalist look that has dominated décor trends for so long, and so rose ‘vintage maximalism’, a style drawing inspiration from flea market finds of the kind you might see in your grandmother’s living room.

The pull toward the simpler life – or, at least, an idea of it – that has gained so much momentum this year feels like a fair response. We’re all reaching for comfort as we stumble through this period of mass uncertainty.

You may not be aware, as you bake and crochet in the comfort of your own living room that this feeling has been given a name: Cottagecore. Championed by

TikTok first but quickly spreading through generations and social media platforms, it’s an aesthetic ideal driven by exactly those activities we’ve spent our year consumed by – cooking, crafting, gardening, curating our spaces with fervour. Without knowing it, many of us have been participating this entire time. Intentionally or not, Taylor Swift released an entire lockdown album infused with it.

If there was ever a home that represented the Cottagecore ideal, its Millie’s House. The Grade II listed, stone-built, period home on the outskirts of the village of Neston is filled with exposed beams, fireplaces – some complete with wood-burning stove – stone mullion windows and stone barrel-ceiling cellar. It all adds up to one central theme: cosiness.

Spread across three floors, this is the quintessential family home. Six bedrooms, a spacious family room that’ll fit two large sofas, sitting room with wood burner – the perfect retreat for a winter evening – welcoming reception hall with traditional flagstone flooring, study and a swoon-worthy kitchen/breakfast room. The

undisputed heart of Millie’s House, this spacious cottage kitchen features the must-have Aga, plenty of cupboard space – with different styles of unit giving it that soughtafter, rustic ambiance – and more than enough room for a large dining table. Double doors draw the eye outwards to the ample half-acre of garden.

Predominantly laid to lawn, to the rear you’ll find established flower beds, shrubs and trees. Beyond, there’s access to a further lawn which reaches out into a wilder area at the bottom of the garden, where Millie’s House meets the countryside. Out front, meanwhile a five-bar wooden gate leads to a gravel driveway and open garage with adjoining workshop – a space to dedicate to your next lockdown DIY project, perhaps.

A mere seven miles from Bath and two from the bustling market town of Corsham, it’s a well-situated home away from the hectic nature of town, but close enough that everything – including some wonderful local schools – remains accessible.

On Instagram, Cottagecore is an aesthetic, for the new owner of Millie’s House, it’s a lifestyle.

HOUSE NUMBERS Square foot 3,479 Bedrooms Guide price

6 £1.2 million

Gardens In excess of half an acre Outside Driveway, garage with adjoining workshop For more Savills Bath, Edgar Buildings, 17 George Street, Bath. tel; 01225 475500; www.savills.co.uk

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

“Let’s have a chat about your move” Steeple Ashton. £975,000.

Detached village home.

Four bedrooms & two bathrooms.

Excellent & flexible reception rooms.

Kitchen breakfast room & utility.

Beautifully kept gardens.

Detached garage & driveway parking.

Grade 2 Listed.

Holt. £700,000.

Well located village home.

Kitchen breakfast room.

Six bedrooms & two bathrooms.

Large rear gardens.

Three receptions & conservatory.

Driveway parking.

Tel: 01225 866747

27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk



HENRIETTA STREET

Guide Price ÂŁ925,000

Bath, BA1 A rare 3 bedroom lateral apartment spanning two Grade I Listed Georgian townhouses in the centre of Bath.

Situated within a short level walk to the shops, close to the famous recreation ground and almost opposite the delightful Henrietta Park.

3 bedrooms | Living room | Kitchen/dining room | Bathroom and separate w.c.

Matthew Leonard Director

Lucy McIlroy Director

Denise Latham Lettings Manager

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Three ways your apartment can make you happy

I

Peter Greatorex from THE APARTMENT COMPANY advises…

n this crazy year our homes have been more than where we live; they have become offices, and may well still be, our gyms, classrooms, playgrounds, pubs and whole social life. That’s a lot of pressure to put on your property and, although many of us have gone DIY crazy, you may not have had time or could just feel completely uninspired and fed up with your property. But don’t despair, we have some inexpensive and simple ideas to make your home feel fresh and even stimulating. Here are three ways your home can make you happy:

1. ZONING With all the conflicting responsibilities your apartment has, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

As we don’t know what may happen in future months, it could be a good idea to think about zoning your apartment for different activities. For example, if you’re working from home, is there

a corner you can now completely designate as an office rather than working from the kitchen table? You can ‘split’ rooms and spaces with curtains and screens and even a storage unit can separate spaces.

2. ADD SOME COLOUR When was the last time you decorated? This is one of the easiest ways to reinvigorate your apartment, and also help your mood – nothing feels better than a freshly decorated room.

Neutrals will also create a classic look, whereas pops of colour add a more dramatic feel. Greens and blues are very popular at the moment, and apparently are associated with wellbeing, calm and health.

Not only will it transform your apartment, mentally it is completely freeing – it may even give you a few pennies in your pocket. Our advice would be to just do a little at a time, or a room at a time – this makes the whole process far less stressful.

BE HAPPY Your Bath apartment should always make you happy, but if you’re feeling you have itchy feet, then give our team at The Apartment Company a call. n

3. THE BIG CLEAR OUT We all have stuff we don’t need, whether that’s on bookshelves, a cupboard, or that scary space under the bed! Decluttering feels so rewarding.

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

Steve White suggests wool carpets in busier areas will show less wear and be easy to maintain

FLOOR SHOW Often it’s neglected and walked all over, but here our experts take to the floor and help us look down

By John Mather 82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FLOORING Vanessa Garrett believes a parquet floor is a timeless classic that works in almost any space and style

F

loors are often overlooked or considered a minor supporting act in any redecoration plans we might have for our homes. Yet flooring has the power to make or break a room – it can add space, an identity, create impact, and help shape and complement your eventual design choice.

We ask our local interior professionals to share their flooring expertise

START AT THE BOTTOM

“Too often forgotten, flooring is the foundation of any design scheme,” says Vanessa Garrett, founding director of Broadleaf Bath, “If the floor doesn’t look good, it will have a negative impact on the way the rest of the room looks. If it does look good though, it will lift everything else in the room. The flooring will almost certainly be the thing you change least often, and will probably take more wear than anything else in the room, so it needs to be versatile and hardwearing. It also needs to feel good underfoot.

Tile & Floor Bath sales manager, Tom Weaver, agrees, “Floors are often the largest investment in a new design scheme. Changing them can make a huge impact but making the right choices about the mix of materials and how they are laid, their practicality for daily life, and the natural light in the room, is key.

“Add to this assessing the best heating system, adhesives, grouts and sealants and it can all feel quite daunting. However, putting the time in to researching the best options will pay dividends and ensure your floor looks and feels lovely for years.”

“Looking after your floor shouldn’t be a headache or a hassle” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 83

FLOORING MAKE ROOM

There is no blanket answer for covering your house in one type of flooring, as Tom points out, “Options will vary from room to room. In a kitchen or hall, for example, practicality, ease of cleaning and cohesion with the overall style of the furniture will be key, whereas a less frequently used sitting room can be made warm and cosy with a beautiful wool or coir carpet.

“Whatever the case, it’s important to complement and contrast flooring with other features within the room, such as furniture, paint colours and textures. Natural stone and wood effect products add texture and character. Heat source is also an important consideration – rooms with underfloor heating will radiate warmth through stone or porcelain tiles, whereas rooms with no underfloor heating will benefit from a warmer material such as engineered oak, a luxury vinyl tile or carpet.”

FLOOR SPACE

While use of floor materials may vary room to room, there are some simple tricks that can be used to maximise space and light throughout. For example, “If you want to open up your space, then it’s best to choose a floor that’s lighter in colour,” says Kayleigh Murphy, showroom manager of Boniti. “Light floors are excellent at creating the feel of a larger space, whilst also offering light bouncing qualities. We’ve also noticed a growing trend with customers using larger formats – bigger tiles or wider planks – in order to create the effect of a larger space. Large formats not only fill up the space, but also create fewer joints, meaning they are less of a target for dirt and dust.“

“If the floor doesn’t look good, it will have a negative impact on the way the rest of the room looks”

If you want to open up your space, then it’s best to choose a floor that’s light in colour says Kayleigh Murphy

WOOD YOU?

There’s no denying the beauty of wood floor but what path do we follow – new, old, treated, reclaimed? Vanessa advises, “Reclaimed wood, expertly installed, can create a truly beautiful floor, but it is a labour of love, and certainly not a cost saving option.

“It can also be difficult to trace the provenance of reclaimed boards, to know what they have been in contact with, and to source the right quantity for a project, as they are often sold in job lots. As long as it is sustainably sourced, new wood flooring is an equally environmentally conscious choice.”

TREND STEPPERS

Tom Weaver advises floors are often the largest investment in a new design scheme

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Are floors subject to fashions the way other décor might be? Kayleigh thinks not, “More often than not, customers try and choose options which are in keeping with the age of the property. As many of our clients live in or around Bath, which is rich with history, we regularly help them choose flooring options which look older and more weathered. This could be reclaimed flooring ranging from worn, reclaimed York stone or distressed and reclaimed barn oak.”

Vanessa believes, when it comes to wood, there is one particular style that will never date. “Parquet is a pattern that is utterly classic and timeless, and one which adapts to almost any space and style. Wood tones, from light to dark, are also wonderfully versatile, and will blend easily to a wide range of colour schemes and styles of décor over time.”

oak flooring – carpets – luxury vinyl

Showroom in Chelsea Road, Bath 5 Chelsea Road, Bath BA1 3DU www.interiorharmony.co.uk

01225 483818 info@interiorharmony.co.uk

FLOORING

A large rug will connect the arrangement of seating says Sarah Latham

MAGIC CARPETS

There are also numerous benefits to carpet as Steve White, director of Bath Contract Flooring, and Bath Carpets and Flooring, explains, “You can’t beat the insulation properties of a carpet, both heat and sound are improved with a carpet. Softer polyester Saxony carpets are very popular at present for bedrooms, they are deeper, softer and more luxurious to sink your toes into.

“Use wool carpets and luxury vinyl tiles for heavier trafficked areas as these will show less wear and be easy to maintain. While stripes are as popular as ever on staircases, we are now seeing a lot more plaids and designs being used to lift rooms where feature walls are not available.

Also wool loop carpets have also grown in popularity as the mix of textures brings lots of character to any room in the house.”

“Rooms with underfloor heating will radiate heat through stone or porcelain tiles”

IT’S THE VINYL COUNTDOWN

Tom suggests that people also consider vinyl – while it might not be considered as glamorous as its natural counterparts, it has many assets. “It’s possible to create the illusion of real wood, stone and porcelain with high quality vinyl flooring,” explains Tom. “Classic or contemporary, this warm, hygienic and easy to clean flooring provides heat insulation, impact and slip resistance and is ideal for high traffic areas. It is also straightforward to install and comes in a vast array of finishes, formats and colours so is well worth considering.”

IT’S A MATERIAL THING

“Texture is equally important as colour within a scheme and can create the layers needed for a room to feel warm and inviting,” says John Law, creative director at Woodhouse & Law. “Adding a rug to a hard timber or stone floor can really soften a space, as well as help anchoring furniture. This is particularly important in large open-plan living spaces where you still wish to create a sense of intimacy.

Selection of tiles available from Tile & Floor

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FLOORING “Many patterned rugs can act like art on your floors, transforming a space with an injection of colour and pattern. Companies such as The Rug Company and Knotts Rugs have a wonderful selection of designs and can even custom colour to your exact requirements. This is a great service when you need to carefully coordinate the pieces within a scheme.”

Sarah Latham, the Etons of Bath founder and creative director, agrees, “We are big on rugs. Framed by a border of beautiful floorboards, a large rug will connect the arrangement of seating, improve acoustics and provide a sense of luxury that cannot be achieved by fitted carpet. They are a luxury item and can be made in bespoke sizes and colours to exactly complement your space and the rest of the room scheme.

“We have our own range of hand tufted and hand knotted rugs that are all tailorable in this way. Our designs are all hand made in India by the best in the industry. If you’re looking to make a real statement one of our rug designs is based on the iconic pineapple,

MEET THE FLOOR MANAGERS

1. Steve White, director of Bath Contract Flooring Ltd and Bath Carpets and Flooring, 4 Kingsmead Street, Bath. tel: 01225 471888; www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk / www.carpetsandflooringbath.co.uk 2. Kayleigh Murphy, showroom manager at Boniti, Dunsdon Barn, Nr Bath. tel: 01225 892200; www.boniti.com 3. Vanessa Garrett, founding director of Broadleaf Bath, 134-136 Walcot Street, Bath. tel: 01225 463 464; www.broadleaftimber.com 4. Sarah Latham, founder and creative director of Etons of Bath, 108 Walcot Street, Bath. tel: 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com 5. Sales manager Tom Weaver at Tile & Floor Bath, One Mile End, London Road, Bath. tel: 01225 310561; www.tileandfloor.co.uk 6. John Law, creative director of Woodhouse and Law, 4 Georges Place, Bath. tel: 01225 428 072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 1

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very popular in Georgian times, but used frequently in contemporary product design as well.”

FLAWLESS FLOORS

Those floors are going to be with you for a while to come so it makes a lot of sense to consider maintenance, as Kayleigh says, “Looking after your floor shouldn’t be a headache or a hassle, so make sure you find out about the cleaning and maintenance of the product you’re interested in before going ahead with your purchase.

“Some products like natural stone or timber floors will require maintenance on a semi regular basis (every few years), whereas products like porcelain will require hardly any maintenance at all. It’s also good to find out what your cleaning routine should be with your new floor, as often manufacturers will design cleaning products with your floor in mind.”

John also stresses the importance of considering the practicalities of aftercare, “Practicality is vital as it’s pointless investing in a new flooring material if it simply doesn’t stand up to the job. For example, in a boot room or hall that needs to withstand the traffic of modern family life, then you may wish to consider a porcelain material. Porcelain is easier to clean and maintain than many other materials and will tolerate anti-bacterial cleaning products. Which, as we all know, has become increasingly important of late.” n

Room design by Woodhouse & Law; above: One of Etons of Bath’s pineapple rugs, a motif popular in Georgian times

RESIDENCE

Alice is a massive fan of Deluxe Home Improvements Ltd, who she worked with on her most recent renovations

PICTURE PERFECT Alice Gaskell invites us to explore her Bathwick Home Words by Lydia Tewkesbury Photographs by Alice Gaskell

A

lice Gaskell’s house isn’t just her cosy retreat from the world – it is the everchanging backdrop for her content photography, where she creates for brands including Soho Home and Neptune. It’s also the canvass on which she has created her own brand, her Instagram account @alicesgrace_, where she has amassed over 35,000 followers with her beautifully styled photographs, design tips and renovation projects.

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

We moved into our house in spring 2018. It’s a new build so it was completely neutral and very much a blank canvas. Ironically since the initial decorating we did, I have actually come back round full circle and have recently added some lighter tones to the house after originally adding quite a bit of pattern and darker shades.

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What was your vision for the décor of the interior?

We bought a new house because we wanted to avoid the ongoing upkeep costs experienced previously with older properties. Although they had the beautiful period features I love, it always felt like something needed fixing! By adding some traditional features into our current home such as panelling and a fireplace, we are going some way to achieving a nice balance.

What do you think are some of the common pitfalls that people fall into when redecorating?

I am very much a spontaneous decorator. I get an idea in my head often inspired by a picture or home I have seen in a magazine and make plans that I can regret. I feel like there is so much inspiration out there it can often be overwhelming. I would certainly suggest stepping back and taking time to collate mood boards or a collection of images that inspire and gradually working your way to achieving a look you want over time, perhaps updating with a few seasonal changes. I also find that quick fixes just don’t last – saving for something more special allows you to avoid buying or decorating multiple times.

“I am very much a spontaneous decorator�

Alice treated her new build home like a blank canvas

The house is thoughtfully curated to exude a cosy and welcoming feel

“...the reality is with a little one running about they never tend to last longer than it takes to capture a few photographs�

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

Personally I would suggest starting with the rooms that will hopefully take the least time so you feel like you are getting somewhere. There is a sense of accomplishment when you can metaphorically ‘close the door’ on a room and that boost is sometimes just what you need when you have set yourself a big project. I know others would say it is a good idea to get the hub of your home done first where you may spend the majority of your time.

Who or what are your décor inspirations?

The list is endless! I draw upon the Instagram accounts I follow, Pinterest and a few of my favourite interior books and magazines.

As I have started styling and photography for brands, I also often find myself saving and pinning photos taken for brochures and new collections. I like styling corners of my home as if they might be used for these purposes – although the reality is with a little one running about they never tend to last longer than it takes to capture a few photographs.

Did you source much locally?

Most of these items in our home were already fitted so it was simply a case of sourcing decorative paints, wallpapers, some furniture and accessories. We were lucky the house was fitted with a Neptune kitchen painted in their ‘Lily’ which allowed me to have a base colour to match with. Their paint colours are really beautiful and easy to use, so they are throughout our home. I love wandering around their Bath store for colour and styling ideas, as well as Oka on Milsom Street, which is just a treasure trove of inspiration.

above: Neptune paints appear throughout;

left: The dining area is one of Alice’s favourites

What are your favourite homeware shops in Bath?

Bath is so full of beautiful interior shops – we are very lucky. Walcot Street has wonderful stores such as Graham & Green, The Salcombe Trading Company for beautifully made accessories and furniture, and Katherine Fraser’s handwoven textiles are just lovely, unique pieces.

Rossiters also has such a great range, and I recently came across the Bath Artist Printmakers shop in Larkhall which sells beautiful prints.

What part of the house are you proudest of?

During lockdown, I roped my husband into doing some home DIY projects with me so I would say that we are particularly proud of those as we designed and made them ourselves. More recently, I worked with a local joiner to design our new dining and kitchen area to make it both functional and beautiful at the same time. I feel like the space we have created is relatively unique and expresses my style perfectly, and I’m proud of that.

What was the most challenging room to design?

Our downstairs has been tricky as it is open-plan and I feel this isn’t always easy to work out. It isn’t a big space but has to accommodate all of our living and working requirements. It needed to be functional for everyday life with an active toddler as well as a space that I can use for my photography work. I have moved things around countless times but I think we are finally there – I know my husband will be particularly pleased about this!

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

I would love to think that our friends and visitors would feel like it is now a warm and homely space. I have poured a lot of time and love into it, so I think it exudes a welcoming and cosy feel. If I’m honest, it certainly hasn’t always felt like this – it is only recently since our latest updates that everything now properly works and has its place. There have been times when it has been too cluttered, or a sofa has been in the way of our son and his friend’s indoor ‘race track’ for example.

What did you learn from designing your own home?

I’ve learnt that the balance between practical and aesthetic isn’t easy to achieve. Having my son’s toys accessible without taking over has been hard, particularly with limited storage space. Until recently, I lacked the confidence to get stuck into interior projects myself but if you are trying to save money, you sometimes have no choice. We had a quote for built-in storage which was completely out of our price range, so instead we completed an Ikea bookcase hack, which was such a great decision as it has been extremely functional whilst simultaneously keeping costs down. We then had our joiner build some doors to hide the contents – I definitely feel better if the mess is hidden away.

Whose house would you like to have a snoop around?

Very good question and a tricky one to answer! The first one that comes to mind is Paula Sutton’s home. I follow her and her gorgeous Instagram account (@paulasuttonvintage) and I can’t think of a more wonderfully English home full of antiques and vintage finds to investigate. She had been an inspiration for a while, so she would have to be there to regale me with her stories and just generally exude her wonderfully creative and encouraging self. above, left: Sentimental objects scattered throughout the

home create a picture of the lives of the family living there

Does the interior of your home reflect your personality?

It definitely does. Our home design is pretty traditional, stylish and considered. I am very particular so every corner is thoroughly thought out with great attention to detail, and if I had my way, always neat and tidy. I think over time we have built up a collection of belongings that tell stories and reflect different times in our life all of which create a picture of the people we are – I value sentimental objects throughout my home.

Does your work on social media and as a content photographer impact on your home at all or how you have decorated?

Very much so. I have to make use of every little space as cleverly as I can. We have definitely done more interior updates than we would have had I not been running an Instagram account that needs a continual supply of fresh content. Growing my page has taken considerable time, and followers love to see regular transformations and styling ideas, so I am forever updating and rearranging for new content. I would also say that designing a range of different areas in my home has also been influenced by my photography work – I require a variety of sets which themselves need to be continually rearranged so I’d say each area has to be flexible to accommodate this.

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

Since being a part of the incredibly supportive interiors Instagram community, I have been overwhelmed with the support and kindness for our home. It has been described as elegant and beautiful – and I don’t think I can top that.

Got an amazing local home? Want it to feature in Residence?

Contact lydia.tewkesbury @mediaclash.co.uk

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

“I have to make use of every little space as cleverly as I can�

Every corner is thought out with attention to detail

• Domestic and commercial roofing specialists • Covering Bath, Bristol and the South West • Trading since 1985 Tel: 01225 421499 Email: mail@youngsroofing.co.uk www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN

NORTON MASONRY LTD Stonework Specialists & General Builders 38 LONG BARNABY, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK BA3 2TZ

Tel/Fax: 01761 419422 Fax: 01761 232480 Mobile: 07901 712232

Email: nortonmasonryltd@hotmail.co.uk

www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Over 30 Years Experience

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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

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

www.westsidedesign.co.uk

www.cheverell.co.uk

www.kellymariekitchens.com

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.

Tel: 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com

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 97

BATH LIVES

“I’ve no problem with plebian, but I draw the line at fast food”

DAVID KERNEK The former editor of Bath’s Evening Chronicle reveals his dislike of hen parties, fast food, and day-trip tourism David was born in what was then – but isn’t now – a poor and bashed-about part of inner London and raised by kind adoptive parents. On leaving school at 15, he worked as a humble messenger boy in central London, and later charmed his way into the newspaper industry as a trainee journalist in Suffolk.

He moved to Bath in the mid1980s as editor of the then Evening Chronicle. Now a selfunemployed freelance, he’s published Bath: Glamour & Grit, a wry look at the place in pictures and words.

Working as a reporter and editor, you sometimes get to meet people regarded – rightly or wrongly – as celebrities.

My little list includes Margaret Thatcher, Ronald Reagan – his shirt cufflinks were silver crossed guns – Henry Kissinger, Marianne Faithful, and Chris Jagger, Mick’s younger brother.

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excellent neighbours and views of Snow Hill – to keep me in touch with reality – and the valley.

I’ve done a 2021 Camden wall calendar, with £2 from every sale going to the RUH’s Forever Friends charity. It’s better than those, cat, pony and London sights calendars.

despite the Covid-19 cataclysm, its continued yet calamitous reliance on the day-trip tourism, university education, and language school industries. Have you wondered how interested the pavementblocking packs of Euro-teens are in Roman history and 18th century English architecture? I have!

My last meal out was a steak & kidney pie at the Saracen’s Head. I’ve no problem with

My advice for tourists is 1) See

plebian, but I draw the line at fast food. Bath has far too many takeaways. A summer afternoon tea in the Royal Crescent Hotel garden is always a special treat.

Lockdown 1. Much of this was

first day as a reporter on a daily newspaper in Cardiff coincided with a journalists’ strike. A taxi firm needed drivers and, unwisely, took me on. The car’s gear box was broken, the steering wheel had a mind of its own, the payment meter didn’t work, and I didn’t know one end of Cardiff from the other. I lasted two days.

spent going through the 1,000+ pictures I’ve taken in Bath from the turn of the century to 2019.

Themes bubbled to the surface: the glamour, obviously, its firstclass old pubs … and the grit, which tends to be ignored: the nature of employment and the so-called night time economy, day-trip tourism, rough-sleeping, anti-social behaviour, pre-Covid store closures, and the ghastly hen parties.

As a writer, the most difficult story I’ve investigated was one about, er, me. I traced and

The product of this labour is Bath: Glamour & Grit: Photographs 2000-2019, a

The only non-publishing work I’ve had was as a taxi driver. My

then met my birth mother, who came to England as a refugee from Nazi-occupied Austria in 1938.

She was at the outset not pleased to see me, but that changed quite quickly. I don’t regret a moment of what was a long, often frustrating, but ultimately successful search.

We found, having been separated when I was one-week old, that we had much in common.

I live in Camden. We have

warts ’n all look at the town in the round. Without a proper police station, a main Post Office that’s more than a department of WH Smith, and a concert hall, it’s not a real city is it?

In Lockdown 2, I want to develop my news and comment website, Bath Telegraph, as

a platform for pricking Bath’s pretensions, and for drawing attention to what seems to be,

Bath Street and the Roman Baths lit up at night. 2) Get out of the centre and explore Bathwick and Widcombe, south of the river, and Lansdown and Sion Hill to the north. Exquisite Georgian architecture, and few, if any, gift shops and takeaways.

I have a sort-of Secret Bath.

They’re the old, mostly very small pubs in which you’ll find as many locals as tourists. On a good day, there’ll be no tourists … just the usual suspects. I’m thinking, in alphabetical order, of the Bell, the Coeur De Lion, the Garrick’s Head, the Old Green Tree, the Raven, the Star – on the Paragon – the Salamander, Sam Weller’s, and the Volly. It’s to be hoped their character and ambience prove immune to the requirements of Covid-19 compliance. Another favourite spot is an Italian café that has coffee as good as any you’ll have in Italy. Go find it! n Bath: Glamour & Grit: Photographs 2000-2019 by David

Kernek. For further details contact kernekdavid@ gmail.com For more: www. bathtelegraph.co.uk