FIELDS OF DREAMS
THE BEST FESTIVALS IN THE SOUTH WEST
FOREVER HOME
EXPLORE A BEAUTIFUL GAY STREET PROPERTY
LINE OF BEAUTY
TWEAKMENTS WITH DR LUCY MIDDLEFELL
ALL THE MAGIC OF THE CIRCUS
DELIGHTFUL DINING AT ONE OF BATH’S FAVOURITES
PLOTTING A WORLD OF ALLOTMENTS
AFTER A FASHION EASY WAYS TO LOOK STYLISH
HOW TO MAKE YOUR BIG DAY EVEN MORE SPECIAL
One of the best things about living in this neck of woods? Festivals. All those lovely festivals we have just a burger bun’s throw from Bath. It’s no accident that the world’s biggest, best, and brightest festival Glastonbury is just around the corner. first went at 1 , when cars were allowed on site, tickets were tuppence, and most people thought me mad for going, but I was immediately bitten by the outdoor partying and appreciating music in an open field bug. The festival guide, found on page 30, is going to be stuck on the wall above my desk as I count down the days until I’m packing my tent and heading Shindig’s way in May for a blast of dancing to dyssey on a Taunton working farm.
The other key date in the festival diary of course is the Bath estival page which can be en oyed in the slightly less haybarn surroundings of our own city.
I also love a good wedding (put it in an outdoor space and it’s a win, win, love, love, situation and over on page 1 we’ve got an expert guide to making your nuptials just that little bit more special. And turn to page 1 where our resident columnist David latman ponders his return up the aisle him and his wife to be are thinking uiet and low key, while his daughters are demanding a little more noise be made.
Elsewhere in this beautiful, bumper issue we’ve got how to spring green your interiors page 69 clever and chic advice from Marianne Cantelo on how to dress using separate pieces page a visit to the charming Circus Restaurant page 6 on page 62 we meet the delightful and inspirational Laura Hicks who tells us about her recent appearance on Masterchef and about being a cancer survivor and over on page 50, comedian Phil Wang exclusively reveals how it was during his time at ingswood School in Bath that he first realised his power to make people laugh.
Enjoy and see you in two weeks!
COVER Photography by Teri Vincent; www.terivphotography. co.uk and hair accessories by Clare Lloyd; www.clarelloyd.co.uk For full credits and wedding feature, please turn to page 14
14 UNIQUE NUPTIALS How to make your wedding special
30 FIELD TRIPS A guide to upcoming must-visit local festivals
38 THE BATH FESTIVAL A round up of the local, literary and musical o erings coming to the city throughout May
50 BIG INTERVIEW Phil Wang on his Bath school days ahead of his appearance at The Bath Festival
43 ARTS INTRO The 117th Bath Society of Artists annual exhibition is coming to the Victoria Art Gallery
44 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, family entertainment, comedy, art and fun in Bath and beyond
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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, David Flatman, Emma Ingledew, John Mather, Colm Tan, Matilda Walton and Nick Woodhouse Group commercial manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel. north@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Business Development Executive Kyra Hardy kyra.hardy@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 / Gemma Bourne gemma.bourne@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 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
The #CookForUkraine movement aims to increase awareness of the humanitarian crisis while fundraising. Local people embraced the initiative with a multitude of successful events, including those hosted by Beth Al Rikabi and Marilyn Grosvenor-Attridge, who, following a successful initial Cook or kraine food stall at the first ocal Makers Bradford on Avon where they raised £1,800, hosted an evening meal at Castle Farm. With the help of volunteers, they served a four-course menu of Eastern European-inspired dishes. The night, which also included a ra e, raised £ , 00. They’ll be back at the next ocal Makers market on May.
ou’ve probably spotted the striking T shirts and tote bags for sale in Cassia bearing the likeness of Volodymyr elensky. The shirts from Pompomukraine are in aid of Hope and Homes for Children, and were created by Deborah oodchild and niece, Lilly Alden.
Pompomukraine has raised £2,000 in under a month, with 100 per cent of the profits donated to charity and the rest used for more stock.
You can purchase the shirts in Cassia Bath and Bradford on Avon, or online via Pompomukraine’s website, www.pompomukraine.co.uk
ART HOUSE
Other local, practical support has seen the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and Axle Arts collaborate to launch a solo exhibition of works by Ukrainian artist Alina Maksimenko, which will run until 21 June. As a result of the war, Alina, a professional artist with a 0 year career behind her has had to leave everything behind in yiv and ee to Vienna. This exhibition and sale of her world will support her as she works to re-establish herself.
n 19 March, Jade Parfitt hosted an event at The Holburne for Bath Welcomes Refugees that raised an incredible £26,000. The star-studded night featured an exclusive reading by best-selling author Max Porter, an auction with Sotheby’s auctioneer Richard Madley, and a DJ set with Huey Morgan. Turn to page 25 for more.
Are you running any fundraising events for causes in support of Ukraine? Tag us on social media @bathlifemag and we’ll share
5 May
HOME AID, Bath Assembly Rooms; uk.givergy.com/HomeAid
This unique charity auction from photography and journalist duo Newton & Worthy in aid of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has some big-name support. Comedian James Acaster, TV panel show regular and one half of the Off Menu podcast, will host the evening along with former Sotheby’s auctioneer Ed Rising on hand for the auction. The Claire Martin Quintet, fronted with the multi-award-winning jazz vocalist Claire Martin OBE will also perform. The auction will see the interiors industry put forward their best products and services to raise funds for refugees escaping from the conflict, with brands including Berdoulat, Holloways of Bath, Looking Glass of Bath, and Homefront Interiors available to buy.
4 May
Fundraising for Ukraine, Cassia Bath; Instagram @iamsamhardyman
From Sam Hardyman, founder of Up All Night and a group of fellow Bath mums, this event with guest speaker author and social entrepreneur Hollie de Cruz will run alongside an online raffle with prizes totalling £3,000. Raffle prizes have been donated by independent Bath and Bristol businesses and include a £100 Sleepy Doe voucher, £150 voucher for Number Three Hairdressing, and vouchers for Noya’s Kitchen, the Egg Theatre and much more besides.
We have all been horrified by the events unfolding since Russia declared war in Ukraine. The images of suffering, loss and violence haunt us all. If there is one thing that unites us as a community, it’s our desire to help, and there has been an explosion of fundraising events in the city – with more yet to comeZelensky t-shirts, £22 Jade Parfitt, Dionne McCulloch and Alice Temperly helped raise £26,000 for Bath Welcomes Refugees Bath and Marilyn’s Eastern European dishes raised £3,700 James Acaster is the host of HOME AID Sotheby’s auctioneer Ed Rising will lead proceedings Bird by Alina Maksimenko
Honey Willow handcrafts meaningful jewellery for loved ones and life’s milestones. Elegant wedding day jewellery for the bride, bridesmaid and mother of the bride and groom, along with keepsake gifts to commemorate the special day.
All jewellery is handmade to order in central Bath. Visit the website to see the full range, or visit the shop on Pulteney Bridge where some of the wedding range is on display.
8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AX
Shop Opening Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm Sunday, 11am–4pm.
Contact Us: jewellery@honeywillow.com
01225 422 339 www.honeywillow.com
Long Crystal Back Drop Necklace – Silver & Gold – Venus Regular price £160.00 GBP
Love Knot Pearl Earrings – Silver & Gold Regular price £80.00 GBP
Birthstone Necklace –Silver Star Set Pendant Regular price: £130.00 GBP
The sun is (sometimes) shining and we’ve dug our hiking boots and bikes out of storage. Here’s to the great days out we can enjoy in and around Bath...
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Flats is hoping his big day might actually be quite small
I’m getting married and, because it’s my second go at it, have decided that I don’t really fancy what is e ectively a repeat of my first wedding. ot because my first marriage was doomed or anything silly like that – quite the contrary, it was largely great and not in the least something we regret – but I’ve done one of those ones now. ou know the ones oogle middle class nglish wedding’ and you’ll get the gist). They’re great, but you wouldn’t want to do more than one of them. Well, I wouldn’t. The problem is that the glorious being to whom I am engaged to be married hasn’t done a wedding before. This means that she might have spent years dreaming of the extortionate and beautiful white dress by the way, they all look the same , the crumbling but magnificent church, the 800-foot marquee, the super-
quirky table names, the nine speeches, the morning suits. Were this the case, I’d be knackered. Wouldn’t have a leg to stand on. Luckily, she’s not terribly bothered about most of the traditional elements mentioned above, so I might just be onto a winner. Except that my two older daughters don’t believe her and keep telling me that I’m ignoring the classic signs of a woman pretending to be happy with what she’s o ered in order to please a man. Where normally I might fob said beasts o with a ick of the hand and a et out of my study, witches!’ they now have me second guessing all that I believed to be agreed.
The plan is to enlist a couple of lady friends to get to the truth. If they have to get her drunk then so be it – I need answers. My fianc e do folks still say that eels a bit Love Island to me) is many wonderful things, and she is precisely the sort of person for whom
actually being married means a million times more than what pomp and exhibitionism surrounds it, but she might well also be the sort who doesn’t want to push me to plan a wedding that I don’t want, even if she wants it terribly. It’s a conundrum.
The assumed plan for the actual getting married bit is remarkably simple. Pop down to the registry o ce in town we’ll walk down, helping the environment etc) and sign whatever needs signing. We might do that quite soon, so I’ll probably wear a pair of shorts, and might even push the boat out to a new t-shirt. Probably not. She will get a lovely new dress and some new shoes that she can wear again her idea not my suggested penny pinching!). We’ll invite all immediate family and afterwards we’ll either wander along to Walcot House or cruise out to The Pig for a long, lazy, loving lunch that might or might not involve a speech. Probably not. What matters is that we will be married and that both establishments have top class grub on their menus – she likes that as much as I do).
That’s Stage One. Stage Two is a whacking great party in a field on a family farm next summer to which a tonne of mates will be invited and at which they might even be invited to glamp. It’ll be loose and chilled and foodie and as informal as I can possibly make it. The only rules will be no suits and no gifts. Only mad people like wearing suits in summer, and I’m too old and have too much cutlery to be doing gift lists.
All this sounds swell, but these plans could be tossed skyward if it turns out she indeed wants a white wedding, overseen by The Lord. If that’s the case then so be it. If not, then much like the house renovation we’re currently conducting, I think a project manager – or rural party planner – might be needed. All that cash we save on a designer dress, we can spend on someone ordering our owers and napkins. Sorted.
David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman and Insta @dflatman
“I’ll probably wear a pair of shorts, and might even push the boat out to a new t-shirt”
There’s a plethora of lovely weddings heading our way due to the two year backlog, and if you are one of those happy couples tying the knot, first up congratulations. Second up, how are you going to make your nuptials unforgettable among many? Here we ask our local experts for advice, tips, and insider secrets on helping make that big day just a little bit extra special. From amazing local venues to wedding day crèches for little ones, these are just a few ideas to say ‘I do’ to.
Where you exchange your vows and spend the day is going to be one of the biggest factors when planning your wedding. And it is worth thinking beyond the traditional nglish church or registry o ce options, as events and weddings manager Sylvia Hunt of The Little Theatre Cinema, explains, “Hidden away in Bath’s spa quarter is a unique little venue full of 1930s character and charm. The possibilities are endless here at The Little Theatre Cinema, and being an unconventional wedding venue allows us to o er something a bit more special. Screen 1 is the grand auditorium and has a capacity of 110 guests, and Screen 2 can hold up to 65 guests for a more intimate wedding.
“One of the most exciting reasons to have a Little Wedding is the use of our projection and sound facilities to add that personal touch. From starring in your own short film, hosting a wedding home movie competition for your guests, showing the couple’s favourite feature film, to walking down the aisle to your favourite piece of music, your guests will experience a wedding like no other.
“We’ve had all kinds of creative wedding theming here from full 1930s dress up, to Disney inspired decorations, and Wayne’s World posters starring the bride and groom.
“After the ceremony the cinema experience continues outside in the courtyard as we o er a drinks and popcorn reception served by our sta in vintage popcorn trays, among the charming eorgian
“The outside space is decorated with a lavish red carpet for a styleHollywood entrance”The Beckford Tower staircase makes for gorgeous photos BECKFORD TOWER (RIGHT) © PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA FAITH, DRESS BY KRYSTLE BRIDGES AND FLOWERS BY PULTENEY BRIDGE FLOWERS
architecture of Bath’s city centre. The outside space is decorated with a lavish red carpet for a Hollywood style entrance with white rose bay trees, and vintage ower covered archway. We even have a giant film clapper board for the couples’ names so your guests know you’re the stars of the day.”
There is also the Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery as potential wedding venues as the team from Bath Historic Venues explain, “Whatever the size or vibe, there’s always the opportunity, by having it in one of Bath’s historic, unique or quirky venues, to make your day stand out.
There is nowhere else like the Roman Baths which is a magical setting for a ceremony and reception. Couples and guests can be part of the legendary Bath experience and the location can’t be beaten for atmosphere and photo opportunities.
or those wanting an informal, laid back a air, the Victoria Art allery by Pulteney Bridge is Bath’s hidden gem of a venue. Couples can exchange their vows, surrounded by beautiful works of art, with just two guests or a gallery full. Being so central, couples often have drinks in the gallery before heading to one of the city’s restaurants to continue their celebrations. There was recently an exciting and lively wedding where the whole wedding party paraded from the Assembly Rooms to a reception at the Roman Baths, following a fantastic steel drumming band through the city. t looked and sounded ama ing.
Another two very Bath es ue choices are No.1 Royal Crescent and Beckford Tower. “Exchanging your vows at the Georgian house
of o 1 Royal Crescent surrounded by a collection of 1 th century art and furnishings is always going to be something your guests will remember forever, says Bath Preservation Trust’s events co ordinator Courtney leming. ou can choose from a range of museum rooms, including the dining room which is the grand formal chamber once used as a symbol of the host’s status, and the large lower hall where the servants used to gather and eat together. There is also the beautiful outdoor courtyard with its sweeping view of the Royal Crescent an ideal backdrop for photographs.
Beckford Tower is ideal for a more intimate wedding allowing for a maximum of 0 people to en oy the rich, eclectic surroundings of the main museum room the dramatic backdrop of the loggia above the Tower’s front steps and the breath taking views from the Belvedere at its summit. The iconic staircase and the Beckford grounds make for the most gorgeous of photos as well.
ot being cooped up under one roof can be one way to make your wedding memorable and en oyable for all. Rupert egge, owner of Hamswell House which dates back to the 16th century and is surrounded by 50 acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, says, Wedding celebrations can last for ten hours or more and nobody wants to be stuck in a function room for this long. At Hamswell, not only do we have outdoor space, but we have wonderful gardens and spectacular views for guests to enjoy.
Mar uees are a very good option for weddings for larger numbers. They are inclusive as all guests are together in the same room so no one feels left out. They are great when you sit down for the wedding breakfast as they are a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor space. At Hamswell we only hold one mar uee wedding reception per weekend so the couple have a full day beforehand to set up and customise the mar uee to make it truly theirs.
Photographer: Teri Vincent; www.terivphotography.co.uk
Stylist: Miranda Thorpe of Flutterby Events; www.flutterbyevents.me.uk
Hair and make up: Danielle at Makeover Box; www.makeover-box.co.uk
Rings: London Victoria Ring Company; www.london-victorian-ring.com
Dresses: Ruth at Millia London; www.millialondon.com
Hair accessories: Clare Lloyd; www.clarelloyd.co.uk
Models: Natalie O’Brien and Millie Chatfield
“I’ve headpiecesdesigned to mat t e flowers on a cake”Clare Lloyd’s hair accessories can be designed to perfectly complement the wedding dress
Little people running around a wedding can be cute, this is true, but it can also be hard work for the parents and when the children get tired and cranky, it can get downright exhausting for everyone in attendance.
Owner of Pitch Up and Play Isabella Passafaro has the ideal solution: “Whether it is a pop-up wedding crèche service, a few hours of childcare during the meal, or simply just evening babysitting whilst you celebrate until late, our bespoke play areas and play dens ensure not only are adult guests having a great time, but so are the younger ones. They are treated like mini-VIPs with fancy dress, giant outdoor games, bubbles, role play, arts and crafts.
ur play worker team are all ualified or training in the education or childcare sector, and are all DBS checked, experienced and fully referenced, so guests have peace of mind their children are in the best hands possible.”
The food and the cake is often one of the major highlights of the day for the guests – it’s what bonds us – we all love to eat – but it doesn’t have to be your regular soup for starters three-course meal as Emma Draper, owner of Wild Fig, which is based in Bath and specialises in grazing tables, explains, “Grazing tables have become a beautiful catering alternative for weddings providing an exquisite, colourful spread to feast on and a mingle over. Our unique combination of
artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and locally-sourced produce combined with an abundance of fresh foliage and oristry, brings a touch of elegance and food artistry to your wedding. A show-stopping grazing table that coordinates with the rest of your wedding is something truly memorable.”
And gone are the days of putting the cake in a dark corner of your reception room, says Sarah McNally, who makes bespoke celebratory bakes, “Think about plinths, perspex tiers to create extra height and a really modern look, and oating’ tiers, cake hoops and oral displays alongside your cake to create a real ‘look-at-me’ centrepiece for your big day.
“Sharp edges and tall tiers create a contemporary feel for your cake, and there is also an increase in the popularity of creative decorative elements and e ects such as wafer paper decorations, sails, textures, and gold leaf. All these provide something a little di erent which will help your cake stand out from the crowd.”
Those little accessories hair clips, rings, brooches, cu links can be the finishing touches that not everyone is going to notice, but something personal you’ll always remember. “I think one of the loveliest ways to make your wedding extra special or a little di erent is to have something bespoke designed and made just for you,” says Fromebased Clare Lloyd, who specialises in making oral and botanical inspired wedding hair accessories and jewellery. “There are lots of ways pieces can be designed to perfectly complement your wedding dress, your colour scheme, or bouquet. I’ve designed headpieces to match the owers on a cake, the lace motif on a dress and the designs on stationery. You could also incorporate a piece of jewellery from a loved one so they can still be with you on your wedding day, or I can re-work anti ue ower crowns into something new.
“Wedding celebrations can last for ten hours and nobody wants to be cooped up in a function room”
Photographer: Oxi Photography; www.oxiphotography.co.uk
Makeup & hair: Leanna Biggs; www.leannabiggsmakeupandhair.com
Florals: Wren & May Flowers; www.wrenandmayflowers.com
Accessories: Hermione Harbutt; www.hermioneharbutt.com
Venue: Hamswell House; www.hamswellhouse.co.uk
The rings are something that are always going to be special, not just on the day, but for years to come, as Lee Orton of Orton Jewellery, who has more than 40 years’ experience of designing jewellery, explains, “Of all the expenses a memorable wedding brings, your wedding rings are the one item you will actually look at every day for the rest of your life. f course the wonderful owers, cake, dress, food, hair and makeup are all important details for the big day. But the wedding rings will be the most poignant and lasting reminder of your commitment to each other. We recommend giving your wedding rings the time and consideration they deserve.
“We have an extensive range of beautiful designs from the reserved to the amboyant, and once you have chosen, we will create your bands in our on-site workshop. Personal touches can be added including elegant engraving inside the bands, hidden gems, or by including metal or stones from a family heirloom.”
“We encourage the couple to tell us a bit about them as people so we can create the perfect ring,” says Jody Cory, a goldsmith based in Abbey Churchyard. “It can mean something traditional, sometimes quirky, sometimes a showpiece and sometimes something very subtle.
We o er a perfect fit service. This means the engagement ring and wedding ring sit perfectly together –however unusual the design may be. We can also make matching rings or individual designs to suit both personalities.”
ven when choosing accessories o the shelf, it is not about choosing what you think a bride or groom will wear – it is about staying true to you and what you love. Rhiannon Hamilton, owner and designer at Pulteney Bridge’s Honey Willow says, “Bridal customers are choosing less conventional jewellery for their weddings, and are looking at pieces that re ect their personality, convey a sense of celebration, and that can be worn to other events.”
The day itself often goes by in heartbeat – a whirl of catching up with guests and being centre stage of the ceremony. So no wonder the photographs are so important to help us look back on the day, but how do you ensure the wedding album isn’t just a replica of every other stock wedding picture ever seen? Betty Bhandari, a wedding and engagement photographer based in Bath, has these top tips for stunning images, “Unmatch the bridesmaids dresses. Don’t buy the same dress five times, maybe go for five di erent styles, shades or just specify a base colour and let them choose their own dresses. It will look great!
“Consider if you can holding your wedding outdoors – these are always wonderful for the guests and photographically a real sensation. Also hire a band for the evening. Live music by a band who know how to engage their audience makes for animated and uplifting pictures, really re ecting the fun that was had on your day.
You want to stand out today of all days, but you also want to look like yourself and not Coco The Clown. Leanna Biggs, who specialises is using natural, elegant bridal makeup and hair using cruelty-free products says, “It’s important for brides, in particular, to play to their strengths so choose a hairstyle that depicts who you are, not just something ‘nice’ you’ve seen on Pinterest that you think you should have because it screams ‘bridal’! For example, if you have super curly hair, and always wear it that way, don’t suddenly have it straight on your wedding day as you’ll look like a stranger to your partner and guests and that’s not ideal. The same with makeup – if you want to make a statement e.g. with a bright red lip, that’s 100 per cent your choice, but if you’ve never worn a bright lipstick in your life you’re going to feel self conscious and you won’t look, or feel, like yourself.
The beauty and holistic therapist Charlotte Hurd based at 29 James Street, Bath suggests if you want to try something a little bit di erent, allow plenty of time beforehand to see if it works for you. “Dermaplaning, lasering, chemical peels – all these things can help you feel your best self on the day but once you’ve discussed suitable options with your beauty therapist, do book in a treatment up to two months before.
LEFT: Honey Willow are seeing brides choosing jewellery that is more reflective of their personalities; BELOW: Having photographs of your guests enjoying live music can really help capture the spirit of the wedding
girl dress available from Ellie Rose Bridal; ABOVE: A selection of rings by Orton Jewellery
Bath’s Historic Venues including Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery, Pump Room, Stall Street, Bath; www.bathvenues.co.uk
Betty Bhandari Photography; www.bettybhandari.com
Charlotte Hurd Beauty, 29 James Street West, Bath; www.charlottehurdbeauty.com
Clare Lloyd Accessories, Silk Mill Studios, Merchants Barton, Saxonvale, Frome; www.clarelloyd.co.uk
Ellie Rose Bridal, 7 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.ellierosebridal.co.uk
Flowers of Bath, 3a Upper Lambridge Street, Larkhall, Bath; www.flowersofbath.co.uk
Hamswell House, Bath; www.hamswellhouse.co.uk
Honey Willow, 8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath; www.honeywillow.com
Jody Cory Goldsmiths, 9,Abbey Churchyard, Bath; www.jodycory.co.uk
Leanna Biggs Make-up & Hair; www.leannabiggsmakeupandhair.com
The Little Theatre Cinema, St Michaels Place, Bath, www.littleweddings.co.uk
Mallory 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath; www.mallory-jewellers.com
No.1 Royal Crescent and Beckford’s Tower; www.bath-preservationtrust.org.uk
Orton Jewellery, 6-7 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon; www.ortonjewellery.co.uk
Pitch Up and Play; www.pitchupandplay.co.uk
Sarah McNally; www.sarahmcnallycakes.com
Symposia Marquees; www.symposiamarquees.com
Wild Fig; www.wildfig.co.uk
The romantic orangery and gardens of award-winning Hamswell House make the ultimate setting for your wedding.
You will be surrounded by 50 acres of gardens and private land with breath-taking panoramic views over the Hamswell valley. Yours will be the only marquee wedding held that weekend, so it is truly, exclusively yours. And you will have access to the marquee the day before for set-up and styling. No corkage charge.
Headed up by Isabella Passafaro and her incredible team of Pitch Nannies. Worried about what to do with your Mini VIPs on your special day? Pitch Up and Play are there to take all the childcare stress away whether it’s a wedding or an event. When you book with us you'll get a bunch of fun, creative and happy individuals who are fully referenced, DBS checked and absolutely love partying with Mini VIPs.
www.pitchupandplay.co.uk
hello@pitchupandplay.co.uk
Photo: @bubimages
Model and presenter Jade Parfitt worked with the charity Bath Welcomes Refugees to help organise a fundraiser. The event, which was held at the Holburne Museum on 19 March and attended by more than 150 people, saw an exclusive reading by author Max Porter, an auction conducted by ex Sotheby’s auctioneer Richard Madley which included an Alice Temperley dress with fitting, and a DJ set from BBC Radio 6 Music and TV presenter Huey Morgan. The night raised more than £26,000 which will go towards helping refugees and asylum seekers access vital resources and find a new home and community in Bath.
Lou and Jamie Graham Pascale Maroney and Nathan Rollinson Jack Horner More than150 people attended the BWR fundraiser
The Egg Theatre hosted an event to celebrate the inaugural year for the Wonderfund, the Theatre Royal Bath’s new campaign to bring local school children to live theatre for free. The night was packed with fun and memorable moments, from the great and good of Bath making origami ties led by Alex Robson and Lily Poole from the Theatre Royal Bath Theatre School, to inspiring insights shared by Kate Cross MBE, director of The Egg about the thoughtful work the theatre does about scheduling plays for young audiences.
Guests also heard the moving results of a teacher survey conducted by The Egg that demonstrated the many barriers to school theatre trips – and highlighted why making theatre accessible to all is so vital.
Photos by Anna Barclay; www.annaweddingphotos.com
Alison Wells
James Moore and Kate Cross
Tim Edwards, co-founder of Network N, gave a revelatory live interview at the latest EntreConf dinner at the Avon Gorge by Hotel Du Vin, a regular event with leading business figures sponsored by Rocketmakers. The night included the chance to mingle and catch up over drinks and dinner, followed by the conversation with Tim, who shared candidly about his experience building etwork , and his plans for its future.
Briony PhillipsAnn-Marie James
Tim Spooner Paul Morris
Tim Edwards
Alex Lloyd
Amy Dennies Rich Keith Zobir Alexander
The local festivals to hit this summer
By Lydia Tewkesbury
Escape to the countryside at Shindig
Our hunger for live entertainment is a visceral thing. We want screaming speakers. We want dancing. We want raucous crowds laughing along at the same joke. And we want it now. Fortunately, festival season is almost upon us, and Bath and the local area o ers up some of the eclectic best.
MAY
14 May
The Gin To My Tonic Festival, Bath Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bath; www.thegintomytonic.com
What started life as an Instagram account between two gin-loving best friends has spawned one of the largest gin communities in the UK, and a touring festival that brings together over 120 di erent craft gins and spirits from across the country – and world. On entering the gin fest you’re presented with a must-have Gin To My Tonic Copa balloon glass, swag bag and gin explorer guide to map your journey of gin (and vodka and rum) discovery.
26 – 29 May
Shindig, Dillington Park Estate, Whitelackington, Ilminster, Somerset; www.shindigfestival.co.uk
The seventh edition of Shindig returns to a new location, the 16th century Dillington House o ering a beautiful backdrop and new high-end accommodation. Mostly though, it’s about the music. Old school festival circuit royalty and rising stars will perform across Shindig’s seven stages, with big names like New York’s Grammywinning hip hop trio De La Soul and pioneering jazz funker Roy Ayers alongside drum and bass up-andcomers, ero Budden, and oor fillers The Kitten Club among many others.
JUNE
2 – 4 June
Royal Bath & West Show, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset; www.bathandwest.com
After two long years away, the Royal Bath West Show is finally back with an extra special event celebrating the Platinum Jubilee year of its patron, HM The ueen. ou’ll find old favourites alongside the Jubilee celebrations, like The Paul
Hannam Stunt Show, Pawsability Dog Agility Display and Lakeside Farm making a welcome return; whilst The Great British Kitchen will debut at this year’s event with demonstrations by Briony May Williams, 2018 T e reat ritis a e semi finalist, Dean dwards, who appeared regularly on ITV’s Lorraine and This Morning, and Yorkshire Shepherdess Amanda Owen.
2 – 5 June
Vintage Nostalgia Festival, Stockton Park, Stockton, Wiltshire; www.vintagenostalgiafestival.co.uk
Head to the nearby countryside for a fun filled weekend of live music, dance, vintage and antique shopping, classic cars, automobilia, children’s entertainment and so much more besides. Immerse yourself in glamorous nostalgia alongside thousands of other vintage enthusiasts – enter the Best Dressed Competition, learn to jive, enjoy some re-enactment theatre, shop to your heart’s content and then sit back and relax with a Pimms or two in the vintage 1963 Leyland Titan double decker bus bar.
9 – 12 June
Forest Live, Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Gloucestershire; www.forestryengland.uk/music
Forest Live promises unmissable live music in breath-taking locations, including our very own Westonbirt Arboretum. This year performing amidst the trees are Rag’n’Bone Man, Keane, Madness and Texas.
Fatoumata Diawara will kick off WOMAD with a thrilling performance
“Old school festival circuit royalty and rising stars will perform”
GEORGIA MONTUNO PRODUCCIONES
11 – 12 June
Bradford on Avon Food and Drink Festival, Victory Field, Bradford on Avon; www.scrumptiousfoodfestivals.co.uk
Arrive hungry and complete with elasticated waistband for the BoA food fest. Peruse the artisan and street food markets where choices include Somerset Charcuterie, Godminster Cheese, or Purbeck Ice Cream through to Scout and Sage Distillery and Bristol Cider Company, meet the artisans and, in between snack stops, enjoy live music, kid’s activities from Julia’s House Hospice and the beloved dog show from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.
17 – 19 June
Pub in the Park, Victoria Park, Bath; www.pubintheparkuk.com
We can’t get enough of Tom Kerridge’s foodie music extravaganza. If, somehow, you have never been to Pub in the Park, here is what you must know: there are foodie pop-ups from some of the country’s best eateries find out more about those on page 61 – chef demos and live music from the likes of Supergrass, Natalie Imbruglia, The Sugar Hill Gang ft. Grand Master Mellie Mel, The Furious 5 + Scorpio, Norman Jay and many others.
20 – 26 June
Chalke Valley History Festival, Church Bottom, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire; www.cvhf.org.uk
Dubbed ‘the most civilised festival you will ever go to’ by Slow Travel, this seven-day history festival features world-class speakers like acclaimed travel writer Colin Thubron, BBC broadcaster Justin Webb, and former Home Secretary Alan Johnson; living history activities including the Restoration Pageant, traditional crafts, farming and the role of women during World War II; a live music programme with the
likes of 1920s-vibemasters Trip For Biscuits; and delicious ‘Pompeii street food’ from Alex Compiniani.
22 – 26 June
Glastonbury, Worthy Farm, Worthy Lane, Pilton, Shepton Mallet, Somerset; www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Glasto is back, and not a moment too soon. This year’s headliners include Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney, Kendrick Lamar and Diana Ross. But remember to leave the beaten path and discover something new. It’s one of the most diverse festivals out there, so in addition to catching your favourites make time to simply wander. Tickets are long since sold out, so if you’re not one of the lucky few, you can enjoy it from the comfort of home on the telly, or head back to Glastonbury Abbey later in the year to get your fix at the lastonbury Abbey Extravaganza with Paloma Faith among others (6 August).
24 – 26 June
Marstonbury, Marston Park, Tuckmarsh Lane, Frome; www.marstonpark.co.uk
Huey Morgan is the host of this NYC-style block party in the country. An homage to big brother Glastonbury, it includes Huey’s NYC sounds with DJ sets with a bit of everything from Chic to Donna Summer and Kool & The Gang. When you’re through partying, on the Sunday there’ll also be a range of wellness classes and family fun on o er.
1 – 3 July
Americana Fest, American Museum and Gardens, Claverton Manor, Bath; www.americanmuseum.org
This new three-day festival celebrates all things American culture in the museum’s spectacular hilltop surrounds. Set to coincide with US Independence Day celebrations, the top line-up of music encompasses folk, country, blues and rock and roll, featuring acts like Ethan John’s Black Eyed Dogs and The Magic Numbers. Alongside the music will run an all-American comedy bill, headlined by Reginald D Hunter.
1 – 10 July
Frome Festival, various locations around Frome; www.fromefestival.co.uk
This year’s festival is the biggest to date, with over 260 events. Big names coming this year include DJ Jo Whiley, singer-songwriter Andy Fairweather Low, TV historian David Olusoga, the Kris Barras Band and guitarist Wilko Johnson.
9 July Bath Carnival, various locations; www.bathcarnival.co.uk
It hasn’t really felt like summer without the Carnival, has it? Thank goodness it’s back, and this year’s theme is Mother Earth: Natural Habitats Artists, community groups and schools will join a procession through the streets alongside hundreds of drummers and dancers in this mustsee summer time spectacle. In addition to the street show the annual party will return to Sydney Gardens with a range of free themed
“An homage to big-brother Glastonbury ”© JESSICA GOURGNER.
activities, and the main stage will host an eclectic selection of live bands. In the evening the grown-ups can head to Komedia to revel into the early hours.
29 – 30 July
FarmFest, Gilcombe Farm, Bruton, Somerset; www.farmfestival.co.uk
FarmFest has a little bit of everything – over 100 acts in the electronic, indie, folk and world music genres, early morning workouts, lively kids’ workshops, stand-up comedy, poetry, and even a spa and wellness retreat. This year’s must-see headliners are Elder Island, Joy Orbison and Gentleman’s Dub Club.
29 – 31 July
Fields of Fantasy, near Bristol (address will be emailed to ticket holders); www. fieldsoffantasyfestival.com
Newbie to the UK scene, Fields of Fantasy promises three days of blissful hedonism in an untouched location. Some of the top names in electronic music will be there, including techno’s leading futurist innovator Je Mills, dance music ueen Sherelle, and key players in the electronic hemisphere like Jaguar, wan McVicar, Sally C, Paranoid ondon ive, Jess Bays and DJ Bone.
28 – 31 July
WOMAD, Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire; www.womad.co.uk
This legendary weekend of embracing the joys of community, friendship, diversity and tolerance is celebrating its 40th this year. Highlights include Fatoumata Diawara’s distinctive and powerful performance to kick things o Angeli ue id o will be performing
her show-stopping reimagining of Talking Heads’ Remain in Light and award-winning wordsmith Kae Tempest, who is making their W MAD debut with their creative diagnosis of the 21st century urban condition.
29 July – 13 August
Garden Theatre Festival, Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bathwick, Bath; www.gardentheatrefest.co.uk
Bigger, better and back for a second year, the Three Inch Fools, The Handlebards, Peoples String oundation and Calf2Cow are back for another season of outdoor theatre at the Holburne. Grab your chairs, blankets and snacks and snag a good spot for a programme of performances including The Importance of Being Earnest, Wind in the Willows, Twelfth Night and the intriguing Much Ado About Murder
4 – 7 August
Valley Fest, Chew Valley Lake, Near Bristol; www.valleyfest.co.uk
The family-friendly festival has joined up with performance art collective Arcadia this year, who will bring their spectacular Afterburner stage, which is built from a Rolls Royce et engine, surrounded by a circle of metal trees and ames. t’s a stage that’s toured the world, popping up at Burning Man, and at events in ew ealand, Croatia, and Miami to name ust a few.
August and September,various dates and locations
IF Opera 2022 season; www.ifopera.com
P RA is back with a new brand and a new season. icking o with Picnic Prom with The Clare Teal Seven, the season continues with thrilling and emotional productions of La Rondine, Rita & Il segreto di Susanna, interactive family show The Man in the Moon, Dido and Aaneas with guest conductor Christian Curnyn and the Bristol Ensemble, and Tales from Chez Bullier, featuring music by Puccini, Verdi and ehar among others.
“Our hunger for live entertainment is a visceral thing”ABOVE: Valley Fest offers a perfect mix of entertainment for families; BELOW: embrace an eclectic range of live performance at FarmFest © ANIA SHRIMPTON
The Bath estival kicks o with a bang on Friday 13 May, taking over various venues around Bath for Party in the City. The am packed programme features an eclectic and bold selection of live music, with the chance to en oy choirs singing in churches, samba on the streets, punk rock in pubs, and the stars of the local scene popping up on park stages.
ew for this year, the Dorothy House Bookshop on Broad Street is oining the festival’s venues for a series of free ticketed events, including press photographer eo llis on Tuesday 17 May, talking about his book Bath To Fleet Street, which showcases images from his career in Bath in the 1950s, troubled times in orthern reland and leet Street power struggles and on Wednesday 18 May the authors of Bath Arts Workshop, Counterculture in the 1970s will share stories of its outrageous, irreverent history.
By Lydia TewkesburyThere’s also the chance to en oy fresh new talent at the orum Co ee House. n Wednesday 18 May 2020’s diverse and tenacious cohort of Bath Spa niversity’s Creative Writing MA students will read from their self produced anthology, and later in the evening Bristol’s exhilarating new poetry festival, yra comes to Bath for a special performance.
The Bath estival is back. rom 1 21 May, Bath will be overrun again by authors, musicians and intellectuals for a series of diverse, provoking, funny and smart thinking events
Harriet Evans will speak on Saturday 14 May all about her new novel, The Beloved Girls The author of 13 best-sellers moved to Bath in 2020.
The Bath Festival Orchestra will give a mustsee performance on Monday 16 May of four di erent sea inspired musical pieces that traverse countries all around the globe.
On Wednesday 18 May, author and bookseller of Persephone Books, Francesca Beauman will talk in the Persephone shop all about her latest work, The Literary Almanac: A Year of Seasonal Reading and o er plenty of book recommendations besides.
Local author and former Financial Times correspondent William Keeling is appearing at The Holburne on Saturday 21 May to talk about his new novel, Belle Nash and The at o e, which has been hailed a work of ‘genius, part Dickensian, part modern; incisive, outlandish and hilarious’ by Matthew Parris.
The festival’s much loved walking tours of the city are also back for this year, with tours of Bath’s popular filming locations, walks focusing on our spa history and events to mark the 80th anniversary of the Bath Blitz.
On Saturday 14 May, PJ Harvey will join Max Porter (Grief is a thing with Feathers, Lanny) in conversation about her new book of poetry, Orlam, in which she has used utilised her lyrical talent to create a remarkable coming-ofage poem written in Dorset dialect. Also on Saturday, Helena Lee, Claire Kohda and Will Harris will give a talk about East Side Voices, a first of its kind anthology that explores a spectrum of experiences from the East and Southeast Asian diaspora living in Britain.
On Friday 20 May head down to The Forum for Women On Top – The Big Night Out with five furiously funny women Anna Whitehouse (Underbelly) is hosting Lucy Beaumont (Drinking Custard), Jessica Jones (Own It) and Helen Thorn (Get Divorced, Be Happy) whose books all shine a light on the highs and lows of womanhood.
Following on Saturday 21 May Adam Rutherford (Control) is in conversation with David Olusoga (Black and British) giving an enlightening and important overview of the uses and abuses of gene editing from its dark history to its troubling present. Later in the day, Torrey Peters, author of ground-breaking and provocative Detransition, Baby will join Elizabeth Day (How to Fail) to talk about her uniquely trans take on love, motherhood and families in the 21st century.
CLOCKWISEFROMTOPLEFT:
Francesca Beauman is hosting an event for her own book in the Persephone bookshop; learn about the Bath Arts Workshop’s 1970s exploits; Torrey Peters will discuss her book at Walcot House; Lucy Beaumont joins a panel of funny women for The Big Night Out at The Forum; Adam Rutherford will be in conversation about eugenics; PJ Harvey is sitting down with Max Porter to discuss her new poetry book
“The Bath Festival i s o wit a an© BETTY BHANDARI BRAND PHOTOGRAPHY © STEVE GULLICK © STEFAN JAKUBOWSK © NATASHA GORNIK
Komedia will host a range of exciting live music throughout the festival. On Sunday 15 May, seven-time BBC Radio 2 Folk Awardwinner Karine Polwart is performing a mix of new material and reworked old favourites with collaborator, jazz/folk pianist Dave Milligan, and on Tuesday 17 May musical forces of nature the Jess Gilliam Ensemble promise an electrifying performance. Also on Tuesday, 19-year-old Jeneba Kanneh Mason, the third member of the extraordinary Kanneh Mason family of musicians, will give a piano recital at The Holburne. On Wednesday 18 May Empirical, one of the most admired and unique bands in contemporary jazz has a show at Walcot House, and The Tallis Scholars are in Bath Abbey with a fascinating programme of music by composers who worked in the Sistine Chapel and wrote for the choir there.
Saturday 21 May sees a play and talk by US pianist Jeremy Denk, appearing at St Swithin’s Church for one of only two UK appearances this summer, and in the evening London’s indie darlings Public Service Broadcasting will play The Forum.
or the first time this year you’ll find the new Festival Hub in Queen Square throughout the first weekend of the festival. A welcoming spot to gather it’ll be filled with music, food and drink, hands-on activities for families, live entertainment and surprise performances. Also new for this year, two major publishing houses, Penguin and Picador are hosting proof parties in Bath for the first time. Proof parties are special previews of as yet unpublished works by exciting new authors for a small gathering, with a chance to take home a goody bag from the publisher, and proof copies of the books ahead of publication. On Tuesday 17 May Penguin Michael Joseph will host the first party at The rancis Hotel with two of their biggest debut authors of the year, Fran Littlewood and Katie Lumsden, in conversation with Francesca Beauman of Persephone Books. The Picador Proof Party is on Thursday 19 May at The Francis Hotel and is in celebration of 50 years of Picador books with a panel that includes Bookershortlisted author Jim Crace, debut novelist Nell Stevens, and acclaimed poet James Conor Patterson, chaired by Picador’s Salma Begum.
or more at o e or m i din s at www at estiva s or
CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Jazz outfit Empirical are to play Walcot House; award-winning folk artist Karine Polwart will appear on Sunday 15 May; 19-year-old Jeneba Kanneh Mason is performing a piano recital; Jess Gilliam will be joined by her ensemble for a lively performance at Komedia
The 117th Bath Society of Artists Annual Open Exhibition is launching at the Victoria Art Gallery on 14 May and running until 2 July. The exhibition will also feature paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture, and mixed media works, much of which can be bought, and all created by the region’s top artistic talent. Visitors can vote for the Public Choice Prize, selecting their favourite artwork, which sees the winning artist scoop £600.
Each year, the Bath Society of Artists invites a prominent artist to display their works in the annual open exhibition. This year it will be the Welsh painter Shani Rhys James whose painting Before Lockdown, 2019, seen here, was purchased in 2021 by the Victoria Art Gallery with the support of the Art Fund and Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund.
For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk
23 April –
19 May
Until 30 April
SARA MOORHOUSE
Sara’s striking ceramic colour block bowls are inspired by landscape and colour theory, and are made thrown on a wheel using white stoneware clay or porcelain. The banded bowls are then turned and bis ue fired before being returned to the wheel and hand painted with underglaze colour. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk
Until 2 May
PEOPLE MAKE MUSEUMS
Showcasing over 20 sculptural pieces that have been specially made with the aim of celebrating the creativity and the importance of people in museums and capturing complex, personal moments of connection. Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
Until 2 May
IDA APPLEBROOG
Now in her nineties, the comprehensive exhibition speaks to feminist pioneer Ida Applebroog’s
radical introspection as a woman and an artist, presenting life as it is and the repetitive patterns of our existence. www.hauserwirth.com
Until 4 May
JEAN ROSE: PEOPLE, PARKS AND PLANTS
A student of the Bath Academy of Art at Corsham Court, Jean Rose is inspired by the intimate interiors of Vuillard, and has developed her warm painterly patterns that reveal a clarity and focus in the world around her. Now in her nineties, this remarkable Bath-based artist completes a painting a week. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk
Until 4 May FROM HOGARTH TO HODGKIN
The From Hogarth to Hodgkin exhibition o ers visitors a walk through the history of printmaking, starting with old masters such as Cranach and Durer from a time when before industrial techniques and artists could only make prints
in limited quantities, through to the contemporary works of artists including Grayson Perry, Cornelia Parker and Paula Rego. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk
Until 8 May
THE TUDORS: PASSION, POWER AND POLITICS
In partnership with the National Portrait Gallery, London, and the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool, the Holburne Museum’s current exhibition features 25 famous Tudor portraits and includes the five monarchs of the time spanning 1485-1603; Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I. Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
Until 14 May
GLOBAL SINO PHOTO AWARDS
The annual Global SinoPhoto Awards is an international photography contest which aims to communicate Chinese culture through remarkable imagery re ecting the skill, creativity and
imagination of the photographer, as well as connecting photographers internationally. The 2021 category winners include Huaifeng Li, Qingjun Huang, Tongyu Yang, and Jianjun Huang, Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk
Until 15 May
OLD GHOSTS
Old Ghosts by artist Mick Peter takes a wry and a ectionate look using a cartoons-come-to-life tableaux, at the idea of history as an industry. It’s a narrative trail through the museum and its garden that humorously critiques the conventions of heritage sites through various encounters. Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
Until 27 May
JAKE SHEPPARD
The Bath artist creates abstract and impressionistic works in oil paints and inks, and uses a mixture of geometry, colour theory and dynamic symmetry to form the structure of his work. Widcombe Social Club; www.widcombesocialclub.co.uk
Bath Abbey is the venue for Antic Disposition’s reimagining of Henry VTOP: The Bath Photographic Society’s annual exhibition is at St. Michael’s Without Church 26 – 30 April;
MIDDLE: The work of the Midlife Masters collective can be seen at Walcot
Chapel 27 April –1 May;
BOTTOM: From 7 May until 28 May the Adam Gallery is playing host to the work of artist Elaine Pamphilon
Until 31 May
HOPE AND HUMANITY IN THE COMMONWEALTH EXHIBITION
This RUH exhibition is a celebration of the Royal Commonwealth Society (Bath and District Branch) – its values, and the support it gives to the local community. Local artists were asked to respond to the theme of ‘hope and humanity’ Artists include June Bianchi, Paul Thomas, and Rita Lazaro. www.artatruh.org
Until 31 May
LET THERE BE LIGHT
The exhibition celebrates the history and beauty of churches, and features more than 20 glass works by local artist Shelley Ashkowski with many pieces embellished with gold leaf to add opulence. www.bathabbey.org
Until 5 June
ALINA MAKSIMENKO
A solo exhibition of paintings at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa by Ukrainian artist Alina, who as a result of the war has been displaced and has had to leave everything behind in her hometown Kyiv. This exhibition and sale of her work is in support of helping Alina to re-establish hersel. www.axlearts.com
Until 3 July
DRESS TO REDRESS
An exhibition of the work of contemporary Anishinabe artist and visual anthropologist Dr Celeste Pedri-Spade comes to Europe for the first time. The American Museum & Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org
26 – 30 April
BATH PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Bath Photographic Society presents its annual exhibition sponsored by the London Camera Exchange, at St. Michael’s Without Church. On display is the varied work of local amateur photographers and includes landscapes and travel to nature, portraits and abstracts. www.bathphotographicsociety.org.uk
26 April – 8 May
MODERN ARTBUYER POP UP
Milsom Place is the venue for a pop up exhibition featuring a host of established and exciting new artists signed with Modern Artbuyer including Maria Rivans, Bonnie and Clyde, Paul Minott, Jo de Pear, Jaco Putker, Anna Simmons, Caroline Hall, Sam Peacock, Plum Neasmith, Hatty Butler, Paul Bennett and many others. www.modernartbuyer.com
27 April – 1 May
MIDLIFE MASTERS
Exhibitors Kate McDonnell, Fiona Campbell, Kelly M O’Brien, and Nicola Turner each come from di erent backgrounds and met when completing their masters degrees in fine art at Bath Spa niversity. Walcot Chapel; www.katemcdonnell.co.uk
7 – 28 May
ELAINE PAMPHILON
The artist who lives in Cambridge and Cornwall follows in the St Ives tradition of naive British painting with a beautiful selection of still life paintings and landscapes. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com
9 May
BATH CONTEMPORARY
ART FAIR
Since its creation last year The Bath Life Award-winning BCAF has exhibited over 400 artists and is returning for another eclectic exhibition in Green Park Station. Artists include Charles Minty, Emma Lacon and Kat Parkin. www.bcaf.co.uk
25 – 30 April
CLUEDO
When Miss Scarlett (played by Michelle Collins), Professor Plum, Mrs Peacock, Reverend Green, Mrs. White and Colonel Mustard arrive at a country house one dark and stormy evening, hysteria grows as the guests of Boddy Manor are killed o one by one, with a variety of familiar weapons. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
3 & 4 May
ELIZABETH I: VIRGIN ON THE RIDICULOUS
Howard and Stu attempt to tell the story of the greatest monarch that ever lived – Elizabeth: The Virgin Queen with live original music, silly songs, smutty shenanigans, perfunctory props, and poorly researched Tudor history. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
9 – 14 May
HENRY V
Antic Disposition’s reimagining of the Shakespearian classic being staged in the magnificent Bath Abbey is set in a French military hospital in 1915 –500 years after the Battle of Agincourt – where two groups of wounded French and British soldiers raise their spirits by staging their own production of Henry V.Bath Abbey; www.henry-v.co.uk
16 – 21 May
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN
Dallas legend Patrick Du y and inda Purl star alongside ray O’Brien in this exciting new production of the classic Broadway thriller. Inspector Levine is called to a house in the remote Catskill mountains to investigate the sudden disappearance of newly wed wife. But her reappearance causes more mystery when the husband claims she is an imposter. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
28 – 30 April
THE FAMILY SEX SHOW sing real life bodies, personal stories, songs and movement, The Family Sex Show has fun and no shame with the painfully awkward sub ect of sex. t will be exploring names and functions, boundaries, consent, pleasure, sex, sexuality, gender and relationships, to help make this a celebration of di erence, e uality and liberation. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
12 – 13 May
DOUBLE BILL: THE WARDROBE AND IT SNOWS
Bath Theatre Academy welcomes first year performing arts students from its in house training academy onto the stage for the first time. The double bill consists of The Wardrobe by Sam Holcroft and It Snows by Bryony avery, Scott raham and Steven Hoggett. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
28 April
SPIRITUALIZED
Space rock band formed in 1990, which has always been Jason Pierce plus a rotating cast of supporting musicians, bring their grand, emotive sweeping orchestral arrangements and cascading walls of uplifting gospel harmonies to the Forum. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
29 April
TINDERSTICKS
The indie rock outfit has crafted a balance of haunting, visceral feeling and aching warmth fronted by Stuart Staples and his idiosyncratic, atmospheric crooning. As Tindersticks celebrate three decades as a band they mark this milestone with a special two set
show including accompaniment from a local string orchestra. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
29 April
MESSIAH
Handel’s Messiah will be performed during the season of aster by the Abbey choir of girls and lay clerks who will be oined by baro ue instrumentalists, Re ouissance, in an elegant and stylish performance. Bath Abbey; www.bathabbey.org
5 May
MARTI PELLOW
Marti’s Greatest Hits Tour represents a celebration of a remarkable solo career that’s seen him embark on a new pro ect pretty much every other year since he left multi platinum selling pop sensations Wet Wet Wet in 1999. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
12 May
GEORGIA VAN ETTEN
One of the UK’s most respected singer songwriters brings to life her debut album backed by her phenomenal band. Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org
13 May
BETH NIELSEN CHAPMAN
The twice rammy nominated ashville based singer songwriter visits Frome to deliver a powerful collection of songs that reach into the place where vulnerability meets strength, right into the centre of the full beautiful dance of contradictions that inhabit love and life. Cheese & Grain; www.cheeseandgrain.com
Every Sunday DRAG KARAOKE AT MANDALYNS
Most days of the week the welcoming and upbeat BT A Mandalyns bar has always got something upbeat, fun, and groovy happening, and Sunday nights are no exception. Their drag karaoke nights are in fact so darn good, Sunday is the new Saturday. www.facebook.com/mandalynsbath
28 & 29 April
MARK THOMAS
The undisputed godfather of political comedy is picking through the myths and facts of our national identities to ask how we have so much feeling for such a hollow land. Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk
TOP: The ceramic colour block bowls of Sara Moorhouse are on display at Beaux Arts Bath;
MIDDLE: Catch one of the most exciting new acts on the comedy circuit, Chloe Petts at the Rondo Theatre on 14 May;
BOTTOM: Hatty Butler is just one of the artists appearing in the Modern Artbuyer’s Milsom Place pop-up, 26 April – 8 May
9 May
TITS, GITS AND LITTLE SHITS: AN EVENING WITH GILL SIMS
Join the author of Why Mummy Drinks as she and Jo Middleton, creator of Slummy Single Mummy blog, take a light-hearted look at the changing face of motherhood, from toddlers to teenagers, relationships, the highs and lows of the school gate, and unexpected bodily uids. Komedia Bath; www.komedia.co.uk
14 May
CHLOE PETTS
One of the most exciting new acts on the comedy circuit, Chloe Petts uses her trademark cerebral ‘laddishness’ to examine her desperate attempts at living in the moment and her (strictly non romantic love for men. Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk
30 April & 7 May
BATH CITY FC HOME GAMES
Bath City will conclude their
Symoné is a queer movement and performance artist based in the U.K from Washington D.C. Her circus themed performances fuse her movementbased skills, such as high heel roller skates with hula hoops, pole dance, and voguing. See Symoné, who is a Guinness World Record holder for spinning 20 hoops at the same time, performing at the Ministry of Burlesque Cabaret show at Komedia Bath on 29 April
A film I could watch over and again again
I’m a big anime fan, I think one of my favourites would have to be Your Name. The graphics and story are very dreamy and the midfilm plot twist really stays with you.
A painting that means something to me
The Two Fridas by Frida Kahlo. I can’t explain why, but I feel very emotional when I see this painting.
My favourite arts place in Bath
I recently had a lovely afternoon at the Fashion Museum in Bath – and found the costumes very inspiring for my own performance work and projects.
Best TV show ever…
I watched I May Destroy You with Michaela Coel in 2020 and it has stayed with me since. It felt so real, unpredictable, and was an emotional series – I would rate it highly as a piece of art.
The book I could happily re-read.
The Intimate Act of Choreography by Lynne Anne Blom. I carry it around with me a lot. I’m not a traditional dancer, but I love learning about movement and choreography from different perspectives to feed into my own practice.
The first single I bought
I was a big fan of Swedish pop band, A*Teens. They were originally an ABBA tribute band and have a version of Dancing Queen. This is back in early 2000s and I’m not sure how big they were in the UK. My podcast download
I love the The Drag King Cast podcast by London drag king collective, Pecs on Apple Podcasts. This one in particular is useful to get to know a variety of drag king artists in the UK – there is a lot of very talented folks exploring and challenging gender through drag kinging.
National League South season with two home fixtures against Tonbridge Angels FC (April 30) and Oxford City May . The Romans will aim to finish their league campaign on a high against Tonbridge Angel, who Jerry Gill’s side defeated earlier this season, and promotion-chasing xford City. i o m at Twerton Park; www.bathcityfc.com
4 May
CANDICE CARTY-WILLIAMS
The ournalist, screenwriter, and Queenie author is at Toppings to celebrate her new novel eo e Person www to in oo s o
13 – 21 May
BATH FESTIVAL
A huge celebration of music and literature with speakers, performances, and workshops at venues all over the city, starting with a free ueen S uare party. More on page . www at estiva s or
The last live music gig I went to Hawkwind in Northampton and it was incredible! I love psychedelic rock and how theatrical their performances are.
For more: www.komedia.co.uk
Symoné is performing at Komedia Bath on 29 April
Phil Wang is probably, actually definitely, one of the funniest people on the planet, and he credits his time as a Bath schoolboy for making him that way
Words by Colm Tan
Pictures by Matt Stronge
For the last ten years, Phil Wang has been building a comic career that has seen him on numerous TV shows, travelling the world on the comedy circuit, and starring in his own et ix special, Philly Philly Wang Wang. And it was actually in Bath, as a quiet studious teenager attending Kingswood School, Phil realised he had ability to make people laugh. Here he reveals what it was like to be the child of a British mother and Chinese-Malaysian father growing up Bath, his first ever comedy performance at ingswood School, and his new book Sidesplitter: How To Be From Two Worlds At Once which he’ll be discussing at Bath Festival on 21 May.
You were born in Stoke-on-Trent, but very early on moved to Malaysia. What are your strongest memories of growing up there?
Whenever I think of my hometown Kota Kinabalu, I think of three spots. ne is Tan ung Aru Beach with all the coconut trees and the Yacht Club, which does a great Char Kway Teow. Another is Gaya Street, which is the sort of old town centre, where every Sunday there’s a market that ust stretches down the entire street. And the other spot I was thinking about is a roundabout that connects my house to my childhood friend’s house. Those are the three spots always picture.
Did you find it a particularly multicultural place growing up?
eah, suppose Malaysia is very multicultural. There’s Chinese, Malay and ndian people and that’s ust your foundation. Then there are extras on top of that, lived and grew up with Chinese people, Malay people, native ada an Dusun people, ndian people, and then also White Western expats. t was a very mixed experience.
On the flipside, Bath is not known for being particularly multicultural. Coming from a place like Malaysia, how did this affect you?
When moved to Bath that was a bit of a culture shock, ust because Bath is so racially homogeneous! I mean, on the one hand, it made me feel like ’m uite alien. ’d grown up in Malaysia thinking, don’t really fit in here, guess that’s because ’m actually white because of my mother’s side. But when moved to Bath it was like, h ’m actually Asian it turns out.” So it could feel a bit lonely sometimes and a bit alienating but, at the same time, don’t know if would have done stand up if I didn’t stand out so much, you know?
Because you had that different experience to share…?
es, felt such an impetus to do stand up about being Asian because I was in such a White environment. f was in a very culturally mixed school or town, might have gone well, everyone’s diverse here so there’s nothing interesting about what I have to say. It’s a double-edged thing.
Tell us a bit more about the move to Bath. Why and when did that happen?
I moved to Bath when I was 16 to do my A-levels. My mother and sisters had moved the year before for them to start British schooling. I’m not entirely sure why we chose Bath. I think it was where my mum had a good ob o er, the schools looked good and it’s such a lovely place.
What were your first impressions of the city?
n a way it spoiled me moving there, it lulled me into a false sense of security that all of Britain was like a Jane Austen novel. I thought every town had a Roman spa bviously, thought it was very beautiful with that Georgian stone. It was cobbly and cold but quite intimate and cute.
“I moved to Bath when I was 16 to do my A-levels”Phil found moving to Bath a bit of a culture shock after living in Malaysia
What about your schooling in Bath, how did you find Kingswood?
It’s a beautiful school, it had a good music department and a good science department and those were the things that were most important to me. It is crucially where performed my first ever stand up show. The drama teacher, Mr. Harding, put on a comedy night and I asked if could do five minutes of stand up. The comedy night was called Club Ha! Ha! It was a showcase for the student improv group plus a couple of five minute stand up spots for anyone brave enough and was one such brave soul.
Were you known amongst your classmates for being funny?
Actually, it was much to Mr. Harding’s surprise because I wasn’t a class clown. I was quite a studious boy who was good at maths and physics. But I got up on stage in the drama room in ingswood School and did my first ever stand up set of mostly stolen material. ust took a lot of Russell Peters’ okes and swapped out ndian for Chinese But I had the nouse, I had the stage presence, and I had the timing. It went well, people laughed and a couple months down the line, I did another Club Ha! Ha! It had been upgraded to the school assembly hall, so I came back then and did ten minutes of material entirely about the students and about the teachers. ’ve never been able to perform that set since, but I think of that set as the birth of my stand up career in a way.
What are your favourite school memories of Bath? think performing at school, did a lot of singing. There’s such a good music department at ingswood. was really into the a singing they put on. The head of music Mr. Mainwaring was very good at putting on these really great nights and concerts. I was in chamber choir and all that sort of thing, and sang a standards, and we once performed on the bandstand in Victoria Park that is ust overlooked by the Crescent. t was experiences like that really loved.
So you’ve always been used to the spotlight…?
It sounds quite egotistical to be like, “Oh, all the times was on stage of course were the finest memories!” But that was the beginning of my performing career in a way.
Do you still have many friends from your time in Bath?
eah, have a couple. There were some great, great people there. ended up going to university with a guy called Je Carpenter, who was a musical prodigy. Funnily enough he’s in Hong Kong now. I see some people from time to time but in general ’m not very good at keeping in touch. But yeah, a couple of people. My friend Jordan lives there, I think.
Do you get a chance to come back to Bath very often? es, because my folks still live there so still end up there from time to time for Christmas. Most recently, I was there to celebrate Chinese New Year.
And what are your favourite places to visit while you’re here? t’s changed so much recently. wonder if my favourite places are still there. Of course, some of the boring answers like the Circus, I don’t know if they’ve happened the last couple of years but the Christmas carols in the Circus are ust magical. We live very near Victoria Park so that’s a very crucial part and we’ve only ust discovered the Botanical ardens of Victoria Park which are really lovely.
What about shops or restaurants in Bath. Any favourites? The live Tree is brilliant. mean, it’s fancy, but it’s fantastic.
You’re back In Bath on 21 May to promote your new book Sidesplitter: How To Be From Two Worlds At Once at the Bath Festival. Did you find the process of writing a book tricky? es, find the process of writing anything tricky. I think starting on a blank page is always hard because the idea that you could put anything down is overwhelming. But ’ve learned now that you ust put it down and the real writing comes in the editing, which uite en oy, actually. Sometimes it felt easier, sometimes I got into the ow and sometimes it felt like was pulling teeth! But it was a new challenge, I’d not written a book before, and ’ve always en oyed trying out a new challenge.
You mention in the opening of the book that it’s not a memoir. What is this book to you then?
t’s a hopefully funny look at the mixed race, mixed culture experience. That’s what wanted to do. wanted to use my life as an example of a mixed culture life. nstead of telling my life story in ten chronologically ordered chapters, I thought, I’ll break the whole thing down into 10 parallels. And the parallels are the facets of life that being mixed race complicates, hence the chapters: family, history, food, assimilation, etc. I feel like I’m still too young and ’ve not done enough to warrant an all out memoir right now
Phil will be talking about his new book Sidesplitter: How To Be From Two Worlds At Once at Komedia on 21 May as part of the Bath Festival
For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk
I did m rst ever stand-up set of mostly stolen material at Kingswood School”It was a comedy night at Kingswood School’s where Phil first tried his hand at stand-up
What other people do for a living can be fascinating so I thought I’d dig into some recent narrative non fiction which centres on similarly peculiar or specific forms of employment. or example imagine working at the Premonitions Bureau, as described by Sam Knight in his book of the same name aber, £1 .99 . This o ce was set up by psychologist John Barrow in the aftermath of the1966 Aberfan disaster. A number of individuals had premonitions about the atrocious mine collapse and these stories become the catalyst for Barrow’s idea to try and investigate and catalogue premonitions.
Teaming up with an Evening Standard ournalist, Barrow used the newspaper’s extensive audience to have people write in with their premonitions. The challenge, or the dream, was then to look at whether this data could be used to prevent future disasters.
This is such an unsettling book, particularly when it dives into the perturbing precision of some predictions. ne individual who had foreseen the Aberfan catastrophe that motivated Barrow and his team, then went onto anticipate the death of 12 or 12 people in a mountainous plane crash. Within 0 days, 12 people of 126 on board had died in a Cypriot air disaster.
Sam night takes this curious and haunting premise and turns it into a truly absorbing piece of interdisciplinary non fiction.
The Good Hand by Michael Patrick Smith Harper Collins, £10.99 is a memoir of a writer who came from a tough background. He’d left that behind to become a playwright in ew ork, but ultimately had to recognise that emotionally and financially that was an unsustainable life choice – particularly as he was repeatedly revisiting the traumas of his childhood.
In a bid to free his mind from the past, Smith decided to take on one of the toughest imaginable jobs by joining an oil drilling
crew amidst the modern day black gold rush in orth Dakota.
He finds himself enduring brutal physical work alongside men often full of rage and racism and with vastly di erent political outlooks to his own. ne of the most eye opening revelations comes when his workmates discover he voted for bama, something most of them are unable to comprehend and have never encountered before.
But in this tough, hostile environment, Smith is surprised to find brotherhood as he forms unexpected bonds with these far from like minded co workers. As well as being an insight into one of the world’s most demanding work environments, The Good Hand is an inspiring reminder of the value in forming connections with others even if you have fundamental di erences in opinion.
astly, and sticking with oil and the challenging obs that go with it, Sea State by Tabitha asley Harper Collins, £9.99 mixes memoir and ournalism against the backdrop of orth Sea oil rigs. This time the author doesn’t take on the ob herself, but she immerses herself entirely in the toxically male environment that surrounds the rigs. uitting her ob and boyfriend, asley takes a sabbatical and moves orth to interview the men who work o shore. mmediately there’s a shift to her anticipated narrative, as she starts a relationship with the first rig worker she meets.
This is immersive ournalism gone rogue which manages to combine atmospheric, honest, and occasionally erotic autobiography, with a thoughtful exploration of class, the state of the oil industry, and what on earth it is that makes people take on these harsh and lonely obs.
“A number of individuals had premonitions about the atrocious 1966 Aberfan disaster”Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; tel: 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com
Threefascinating novels that offer insights into unusual forms of employment
– on board the North Sea oil rigs,oil drilling in
North Dakota,and a bureau specialising in
premonitions
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CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Say bonjour to the big screen return of Downton Abbey; This Much I Know To Be
True is an intimate performance by Nick Cave and longtime creative companion Warren Ellis; In the play Straight Line Crazy Ralph Fiennes plays Robert Moses, the man responsible for the metropolitan landscape of New York; Operation Mincemeat with Matthew Macfadyen and Colin Firth
Release date 29 April
The charming delight that is the Downton Abbey series first aired on TV in 2010 and since then it has gone on to be a worldwide sensation. n this film version old favourites return, such as Robert Crawley, ady Mary, and of course the incomparable Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess, as the titled nglish family goes global, travelling to the South of rance to uncover the mystery of the dowager countess’s newly inherited villa.
Meanwhile, the movies come to Downton in more ways than one, with Hugh Dancy playing Jack Barber, a producer looking to use the Downton state for his latest film. Downton Abbey has truly entered the modern era well, the 19 0s at least .
Screens 11 May
This Much I Know To Be True is an intimate performance by ick Cave and longtime creative companion Warren llis, as they perform their songs from their last two studio albums, Ghosteen and Carnage. The film documents their first performances of the songs from these albums, and captures
the pair’s uni ue creative relationship as they bring their songs to life. This special broadcast is a must watch for any music lover, as it chronicles the love and dedication that one of our greatest living musicians has for their music and their art.
Screens live: 26 May
Encore: 13 June
David Hare’s electrifying new play Straight Line Crazy brings to the stage the life of Robert Moses, the man chie y responsible for the metropolitan landscape of ew ork. Ralph iennes tackles the central role of Robert Moses, the urban planner who revolutionised the way ew ork is built, and the play is a brilliant parable for the corruption of power and control in the modern age.
The story chronicles Moses’ life as he turns from the man who opened up ong sland’s beaches to everybody, to the man who tried to destroy Manhattan’s Soho district all in service of his plans for giant roads and expressways.
Broadcast live straight from The Bridge Theatre in ondon, Hare’s play is a gripping and thoughtful production mediating on urbanisation, power, and politics.
Releasing 15 April
Some stories are so cra y, that they simply have to be real. Such is the case of Operation Mincemeat, a thrilling war drama. The film depicts the real events of peration Mincemeat, a plan by the British forces to deceive the erman forces by dressing up and disguising a corpse, and planting it in enemy waters with fake plans for an invasion of reece, in order to distract the forces from the real invasion planned for Sicily. t was a daring and ambitious plan that only a select group of talent could hope to pull o .
Operation Mincemeat’s cast is a real stellar row of talent, with Jason saacs (Harry Potter), elly Macdonald (Trainspotting), and two former Mr Darcys in the form of Matthew Macfadyen (Pride and Prejudice 2005) and Colin irth (Pride and Prejudice 1995)
Emma Ingledew is manager at The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; tel: 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk
The Little sees the silver screen return of Downton Abbey, the streaming of a new David Hare play, two Mr Darcys in one film, and an insight into the collaborative world of musician Nick Cave
Penny Munro: Jane, for those people who don’t know about 1st Impressions, can you explain what the business does?
Jane Ellis-Brush: 1st Impressions enables disadvantaged women (including everyone who identifies as a woman) back into employment by providing an interview outfit and a capsule wardrobe for the working week, and, in addition, confidencebuilding and interview training.
PM: What was reason for starting the company?
JE-B: After a long and successful career in the City and then later relocating to Budapest, I decided, along with my husband, for us both to change lifestyles and careers. We were lucky enough to get great jobs at the University of Bath and so began the move here to Bath.
As our belongings arrived in our new flat, I realised – to my horror – how many clothes and accessories I had amassed in my previous roles. But that sparked the idea of donating the clothes to anyone in need of a working wardrobe….and so 1st Impressions was born.
PM: What has been the reaction to the business so far?
JE-B: I have been blown away by the generosity of people; since launching 1st Impressions and inviting people to donate, there have been so many fabulous clothes – in all shapes and sizes and from all over the country –arriving at our headquarters.
But I think what has been most exciting is the difference it has made to our clients. The joy and confidence it has brought to our 1st Impressions community has been quite amazing.
PM: Why do you think clothes make such a difference?
JE-B: We all know what it feels like to wear something that makes us look good – it is empowering. And it certainly helps us to feel we can achieve the working role we would like to do. For many reasons, some women do not get this opportunity; we want to change that and give those women the confidence to look and feel good again.
PM: How many people do you have in the team?
JE-B: We have a core team of six keeping the business running efficiently and sustainably, and marketing the organisation. We also have a fabulous team of volunteers with skills ranging from styling to fundraising. And we are bringing more and more people on board all the time as word gets out about the difference we can make to the community.
PM: Are there any other companies or charities you collaborate with?
We firmly believe in collaboration; throughout our journey, we have been supported by and collaborated with some fantastic local charities such as Mercy in Action, St John’s Foundation and Fairfield House. And we are always open to ideas for strategic relationships with other charities or businesses or individuals.
PM: What are your hopes for the future of the company?
We have great plans for growing the business to support as many people as possible who have need of it.
We are aware there are women who need styling and interview assistance and who can afford to pay for it and so, in the future, we would love to roll out the service to a wider circle. But right now, our priority is working to our
current business plan and making that a success.
PM: For people interested in getting involved with 1st Impressions, what is the best route?
We are very accessible and approachable and welcome contact of any kind, be it through our website, email, or a phone call. We know there are some amazing people in Bath and beyond who can help us make this happen so please get in touch. n
2 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HQ 01225 340000; solicitors@thrings.com www.thrings.com
SPANISH
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After launching Anteros Wine and Spirits Merchant in the August 2020, former Kingswood school student Arthur Lau has now secured exclusive importer and distributor status for Chateau de Cayx in the UK, Malaysia and Singapore. From The Prince of Denmark’s Winery and the French residence of the Danish Royal Family, the majority of Chateau de Cayx wines are Malbecs, which undertake an aging process in new 1/3 barrels for a minimum of 12 months. The unique wines have won awards including the gold medal from Le Concours General Agricole and another gold from Citadelles du Vin. The Chateau also produces a white, La Cigarelle Chardonnay, also award-winning. For more: www. anteroswineandspirits.com
Côte Brasserie Bath, which can be found on Milsom Street, has a brand-new menu. The new options represent the biggest evolution of the French restaurant’s o ering in its 15 year history, courtesy of new executive head chef, Steve Allen – previously head chef for Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s.
“We’re excited to be o ering C te guests a menu that celebrates modern rench cuisine and avour filled ingredients, says Steve. Since 200 , we’ve always o ered a uality dining experience, serving up fresh, authentic food that people come back for time and time again. When developing the menu, I wanted to focus on these core principles. Our new dishes elevate the best ingredients through modern French cooking techniques and deliver a unique yet unmistakably rench experience.
Stand-outs include an update to Côte’s signature Côte de Boeuf – hand cut in Côte’s own in-house butchery, it will now be seasoned for 30 days in a specially built Himalayan rock-salt ageing room, providing a deeper, more intense avour. For more: www.cote.co.uk
Pub in the Park has announced the menu for 2022. The star line-up of pubs and restaurants appearing includes Tom Kerridge’s The Hand & Flowers, Atul Kochhar’s Restaurants, Steve Horrell’s Roth Bar & Grill, Owen Morgan’s Bar 44, Josh Moroney and Mursal Saiq’s Afghan barbecue sensation Cue Point, The Hardwick from Marco Pierre White protégé Stephen Terry and The Churchill Arms from Marcus Wearing, protégé of Nick Deverell-Smith and esteemed chef in his own right. ou can find the full list of eateries appearing online.
Learn more about Pub in the Park including the music highlights on page 30. For more: www.pubintheparkuk.com
ways it made things harder because the standard of every individual was so phenomenally high, that the smallest mistake gets picked up on. But ultimately, I met a group of people that I know I have forged lifetime friendships with. Another contestant, Pookie came up with the best analogy last week – she said it was nothing like a competition, it was more like being at school and sitting an exam with your friends.
Please talk us through your cooking style
I will cook anything that’s got big indulgent avours soul food.
blocks and standout avour comes from coconuts and the curry powder – it’s unique in that it’s roasted which provides a deep and rich avour.
What inspires you to cook?
You might recognise Laura Hicks from of Masterchef, or from her Instagram account, where she documents her bright, bold and flavourful recipes. The cook, single mum, cancer survivor and PhD student in Politics talks Masterchef, Sri Lankan cuisine and the benefits of ‘Sad Girl Cooking’.
How did you come to be on Masterchef ?
My friend started the application for me and encouraged me to fill it out and send it on. ’d been a single mum for a while and because like most vulnerable people, I had been isolating for a long time during the pandemic, this was something that I wanted to do for myself. t was the first real outing that I had after restrictions were lifted.
What’s it like being on the show?
It was a really surreal experience which is unlike anything I’ve done. It’s actually a very emotional experience, because you’re putting all your e orts into food that you love and have strong connections to, but under very intense circumstances.
What’s the hardest part?
The time restraints. In the uarter finals, serving up eight dishes in one hour and 15 minutes felt almost impossible. Adding to this, having to conduct interviews or answer questions that eats into your time makes everything even harder.
And the best part?
The people that I met. I was incredibly lucky to be put with the group that I was. In some
I love learning about the cultures and histories behind dishes so that it is as authentic as possible. I’m very lucky in that I’ve got a lot of friends from di erent cultures and ethnic backgrounds so I learn a lot through them.
Anything you are specifically cooking right now?
I go through phases. At the moment I love trying Korean and Japanese food, but this time last year it was South American food. Obviously my-go to is always Sri Lankan food as it’s such an integral part of my childhood and heritage, so that’s always the closest to my heart.
Tell us a little more about Sri Lankan food...
I think a lot of people think Sri Lankan food is just like Indian food. But Sri Lanka has been colonised three times and its food is re ective of that history and culture with variations in dishes from regions, ethnicities and religions. For example my family recipes contain lots of cakes and breads as a left over from the time of Dutch colonisation.
What are some of the flavours that regularly feature?
I would say the biggest building
find cooking to be a creative outlet, and like anything creative you need to be in a mood that motivates and inspires you. find that when I’m feeling low or down, that is when I feel inspired to cook the most. It’s almost like creative therapy for me. When I became a single mum, I coped by having my friends round for dinner and a gossip – we ended up calling it ‘Sad Girl Cooking’ and I actually produced the best dishes then!
Did your cancer experience change your outlook?
es definitely, my relationship with food was really shaped by my experiences with having cancer. 15 years ago, I was diagnosed with an extremely rare bone cancer in one of my ribs that at the time was thought to be terminal. Luckily I survived, but I had my right lung removed after nearly a year of chemo and radiotherapy.
In what ways did this change how you saw food?
Chemotherapy really a ects your taste buds as it leaves everything tasting bland and boring – it also ulcerates your mouth and entire digestive system, so at the time everything associated with food was a battle. It wasn’t until I was told I would need a feeding tube as I’d lost so much weight, that I decided I wanted to try and cook for myself. I found an old family recipe book from mum’s side and cooking dinner from it ended up becoming a daily ritual.
For more: Instagram @lauraspicekitchen
“I will cook anything that’s ot i ind ent flavo rs
Bath’s own Masterchef series 13 contestant shares what it’s really like behind the scenes
A cafe serving tasty french patisserie with an Asian twist!
All of our patisserie is made on site, we brew tea from Taiwan, matcha and hojicha from Japan, and have a selection of art and homeware, bringing what we love to Bath!
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Given The Circus Restaurant’s salubrious and potential tourist-trap location – that stretch between The Circus and the Royal Crescent – it would be understandable if it was to have an air of grandeur, a waft of pretentiousness, and sky-high prices.
Isn’t this what passing trade and the Instagramming travellers expect of our fair city anyway? But The Circus has nobly resisted the urge to rip o diners based on its scenic address and instead o ers a warm welcome and great food, in a beautiful space. It’s a classic Georgian building with a candlelit bistro vibe, and enough outdoor seating beneath a burgundy canopy to invoke that oo-la-la pre-Brexit feeling.
Inside there’s two levels – the décor of which is muted and tasteful herringbone oors, clusters of art in small frames, up lit alcoves filled with ob et d’art.
The menu is e ually uiet and elegant there’s five delicious sounding starters to choose from and each one sounds like a winner. In the end we go for the Circus mezze, which consists of an earthy and creamy beetroot hummous, muhammara which is a hearty walnut and roasted red pepper dip with a rich smoky kick, plus a yoghurt-y, lemony, cucumber-crunched tzatziki, served with thin sheets of crispy leaven Persian chickpea atbread ideal for scooping up the dips and topping with the accompanying fat glossy marinated green olives. But winning the first round by uite some margin is the steaming piled-high bowl of River Fowey mussels served in a cider and sage rich cream sauce. The cider lends a boozy apple-y kick, while the sage adds peppery hints of citrus and eucalyptus working perfectly with the plump, uicy mussels. ong after the mussels have gone, torn scraps of the aerated ciabbata are used to mop up every last trace of the cream – in fact if the sauce had come on
its own, like a bowl of soup with a big spoon, there’d have been no complaints from us.
The mains are six options plus a fish of the day choice, and again each one sounds mouth wateringly tempting. In the end the braised rabbit and pancetta pie served with colcannon mash, mixed mushrooms with wild garlic and chicken ust, only ust, loses out to the pork. o ordinary pork this is slow roasted, crispy, fatty pork belly stu ed with salty, funky anchovies, dotted with bitter black olives and leaves of sages and served with a chunky haricot bean and chorizo cassoulet, and two generous firm dollops of a tart, tangy and briny caper punched salsa verde. ually satisfying and gratifying is the packed with avour sweet potato massaman curry. The perfectly bite si ed cubes of sweet potato are swimming in coconut milk which hums with wafts of aromatic cardamom, clove, cinnamon, coriander, cumin seed, chillies, garlic and ginger, served on a bed of impeccable sticky spring onion rice.
We love how the puddings and cheese board menu comes in a separate little red book reminiscent of those new testament books you used to get given at a school. We give prayers of thanks for the esty, crunchy, sticky, moist and honey dri led pistachio and lemon polenta cake, which comes with a blob of tangy, whipped ricotta. The mango and passion fruit crème brûlée served with an orange Breton biscuit is a delightfully uplifting tropical twist on the caramelised creamy old favourite.
A little prayer of thanks also has to go to brothers Matthew and Michael isanti who recently took over this Brock Street favourite and have managed to maintain the standards, the kudos, and the atmosphere. There’s no trickery, no smoke and mirrors, and no umping through hoops whilst dining at the Circus. It’s all about decent, imaginative, and hearty food being served with a relaxed panache. It is about being made to feel welcome, and very importantly in these times, prices pitched at a point that means we’ll be back.
The Circus Restaurant, 34 Brock Street, Bath, BA1 2LN; tel: 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk
Opening hours Monday - Saturday 10am -12am (last booking 10pm)
Owners Matthew and Michael Lisanti
Head chef Tom Smith
When established 2010
Type of food served Seasonal modern European Covers 50
Outdoor space 4 tables on the front pavement with views of the Circus and along to the Crescent
Look out for Fish of the day caught fresh daily from Cornwall, and the steaks from Walter Rose butchers in Devizes
Prices Starters cost between: £6-£8, mains £17-£26 and desserts £6-£8
Drinks choice An extensive and carefully curated wine list and a specialist cocktail. We hear the Hugo gin fizz is a winner
Vegetarian options Always two options for each course, one of which will be vegan
Disability access Street level tables but no disabled toilets
Atmosphere A warm bienvenue awaits to cosy up and catch up
“The peppery hints of citrus and eucalyptus work perfectly with the plump, juicy mussels”
RED & WHITE
0330 0562 253; www.red-white.co.uk
Tell us about your wine offering...
Everything we sell, we produce ourselves. We have a talented team of Masters of Wine and winemakers, who are fully integrated throughout the entire winemaking process – from vineyard to glass. After which, our team of designers and marketers get involved to ensure the consumer is excited about what we have produced. Our offering is unique; a collection of wines that reflect the places we love, people we enjoy working with and the styles we like to drink.
How did you first get into wine?
It’s certainly in my blood! My father was a wine merchant, and my great grandfather before him. I spent my childhood being dragged around vineyards, listening to wine producers tell their stories, enchanted by their enthusiasm for the wines crafted by their hands.
What are your thoughts on British wine?
It’s exciting to see what is happening in this country at the moment. We’ve gone from a hobby winemaking nation, to a very serious one in a decade. It reminds me of what happened in New Zealand in the 70s and 80s, and look where they are now. We have a project in Essex (in my opinion, the best place to grow quality grapes in the UK) that launches this year – a sparkling rosé called Libertine
01225 667311; www.novelwines.co.uk
How would you describe your wine offering?
Truly unique! We’ve over 300 wines from lesser known regions like Hungary, Croatia, Japan and beyond.
How did you first get into wine?
Back when I was a journo, I was invited to interview Sam Lindo at Camel Valley Vineyard in Cornwall. I told him I knew nothing about wine and he spent three hours with me tasting the wines and showing me the vineyard and winery.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers tend to have when ordering and drinking wine?
That the second to cheapest wine on the restaurant list is the best choice – it’s often not!
What are your thoughts on British wine?
Somerset is producing some of the country’s best still white and rose. It’s well worth a try!
How should we taste wine when the sommelier pours a bit in our glass for sampling?
Give it a generous swirl, stick your nose in and breathe in normally. Look for fruit. If it smells fresh, you’re onto a winner.
What mistakes do restaurants most often make when serving or selling their wine?
Whites too cold, reds too warm. Also, have a guest wine that’s a little more out of the ordinary. It’ll fly!
JAMIE DAWE DAWE WINES www.dawewines.co.ukTell us about your wine philosophy...
I’m all about celebrating the small producer and fabulous quality. There’s no specific measure at which a wine producer loses its ‘small’ status, so we showcase producers that range from having just a couple hectares of vines to 100+ growers sending their grapes to a cooperative. So regardless of actual size, we source from producers that still have that connection with the people making the wines and the land they harvest. What’s the most exquisite pairing of food and wine in the world?
Fish & chips with Champagne! The acidity and the bubbles in the Champagne cut through the fat in the fish and chips. Don’t forget vinegar for the chips and lemon juice on the fish, the acidity will help complement the Champagne further. If you could only drink one wine for the rest of your life, what would it be?
As a single grape variety, Chardonnay. I wish I had a higher-brow answer, but due to its broad range of expressions, it won’t fail to keep me interested – from overt to subtle, to sparkling. I’m thinking blanc de blancs Champagne, a top white Burgundy with age and a luscious full-bodied Californian.
WHITEHALL VINEYARD
www.whitehallvineyard.co.uk
How best describes your wine?
Our wine is crafted from only the very best grapes harvested from our vineyard. Each year we go through the vines by hand, choosing the perfect grapes to press. This is important for us as it is our ambition to bring our customers only the very best that English wine has to offer in every glass. All of our wines are vegan and award-winning, so the by-hand approach is working!
What are your plans for 2022?
This year we are releasing our very first sparkling wine –Sparkling Rosé. This will be on sale during the summer. Rosé is our best seller all summer, and our Charlotte May Rosé 2019 vintage selling out last year. So, for this year we have decided to release three additional rosés, something we are really excited about and can’t wait to showcase.
If you could only drink one wine for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Definitely rosé. I am a huge rosé fan – I always have been. It’s a beautifully delicate wine that is so refreshing in the summer and our Charlotte May Rosé is actually named after myself.
www.eightstonystreet.com
How best describes your wine offering?
We focus on small family growers, producing exciting, gorgeous wines that tell the story of their terroir and ooze personality. We stock 400+ wines from all over the world, and all are available to be drunk in the bar and restaurant, as well as to take away.
How did you first get into wine?
I had a dinner with my dad in a stunning chateau in France and the sommelier recommended the most incredible wine. It took the whole experience to a whole different level and from that point onwards I was obsessed with wine and its place with food.
What are your plans for 2022?
2022 is an incredibly exciting year, with our subscription wine club going live in May, and our stunning own label wines arriving the same month. Site four is in progress and looks very exciting (but, maybe that’s one for later!).
Tell us about your wine philosophy...
The Stony Street wine philosophy is incredibly simple: no matter the name, area, cost – if its not great in the glass, it’s not been listed.
What’s the most exquisite pairing of food and wine in the world?
Barolo and truffle pasta – two of Italy’s greatest contributions to the world!
VINO VINO WINE & COCKTAIL BAR 01225 312341; www.vinovinowinebar.co.uk
What are the biggest faux pas that customers tend to make when ordering and drinking wine?
One would be when we ask a customer to try the wine before we serve and they say ‘I’ve had this one before I know how it tastes’ or they pick a wine on their own without advice, and then proceed to try the wine and say ‘yeah, I don’t like that’ and try to send the wine back.
The reason we ask you to try is for a quality check to see if the wine has any faults – it’s nothing to do with your personal taste. The liquid may be oxidized, corked etc... In this case our team will try the wine and if the customer is correct, we will replace the bottle free of charge happily. If it’s an expensive wine we will decant and taste it ourselves before we serve it to guarantee the quality.
If you could only drink one wine for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tough question. My mood changes depending on the season and food in front of me. But my personal favourite at the moment would be the Renato Ratti, Barolo Marcenasco, which is still reasonably affordable but exquisite. We will be serving this by the glass in our new business soon to be open behind Vino Vino, which will be called The Other Room. We will only be serving premium wines by the bottle as well as by the glass which will be rotated weekly in our Enomatic.
Tell us about your wine offering...
Bacchus Concierge is a uniquely independent wine consultancy, allowing us to source wine and Champagne from vineyards around the world. We tailor our services to your needs and budget, so whether you’re looking to build a wine cellar, you’re considering wine as an investment, you’re looking for the perfect gift, or you simply want to try something new – we’re here to help.
Where do you source your wine from?
Using our experience, we source interesting, unique and individual wines from around the world. From Greece to Georgia, Australia to Argentina, new world to old world – we’re free to source it all.
What’s your wine philosophy?
Our ethos is to give power and choice to our customers. Whether you’re looking for vintage Champagne, an award-winning English sparkling, or simply the best value wine to enjoy, we can find it for you.
What is the most underrated wine on the market right now?
Some of the Eastern European wines coming to market – including Assyrtiko from Greece – are exceptional. We highly recommend giving them a try. We’re offering Bath Life readers a free consultation to find the right wines for you –contact us via our website or Instagram to discuss.
Where do you source your wine from?
We are the UK’s exclusive importer for Château de Cayx (The Prince of Denmark’s Winery & Residence of the Danish Royal Family) based in Cahors, France. In 1974 it was purchased by Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark (b. 1940) and her late husband H.R.H. Prince Henrik of Denmark. As exclusive importer, we source from Herzog Von Württemberg (The Duke of Württemberg’s Winery & Estate) based in Baden-Württemberg. It has 40 hectares of vineyards in the Württemberg growing region, and has been a member of the VDP (Association of Prädikatsweingüter eV) since 1986. We source our English sparkling wines from The Windsor Great Park Vineyard, first planted in during Henry II’s reign. Today under Queen Elizabeth II there is a three-hectare vineyard in Windsor Great Park, which revives the ancient tradition.
What best describes your wine offering?
We offer a range of award-winning French Malbec, Chardonnay, German Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and other grape varieties.
What are your thoughts on British wine?
Excellent! English bubbly is on the rise and we will see more of it in the market. I would suggest people to visit English vineyards, like the Court Garden Vineyard and their sparkling wines we stock. Their family-run vineyard in Sussex is amazing!
What are your plans for 2022?
Developing our independent, family-run business and introducing our exclusive, award-winning and boutique wines. They are all from independent vineyards, which makes them special for wine lovers.
We’re a little twixt seasons, mid-spring with summer heading over the hill, so use the inbetweeny time to bring a little freshness to your interiors. We’re loving this bohemian, festival, plant-life vibe created using Mind The Gap accessories think audacious orals, story telling murals, handwoven kilim rugs, cushioned window seats, and lots of stay-late-and-socialise candles.
Styling and accessories by Mind the Gap, stockists Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
ANNIE SLOAN WALL PAINT IN SCHINKEL GREEN, 2.5 LITRES FOR £55.95
This particular shade of bright green was championed through the neoclassical renaissance of the mid-20th century by German architect arl Schinkel, hence the name. Stockists Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www rossiterso at om
FLOWER DRAWER KNOB GREEN, £3.95
Transform the look of an old piece of furniture with this fancy light green drawer ceramic and metal knob in a ower shape with a gold top.
From French Grey Interiors, 1 Burton Street, Bath, www.frenchgreyinteriors.co.uk
FAUX POTTED PEONY, £145
With its delicate, yet plentiful petals in realistically varying shades of white, and fresh green buds forever on the cusp of blooming, this faux potted peony will add a little faded elegance to your space. From Cox & Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk
PICTURE FRAME, £22
A beautifully hand-made bone frame in sea green that accentuates photographs and art work.
From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk
KENTWELL THREE-SEATER SOFA, STARTS FROM £2,071
The traditionally English and timeless Kentwell's sprung back makes it a gloriously low maintenance and comfortable sofa, and looks e ually gorgeous in one colour velvet or in dramatic bold prints. rom o as t ew ana a is r www so asandst om
A cute wall hanger designed especially for window hanging and small spaces and are perfect for displaying herbs and draping plants in groups or alone.
From Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com
Beautify a mantelpiece or table setting with this glass stem vase with a striking ribbed body and slightly slimmer neck. From Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Building, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk
The unique design allows the interlocking of each coaster to build and arrange them in a multitude of orientations and creative compositions.
From Bath-based designer Clive Roddy; www.cliveroddy.co.uk
These robust roundbottomed straw and corn baskets with a subtle nautical feel make a practical addition to any family home. Use to hide toys, house beautiful plants, or take to the beach.
From Luca & Fig, 6 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www aand om
A refreshing green tea infusion, with light citrus notes of lemon and orange, brushed with jasmine and sweet neroli, with lavender and smooth ambers interleaved with musk to form the base – light, refreshing, and seriously uplifting. From Brissi pop-up shop or online, 32 Milsom Street, Bath; www.brissi.com
Not too many moons ago, getting dressed was a relatively simple endeavour for me. I looked in my wardrobe, chose a dress, some heels for height, popped them on and left the house – maybe I’d add some tights in cooler weather, and I accessorised with youthful enthusiasm and confidence. n more recent times this doesn’t cut it. When I only put a dress on, I just don’t feel secure. When I put on the shoes that I used to be able to walk in, I panic about falling over. A day dress and shoes suddenly feels like nudity in front of strangers. Although I love a frock, it just doesn’t feel like enough armour to face the world! I need extra support. This has led to a preference for wearing separates – and it’s more than simply the protection of layers that makes me feel stronger. Tailored trousers or the perfect jeans, mixed up with jackets and colourful knits o er up a kaleidoscope of infinite possibilities for facing the world. ike a group of really good friends, they’ve got you no matter your mood.
JEAN GENIE
very e ective capsule wardrobe is built upon separates. Even if you do have a classic dress that you can layer with, it’s guaranteed that without some serious investment and regular relationship counselling, you are going to start resenting its lack of spontaneity. On the other hand, who gets bored of their favourite jeans? ncredible with super fine knits and skyscraper heels, Paris-worthy with a sexy blouse and Chelsea boot, and brilliant with statement trainers and a labradoodle on the weekend. They’re your ‘take me anywhere and I won’t let you down’ friend.
Similarly, a well-tailored jacket is like your sophisticated mate, who after a glass of wine has a really dirty laugh. She’ll get you into all the best places, and looks equally good the next day at brunch – even with a hangover. Over a crisp T-shirt, pattern clashing with skirt or trouser and chucked on at the last minute, the best jacket elevates you even when you’re feeling ‘meh.’ Then there’s the perfect swishy skirt, oh so feminine even with an over-sized jumper and trainers, festival worthy with a band T-shirt and o ce appropriate with acket and knee high boots. It’s the friend who challenges you to be your best self, or even dares you to try on some di erent selves’.
What about the Breton top? The best friend next door, with you since childhood. Tom-boyish, easy to wear, non-judgmental, just as happy hanging out with a pencil skirt, as with jeans, a jacket or Ms Swishy skirt. It’s hardly surprising that it features in many a fashion editor’s wardrobe. It’s the first thing want to wear when the blossom starts to peep and the last thing I want put away when the leaves start to turn golden.
Photography: Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com
Clothing: Sourced from Dorothy House
Styling: Eleanor Tasker
Makeup: Louise Mead
Model: Alana Thomas
ike the Breton top, a well tailored pair of trousers that knows your unique curves are another committed friend. They’re the style equivalent of the friend that nursed you through your first break up. Just knowing that they are they in your wardrobe, come rain, come shine, come interview, come presentation, is a deeply relaxing thought. Even if you do change over the years, that pair of trousers, in whatever incarnation, will always be there.
For me, having a collection of reliable separates always wins over a rail of ighty dresses. I’m not really into short-term relationships and love the challenge of loving, cultivating and improving the things I have. That way, whenever I add something new, I know it’s going to get along handsomely with the rest of them, feeding my own style evolution and making it feel easy to get dressed.
Marianne Cantelo is the business development project manager for Dorothy House Hospice Care. The charity has 25 high street shops across the region selling fantastic pre-loved items which provides a large part of their income, plus it now has an online shop. For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk
1. Bellerose Howland broderie shirt in green, £154 from Maze, 19 Green Street, Bath; www.mazeclothing.co.uk
www.mazeclothing.co.uk
2. Vintage black floral jumper, £26.99 from Dorothy House; www.dorothyhouse.shop
3. Wide leg sailor pants, £85, Deadly is the Female, 59 Catherine Street, Frome; www.deadlyisthefemale.com
4. Essentiel Antwerp Blij multicolour midi-length skirt with graphic print, £160 from Square, 12 New Bond Street, Bath; www.squarebath.uk
5. Stine Goya ash cardigan, £280, Grace & Mabel, 3 George Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk
6. Stripe soft cotton tee, £80, Toast, 7 Bartlett Street, Bath, www.toa.st
7. Diane Von Furstenberg hot pink 100 per cent silk sleeveless top, £65, LOVE ALICE, Unit 7 Old Mill Business Park, Station Road, Bruton; www.love-alice.co.uk
8. Panneau dots shirt by Nice Things, £95, Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk
www.foundbath.co.uk
9. Tess Mediterranean skirt, £119, Spirit Fashion, 3 High Street, Devizes; www.spiritfashion.co.uk
10. Ragnila large sleeve sweat, £77 (reduced from £110), Ted Baker, 46 Milsom Street, Bath; www.tedbaker.com
£119, Spirit Fashion, £77 (reduced from £110), Ted www.tedbaker.com
Many dry cleaners have struggled over the last couple of years, with less opportunities for formal wear and special occasions (not to mention business from hotel laundry), but Smarty Dry Cleaning, based in Bath, Bradford on Avon and Keynsham, is going from strength to strength. A huge part of this ongoing success is down to unswerving commitment to customer services combined with a competitive pricing structure.
Using skilled craftspeople at every stage, they achieve the best possible results with each
and every item bought to them, specialising in cleaning couture and high value garments that regular high street dry cleaners don’t have the skill set for. Every item passes through at least six hand-finished stages including stain removal, cleaning, hand pressing, minor mending and packaging before final inspection with full advice on fabric care, with a process paying particular attention to fine linens. A wide range of clothing alterations and repairs, from replacement zips to complete re-cuts of treasured items of clothing can be arranged at competitive prices. Smarty Dry Cleaning also offer a convenient full delivery and collection service to homes or workplaces with bookings via the telephone or website.
With 2022 seeing the growth of all kinds of events requiring formal wear, from business meetings to weddings and beyond, Smarty Dry Cleaning are perfectly positioned to assist with all dry cleaning requirements across the city of Bath.
We are passionate about providing the highest standards of customer care, showcased in an exceptional review platform and with our team of all employed fitters offer a quality of traditional care and regard that in our day and age is often hard to find.
We have an extensive customer base of both domestic and commercial clients. We offer all flooring specialities, from luxury vinyl tile, design floors, wood, carpet, vinyl, safety flooring and artificial grass
Accredited by Which? and NCIF
11 River Street Place, Julian Road, Bath BA1 2RS; 01225 444666; Elms Cross Shopping Centre (next door to Sainsbury’s), Bradford On Avon BA15 2AZ; 01225 862964
2 Charlton Road, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 2JA; 01179 864878
enquiries@smartydrycleaning.co.uk
www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk
“EVERY ITEM PASSES THROUGH AT LEAST SIX HAND-FINISHED STAGES”
They appeared just after lockdown – almost overnight. Two lines from the corner of my mouth to either side of my chin. Horrid things –my theory is that the lack of smiling during the pandemic accelerated their existence. I try a concealer, night creams, stronger / softer / glossier lipsticks, but these delightfullynamed marionette lines (yes like the dummy puppets) aren’t going anywhere. They are making me self-conscious, look miserable even though I’m not, and I dislike photos being taken – not easy when you’re out and about as Bath Life editor. But along with the other minor irritations of ageing, I think there is no other option other than to take it on the chin.
However I notice some people seem to have come out of lockdown looking amazing –younger, fresher, and a tad more cheerful than the rest of us. Some quiet digging and one name keeps popping up – Dr Lucy Middlefell, a facial aesthetics specialist and dental surgeon
who has set up a clinic in Widcombe o ering the full range of facial aesthetics treatments from anti-wrinkle treatments to collagen options such as lip fillers and everything in between. She trained at the world-renowned Dr. Bob Khanna Training Institute, which only works with doctors and dentists, and is also a member of the International Academy of Advanced Facial Aesthetics.
At our meeting I initially think I’m going to feel awkward talking about my face and its aws it’s intimate and slightly exposing and not something I’m used to – but Dr Lucy’s manner is gentle and receptive and also very importantly there’s humour and understanding – it helps she is a woman of a certain age who gets it. She also listens – I wasn’t keen on anything being done near my eyes or my lips – she agrees and explains how her work is about refreshing the existing and looking natural – it is not about altering appearances. She recommends a few tweakments’, the first of which is a cheek filler using the high density filler Pluryal Contour, a gel like dermal filler which is biocompatible,
containing hyaluronic acid which is found naturally in our bodies, and lasts about a year before being absorbed back into the body. This, she explains, puts volume back into the mid face area to give the face a general lift and indirectly, will soften the lines below the mouth. The results are instant and incredible. Maybe thanks to the arnica she recommended beforehand, there is very little bruising and I have my cheekbones back.
A week later it’s time to fill the nasolabial (nose to mouth) and marionette lines, and also Botox on my forehead. By now I totally trust Dr Lucy’s judgement and technique. She’ll stare at you, photograph you, draw on you, think about it some more, look at you in di erent lights, examine for symmetry issues, ask you questions, and all the while keep you relaxed. She has extensive knowledge of anatomy, of how a face ages and, because she has an all-round love of beauty including face creams, can pinpoint issues and suggest resolutions including non-surgical routes.
I’m now getting the ‘you look good’ comments from friends and instead of coyly accepting the compliment, I’m rushing to tell them about Dr Lucy. Many are intrigued and admit they’re considering work – and some admit they’re already having regular treatments. This for me was not particularly about appearing younger – it was about looking less tired and grumpy, and it’s worked. The uplifting e ect has seeped into my mood I feel more upbeat and positive.
A consultation with Dr Lucy is a beauty reboot and a confidence builder that can do the power of good.
Prices range from £205 for one area of anti-wrinkle; ee er i er and non s r i a r ino ast rom
or more r a ia est eti s ossiter oad id om e at emai in o@do tor o www do tor o
THE TEAM BATH GYM & FITNESS CENTRE. Even modest physical activity is known to energise our mental as well as physical health, boosting our well-being and helping us get more from every day. Team Bath are ready to help you start or restart activity - often the hardest step. Our expert and welcoming sta and trainers will be there to support you. veryone welcome. 01225 383597; teambath-memberships@bath.ac.uk; www.teambath.com/fitness
LIVELIFE HEALTH & FITNESS brings health and fitness to your front door. Personalised, habit forming long lasting changes, in the comfort and security of your home and garden. LiveLife takes the stress from busy professionals looking to make meaningful changes, in order to live a more balanced, confident and healthy lifestyle for themselves and their family. 07858 022228; www.golivelife.co.uk/bathlife
APPLETON NUTRITION is founded by icolle Appleton, a fully ualified utritionist with 15 years-experience in Alzheimer’s disease research. She is a specialist in optimising the health and wellbeing of those a ected by Al heimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. ur diet can deeply a ects our minds and our lives – get the knowhow on nourishing your brain with the choice of strategy sessions and 6-months programmes. nicolle.appletonnutrition@gmail.com; 07894086663; www.appletonnutrition.co.uk
REBECCA O’REILLY is a certified holistic nutritionist and naturopath specialising in helping people overcome chronic and mystery illness, using food as medicine. With food and nature at the core of her practice, Rebecca is passionate about supporting those who have struggled to find answers to their health issues. She works with clients both locally and internationally through her online and in-person practice in Bath. info@rebecca-oreilly.com; www.rebecca-oreilly.com
DR LUCY FACIAL AESTHETICS is a medical Aesthetics clinic situated in Widcombe, Bath o ering a bespoke service for all your aesthetic needs. With an emphasis on ‘natural’, Dr Lucy uses Wrinkle relaxing, Dermal illers, Profhilo and Mesotherapy’s to deliver outstanding natural results from anti-ageing to tweaks which enhance or disguise certain features. 10 Rossiter Road, Bath, BA2 4JP; 07887514154 www.doctorlucy.co.uk
BISHOPSTROW HOTEL & SPA
The newly designed Hot Tub Junior Suites are just one of the latest additions to Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa. Each suite sits on a private terrace surrounded by hedges, adorned with uni ue art pieces, under oor heated, and o ers a walk in rainforest shower experience. What better way to connect body and mind than a private countryside retreat? Boreham Rd, Warminster BA12 9HH; 01985 804680; www.bishopstrowhotel.com
REVITALISE SKIN CARE is an exclusive medical clinic with an ability to deliver great aesthetic results, whilst maintaining the highest standards of patient care, based on the team’s exacting levels of knowledge, professionalism and training. Prior to every treatment full consultations with patients are o ered to discuss options. ey treatments include wrinkle reduction in ections, dermal fillers, non surgical face lifts and advanced laser hair removal. 01225 760556; www.revitaliseskincareclinic.co.uk
LITTLE LAB o er award winning beauty classes and beauty salon treatments; they are no strangers to makeup classes. They have been teaching people how to achieve a three to five minute daily routine for over eight years in their shop in Bath, and have taught ,500 people their bespoke routine. Think of it as shy-ofmakeup mentoring aimed to give confidence. Book ive for your beauty appointments. 20 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LN; 01225 310849; www.littlelab.co.uk
The all-new CBD spa treatment collection at Homewood is one of the first of its kind in the area. Including a CBD body treatment and facial, these deeply soothing experiences, combined with the natural healing properties of CBD, will increase your energy and spiritual enlightenment. Abbey Lane, Freshford, Somerset, BA2 7TB; 01225 580439; spa@homewoodbath.co.uk; www.homewoodbath.co.uk
The first lockdown proved a transformative experience for d Morrison, one of four founders of Bath’s Roots Allotments venture. Moving down from ondon to his grandparent’s place in Dorset at the beginning of the pandemic, d soon turned his hand to growing vegetables in their back garden. nspired by the positive e ect that this had on his mental and physical well being, he looked into signing up for his very own allotment on his return to the capital.
d soon discovered however the staggering extent of waiting lists for such a plot as much as 2 years in some parts of the city. ortunately, those figures are less here in Bath, but still big enough to discourage many from ever discovering the numerous benefits of growing your own produce. This is a national concern, with around 100,000 people currently on waiting lists for allotments across the , with many local authorities closing their books due to the huge demand.
t was one evening at friend Will’s place that d shared his new passion for growing, and the di culties in doing so with allotments in such demand. t became clear to Will and d that the traditional allotment model presented so very many barriers to entry. nce subscribers finally ac uired a plot, they often lacked the time, as well as access to the necessary knowledge and skills, to really embrace and en oy the experience. And then there were the mounting initial set up costs buying the right tools, the clearing of often overrun plots, the bringing in of fresh soil and compost.
d and Will decided that a new approach
was needed one o ering a community hub that made growing both accessible and en oyable in e ual uantities. Their enthusiasm was soon shared by friend Christian and Will’s brother Joshua, and so Roots Allotments took form. Between them, the team o ers a wealth of practical experience to make this venture a success. d brings with him horticultural knowledge and a background in branding and marketing from his time at Saatchi and Saatchi. Will’s engineering expertise has been key to creating the technical infrastructure on site, whilst Christian has been able to put the necessary technology in place and manage the financial side of the business, thanks to his entrepreneurial experience. inally, Will’s brother Joshua brings his agricultural knowledge. Joshua is the fourth generation of his family to have farmed at ewton St oe. ield to fork has always been core to the family’s values, evidenced by the hugely popular and established ewton arm Shop on the mixed farm of cattle, sheep, pigs and grain. Having practiced regenerative farming techni ues for the last few years, Joshua’s holistic approach to revitalising the soil and the environment has proved the inspiration for the no dig policy on their new venture.
The team’s first site is at Tuckers Meadows on Will and Joshua’s family farm, close to ewbridge Park and Ride. So far, over 160 growers have already signed up for an allotment patch, and the meadows welcomed the first of their growers last month. The team have ensured that eight acre space is both practical and welcoming for visitors, o ering on site parking, bike locks, toilets and picnic benches with views over the river. Wild ower borders, beehives and edible hedgerows are also being introduced, with a communal tent planned as the heart of the site to support the growing community, rain or shine.
The available patches range in si e from the micro patch for beginners, to the group patch, for experienced growers looking to tend a plot with family or friends. Whatever the si e, each comes with ready to plant beds, monthly seed packs and running water. A community tool store will also be on hand to ensure that growers don’t have to invest in a new set of tools before they get started.
The team also o er a range of additional services for those in need of a little extra support from the on site patch manager along the way from on demand weeding and watering to the picking of produce and spreading of compost and mulch. And to help maintain the plot and develop your skills, annual weeding sessions, weekly growing advice, tailor made to do lists and online learning opportunities complete the o ering. The renowned Somerset based organic grower, Charles Dowding will also o er a range of bite si ed online tutorials for subscribers, specifically on the benefits of the no dig approach to gardening.
Will, d, Joshua and Christian hope that, should this new venture prove a success, it might be rolled out across the region and beyond, and are already considering options in Bristol, Reading and Swindon. With some local authorities currently closing down the very allotments that are in such demand, this new model could o er a much needed impetus to the own grown, low mileage food revolution.
For more: Roots Allotments, Tuckers Meadow, Newton St Loe, Bath; www.rootsallotments.com
Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law on 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
“Patches range from the micro patch for beginners, to the group patch for experienced growers”
CLOCKWISEFROMABOVE: Soon the allotments will be growing fresh produce for the no-dig gardeners; Somerset-based organic grower Charles Dowding offers online tutorials for subscribers on the benefits of no-dig gardening; the team want to ensure the eight-acre space is both practical and welcoming for all visitors; 160 growers have already signed up for an allotment at the Tuckers Meadows site; Christian, Will, Ed, and Joshua make up the Roots Allotments team
Visit West has received further funding to promote Bath and Bristol as we recover from the e ects of the pandemic this spring and summer. The money from national tourism agency VisitEngland’s Escape the Everyday: Destination Management Organisations’ recovery fund will enable campaigns across Visit West’s digital channels.
“We are thrilled to have again been successful in securing funding from VisitEngland to support spring marketing through the Escape the Everyday campaign,” says Kathryn Davis, director of tourism for the region’s Destination Management Organisation. “As businesses within the visitor economy in our cities and surrounding towns continue to recover from the devastation of the
impact of coronavirus, this support is critical to ensuring that we rebuild an industry worth £2.3bn to the West of England economy in 2019.
“We look forward to working with VisitEngland and local partners, Digital Visitor, to deliver successful campaigns through the VisitBristol and VisitBath consumer brands.”
The funds will be used for a new marketing campaign that encourages 24 to 44-year-old’s in the UK with no children in the household to take a short city break in England this spring and summer by showcasing the breadth of experiences available, such as the Bath Life Award-winning Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein located on Gay Street.
The Escape the Everyday content will be a primarily social media campaign, using videos and images sourced from local photographers, and will run until the end of June. For more: www.visitwest.co.uk
Visit West has won funding for a new campaign to draw more holiday makers to the region this spring and summer
Music Scholars from the Royal High School Bath recently spent a day at Steinway Hall in London, the school’s inaugural visit since its Music School received the prestigious Steinway title in 2020. Nine music scholars from years six to 12 performed during an evening recital and attended a masterclass with Martin Roscoe, one of the best-known pianists in the UK.
“Speaking on behalf of all the students who have had the incredible opportunity to work with Martin Roscoe today in their masterclass session,” says Mark Bradbury, director of Music at Royal High School Bath. “I am certain they will all join me in thanking him for his inspirational words, advice and musical expertise in approaching each of their challenging pieces. This incredible opportunity has only been possible thanks to our continued relationship with Steinway & Sons, who share the same ethos in nurturing and developing the talents of young musicians.”
Royal High School Bath is one of only 28 schools in the UK – and 250 around the world – to earn the prestigious Steinway title. For more: www.royalhighbath.gdst.net
Bath celebrated 75 years of friendship with the city of Alkmaar in the Netherlands with a Guildhall gathering for members of the BathAlkmaar Twinning Association (BATA) and the Rotary Club of Bath. The link between the two cities began in March 1945, when Eli Prins, a Jewish man from Alkmaar escaped to Bath, where he made many friends, including Rotarians. As soon as the War finished, a citywide Alkmaar Appeal swung into operation, raising money and collecting clothing and cooking items to help those most a ected by the erman occupation.
During the event, author Aletta
Stevens read moving passages from her book, The Remarkable Journey of Mr Prins, which details the origins of the Bath-Alkmaar relationship, and Rotary president Simon Spalding announced a £10,000 donation to the Help Ukraine Appeal.
“When we planned this event, we never imagined we would once again be seeing the horrors of war in Europe with heart-breaking scenes of mass evacuation,” says BATA chairman, Chris Davies. “It shows how important it is to keep building friendships between people, personto-person, across borders.” For more: www.bath-alkmaar.org.uk
The Children’s Emergency Department at the Royal United Hospitals (RUH) Bath NHS Foundation Trust has thanked the local community for donating ‘bravery prizes’ for children who attend the department. The hospital was ooded with 400 parcels containing gifts for children after paediatric emergency sister Sarah Potter posted online about the wish list to reward children for being brave following treatment.
“We care for lots of children who have had a frightening accident or injury and have to have a procedure in the department, and I wanted to make the experience of coming to the hospital better for them. We already had a supply of stickers, but I wanted to be able to do something more so I created the online wish list,” says Sarah. “I was encouraged to share the list on Facebook and it completely blew up, with over 600 shares and hundreds of messages to date. We’ve since received over 400 parcels containing crayons and felt tips, colouring books, sticker sheets, fidget toys, and pu les. For more: www.ruh.nhs.uk
Mentoring Plus has received £15,000 from Global’s Make Some Noise Fund. The funds, raised by listeners across Global’s radio brands Capital, Heart, LBC, Classic FM, Smooth, Radio X, Capital XTRA and Gold will enable Mentoring Plus to support young people transitioning from primary to secondary school, and cover the cost of the charity’s skilled practitioners, who support not just the young person but their families and schools too.
“This funding will enable us to support even more young people. Demand is high and moving schools is a big step for all young people, and especially those already facing challenges. We can’t thank Global enough for this huge boost,” says Jenny Perez, fundraising and communications manager. www.mentoringplus.net
Daniel Gornall of Mogers Drewett has achieved Resolution’s Specialist Accreditation, one of only 5 financial professionals in the UK to hold the distinction for financial expertise in divorce work. This is only the latest accolade for Daniel, already a Chartered Financial Planner, Fellow of the Personal Finance Society and Associate Member of Resolution.
“I’m delighted to have been awarded the Resolution Specialist Accreditation, which after several years of hard work makes me one of the few financial planners in the to hold the ualification, says Daniel. look forward to continuing to work alongside family lawyers and their clients as a financial expert in divorce work. www.mogersdrewett.com
John Law, creative director of award-winning interior and garden design firm Woodhouse and Law joined Bath Life Business Club guest host Matt Powell for a live interview, where he shared the story behind the career pivot that led he and his husband and business partner, Nick, to launch a new business in a new-to-them industry.
“Nick’s dad died quite young, John explained. He was 60, and he was ill for about 10 years. I think for Nick and his sister it was a massive wake-up call, because he had a lot of things he wished he’d done and hadn’t. After the dust had settled it made us sit down and take stock – we asked ourselves, what do we want to do?”
een for greater exibility – they wanted to start a family – and already interiors lovers in their own time, following Nick’s decision to retrain as a garden designer, John also took his hobby professional and studied interior design.
When they decamped from London to Bath they started building the business. Partnering with ooring company Boniti, whose marketing and advertising they took on in
exchange for reduced rent for an o ce, they began making connections and building a word-of-mouth campaign for Woodhouse and Law that continues today, and has seen the business’s scope expand from Bath into London and beyond on the power of recommendation alone. Famous clients like Caroline Corr, who’s Bruton home Woodhouse and Law transformed, also helped out, o ering media coverage along the way.
These days, the business has grown to a whole team of designers, managers and buyers. John is quite happy with the current si e. He explained, We were given advice that you either stay small or get big, and the middle ground is not a territory you want to be in because your overheads go up, but you’re not necessarily getting the volume of work that you need or the right kind of work.”
Right now, John’s in a position where he can still oversee all the company’s projects and has a team of designers and builders he knows are exceptional. Woodhouse and Law’s current size also allows him to take a more hands-on role nurturing
new talent, in the form of work experience placements with the University of Bath, and most recently collaborations with young designers for Woodhouse and aw’s new, exclusive range of fabrics.
“There’ll be rugs, cushions and things, which is amazing because obviously it’s unique to our o ering. But we also found a young designer, bought her designs and it’s been launched as a collaboration – Woodhouse and Law with Hannah Carson. We’re really enjoying that, because we’re giving someone a foot up. It means our launch is really exciting.
It also means those who perhaps can’t manage an entire Woodhouse and Law renovation can still take a little bit of their style home with them.
The Bath Life Business Club is a regular networking lunch at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa featuring a live interview with a dynamic local professional. Follow @bathlifemag on Instagram and Twitter for announcements about future events and guest speakers.
For more:
www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILSJohn Law joined Matt Powell for a live interview at the Bath Life Business Club at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
One half of the interior and garden design brand Woodhouse and Law on building the award-winning firm from the ground up
BY
Unividual is an independent, family-run chartered financial planning business known for its accessible and individualised approach to finances
Congratulations! And how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award?
We were shocked at first, then overwhelmed by all the support from people. Unividual is working hard to better the lives of everyone around us every day. We find it hard shouting about who we are and how hard we work for others because it is genuine, and not some u y social responsibility strategy. So, for us as business owners and for our sta , to have our e orts recognised publicly feels like one of the biggest pats on the back we have ever had.
What was it do you think that made 2022 your year?
I don’t know really. Every year we
grow, give back to the community and work as hard as we can to be the best version of ourselves. Sometimes I think it is the luck of the draw. But you make your own luck and if you keep working hard and supporting the local community eventually someone notices and word spreads.
How did you sell yourself in the nomination application?
We made it very clear to the judges in our application that for every year we grow, we do so at a rate that is right for our clients and our sta . Because service is the secret sauce to our success, if you grow too fast, service drops. This might mean we are not one of the biggest finance firms in Bath, but we put Bath on the map for finance and now know we are one of the most thoughtprovoking, progressive and caring companies in our city.
What do you really love about working for your company?
Unividual stands for fairness, we don’t stereotype or put people in boxes, we make financial advice accessible to everyone, not just the rich and famous. Where we can help others we will – we spend thousands every year on supporting our sta with mental health and
well-being. We put our clients at the centre of everything we do BUT most importantly every day we come to work, we have fun too.
What are some of the frustrations in your industry?
We are combating an ageing adviser population and struggling to attract young people to the industry. Most businesses are run by men and there is little focus on women in finance. The compliance and red-tape side of things are so exhausting and alienate clients from understanding things at times.
Do you think people have misconceptions about financial advisers?
We are heavily regulated and often seen as sales people who don’t care. speak for a lot of financial advice businesses up and down the region, WE DO CARE very much about our clients and everything we do for them, especially in times of market turbulence and global events.
What’s the best part about working in Bath and being part of the local business community? The people and the love and care and support you can get from the community are the best thing about working and living in Bath. I can
send one post out on LinkedIn asking for help with a local cause and I will get inundated with responses of support and giving. It is a special place to live and work and together we have made it an inclusive place to settle down and enjoy life.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given? Enjoy what you do, because if you don’t it will feel like work. Honestly, that is the most important thing to me in life. Running Unividual isn’t easy don’t get me wrong nothing worth doing in life is – but I embrace the challenges. I have the power in this business to in uence and e ect change in communities and to help others learn.
And how are you influencing and effecting change?
I like to do a lot in around mental health, helping women grow their financial independence, and developing people’s financial well being through content. Running your own business gives you the chance to do things in the way you think is right.
What at work are you excited about right now?
In the last four months we have donated and raised a pot of money just shy of £10,000 for Julian House. We are now working with Radio Bath and have launched a Bath Business Breakfast Networking Event to aid fundraising for the charity. We are also looking for schools across Bath, Bristol and Wiltshire who are keen for us to come and talk to children about financial literacy.
For more: Unividual, Sterling House, Upper Bristol Road, Bath; www.unividual.co.uk
“UNIVIDUAL STANDS FOR FAIRNESS”
Cherie-Anne Baxter on the biggest paton
the back Unividual has ever hadGreg Harris, Cherie Anne-Baxter and Simon Jones celebrating their Legal & Financial win
Debbie Boulton is managing director at Richardson Swift, where she heads up a 40-strong team of chartered accountants and tax advisers o ering advice and financial solutions to businesses, individuals and families both ongoing and one o s. After joining the company in 2013, this year Debbie stepped up to become managing director.
What’s it like being MD, Debbie?
I’ve been MD since the beginning of the year, so my focus since then has been looking at the forward direction of the business and developing the strategy we need to achieve its goals. I try and block out a day or two a week to focus on this aspect of my role. The rest of my week is then spent looking after my clients: so, advising them on all sorts of business issues and just meeting up with them to chat things through.
You’ve had a few different roles at the company, haven’t you?
I joined RS in 2013 having worked in larger firms in the past.
I was keen to be part of a smaller company where I could directly make a big impact, rather than being in a larger firm where there is a much more hierarchical structure. My focus initially was developing the Cloud o ering for the firm, and working with the accounts team to learn, what was then, a new technology for us.
What attracted you to the managing director role?
I’ve always had an interest in the strategic direction of the business and how we try and stay ahead of the game, so the move to becoming MD felt like the natural next step.
It’s an exciting time to take the reins as we move out of Covid and into a new era of hybrid working and technology led business advice.
Can you share just a few of your career highlights to date?
Well, becoming the managing director of Richardson Swift has to be right up there – especially when I had such great support from my fellow directors in taking on the role. ther than that, think that the first time won a large, significant client entirely on my own is one of the most memorable – it was one of those moments when you hear you’ve won it and have to take a big gulp and then figure out how you’re actually going to deliver!
What would you say is challenging about your job?
Time and resource are the biggest challenges, as with any senior person, I have to juggle my time priorities. have learnt to keep away from email, except for an hour a day, or ’d never get anything else done. Resource is challenging because we’re such a great team that you
need the right people that, not only have the technical skills you need, but will fit in with the culture and client centric service that we strive for.
What’s your favourite things about your job?
Two things really firstly, the team. I’m lucky to work with a fabulous team at RS who all work hard to deliver excellent service to our clients. Secondly, I get great job satisfaction from helping clients when they’re in a di cult situation. ften a business owner might not have anyone they can share their concerns for their business with, and being the sounding board for them and helping to alleviate their fears is very satisfying.
And what brings you joy outside of work?
I returned to playing hockey two years ago which has been ama ing. The team at Keynsham Hockey Club have been so supportive and encouraging and, although sometimes playing against a team of 18-year-olds can be rather challenging, it’s great fun. ’ve also recently been having golf lessons with my husband. think golf will be the plan when I can no longer run around the hockey pitch!
For more: Richardson Swift, 11 Laura Place, Bathwick, Bath; www.richardsonswift.co.uk
Managing director of Richardson Swift by day, hockey player by night, Debbie is a woman of many talents
“I’VE ALWAYS HAD AN INTEREST IN THE STRATEGIC DIRECTION OF THE BUSINESS”
SAMUEL STORAGE has two contemporary serviced offices available to rent, with all bills included and fully furnished to a high specification.
Samuel Storage sought out a beautiful historical building in a central Oldfield Park location and spent six months totally renovating it to a state-of-the-art standard.
They worked with other local businesses to realise the space, employing electricians, plumbers, builders and decorators to bring this tired old building to life, keeping all the original fireplaces and architravings in situe, and original walls with exposed glazed brickwork intact.
The offices are decorated in a range of neutral calming office-friendly colours and textures to provide the community with six individual, furnished spaces on the first floor, all with attractive windows letting in the optimum amount of natural light.
Tenants can move into a motivating space of their own, with each office provided with desks, lights and top-of-the-range comfortable chairs. High speed WiFi is also included, and of course heating and cooling for each space. Security is paramount, so every office has its own individual key code, and the building is open 24/7 so tenants can choose their own hours. Some of the tenants include The Bath Heritage, Raspberry Books and Expedite.
In addition to the offices, Samuel Storage has provided a contemporary shared kitchen, also on the same floor – a convenience which helps this little community to spend some time together over a coffee, and means tenants are able to provide refreshments to any customers visiting their office.
Local and popular Moorland Road is just around the corner with it’s wealth of intriguing shops, bars and cafés, helping to keep local communities and businesses thriving. For £800 pcm, Samuel Storage provides this innovative space, open to everyone, with extremely flexible terms. n
Bath based Samuel Storage is offering a new and innovative storage site to suit all sizes of your storage needs.
It provides 24/7 access to a beautifully clean and CCTV protected secure storage facility in central Oldfield Park. Terms are very easy with pay monthly and only a month’s notice to leave.
They cater for individual personal storage and also offer a range of commercial business storage solutions for all companies.
Get in touch with Samuel Storage on sales@samuelstorage.co.uk; www.samuelstorageunits.com
“ TENANTS CAN MOVE INTO A MOTIVATING SPACE OF THEIR OWN.”
From advertising exec to eco-entrepreneur: Robert Barnard-Weston on combining profit with purpose
I’d been working in sustainability for a decade when I decided to go back to school – the School of Management. I knew an academic ualification would open doors, so I enrolled on what’s since become the Master’s in Sustainability and Management. t was also an opportunity to develop my research skills and to network with leading academics, as well as business and government leaders. en oyed my time at the niversity of Bath so much that ’ve since volunteered to give lectures to current students.
To me, ambition is leaving the world a better place than when you found it. o one wants money without meaning, or profit without purpose. Throughout my career, ’ve co founded various eco enterprises in Bath, including The Thoughtful Bakery; the city’s first eco hotel and been a key driver in the farmers’ market movement.
It was becoming a father that set me on this path. n 19 9, our daughter was on the way, and paused to think about the world she was
about to arrive in, and my role within that. was working in an advertising agency selling cars, pension plans and cheap holidays, and started to wonder whether was part of the problem. promised that by the time she was born, ’d become part of the solution.
That’s when I started Groundswell – a communications consultancy for human rights and environmental charities. We worked exclusively with non profits until a few years later, when the private sector started becoming interested in what we now call corporate social responsibility. Climate change and sustainability weren’t on the mainstream agenda back then.
ow the sustainability and social ustice agenda is more urgent than ever. After over 0 years in sustainability consulting, teaching, writing, research and public speaking, am starting a new organisation, CA, focused on activating a global network of local, low carbon economies. These will empower people within their communities to profitably
meet more of their own and each other’s needs for food, fashion, furniture, finance, housing and full on fitness.
That’s been my message all the way through if you can, make it more profitable to be part of the solution than part of the problem.
Are you a graduate of the School of Management with a story to share? Connect with us: alumni@management.bath.ac.uk
“ TO ME, AMBITION IS LEAVING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE THAN WHEN YOU FOUND IT”
Robert Barnard-Weston MSc Responsibility and Business Practice, 1999
Solicitors who specialise in acting for older or vulnerable clients are trained to notice signs in their client of financial abuse (and, indeed, psychological and physical abuse, but no room to cover those here today).
It is a sad fact that financial abuse is actually very common and that often the abuse is by a family member or ‘friend’. In these cases, there are measures which can be taken to halt the abuse – but how to recognise it?
Well, symptoms may include:
Deliberate isolation of the person from their friends and family, resulting in the abuser having total control.
Signatures on cheques etc. which do not resemble the person’s own, or those that are signed when the person cannot write.
Sudden changes in bank accounts, including unexplained withdrawals of large sums.
The sudden inclusion of additional names on the person’s bank account.
Abrupt changes to, or unexpected creation of a Will.
The sudden appearance of previously uninvolved relatives claiming their right to deal with the person’s affairs or possessions.
The unexplained transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family.
Numerous unpaid bills, overdue rent or care home bills, when there is someone who is supposed to be paying bills.
Lack of amenities such as TV, personal grooming items and appropriate clothing that the person should be able to afford.
The unexplained disappearance of valuables such as art, silverware or jewellery.
Change in living conditions, lack of heating, clothing or food or inability to pay bills/ unexplained shortage of money.
I should emphasise that the presence of any one or more of these is not positive proof of abuse. Some may indicate a decline into dementia and a genuine attempt at care by a concerned but perhaps inexpert person. But they are enough to indicate that proper checks should be carried out to ensure that all is as it should be. If you see any of these signs in a person you know, you should take the trouble to report your concerns. Action on Elder Abuse (0808 808 8141) would be a good starting point – even if the person is not in fact elderly, but vulnerable. If you think that you may, yourself, be falling victim to abuse of this kind either ring Action on Elder Abuse or consult a solicitor specialising in this area of law. They will be able to advise you how to stop the problem.
Prevention is better than cure. The appointment
of a truly trustworthy Attorney ahead of time will provide protection against financial abuse of this kind.
Another form of financial abuse is the scam. Again, prevention is better than cure. The Metropolitan Police publishes a list of ten golden rules to avoid falling victim. Here they are:
1. Be suspicious of ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals. There are no guaranteed get rich quick schemes.
2. Do not agree to offers and deals immediately. Insist on time to obtain independent legal advice before making a decision.
3. Never hand over money or sign anything until you have checked the credentials of the company or individual.
4. Never send money to anyone you do not know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you are not comfortable with.
5. Never give banking or personal details to
anyone you do not know and trust and never disclose your PIN or passwords or lend your bank card to anyone at all.
6. Do not connect by clicking on links provided by e-mail. Always log on to the website directly.
7. Do not rely solely on glowing testimonials provided by the company or individual; find solid independent evidence of their success.
8. Always take independent legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment.
9. If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help. Contact ActionFraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud. police.uk. Contact local Police if the suspect is known or still in the area.
10. Do not be embarrassed to report a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever, there is no shame in being deceived. By reporting them, you will make it more difficult for them to deceive others.
Helen Starkie Solicitor5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk
“ IT IS A SAD FACT THAT FINANCIAL ABUSE IS ACTUALLY VERY COMMON ”
The Countryside Communities Fund has donated £30,000 local initiatives working in Bath and the surrounding areas
Countryside Communities Fund awards
£30,000 to South West charities and invites bids for further £20,000
Countryside, the UK’s leading mixed-tenure developer, has donated £30,000 from the Countryside Communities Fund to local initiatives working in Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, with a further 10 donations of £2,000 each available for local charities and organisations to bid for.
The Countryside Communities Fund, set up in response to the Covid-19 pandemic in spring 2020, is supporting local charities and groups, food banks and others providing essential local services in locations where Countryside operates across the country.
The initial £ 0,000 of funding will benefit local organisations working in the Bath and North East Somerset area where Countryside is making progress at its agship Sulis Down housing development site. The donation is being split between a range of initiatives that are providing invaluable support to the local community, including Julian
House, Food Cycle Bath, Rainbow Trust South West, Bath Mind, and the Quartet Community Foundation.
Darren Dancey, managing director of South West, Countryside, says, “At Countryside, we are committed to building sustainable communities and we know that this goes beyond simply building new homes. The challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic over the past two years have made life more di cult for many local people and charities, and so we’re proud to be supporting a range of local organisations through the Countryside Communities Fund. We hope our latest round of funding will make a positive di erence to people across the South West.
To apply for an award, please request an application form by emailing southwest@cpplc.com. The deadline for applications is 30 April this year and the successful applicants will be notified by 1 May. For more: www.countrysidepartnerships.com
Countryside’s flagship Sulis Down housing development site in BathThe Bath and Singapore-based awardwinning landscape architecture practice Grant Associates is helping create a giant slide at the Tower of London in joint partnership with the niversity of She eld’s Professor of Planting Design, Nigel Dunnett.
The Superbloom project will see the Tower of ondon’s historic moat transformed into a oral celebration for the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen, and will allow visitors to whizz down the giant four-lane slide and land in the ower filled space.
The 21ft slide, which takes about five seconds to travel from top to bottom and will be open from 1 June – 18 September, has been recycled from the ational Trust’s Cliveden House in Buckinghamshire where it has been in place since 2013 while repairs were made to a 350-year-old staircase.
Andrew Grant, founder and director at Grant Associates, says, “We want the Superbloom experience to be a vibrant and ever-evolving landscape that will shift and change colours and patterns throughout the course of this summer, enriched by moments of interest and delight.”
For more: www.grant-associates.uk.com
The royal wheeeeeeeeeee!
The Property Symposium is back on 29 April and is running a virtual conference on sustainability. The morning event, which is sponsored by GA Energy, Interaction and Futureground, is bringing together industry experts for panel sessions and networking opportunities. These include Lucian Cook, the head of residential research for Savills, and Jennet Siebrits, the head of research at CBRE.
Panellists include senior players from JLL, Principality, Interaction, CBRE, Futureground, GA Energy, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Sero, First Base (Soapworks) and BDP.
The Property Symposium is powered by a multi-channel regional marketing campaign, building on the success of the Property Awards in Bath, Bristol, Cardi and xeter.
For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk
• Connect with leading Bath property businesses, across all sectors
• Benefit from a multiple channel marketing campaign, reaching thousands
• Stand out amongst your peers at this prestigious, unique event For details: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk
Initial sponsors:
Every now and again a rare sort of property comes on to the market – one that is, quite simply, ready to move in. Fixer uppers have their place and at a certain phase of life we all want to dive head first into the chaos of construction. Other times, not so much. Other times we search for what feels like an impossible dream, especially when it comes to Georgian homes and their myriad quirky ‘surprises’ and curiously 80s imagining of a period aesthetic. We dream of contemporary elegance and a style that is bold but not Hyacinth Bucket.
t’s rare on the market it is certainly eeting but number 17 Gay Street has it all. Every element, from the plasterwork to the oorboards has been the sub ect of meticulous decoration by the current owners – and the results are outstanding. Bright white panelling, doors, balustrades and window frames set o a stylish earthy green and blue aesthetic that runs throughout the home. It’s not matchy-matchy, but a distinct colour story that appears in variations of block colour painted walls and statement Arts and Crafts, William Morris vibes wallpapers. The entire e ect is one of cool, class and, quite simply – style.
Number 17 is utterly modern, but nods to heritage are evident, and throughout respect is paid to the design of the Grade I listed townhouse, one of famed Bath architect John Wood the Elder – and Younger’s –
creations. rom the restored wooden oorboards in the drawing room to the Bath stone fireplace with gas fired grate by renowned reproduction specialists, Jamb, care and sensitivity has been paid to the history of the home without sacrificing comfort and aesthetic along the way.
The entire ground oor, from the entrance hall to the piano room and library is respectful to the eorgians who once occupied it, and the breath taking galleried staircase that forms the centrepiece of the entire property an evergreen reminder of what it must have been to make an entrance bedecked in ballroom ready finery prepared to win the heart of your chosen rakish gentleman or strong willed lady.
n addition to its outstanding decorative order, the property is also fantastically spacious for its city centre location, with children’s playrooms on the lower ground oor alongside the kitchen, breakfast room and dining room all with access to the garden that might serve a new family or be easily adapted for other purposes such as a home cinema, gym, o ce, or even further guest bedrooms. n the first oor there’s a master suite, another spacious suite on the second and two further bedrooms at the top of the house on the third oor all designed to perfection, of course.
umber 1 is the sort of house that inspires ealousy and demands style of its guests and inhabitants. t’s a home ready for dinner parties, for new beginnings and a ready made life, ust waiting for the right person to step into it.
HOUSE NUMBERS
Price £1.95m
Square foot 3,669
Bedrooms 4
Reception rooms 4
Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath; www.knightfrank.com
Tell us a little about your business…
X-Press Legal Services provides expert property search reports to solicitors and conveyancing professionals across Bristol, Bath and Somerset.
I have an excellent knowledge of the local area and outstanding attention to detail, ensuring we provide first-class customer service and complete end-to-end service, with a full range of products – including Residential and Commercial Searches, Pre and Post Completion Services, Cyber Security and Compliance Products.
How have the last 12 months been for you?
The last 12 months have been one of the busiest periods our team at X-Press has witnessed since launching in 2006. The Stamp Duty holiday created a surge of activity, and we were on hand to support conveyancing clients throughout this hectic period.
Tell us about your community and charity involvement…
I am an active member of the local business community and involved with the Somerset Chamber of Commerce. I have also organised large property and construction events for professionals throughout the region, as well as regular CPD events for the local conveyancing sector. These events allow conveyancing professionals to keep up to date with changes and developments in the sector, whilst connecting with peers.
How are you communicating with clients?
We take pride in providing high quality customer service, always at the end of the phone to help clients and often becoming an integral part of their team. Communicating with clients is made easier through the X-Press ICOS system, everything a
conveyancer needs to order and complete a report in one place.
Did you know...
The property searches that X-Press Legal Services provide to the conveyancing sector are an essential part of every property purchase, sale, repossession, remortgage or redevelopment.
X-Press Legal Services Bristol, Bath and Somerset 0330 159 5311
johnw.1311@xpresslegal.uk
www.xpresslegal.co.uk
John Watt, owner of X-PRESS LEGAL SERVICES tells us about his business providing quality property search reports for conveyancing professionals
NEXUS OF BATH is a Bath based family business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety Tel: 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk
Clair Strong Interior Design is a boutique, 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 hotels, sports clubs, o ces and other commercial venues. Contact Clair on 07855 797311 or 01225 426905; www.clairstrong.co.uk
Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. ort arade i din s at Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk
& DESIGN create unique, client-focused contemporary and traditional interiors, valued for their individual, beautifully tailored characterful design. With 25 years of expertise delivering space planning, detailed design, procurement, art curation and project management. An award-winning practice with studios in Bath & London, WOOLF are accredited designers of historic, period, listed houses and hotels. Tel 01225 445670; woolfinterior.com
Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and ue specialist. rom classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, Barbas Belfires, Hwam, Stuv and Jetmaster. et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, at in o@mendi re a es at o Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk
ering stylish, innovative ooring solutions to meet the needs of the savvy Bath homeowner. Virtuoso employ the largest team of experienced fitters in Bath. Their dedicated team are ready to turn your dream oor into a reality. Call now for a free consultation or visit their new show room on Moorland Road. To en ire emai in o@virt osofloorin o or a 01225 972715; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk
A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service based in Bath. Specialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal service adapted to each client’s needs, Jennifer’s uni ue style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, re ecting her clients’ lifestyles and personalities.
Tel: 07738289189; www.jennifermosse.com
Providing bespoke kitchens and made-to-measure interiors across the Bath area for more than 35 years, Schmidt Bath o ers luxury solutions for the home at a ordable prices. With a dedicated in house fitting team, your project will be completed to the highest standards. Visit their showroom to see the latest ranges and more of what they can o er. 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE; Tel: 01225 337276; www.schmidt-bath.com
Coopers Home Appliances is an independent retailer trading continuously since 1947 and specialises in kitchen appliances. We have built an enviable reputation, delivering great products with an eye for the unusual. Value driven and customer focused. Striving to make shopping a pleasurable and human experience – a real antidote to the soulless online shopping ‘trip’. 01225 311811; www.coopershomeappliances.com
Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for Spring
Dr Sadia is an installation artist exploring epiphany and the transcendental who uses moving images and sound to create environments, frequently incorporating manipulation or distortion of time. She began her career by becoming among the first women in the world to be signed as a record producer to a major label, to EMI (Canada), in the late 1970s. She has M.Sc. in Political Science and Economics from the University of London with a specialisation in Gender, Society, and Culture and an M.A. in Design from the University of the Arts London. Dr Sadia also has a Ph.D. in Fine Art from RMIT University in Melbourne, a global top twenty in art and design, for which she received a full scholarship including an IPRS International Postgraduate Research Scholarship, an
APA Australian Postgraduate Research Scholarship, and an RTP Research Training award.
In 2000 Dr Sadia became a naturalised British citizen, she is a Fellow of the Royal Society for Arts, and recently had a large three-channel filmed installation produced by the makers of the Mad Max film franchise.
I was raised in a small town in Quebec, Canada. I’m mixed race which was unusual for that part of Canada then. My father was born in India (now Pakistan) and my mother in Potsdam, East Germany. They came to Canada as part of the great diaspora following World War II.
My father wanted me to become a doctor. In his culture, traditionally, the father decides a child’s profession. I became an artist with a doctorate in fine art research, not
quite the kind of doctor my father had in mind.
My installation works are included in a number of internationally significant permanent collections, including the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI). I publish, lecture and speak internationally, mostly on issues to do with the experience of profound emotion and the transcendent within immersive works of art and gallery environments.
Many fine artists undergo formal training and I think that it’s important for visual artists to have some theoretical foundation for what they’re doing. If you want to be a pioneer, it helps to have a map of the known world. Then you can begin to explore what’s yet to be discovered.
The first time I visited Bath I felt home. The Bybrook Valley where Real World studio is situated has been an area of continuous human occupation for 4,000 years. I understand why its mystical power attracts creative people. I love to climb Solsbury Hill and sit out on the bench down the hillside
looking out over Bath. You can see the bowl of the city and the design of the terraces so clearly, so beautifully conceived and executed.
Perfect happiness is working in my studio. For the last ten years I have occupied a project space at Real World, which is an international recording studio as well as the home of WOMAD and its founder Peter Gabriel’s many projects.
I think my most powerful secret talent is my intuition. I have an uncanny knack of knowing when someone is thinking about me. People tend to underestimate me until they get to know me.
My most prized possessions are the love of my friends, then my spiritual practice, peace of mind and health. I’m very conscious that the material world is impermanent. But what you hold in your heart, you carry with you forever.
My desert island disc is The Köln Concert by Keith Jarrett. But every day I learn and grow so this choice is just for today. For more: www.artschimera.com
The installation artist on intuition, immersive art, and the mystical draw of Bath
“What you hold in your heart, you carry with you forever”
