Bath Life – Issue 478

ISSUE 478 / 9 – 22 SEPTEMBER 2022 / £3

5 LOCAL WINES YOU HAVE TO TRY NOW!

ISSUE 478 / 9 – 22 SEPTEMBER 2022 / EAST BY WEST

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NO 1 5 BATH CLA IRE WA LKE R CH A RLIE H IDE S

LIFE ON THE

UPPER EAST SIDE EXPLORE A GORGEOUS GEORGIAN BATH HOME

FROM FROM DAWN DAWN TILTIL BUSK BUSK

(I (IDODOWANT WANTTOTO JUST J JUST J KIDDING! KIDDING! THE THE BRILLIANT BRILLIANT GOGOTO) TO)CHELSEA CHELSEA BATH BATH CHILDREN’S CHILDREN’S ROAD ROAD

UPUPGRADE GRADE

REPORTING REPORTING FROM FROM BATH’S BATH’S THETHE COLOURFUL COLOURFUL LIFE LIFE LITERATURE RETURNS FESTIVAL MOST MOST EXCELLENT EXCELLENT OFOF ONE ONE OFOF BATH’S BATH’S AND AND THETHE WONDERFUL WONDERFUL FESTIVAL SCHOOLS SCHOOLS BEST BEST KNOWN KNOWN BUSKER BUSKERS WESTON WESTON TOO TOO

GO THE WHOLE HOG

THE DISTINGUISHED SUPPER CLUBS OF THE PIG & FIDDLE

© BET T Y BHANDARI BR AND PHOTOGR APHY; W W W.BET T YBHANDARIBR ANDPHOTOGR APHY.COM

EDITOR’S LETTER

drag and more (page 40); BELOW: We’re feeling a little blue, and that’s a good thing (page 70)

I

’ve been thinking a lot recently about that old adage bandied about that school days are the best days of your life. That may be true but what about results day? Let’s be honest that particular hellscape can go either way. My house has just emerged from a double whammy of A level and GCSE results – yes two in seven days. And I’m not sure the ‘best days of your lives’ platitude can apply to this current generation. The last three years have not been easy on them – the disruption, the stress, the gaps, the homeschooling (oh my god, the absolute horrors of homeschooling – and yes, I am talking about myself here).

It’s with absolute awe and admiration I look at any teen now and all they have managed to achieve despite these unprecedented and unwelcome setbacks. Over on page 18 we celebrate just some of these achievements in our local schools. A*, and then some, for the lot of them!

Another star crowd are the lovely traders and retailers of Chelsea Road in Weston (page 72) – this is a proper high street – traditional in look with staples like a greengrocer and a hardware store, and yet managing to keep evolving with the times with the recent additions of a gorgeous veggie café and an eco-friendly gift and home products store.

Elsewhere, as seen on our cover, we explore a truly stunning Upper East Hayes property (page 100); we mark the return of the brilliant Bath Children’s Literature Festival (page 54); dine at the distinguished Pig & Fiddle supper club (page 64); and we also have the privilege of spending time with the ama ing Nik Jovčić-Sas musician, advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, drag artist and theologian.

Turn to page 40 to read his remarkable story and look out for this talented musician busking in Bath city centre.

© LOUIS SMITH; W W W.STUDIOWHISK.CO.UK

ABOVE: Nik Jovcic-Sas on busking, activism,

SARAH MOOLLA

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Issue 478 / 9 – 22 September 2022 COVER 36 Upper East Hayes, currently on the market with Knight Frank for £2.95m

100

18

EDUCATION

18 GRADE A SCHOOLS Local schools share their success stories

THE ARTS

40 BIG INTERVIEW Busker, LGBTQ+ rights activist, drag queen

and theologian Nik Jovčić-Sas

47 ARTS INTRO Dame Elisabeth Frink’s bronzes and works on

paper depict her unique take on classic tales

48 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, comedy and art in the city 54 KIDS LIT FEST Our top picks from the Bath Children’s

Literature Festival, returning 23 September

59 BOOKS Reads for gamers

FOOD&DRINK

61 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Feast Brothers have a new pasta pitch on

Queen Square

62 TRY 5 Our favourite local wines and the best spots to buy them 64 RESTAURANT REVIEW Inventive dining at the Pig & Fiddle

supper club

SHOPPING

69 SHOPPING INTRO Wallpaper inspired by the Japanese art of

Aizome from Mind The Gap

70 EDITOR’S CHOICE Style your home in shades of blue 72 STREET LIFE Chelsea Road, the vibrant little street with

community spirit by the bucket load

54

BUSINESS

82 BATHWORKS Local business news, views, and interviews 83 BIZ Q&A Claire Walker of Lumiar UK shares her thoughts on

the benefits of a progressive education

87 BATH LIFE AWARDS Q&A House of Frankenstein’s Award-

winning first year

PROPERTY

95 PROPERTY LEAD Nominations for the Bath Property Awards

are closing on 15 September

96 PROPERTY NEWS Updates from the market 100 SHOWCASE Chic, unfussy glamour at Upper East Hayes

DEPARTMENTS

10 SPOTLIGHT What’s coming up this season at Theatre Royal 13 INSTAS A final farewell to Carter’s Steam Fair 15 FLATLINE Experts? What experts? When it comes to home renovation, Flats is going his own way 81 BEAUTY The GuestHouse Spa is Bath’s best kept secret 106 BATH LIVES Wiltshire Council climate officer Sarah Grimes

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 Sarah Baker, Betty Bhandari, Matt Bielby, David Flatman, John Mather and Matilda Walton 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 and 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. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

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SPOTLIGHT Theatre

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© ANTHONY MCCARTEN

Theatre Royal have announced the details of its thrilling autumn and winter season t all kicks o on the 13th with Juliet Stevenson, who is coming to Bath to reprise her leading role in obert cke’s five-star London production of The Doctor, which is described as ‘very freely’ adapted from Professor Bernhardi by Arthur Schnitzler. Following that comes the 40th anniversary production of Michael Frayn’s beloved farce oises , featuring Theatre Royal favourite Felicity endal from 22 September until 1 ctober, about the hapless cast of fictional play Nothing On and their rapidly deteriorating relationships. n ctober, ouble livier and Tony Award-winning West End and Broadway hit Girl from the North Country comes to Bath. The acclaimed musical reimagines the legendary songs of Bob ylan to tell a heart-breaking and uplifting story set in the S during the Great epression ounding out ctober is a serious drama starring Anton Lesser The Two Popes 25 2 ctober is a gripping piece by Anthony McCarten and shines a light on one of the world’s most secretive institutions.

In November, a brand-new production of Mrs Warren’s Profession will open at Theatre Royal. This special production stars real-life motherdaughter pair Caroline Quentin and Rose Quentin starring opposite one another as Mrs Warren and Vivie in the George Bernard Shaw play about a young woman getting to know her mother – who she learns is a former sex worker and brothel owner for the first time Meanwhile eborah Warner’s debut season at the Ustinov continues in powerful fashion, bringing opera to the theatre for the first time with a new production of Dido and Aaneas and a unique piece performed by ickie Beau – the captivating Ariel from the recent The Tempest – iSHOWMANISM!, which dives into the concept of performance itself.

Come Christmas, panto will return to the main house with Aladdin, starring Bath favourite Jon Monie as Wishee Washee and Eastenders’ Nick Wilton as ame Widow Twankey, and Snow Mouse will play again at the egg, back after popular demand.

Tickets for these shows and many more are on sale now.

For more: Theatre Royal Bath, Saw Close, Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

© JOHAN PERSSON

CURTAIN UP

CLOCKWISE: Bob Dylan musical Girl from the North Country; the return of Snow Mouse; The Two Popes starring Anton Lesser; Theatre Royal favourite Felicity Kendal will star in Noises Off; Mother-daughter duo Caroline Quentin and Rose Quentin star in Mrs Warren’s Profession

SPOTLIGHT

ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR In August Carter’s Steam Fair made its final visit to Victoria Park. After 45 years on tour, the owners have made the decision to look for a permanent home for the preservation of this vintage fairground and its traditional rides.

@cleclenj

@maxineinbath

@colinwebb47

@mrgrunshaw

@mama_san13

@richlucking

@valeriepirlotart

@carterssteamfair

@scorpio2london

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

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

“Are we insane?

Maybe, but I feel very relaxed about it”

Escape to the country

L

Flats is taking a hands-off approach to home renovation ike most of you, e pect, ’ve seen every episode of Grand Designs ’ve watched Clever Kevin age in style, and ’ve seen his ‘this-simply-willnever-work-oh-lookit’s-worked’ approach to formatting the show mellow somewhat, not that we didn’t love his educated frankness.

Sarah Beeny’s Property Ladder was a firm favourite, too, dishing out large portions of plainly obvious advice to home owners seemingly hellbent on ignoring the expert, disproving logic and denying weather. We all wanted them to succeed and to end up with stunning homes at which we could all gawp from our shabby chic (worn out) sofas, but we didn’t mind them coming a cropper now and then, with our adored and revered presenters proven omniscient time and again.

The shows di ered in the sense that while

Beeny would advise all would-be developers to keep it neutral by deleting all emotion and ‘personal taste’ from a space, our Kevin (he is ours, isn’t he?) would delight in the ways in which people created bespoke homes that suited them as would a Saville Row suit. ne way in which the shows didn’t di er at all was in the advice they gave to those having the work done. This advice was simple: be on site as much as you possibly can. No holidays. No can’t-be-bothered days. Full attendance wherever possible. So what we did, with the bulk of the renovation work about to begin on our home in Bath, was go to evon for five weeks ’m not a personal acquaintance of evin cCloud, but if were strongly suspect he’d have seen this move as a slap in the face t’s a bit like when my best mate bought a family car without at any point running his shortlist past me (the vehicle obsessive), and ended up in a four-year contract, paying for a car he doesn’t like.

Now, not living on site during a renovation

is fine and often very helpful for all involved, but that’s usually on the understanding that you’ll stay nearby and get there as often as you can. We went on holiday and said we wouldn’t be back, which is a risk.

We ustified it thus we always go to evon for a stretch in summer because we really like it, and that’s a good enough reason. That was it: we wanted to. Clearing out of the way certainly made it easier for the workers to crack on, but our voluntary non-attendance has amazed one or two friends over the last few weeks n fairness did go back once had a meeting in Bath so popped in for a quick tour All seemed well enough so left and went for a sandwich.

We have a WhatsApp group on the go and we have FaceTime for the big stu , so what’s the worry t’s only really as type these words that our chosen approach truly crystallises in my mind: all the work has been done without us there Are we insane aybe, but feel very relaxed about it all. This is primarily down to who’s doing the work. As mentioned before on this page, Guy Mercer of Camden Mews Construction is running the show, and in him we have a lot of confidence Any issues have been clearly communicated along the way, lots of photos have been zapped over, lots of multiple-choice emails surrounding taps and coat hooks and sympathetic bannister finishes ndeed as type, the big evon de-rig is going on around me. We’re packing up the Land Rover and heading back east to Bath.

This very afternoon is when we’ll know for sure if our confidence was well-founded or misplaced Somehow, can’t see it being anything other than a grand reveal, a joyous homecoming t turns out we’re in the antiexpert age. Who knew?

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

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EDUCATION

ON ANOTHER LEVEL In praise of the outstanding schools and colleges in Bath and the surrounds

By John Mather

A

s a new term comes round and students from Bath and surrounds prepare for another academic year, we find out how the local education organisations have been going from strength to strength. From primary schools right through to the further education colleges, these establishments are not just overcoming the stresses and pressures that the pandemic caused, but are actually helping their students achieve amazing things – from sporting wins and Glastonbury sets, and from winning science competitions to record exam results.

Here we round up and celebrate just a few of these local attainments…

WINNING GOALS

eeche li School, le dr r , i li e e, th; www. eeche cli .or .

Beechen Cli football team were finalists in the 1 nglish Schools Football Association National Cup. The cup run saw the team narrowly losing to Calday Grange School in the final after playing nine rounds to get there This included an e citing home semi final win on penalties against Samuel Whitbread Academy watched by the whole school The final took place in ay 2 22 at the Hawthorns in West Brom, and presented a wonderful opportunity for the team, who are coached by teachers r ac onald, r Quintin and r ann, to play at a professional team’s stadium.

GLASTONBURY PERFORMANCE

ells thedr l School, he i ert , ells; www.wells.c thedr l.school Wells Cathedral School pupil Hetta Fal on is a star in the making and in June this year, played Glastonbury’s Avalon Caf Stage Hetta secured her place at the world-renowned festival after winning the ilton Stage Competition, competing against an astonishing artists. Both of her Glastonbury sets were an absolute triumph, with r Leaker, coordinator of a popular music studies, saying, am

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Beechen Cliff football team were finalists in the U14 English Schools Football Association National Cup

“Local education organisations have been going from strength to strength” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19

EDUCATION

absolutely delighted for Hetta. To perform at one of the world’s best known music festivals to such a large audience is a dream come true for her. We will miss her hugely and hope that she will come back to visit and inspire the next generation of songwriters.”

ABOVE: Wells Cathedral School pupil Hetta Falzon playing Glastonbury’s Avalon Café Stage; BELOW: King Edward’s Junior School team won the Raspberry Pi Competition

STEM CHALLENGE

King Edward’s Junior School, North Road, Bath; www.kesbath.com More than 300 schools across the UK competed for a spot in the final of the annual aspberry i Competition earlier this year, which promotes STEM education by challenging schoolchildren aged between -1 years to invent systems that could benefit society using their engineering and coding skills, and a aspberry i microcomputer The King Edward’s Junior School team of seven Year 5 children developed and coded a system that helps to educate pupils about environmental and sustainability issues art of the team’s initiative is a recycling station that tells pupils which bin they need to put their recycling in and then rewards them with house points.

The awards ceremony was presented by rtis eley, from The Gadget Show, and, as the school’s CT co-ordinator rs Sam Cook, e plains, There were 1 , people viewing the ceremony online and we were told that over 300 teams had entered the competition.

After a nerve-racking wait the final three teams in the ear - age category were called out and the S aspberry Turtles were crowned the winners!”

ATHLETIC ABILITY

Millfield School, Millfield, Street; www.millfieldschool.com illfield had an impressive 23 selections for this year’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, with ten athletes selected to compete in the pool alongside two coaches. ld illfieldian and former illfield rep pupil James Guy topped up his lympic medal haul, picking up one gold, three silvers and two bronze medals in various events at the Games. Somerset-boy Brodie

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“Helping their students achieve amazing things”

EDUCATION

ABOVE: St Margaret’s Prep pupils participated in the IAPS National Swimming Finals;

BELOW: Millfield had an impressive 23 selections for this year’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham

Williams picked up his first international senior medal, coming second in the 1 m backstroke before getting Commonwealth gold in the 2 m backstroke ecent leavers, van Jones made his Commonwealth debut, coming home with two bron e medals in medley events and eighteen-year-old Tamryn an Selm also marked her first Games with a bron e medal for the Women’s 2 m freestyle

SWIMMING SUCCESS

St Margaret’s Prep, Curzon Street, Calne; www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk n June, a group of St argaret’s rep pupils participated in the A S National Swimming Finals at the London Aquatics Centre After fantastic performances in the regional qualifying gala, which was hosted at St argaret’s back in arch, both St argaret’s boys and girls 11 25m relay teams were invited to compete in the gala Both teams, led by the school’s r ury and rs White, came away with silver medals ver prep schools enter this competition and competed in regional qualifiers before the fastest teams made it into the National Finals

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EDUCATION AGAINST ALL ODDS

Bath College, Avon Street, Bath; www.bathcollege.ac.uk Charlotte Holley completed her Level 3 Early Years in June, juggling motherhood and lockdowns, to achieve her goal of working with young children. She also scooped the Early Years Student of the Year at Bath College’s Celebrating Success Awards.

Charlotte joined the Level 3 Early Years course when she was 25 years old with a young child of her own to take care of. The College reports Charlotte has excelled in all aspects of her studies, both knowledge and practice, and has always gone above and beyond when completing her assignments and practical evidence portfolio.

HIGH ACHIEVING

Sheldon School, Hardenhuish Lane, Chippenham; www.sheldonschool.co.uk Along with five students reaching the nglish Schools Track and Field Championships held in Manchester this July, Luke Hazeltine of Year 13 played violin in the National Youth Orchestra at the Proms, which was shown on BBC4, as well as achieving straight A*s at A level and is o to study edicine at Cambridge niversity

“Has always gone above and beyond” ABOVE: Charlotte Holley completed her Level 3 Early Years at Bath College; BELOW: Luke Hazeltine of Year 13 played violin in the National Youth

Orchestra at the Proms

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EDUCATION

ABOVE:

The Spanish school Todo el Mundo is celebrating ten years of teaching; BELOW: The All Hallows Colour Run helped raise £3,412.66 for charity

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Todo el Mundo; www.todoelmundo.co.uk The Spanish school Todo el Mundo based in Bath and delivering courses all over the South West, has just celebrated ten years of teaching. Founder Katherine Mallia explains, “For a decade now we have specialised in group classes for adults at all levels, clubs for kids, early years classes and private tuition for all ages. We also provide specialist teachers and courses for primary schools to cover their curriculum language for Key Stage 2. Our in-person events include tapas and conversation evenings, and lessons on the history of Spain.

“Our anniversary coincided with one pupil’s completion of our Spanish club all the way from reception to Year 6.”

FUNDRAISING

All Hallows Preparatory School, Cranmore Hall, East Cranmore, Shepton Mallet; www.allhallowsschool.co.uk This summer, All Hallows hosted a unique event combining the fun of a colour run, the thrill of an obstacle course, and the atmosphere of a music festival, with the goal of raising money in support of the pupils’ chosen charities. The event was organised by the Year 8 Charity Prefects, who have been responsible for fundraising throughout the year.

Pupils and teachers alike were splattered by parent volunteers using rainbow paint as they ran, crawled, and climbed through a series of obstacles. The All Hallows Colour Run raised £3,412.66 for the charities; Bibic, a Somerset charity which supports children and young adults with developmental and neurological difficulties the ink ibbon Foundation, a trust providing financial support for people who have been a ected by breast cancer and the S CA

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EDUCATION

“The team used their skills and knowledge to propose a real-world solution to provoke change”

ABOVE: Kingswood School students with their Stantec Developing Future Communities Award; BELOW: Royal High School Bath student Ruby Butterfield made her official debut for the England U16’s hockey team in June

FIRST PRIZE

Kingswood School, Lansdown Road, Bath; www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk Kingswood School students Alberta, Phoebe, Florence, Sophie and Manaka recently received the Stantec Developing Future Communities Award at the Big Bang Science Competition, held in Birmingham’s N C arena They were awarded first pri e for their pro ect Girls into School Leak-free for you and me reusable sanitary pads’, in which they designed and created reusable sanitary products for girls living in poor conditions in developing nations, without access to period care.

The team collaborated with a teacher in Kibera, a slum on the outskirts of Nairobi, in order to gain insight into life for menstruating people living there, which ultimately sparked the team’s idea and design The fact that an estimated per cent of women and girls are not able to access disposable sanitary pads in Kibera motivated the team to use their skills and knowledge to propose a real-world solution to provoke change Their pro ect aims to close the inequality gap between men and women in developing nations, by helping girls move out of poverty and into higher education

ENGLAND DEBUT

Royal High School Bath, Lansdown Road, Bath; www.royalhighbath.gdst.net oyal High School Bath student uby Butterfield made her official debut for the ngland 1 ’s hockey team in June ear 1 student uby plays goalkeeper, and was part of the Test Series team who took on the Scotland 1 ’s at dinburgh niversity and won the first game - , and the second game -2 uby, who is also a member of the first team squad for TeamBath Buccaneers which is based at the niversity of Bath, says, t was ama ing to be playing for my country and singing the national anthem felt surreal was nervous beforehand, but the feeling soon wore o t was such an ama ing e perience

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EDUCATION ECO MINDED

The Paragon School, Lyncombe Vale, Bath; www.paragonschool.co.uk The Paragon students are embracing a greener way of life. Along with refuse collection and recycling, initiatives include the launch of a switch o fortnight’ which encourages the school community to turn o lights and devices at home, and campaigning for the school to be waste-free with the introduction of G Neco’s Bio Bee truck, which collects leftover food and recycles it in a sustainable way.

Pupils also organised a Walk to School Week which was hugely successful, with many groups of parents and children also instigating ‘walking buses’ as well as litter picking on their way to and from school.

The Eco Club pupils also recorded messages about what they loved in the planet, which were played with the voices of other children from across the globe, to the world leaders to hear as they walked through the corridors of the Climate Change Conference.

The Paragon students are embracing a greener way of life

TEST RESULTS

Bath Academy, 27 Queen Square, Bath; www.bathacademy.co.uk Bath Academy students have done extremely well this year in their A level exams, surpassing the national average by scoring 72 per cent A* to B. Re-sit students did exceptionally well with their valueadded achievements, with two students improving six grades: one going on to read Mathematics at Durham University and the other to Kings College London to study Nutritional Sciences.

The many success stories include Tatyana Wakefield who achieved A* A* A* and is going to the University of Edinburgh to read Philosophy & English Literature.

King Edward’s Year 11 pupils celebrated some outstanding GCSE results

Bath Academy’s A level results surpassed the national average

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Ralph Allen, Claverton Down Road, Bath; www.ralphallenschool.com Ralph Allen’s 2022 A level results exemplify a high achieving culture, with many students receiving impressive results across all of their chosen subjects. A particularly inspiring student, Oliver, received an A* A A despite his severe dyslexia.

When analysing the results from the sixth form, 48 per cent of all grades were A*- A. 75 per cent of all grades were A*- B, and 91 per cent of grades were A*- C. In addition, 89 per cent of students achieved A*- C grades in 3 or more subjects.

Nearly a quarter, 24 per cent of sixth form students, achieved A*- A grades in 3 or more subjects.

King Edward’s School, North Road, Bath; www.kesbath.com At the end of August, Year 11 pupils at King Edward’s celebrated some outstanding GCSE results, with 90 per cent of entries at grades 9-7.

Almost three quarters (74.2 per cent) of entries were at 9 or 8, with close to half being at the coveted top grade 9 (47 per cent).

These successes were celebrated across all the subject departments, with notable achievements including two thirds of the 227 entries taken in English (Language and Literature) being awarded a grade 9, a figure almost matched by the 32 pupils who took Drama.

80 per cent of the 54 Latin and Greek entries were at grades 9 or 8, whilst for the Biology, Chemistry and Physics departments the tally at those levels for the 261 Triple Science entries was a remarkable 85 per cent.

Ralph Allen’s A level results exemplify a high achieving culture

Photo: The Bath & Wiltshire Parent / Anna Barclay’

SPONSORED CONTENT

LIFE LESSONS ST MARK’S SCHOOL is a school full of pride and ambition

T

his is an exciting time to join St Mark’s School. Our school is thriving since joining the Midsomer Norton Schools’ Partnership, a group of 28 schools within Bath and North East Somerset and neighbouring counties.

We have experienced a period of rapid improvement since becoming involved with the trust, and through our close association with Hayesfield Girls’ School and Beechen Cliff as

part of the Bath Hub. Schools in the Bath Hub share good practice so that students achieve their aspirations and grow through a high quality curriculum offer and a wide range of exciting and engaging learning opportunities.

All three schools share a common goal: ensuring students have an excellent experience of secondary education.

Young people at St Mark’s School are able to quickly establish themselves and develop their true identities in a setting where the staff know every child, and their contributions to the school and wider community are valued. This helps ensure that our students develop a strong sense of belief in themselves and encourages them to be masters of their own destiny.

We were visited by both Ofsted and SIAMS in the 2021/2022 academic year and both of these inspections resulted in a ‘Good’ grading in the new challenging frameworks. If you would like to see why the inspectors were so impressed, come and visit us to experience our positive learning environment full of young people who are

supported in their learning, motivated to work hard together, and who would be happy to share their personal stories of success with you.

Open Evening 15 September 2022, 6:30 – 8:30pm.

Presentation at 6.30pm in the Hall/ Doors open from 6pm. Tours from 7-8.30pm

Open Morning 21 and 30 September 2022, 9:00 – 11:00am. Welcome at 9am

St Mark’s School, Bay Tree Road, Bath BA1 6ND; 01225312661; info@st-marks.org.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

ALL WELL AND GOOD ST MARGARET’S PREP SCHOOL are making sure pupil well-being remains firmly at the heart of the school, with the appointment of Mrs Polly Marsh, their new head of learning enhancement and well-being What are your priorities for well-being as you start this role at St Margaret’s?

Initially I am planning to work with the children to gather an overview of what they understand about mental well-being, what they think it is, address misconceptions and then work collaboratively to explore ways in which we can help ourselves, but also how we can help others. I think the underlying message children need to know and understand is why mental well-being is so important, to know that when they are happier, and feeling positive they are ready and more able to learn, which ultimately increases their life chances.

What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing children’s well-being?

What I have observed during my time as a teacher, and a mum, is that the pressures that children face are creeping in earlier and earlier. The increasing use of social media, the online world and ondemand television means everything is available all the time and it is more difficult to protect our

children from things that may not be appropriate for them to see and hear. Additionally, the increased use of screens in our everyday life, not just tablets and gaming consoles, means children rarely switch off, which is vital for well-being.

What are your views on homework and exams?

Homework can provide a great opportunity to revisit, consolidate and extend learning. However, it can also bring additional pressures to families who perhaps don’t have the capacity to support additional learning due to work commitments, out of school activities and sometimes a family member’s confidence to support the learning.

Perhaps it needs to focus on everyday life skills, such as cooking, as the whole family can be involved but still requires the core skills such as reading and mathematics. With exams, it is again an opportunity to revise and consolidate knowledge, but I constantly analyse the pressured environment that they are conducted in. Very rarely does one have to remember specific

knowledge in isolation. In this advancing world we are always able to look things up, have access to reference guides, talk with friends and colleagues, and make decisions as a team.

What advice would you give to children/young people with regards to their well-being?

I really like the expression, ‘a problem shared is a problem halved and a joy shared is a joy doubled’, Children need to know that sometimes it’s okay not to be okay, but what is important is to share what’s on their mind because there is usually a solution, advice or a helpful strategy which can solve a problem. Additionally, it is also important for children to have the opportunity to share happy experiences too, as this supports positive mental well-being.

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Our Philosophy Both nursery delivers the early years foundation stage through a purely child centred approach. ‘Our planning for each child is carried out in the moment and is based on award winning Anna Ephgrave’s approach of ‘planning in the moment’.

A great start for your child’s learning and development in the heart of Bath.

The Bath Nursery Company is a small family run business that owns and operates two nurseries in Bath and one at Marble Arch in central London.

Parents chose us because we provide high quality childcare and pre-school education for children aged from three months to five years over 51 weeks of the year.

Our nurseries are open from 7.30am to 6.30pm, our flexible range of schedules,

include term time only placements and bookings for families who wish to use the universal entitlement (15 hours) and/or extended entitlement (30 hours). For more information on help with childcare costs please go to www.childcarechoices.gov.uk

What do we offer?

• Opening hours from 7.30am-6.30pm • Spaces for children from 3 months to 5 years • Full days, school days, mornings or afternoon sessions that can be taken all year round (51 weeks) or term time only (38 weeks) • Fees that are all inclusive of meals, nappies, creams and extracurricular activities • Freshly prepared snacks, lunch and tea that are cooked on site by our nursery chef

• Flexible spaces for parents wishing to use their 15 hours universal entitlement or 30 hours extended entitlement • Short term / temporary places available • Emergency childcare spaces • Forest school session led by qualified practitioners • Regular trips out in the local community

We also support all of our children’s important life skills, such as serving their own meals, children are respected and trusted at our nurseries, all children have china plates and real cutlery to use, all meals are served in serving dishes and children make choices about how much they would like to eat. All of our meals are cooked on site by our Chef’s. We cater for all children’s diets and preferences, good early years nutrition is what fuels young children’s bodies and minds and is something we take

very seriously, we are acrredited by the early years nutrition partnership, and continue to work alongside them to further ensure that our catering is second to none.’

Helping parents stay in touch – ParentZone, is an innovative Smartphone App which allows you to view a time-line of your child’s day in nursery, read observations and assessment summaries, view photographs and videos of your child’s activities and experiences, access your nursery accounts, invoices, payment history and make payments. The app also allows you to comment on any observations that your key person has added and to upload your own photos and observations to add to your child’s learning journal.

Located just a mile and a half form Bath city centre, this lovely village nursery provides the ideal environment for your child to safely play grow and learn.

Nestled into a quiet, residential corner by Hedgemead Park, Guinea lane Nursery offers exceptional childcare and pre-school education in a cosy but lively environment.

At Combe Down we believe a children’s nursery should be more than a safe, warm and welcoming environment. It should be a place that stimulates young minds, promotes creativity and lays exceptional foundations for a blossoming education both social and curricular.

Guinea Lane has been one of Baths favourite children’s nurseries for 10 years.

Working closely with children and parents alike to provide high quality childcare and education that closely embraces our proximity to the city centre, using the local environment to enhance the children’s cultural experiences.

Combe Down Road, Bath, BA2 5HY 01225 840575 • combedown@tbnc.co.uk

Conveniently located for the Landsdown Park and Ride with stops Belevedere and Alfred Street being just a few short minutes walk from the nursery.

Guinea Lane, Bath, BA1 5NB 01225 487858 • guinealane@tbnc.co.uk

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s an experienced school leader, Mr Thomas Brewer knows what schools need in order to thrive, and also what barriers present themselves to schools prohibiting them to accelerate improvement and provision for pupils. Looking after staff is paramount to the outcomes for pupils and balancing the two are expertly managed by school leaders. Ensuring your staff feel valued and supported whilst providing the best education possible is every leader’s goal.

However, this balancing act isn’t easy and often compromises mean headteachers can burn out and headteacher support to stop this happening is sparce. A strong network of colleagues can help but this is not a replacement for quality external dedicated help that can reduce workload and enhance outcomes for pupils.

Often, deputy headteachers step up to interim roles without the support in place and whilst this

“Thomas Brewer has been a real asset to Winsley Primary in the interim role of head of school. He quickly established himself as part of the school team and also the wider Palladian Extended Leadership Team. He developed the curriculum, looking at a progressive model of knowledge and skills while ensuring the pastoral needs of pupils were well met.

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– Donna Tandy, CEO, Palladian Academy Trust 2022

can be successful this can also be dangerous for both the school and leader.

A local multi-academy trust and school recently reached out to Apple A Day and Thomas directly to support them in a leadership re-structure and this experience has been a huge success for all parties involved.

Thomas Brewer described the experience as a joy where building strong relationships with staff, governors, pupils and parents was key to its success.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure supporting Winsley Primary School and the Palladian Academy Trust and I’m delighted that the trial was successful in developing the leadership structure within the Palladian Academy Trust,” he says. “Our relationship with the Palladian Academy Trust is strong and we look forward to working with them again in the near future. This is also something that can be replicated within other trusts.”

“SEND IS A PRIORITY FOR SCHOOLS ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND THE COST TO GET QUALITY STAFF TRAINED TO SUPPORT PUPILS IN THRIVE MEANS SOME SCHOOLS SIMPLY CANNOT AFFORD THIS INTERVENTION” Apple A Day’s offer to work with local schools is not limited to interim posts. They have a selection of experienced headteachers ready to work with headteachers and trusts on school development plans, staffing structures, key priorities and long-term strategic plans. We

also have a team of Thrive practitioners. SEND is a priority for schools across the country and the cost to get quality staff trained to support pupils in Thrive means some schools simply cannot afford this intervention. We have trained practitioners who can support schools with bespoke packages meaning schools don’t need to worry about training and a licence. So if you’re a school that needs some bespoke support in any area or curious about how Apple A Day might be able to support you and your school, please give Thomas a call to find out some more.

KEY REASONS TO CHOOSE APPLE A DAY Experienced headteachers ready and available for interim posts, and ready to support schools with the following: School development plan writing School self-evaluation writing School priority work – in school or strategically Teacher performance management Headteacher performance management In school coaching for ECT’s or teachers looking to develop certain skills Behaviour management SEND provision Staffing arrangements Data analysis Budget planning This is not an exhaustive list, and we recommend schools call us to discuss their needs so bespoke support can be arranged

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

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You can catch Nik busking around town most days of the week

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

THE BIG INTERVIEW

STRIKE A CHORD Meet the Bath-based busker with many strings to his bow

By Lydia Tewkesbury Main photos by Betty Bhandari

I

f you’ve spent time in Bath, you’ve spotted Nik Jovčić-Sas ne of the city’s most recognisable and popular buskers, you’ll find him performing in the city centre most days, or around venues in Bath and beyond with his band Ninotchka A talented violinist since childhood, he started busking in Bath back in 2 1 when he moved back home after university His unique style quickly got him noticed, and soon opportunities started ooding his way to play gigs he’s performed at The Newt in Somerset before weddings and even the chance to go to Glastonbury with Ninotchka stemmed from a Bo ing ay performance on the streets of Bath What love about busking is the way it changes public spaces, Nik says think very often these days we allow our high streets and public squares ust to be places to shop but having things like musicians and circus performers in the streets takes people out of their daily routine They feel connected with a piece of art and it adds electricity to a space t’ll be a quiet day and then ’ll start playing an rish ig and suddenly there’ll be a group of tourists all dancing around me and some kids running around t transforms the space and think it is one of the strongest assets of the city, our performers When he’s not performing, the theologian and activist is giving talks about LGBTQ issues in local schools, using social media to promote LGBTQ rights in astern urope, and hosting drag night, W G in oles which he also founded where he performs as other He was also the founder of idsomer Norton ride and led Bath’s first ride march in 2 1 ost recently, he’s been announced as one of the speakers at T Bath on 15 ctober, where he’s giving a talk on queer ritual

Nik was born here in Bath, but his background is astern uropean his family were originally from Serbia before moving to Bath 35 years ago and the little traditions that connected them to home were a vital part of everyday life Connection to his heritage has always been important, but became more difficult when Nik realised in his early teens that he was gay econciling a culture steeped in the tradition of the astern uropean rthodo church a deeply homophobic institution with his own identity became a huge hurdle t’s one he’s still working on today As one of the most well-known pro-gay astern rthodo Christians regularly speaking out on the topic of inclusivity in the church, he has found his own way of e pressing his culture and identity as symbiotic aspects of himself FINDING HOME THROUGH RITUAL am a very ritualistic person, Nik says bviously ’ve got my faith, so there’s a whole lot of ritual there, and little things, like ’ve gone to Society Caf for about seven years now and always get the same thing make my own co ee the traditional way of South astern urope think Turkish co ee, Greek co ee ou make it on the stove in a little copper pot, and they’ve been making it that way in Serbia for over years was taught by my grandmother and she was taught by her mother love doing it every morning t’s a good co ee and it makes me feel this connection with my ancestors As he got deeper into his own activism, Nik found there was a role for ritual in that space, too at idsomer Norton ride, for instance, founded when he was only 2 , he included familiar elements you might see at any smalltown f te, like a bake-o competition

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

THE BIG INTERVIEW “It was something that felt very traditional, and allowed people to come together in a way that felt less daunting,” says Nik. Picture grannies with painstakingly baked Victoria sponges alongside their gay grandkids, and you’ve got the building blocks of a more inclusive community. “Ritual is a great way for communities to come together There’s a lot of con ict about the idea of Pride and what it should mean today, and I think one way we can find meaning from it is by embracing the ritual aspect as the thing that ties us to the generations who have fought for LGBT rights before us. It’s about the importance of coming together as a community and manifesting the ways we want to see it – being loud and proud in the towns and villages we call home.”

TAKING PRIDE As a kid whose first taste of ride was watching a violent anti-gay protest at Belgrade Pride on TV in 2001, being loud and proud has been hard won.

“I think watching the violence at Belgrade Pride was the first time realised homophobia e isted and not only that, but how e treme and violent it could be eople were saying gay people are sinful, there’s something wrong with them – there were priests and nuns in the protests. That was really scary for me – I thought I was going to hell when I was 11 years old.

“When I went to Belgrade Pride myself in 2019, I wanted to do something that everyday people would see, that said: God loves gay people, LGBTQ+ people, trans people. I made this image with the rainbow halo on the Virgin Mary and I walked in Belgrade Pride, and people were really moved by it. I woke up the morning after the Pride march with loads of messages from my friends, who are activists in Serbia, saying that I needed to hide because a neo-Nazi group were looking for me.

There were then two law suits filed against me in Serbia for inciting hatred against the church.”

Those are ongoing – as are the death threats and the opposition to Pride in Serbia, where, as of going to press, the president of the country has just cancelled the upcoming EuroPride celebrations in Belgrade, citing

ABOVE: Nik started Midsomer Norton Pride when he was 24; BELOW: As Mother, hosting WIG! in Moles

economic problems, tensions with Kosovo and anti-gay protesters as reasons for the decision – activists, including Nik, have vowed it will go ahead.

© DIEGO MAESO

I’LL BE MOTHER It feels a bit like leading a double life. Being queer in Serbia is still seen as scandalous and shocking whereas here – Nik notes, particularly in Bristol – he can be out and proud and safe, relatively speaking. It’s an interesting perspective to take to activism, splitting time between Serbia and the UK, a country that shows things can get better – albeit with a long way to go, particularly as far as trans rights are concerned. Better or not though, he’s never complacent, and is filled with ideas for making Bath a city more inclusive of everyone – from the 2017 Pride march at Bath Carnival to his work in local schools, and WIG!, the drag night at Moles, which has developed a cult following. On 13 October, the show is making a big move to Komedia, with headliner Ginny Lemon of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame.

“My drag name is Mother and my tag line is – ‘why do they call me other Because ’m having se with your dad’.” Pause for laughs.

He continues, “I’m called Mother because I run everything. It’s my show. There’s a tradition of queer

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

“This is still a political act, for us to come together and be openly queer”

Beginning from his religious upbringing, Nik finds a lot of comfort in ritual

THE BIG INTERVIEW

“I think it is one of the strongest assets of our city, the performers” families in the queer community, especially with drag – it does feel like being the head of this very weird, dysfunctional family.”

Like everything Nik does, community was built into WIG!’s design, and many Bath-based performers have started their careers there. At the end of every show, performers are invited to enter the Miss WIG competition – a fashion runway and a chance to lip-sync for their lives à la Drag Race – and the winner, as chosen by the night’s headliner and Nik, gets to perform at the next show. This year WIG! also ran the first Bath Drag Performer of the Year competition, won by drag artist BooHoo Man, who went on to perform at its Pride show in June.

“Doing drag and doing queer nightlife is a lot of fun, but we do sometimes have serious moments for us to remember that this is still a political act, for us to come together and be openly queer and pansexual and nonbinary and trans and have gender-neutral toilets – and all these things.”

He’s a workaholic – with WIG! and the fun new challenge of filling Komedia’s huge stage, five days a week busking, activism, Ninotchka, his band who have a new EP coming out soon… how does he manage it all?

“I don’t know if this is good,” he says. “But I always think to myself, if I was to die tomorrow would I feel happy with everything I’ve done with my life? And at this point I can say to myself – yeah. I’ve pretty much lived every inch I could so far.

“It’s been hard and it’s been good, but I think the good stuff always outweighs the bad. You’ve just got to keep going really. That’s all there is.”

For more: @nikjovcicsas on Instagram

ABOVE: Nik hosts a drag night, WIG! where new performers are invited on stage to compete; RIGHT: Nik at Belgrade Pride in 2019

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

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

ST

LN S

Featuring themes such as storytelling, animals, humour and violence, Elisabeth Frink: Strength & Sensuality is the Holburne’s first opportunity to show a selection of ame lisabeth Frink’s bron es and works on paper n her Children of the Gods series of etchings, the 11 works featured depict her unique take on some of the tales from Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales and classical Greek mythology Together, they e amine an almost unknown, or indeed forgotten, but important aspect of Frink’s career, as both a storyteller and printmaker irector of the Holburne useum Chris Stephens believes this focused e hibition represents an opportunity for art-lovers to en oy a rarely shown display of ame lisabeth Frink’s e traordinary prints He says, isitors will encounter the dynamic energy and e perimental details in her printmaking, while also having the chance to discover a lesser-known side of one of Britain’s most important women artists of the 2 th century Elisabeth Frink: Strength & Sensuality is on display at the Holburne Museum starting 22 September and runs until 8 January 2023; www.holburne.org www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

WHAT’S ON 10 September – 6 October

Komedia Bath is hosting the Ocean Film Festival on 28 September

EXHIBITIONS Until 18 September

LOVE LIFE: DAVID HOCKNEY DRAWINGS 1963-1977 There’s still time to catch this beautiful exhibition with more than 40 of David Hockney’s drawings, each demonstrating the artist’s incredible and varied talent. Works on display, taken from the book of the same name, include Ossie Wearing a Fairisle Sweater, and Celia in Black, drawn in Marrakesh in 1971.

Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 1 October

JAEJUN LEE The Cardi -based ceramicist, originally from Korea, has garnered a loyal and burgeoning following. In this Beaux Arts exhibition he adds to his signature moon jars and nesting bowls, with new forms adorned with delicious drips of celadon glaze. Also on display are new paintings from Mark Johnston and new works from the sculptor Simon Allen. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

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

Until 8 October

LINE AND TEXTURE: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF NANCY SHEUNG Nancy Sheung’s 1 1 -1 work is often focused on the female, with a strong emphasis on patterns and lines, and still remains relevant and contemporary to viewers today. Events surrounding the exhibition include a talk from Dr Michael Pritchard of the Royal Photographic Society on 21 September, a Japanese tea ceremony demo on 22 September, and on 5 October, Nancy’s granddaughter Ti any Wai- ing Beres on the significance of her grandmother’s work. The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 16 October

MARY FEDDEN: SIMPLE PLEASURES The exhibition of 110 paintings and works on paper sheds new light on the working practices of Mary Fedden 1 15-2 12 , by including her easel in the installation, as well

some of the still life objects she found inspirational. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

on the importance of American fossil sites in our understanding of dinosaurs. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 30 October

Until 31 December

YOU CHOOSE This is a community-led e hibition with the pieces selected by seven local residents, Bath Spa University fashion design students, and children from ldfield ark Junior School. The 11 displays tell the stories of their personal appreciation and interpretation of the fashion works, and include a 1750s man’s worsted wool banyan and an 1881 beetle wing embroidered day dress. Fashion Museum www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

Until 31 December

HATCHING THE PAST: AMERICAN DINOSAUR EXPLORERS This remarkable hands-on exhibition at the American Museum o ers an astounding array of dinosaur eggs and nests collected from all over the globe, with focus

HERSCHEL 200 EXHIBITION To commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Bath-based astronomer William Herschel 1 3 -1 22 , this ma or e hibition at his former home on New King Street, highlights the hugely important contributions both he and his sister Caroline made to the world’s understanding of space, including the discovery of Uranus. www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

22 September – 8 January 2023

ELISABETH FRINK: STRENGTH & SENSUALITY Featuring themes such as storytelling, animals, humour and violence, this Holburne exhibition displays a selection of Dame Elisabeth Frink’s bronzes and works on paper. Turn to page 47 for more information. www.holburne.org

WHAT’S ON 24 September – 8 January 2023

RODIN – DEGAS: IMPRESSIONIST SCULPTURE Bringing together two towering figures of modern uropean art Auguste odin 1 1 1 and dgar egas 1 3 1 1 , the Holburne useum’s brand new e hibition focuses on the artists’ equally radical representations of the human body www.holburne.org

THEATRE / CINEMA © MAT T CROCKET T

13 – 17 September

TOP: Maisie Adam brings her witty anecdotal material to Bath Forum on 29 September; MIDDLE: The work of Japanese photographer Nancy Sheung (19141979) can be seen at the Museum of Asian Art until 8 October; BELOW: The Michael Rosen classic We’re Going On A Bear Hunt performs at the egg 27 September – 1 October

THE DOCTOR Award-winning actress Juliet Stevenson reunites with criticallyacclaimed director obert cke for their latest collaboration The Doctor, based on Austrian playwright Arthur Schnit ler’s rofessor Bernhardi When decorated Jewish doctor uth Wol refuses a Catholic priest admission to her dying patient’s bedside, she unwittingly ignites a fierce debate about science, religion, and ethics Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

21 September – 1 October

NOISES OFF ichael Frayn’s celebrated playwithin-a-play hurtles along at breakneck speed following the on and o -stage antics of a touring theatre company as they stumble their way through the fictional farce, Nothing On Stars Theatre oyal fave Felicity endal and is directed by Lindsay osner Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

28 September

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL From big wave surfing to tiger shark conservation, the cean Film Festival is a far-reaching cinematic celebration of the planet’s oceans Komedia Bath; www.komedia.co.uk

CHILDREN 17 – 18 September

WOODLAND TALES WITH GRANDAD A beautiful piece of puppet theatre about a heroic grandad who tries to save the woods and its inhabitants who include Laura the ladybird, Je rey the spider, and elda the i en the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

23 September – 2 October BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL

urope’s largest stand-alone book festival for children and young people returns with a vibrant array of talks and activities at venues all over the city and to suit all ages Turn to page 5 for our round-up feature www.bathfestivals.org.uk

27 September – 1 October WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT A family go on an e pedition of a lifetime in this adaptation of the ichael osen classic they go looking for a bear and end up running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oo y mud, stumbling into the dark forest, and finally peering into a cave the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC

Until 17 September

IF OPERA Continuing the f pera season in the beautiful grounds of Belcombe Court are thrilling and emotional productions of La Rondine, Rita and Il segreto di Susanna an interactive family production of The Man in the Moon; Tales from Chez Bullier, featuring music by uccini, erdi and Lehar and ending the event on 1 September is Dido and Aaneas with guest conductor Christian Curnyn www.ifopera.com

24 September

ROSIE BROWN BAND Weaving folk, a and blues in uences, with glimpses of Joni itchell, Nick rake, and vintage John artyn, the osie Brown band e presses a musical sensibility all of its own rawing on country, s surf and classical, this is beguiling and intricate music, filmic and funky, full of emotion Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org

24 September

SOUL SOUNDINGS AT THE ABBEY A special participatory singing event where anyone can oin in, held in the open space of Bath Abbey and led by Jane Harris, the director of the local choir groups Songways www.songways.co.uk

30 September

MADELEINE PEYROUX enowned a performer adeleine eyrou , often referred to as the Billie Holiday of the s’ will perform her multi awardwinning 2 Careless Love album

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

WHAT’S ON front-to-back in concert, which includes astounding cover versions of Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan.

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

COMEDY

29 September

MAISIE ADAM Relative newcomer yet already a multi-award winner, Maisie’s anecdotal material and witty charm have won her nationwide praise. As advised by the Scottish Herald, “Go see her now, and have bragging rights for years to come.”

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

Every Sunday

OTHER

walking tours, Regency breakfasts and picnics, along with fascinating talks and plays held at the Mission Theatre. www.janeausten.co.uk

Every Friday and Saturday

10 – 25 September

Every Saturday

17 September

KROWD KEEPERS Upstairs at The Ale House on York Street every Friday and Saturday night, some of the world’s best and most innovative magicians take to the stage. The intimate 35-seat venue run by resident magician Billy Kidd promises award-winning performers who have also featured on the stages of Hollywood’s Magic Castle, including Penn & Teller’s Fool Us and Wizard Wars, among many others. www.krowdkeepers.com

BATH FARMERS’ MARKET Between 9am and 1.30pm a whole array of foodie traders from Bath and surrounds gather together under the Green Park roof, including Bath Soft Cheese, Janifa’s Kitchen, Seven Hills Chocolate, Botanica Studios, Pullins Bakery, and the Thoroughly Wild Meat Co. www.bathfarmersmarket.co.uk

Until 18 September

JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL More than 70 events will be celebrating Jane Austen’s time in Bath and her representation of the city through her works. These include a summer ball, informative

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

BATHSCAPE WALKING FESTIVAL The two-week programme includes events to suit walkers of all abilities.

Nature lovers can sign up to join a bat walk, learn about the trees in the Royal Victoria Park or wildlife at Newton Park. Plus there are rural hikes, informative historical tours, and also returning are tours exploring the LGBT+ history of Bath, and Haile Selassie’s time in the city. www.bathscape.co.uk DAVINA MCCALL Presenter Davina McCall is talking at the Bath Forum to tell her own menopause story and introduce her new book Menopausing that aims to explore and explain the science of the menopause, debunk the myths, and smash taboos. Joining her to share their knowledge and experiences is menopause expert Dr Naomi Potter, and the presenter Angellica Bell. www.bathforum.co.uk

18 September

MUSEUM OF BATH STONE OPEN DAY As part of the national Heritage Open Days event, residents of Bath

ABOVE: On 30 September renowned jazz performer Madeleine Peyroux will be performing at Bath Forum; RIGHT: In a new exhibition opening 24 September the Holburne Museum is bringing together two towering figures of modern European sculpture, Rodin and Degas

© LIT TLE DANCER AGED FOURTEEN, EDGAR DEGAS, 1922, UEA 2, SAINSBURY CENTRE B

DRAG KARAOKE AT MANDALYNS Most days of the week the welcoming and upbeat LGBTQIA+ 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. Mind you, their Boogie Night Saturdays are pretty much the bomb as well. www.facebook.com/mandalynsbath

WHAT’S ON

CULTURE CLUB …with Dame Charlie Hides

Dame Charlie Hides is the Queen of Bingo, a Royal Television Society Award winner, and has appeared on season nine of RuPaul’s Drag Race. As one of ten children, Charlie began attention seeking and acting out at an early age.

Catch Charlie at Komedia Bath in Comedy Drag Bingo on 14 September and again on 23 November.

The last great film I saw Good Luck to You, Leo Grande. The two-time Oscar winner Emma Thompson is brilliant as widow yearning for adventure, human connection, and good sex.

A film I could watch over and over again The Hunger, made in 1983, and stars Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie and Susan Sarandon about a love triangle between a vampire, a cellist and a health care worker. It’s a horror film and I have watched it at least a dozen times.

The book that changed my life The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas.

I’ve always loved a good revenge tale.

Best TV show ever Some days I think The Sopranos, and other days I think it was The Golden Girls.

Lockdown boxset I watched Schitt’s Creek twice – there are 80 episodes in the run. Moira Rose played by Catherine O’Hara is a panacea for all ailments.

My desert island disc The Very Best of Nile Rogers & Chic. The last gig I went to was to see Nile at Kenwood House The first single I bought In 1978 I saved up my paper round money and bought Dance Dance Dance by Chic.

My karaoke go-to Grace Kelly by Mika. When I hit the high notes, dogs come running and Mariah Carey gets jealous.

Currently watching Preppy Kitchen on YouTube in which John Kanell demonstrates how to make simple but delicious dishes.

For more: www.komedia.co.uk

The work of Jaejun Lee, the Korean ceramicist now based in Cardiff, can be seen at Beaux Arts until 1 October

will have the opportunity to discover the artefacts saved during the city’s £154m stabilisation project and, explore the visual records created by archaeologists to preserve the heritage of the Combe Down Stone Mines. www.museumofbathstone.org

20 & 21 September

PRUE LEITH The star of BBC’s Great British Bake presents a work-in-progress show to the Rondo Theatre sharing her tales from her fascinating life including those of growing up in Africa, on becoming a Dame of the British Empire and, of course, maybe most important of all, being a judge on the world’s biggest TV baking show. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

30 September

BATH VINTAGE & ANTIQUES MARKET On the last Sunday of every month the Bath VA visits Green Park Station, with its wide array of vintage and antiques o erings, which include decorative antiques, collectables, retro, furniture, fashion, jewellery, sculpture, curiosities, gardenalia, salvage, carpentry, art, and vinyl. www.vintageandantiques.co.uk

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

Dame Charlie Hides is bingo calling at Komedia Bath on 14 September

A SALE OF WONDERFUL THINGS Saturday 24th September 2022 | Hangar 1, Babdown Airfield, Near Tetbury, GL8 8YL Full catalogue available at www.johnrolfeauctions.com

Collection of classic cars

1959 Hermes Kelly Bag

100 lots of good furniture

18th Century Neoclassical Marble Table

Over 100 lots of good vintage watches

18 carat Cartier cigarette case

Gilbert Holiday collection

Silver Dunhill lighter gadget cane

YOUNG TALENT Our top picks from this year’s Bath Children’s Literature Festival

By Lydia Tewkesbury

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

B

ath’s annual injection of literary inspiration for young minds is almost upon us again: the Bath Children’s Literature Festival returns from 23 September to 2 October. It’s an exciting year for the festival, which will welcome the author of the smash hit graphic novel series and now beloved Net i show Heartstopper, Alice Oseman to the city as speaker and guest curator. Her Heartstopper events are long sold out of course, but you can still en oy her literary in uence with a series of her carefully selected events.

The entire festival is jam-packed with a diverse range of authors for children of all ages, from fiction writers to historians and beyond Here’s a few of our top picks not to miss…

PATRICE LAWRENCE: THE ELEMENTAL DETECTIVES Sunday 25 September, 4-45pm, The Guildhall (general admission) and Monday 26 September, 11-11.45am, The Guildhall (schools only) Patrice Lawrence MBE, award-winning author of Orangeboy and Indigo Donut, is a popular Bath Children’s Literature Festival regular.

She’ll appear twice this year – once at The Guildhall, where she’s in conversation about The Elemental Detectives, her new middle grade fantasy series. Set in a magical 1764 London, the story sees heroes Marisee and Robert chasing clues across the city to take down the evil shepherdess who has cursed all of London into a magical slumber.

Patrice will later take the Guildhall stage again for a storytelling event for local schools, this time about her debut picture book, Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush and her non-fiction picture book Our Story Starts in Africa.

ARTS

“Cerrie will also talk about what it takes to turn a love of reading into your own work” I AM NOT A LABEL WITH CERRIE BURNELL Saturday 24 September, 12-12.45pm, The Guildhall The charming author and one-time CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell is appearing at the festival in support of her fantastic brand-new nonfiction collection, I Am Not A Label, which shares the biographies of 34 artists, thinkers, athletes and activists with disabilities. Cerrie will also talk about what it takes to turn a love of reading into creating your own work, as well as re ections on her own e periences of disability THE AMAZING EDIE ECKHART WITH ROSIE JONES Saturday 1 October, 2-2.45pm, The Guildhall The Amazing Edie Eckhart is a vibrant, joyful book about Edie, a young girl with cerebral palsy, and how she navigates her first term of secondary school. ‘Thrown into the deep end’ doesn’t even cover it as Edie decides to make her mark by auditioning for the lead in the school play. Author Rosie Jones is an awardwinning stand-up comedian who often incorporates her cerebral palsy into her work, and in this event, Rosie will talk about how Edie’s story came to be, and inspire young people in the audience to write stories about their own experiences.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Alice Oseman, Cerrie Burnell and Patrice Lawrence

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ARTS THE SECRET SUNSHINE PROJECT WITH BENJAMIN DEAN Sunday 25 September, The Guildhall, 12-12.45pm Benjamin Dean writes children’s books that are pure joy. From Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow, a gorgeous middle grade read about 12-year-old Archie’s Pride march adventure as he seeks to understand his dad, who has just come out; to his newest middle grade read, The Secret Sunshine Project, about a little girl called Bea with a big plan to bring Pride to the countryside – Benjamin is a writer to watch, and in this talk he’ll be sharing all his top tips for the young authors in the audience as one of the events spearheaded by guest curator, Heartstopper author Alice Oseman.

AMY WILLIAMS IN CONVERSATION WITH LUCY STONE Saturday 1 October, 6-6.45pm, The Guildhall Bath-based Olympic gold medal winning skeleton racer Amy Williams MBE will be chatting with local yoga and meditation teacher Lucy Stone about how to fulfil your potential n her book, Talent to Triumph, Amy o ers a guide the entire sporting ourney from beginner to pro, weaving in tales from her own career and the careers of some of Britain’s greatest athletes to help realise young sporting dreams.

For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk

A BETTER DAY WITH DR ALEX GEORGE

“Benjamin Dean writes children’s books that are pure joy”

Saturday 24 September, 11-11.45am, The Egg Dr Alex George is on a mission: to help us take care of our minds as well as we take care of our bodies. The A&E doctor is well known for his outspoken honesty and insight on mental health, and appears regularly on Lorraine to talk all things well-being. His new book for young people, A Better Day provides warm and practical advice to help children navigate stresses like school pressure, friendship problems and stories in the news.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Rosie Jones, Benjamin Dean, Dr Alex George; and local sporting star, Olympian Amy Williams

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

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

Bath Life team 01225 475800

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Game on

On the art of combining video games and reading

t rst an e t is is a mas o er a son and inese o ore

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arents, and booksellers, sometimes worry about children reaching for a video game rather than a book. In my view, that worry evaporates once you’ve found them that one book that captures their imagination fully and shows them how fun and enlightening books can be. Video games might still win out plenty of times – and there’s nothing wrong with that – but books will forever be another viable choice and that child can grow up enjoying the storytelling and imagination of both gaming and reading.

And sometimes, the two combine.

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow

by Gabrielle Zevin (Vintage, £16.99) is one of three recent books that spring to mind which put gaming front and centre.

The story follows two childhood best friends, Sam and Sadie, who meet by chance when they’re both at separate colleges, after several years apart. Their initial friendship was built on their love of gaming, and now that they reconvene as talented undergraduates at MIT and Harvard, they combine their skills to design and build their own games. Huge success soon comes and they set up a gaming company, move to L.A. where they start to learn how to deal with their phenomenal success.

Sam becomes the face of the company and develops a persona befitting that position Through his character the novel brilliantly explores Zuckerberg-esque personality cults of tech companies. As Sam’s fame grows and Sadie feels increasingly sidelined, their friendship strains beneath their success.

This is such an epic emotional rollercoaster of a novel about friendship, ambition and the joy and complexity of following your passions – be they for people, a career or the escapism of gaming.

Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor (Oneworld, £7.99) is a novel for middle-grade readers by Xiran Jay hao At first glance this is a mash-up of Percy Jackson and Chinese folklore, but

the added twist is the gaming element.

Zachary is an American child of Chinese heritage who loves online gaming. His gaming headset though turns out to be a somewhat poisoned chalice, when the First Emperor of China attempts to possess Zachary, but manages to possess just the headset instead.

Cue comedy and confusion followed by a desperate mission in which Zachary must repel the ghost monk headed for China, by fi ing the seal that keeps the spirit world separate from the real world.

There is high-paced action throughout, packed with gaming and car chases, but there’s an emotional underbelly too. For Zachary the stakes are the highest imaginable, as the emperor has stolen his mum’s soul, and he spends much of the novel questioning whether he’s doing the right thing – which makes for tense non-stop drama.

Finally, it makes complete sense for the visual storytelling of graphic novels to connect with video games. In Real Life written by Cory Doctorow and illustrated by Jen Wang (Palgrave, £9.99) follows Anda who gains confidence and friends from playing online multi-player game, CoarseGold. One friendship takes a twist when she is asked to kill some avatars in the game. Her new Chinese friend, it turns out, is a gold-farmer within this virtual world – a player who collects valuable objects and sells them, for real money, to others. Anda’s initial outrage at this rule-breaking becomes clouded when she learns that for the goldfarmer, this is an actual job – one worked out of necessity in terrible conditions for minimal pay.

This is a thought-provoking story, full of real moral conundrums woven into a plot which explores the confusing space between the online world and the real. Like its predecessors, it proves that reading and gaming can combine brilliantly to create the most imaginative storytelling. o te

i

ottom e is t e enera mana er o r s m ori m eadin e i ts o n treet at www mr sem ori m om

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

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

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S F O O D S C E N E You can catch the Feast Brothers every Tuesday-Saturday in Queen Square

The Feast Brothers are back in Bath The pasta loving pair will be serving up their delicious pasta dishes from their food truck in Queen Square, Tuesday to Saturday, 11am until 3pm every week As both myself and Joey are local, we are so e cited to be home, serving the people of Bath, says Scott Wheeler, one half of the Feast Brothers team We couldn’t of asked for a better spot than Queen Square and this is something we have been dreaming about for a long time We will be providing e citing new weekly specials along with our main menu, which includes the cacio e pepe, served from the cheese wheel Come down and let us cater to all your pasta needs For more: www.feastbrothers.co.uk

The Bath Townhouse’s art deco look comes courtesy of interior designer Gina Brennan

COP A LOOK

Coppa Club opened The Bath Townhouse in August The two oors of the ld Bond Street location have a very di erent feel, with a bu ing, vibrant main restaurant, bar and caf space downstairs, and a more sultry feel upstairs in the all-day lounge bar n the evening, upstairs is lit by candles and the music is turned up loud to create more of an intimate bar vibe The entire e perience is driven by The Bath Townhouse’s art deco-inspired design by interior designer Gina Brennan t’s full of unique and eye-catching pieces from the bespoke bar counter and wall panelling to the 15-metre mural inspired by S nia elauney artworks We are hugely e cited to announce the opening of The Bath Townhouse in August, says ishay alkov, C of Coppa Club t’s a unique and intriguing space, characterised by its art deco staircase and Georgian fa ade, right in the centre of the city and with its very own louche-lu e concept We hope it will provide an e citing new o ering for locals and tourists, a place for guests to come no matter the time of day for a fun, vibrant atmosphere For more: www.coppaclub.co.uk

ON THE JUICE obun is hosting its first whiskey

masterclass this month n 22 September, Joe rout from Nikka Whiskey Co will be taking guests on a ourney from the oral aromas of Nikka ays to the peaty and smoky Single alt oichi Nikka Whiskey has been producing whiskey in Japan for years, and the masterclass will suit both whiskey connoisseurs and beginners, with the chance to taste si e pressions from the Tokyo-based distillery, meanwhile obun head chef Jon Claro will provide a selection of ensai appetisers For more: www.robun.co.uk

Sample the best Japanese whiskey at the Robun masterclass

© ED SCHOFIELD

PENNE FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

TRY FIVE

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3

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L CAL W N S Only the best wine and only the best spots to get it

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WOLF WINE Probably one of Bath’s coolest wine spots, Wolf Wine’s cabin and Shrine (which could ust be Bath’s smallest bar in Green ark Station is a am-packed library of the most exciting small production wines from all over the world They o er a mi of local bottles like Limeburn Hill, from the vineyard near Chew Magna, and wines from all over the world.

And while we don’t advocate for udging a bottle from its label those you’ll find in Wolf Wine are certainly striking Think eye-catching artworks characteristic of brands like beat Wine and Fabien Jouves You F@ck My Wine?! and in this hand-picked selection the taste is always as good as the aesthetic. www.wolfwine.co.uk

2

WHITEHALL VINEYARD Whitehall Farm has been the Self family home for five generations n 2 1 , the family, also owners of Whitehall Garden Centre decided it was time to innovate – and planted a vineyard in the rich, fertile soils of the Avon alley The wines were finally ready for sale in September of 2 2 , a collection tailor-made by hand with only the highest quality grapes and quickly picked up awards including a Silver ecanter World Wine Award and a Gold medal at the ndependent nglish Wine Awards A business with family at its heart, two of the wines, the Charlotte May Rosé and Madeline May Chardonnay are named after the family’s two daughters. www.whitehallvineyard.co.uk

3

CANNED WINE CO The Canned Wine Co was founded by University of Bath alumni Simon Rollings,

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

4

inspired by the desire to enjoy a small – i.e. a ordable amount of a high quality wine, rather than an entire bottle of the cheap stu Canned Wine Co works with some of the finest wine makers in urope names like Michel Huber, Norrel Robertson MW, Thierry Boudinaud, Laurent iquel, Walter Glat er and Javier San and have perfected the canning process so you’re always guaranteed the wine at its best when you crack one open. www.cannedwine.co

4

MINERVA Minerva Bath Sparkling Wine is the new kid on the block, founded by ddie Sauvao and mily Addicott-Sauvao inerva is named for the oman Goddess of wisdom, the arts and strategy, a purpose the company has adopted along with the name. They want not only to make the best wine, but to inspire the next generation of farmers, artists, winemakers, innovators and creators – particularly young women – as they do it.

Minerva’s vines have yet to reach full maturity, so their first limited run of 3, bottles is available only to their vineyard members, status that comes with benefits beyond just the wine, including the chance to dine at the vineyard, to get an exclusive NFT limited edition digital artwork, and enjoy early access to the wines. www.minervawine.com

5

CORKAGE When it comes to getting the best wine with dinner in Bath, it’s hard to beat Corkage.

Owners, local hospitality royalty Rich and Marty spend hours painstakingly curating the hand-picked wine list and they’ll only sell

5

a bottle they enjoy drinking themselves.

Whether you’re after the perfectly matched food pairing or just want a spot with an exclusive feel to while away the time until the wee small hours with a bottle of the best, the little bar on Chapel Row is the place to go.

They even have an online shop of their full wine catalogue so you can order that Corkage experience to your home. www.corkagebath.com

RESTAURANT

PIG & FIDDLE SUPPER CLUB

Actually at Butcombe’s Broad Street Townhouse next door, this inventive, informal supper club is one of Bath’s best-kept secrets, and the perfect payday treat

By Matt Bielby

O

ne of the most exciting aspects of The Pig & Fiddle’s 2020 reinvention – yes, they had the bad luck to undertake a refurb right before Covid hit – was the introduction of a sister venue right next door, Broad Street Townhouse. The Pig itself – on the corner of Broad Street, with a long strip of outdoor seating – has always had a lively, inclusive vibe: something of a sports bar, yet also a place for students, and a little bohemian. But now it started upping its foodie game, with ham hock terrine and Buddha bowls alongside the burgers. And, next door, things got even fancier. The Townhouse o ers rooms for the night and a chilled-out, vaguely arisian co ee-and-cocktails caf bar on the ground oor, awash with gilt and artfully stacked books It’s also now home to The Pig & Fiddle Supper Club, which takes place on the last Thursday of each month, and is an unavoidably exclusive event: there are only 14 covers in the place, those on the right as you walk in

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

working naturally for couples – small tables slotting into distressed alcoves like hermit crabs in their shells – while slightly larger parties can be easily accommodated on the left, in front of a giant baroque mirror.

The supper club is the brainchild of head chef Alex Weber, who’s been here a little over a year, and sous chef Connor Pouncy. The pair have a good rapport going, and an impressive work ethic too: on Supper Club Thursdays they keep the fish and chips owing in the main pub, while simultaneously catering for the select crowd next door. enus generally consist of five dishes plus e tras, with a handful of options for the tentpole courses, and are loosely themed. The guys began with a French night – Ale ’s speciality before trying a Scandinavian-themed o ering, and then the talian feast we en oyed The ne t club on 29 September is a German menu, with dishes to include wood piegon, green soup, and grilled mackerel.

Back to Italy, we began with cocktails, a Negroni and a zesty Watermelon Sugar High which was sweet, but not too much so, and disappeared all too swiftly.

IMAGES ON THIS PAGE © L AUREN SCOT T

Then, the food. Pillowy soft focaccia with pesto butter and a rapeseed oil and sherry vinegar reduction was tasty and well judged in terms of size; a good start.

Next up, Caprese cannoli, a crisp, bubbly, fried pastry tube filled with greenish goodness including, but not limited to, ricotta cheese; similar things often come awash with icing sugar and are served as desserts, but this was a decidedly savoury version, like the oversized result of an illicit liaison between a cheese straw and a brandy snap.

Now it was time for the starter proper, a choice between a crab and smoked salmon cappelletti, with a bisque, squid ink reduction and a tomato salad, and marinated courgette with smoked ricotta, ower fritter, port figs and chilli. Naturally we took one of each, and shared eagerly. Cappelletti, or ‘little hats’, is a large ring-shaped pasta, almost (but not quite) identical to tortellini, and this seafood version hit the spot perfectly. Meanwhile, the mi of te tures and avours in the vegan dish, the long, thick slivers of courgette contrasting with the crunch of the fritter and the rich, ammy-sweet eroticism of the figs, meant no one felt short changed.

For mains there were three choices, and we skipped past the tomato and basil pappardelle with pea arancini, vegetarian Parmesan and roasted pine nuts – tempting though it was in favour of the confit trout with basil, fennel, tomato, panelle (a sort of chickpea fritter) and lemon gel, and a mighty lamb ragu dish, with pappardelle, smoked aubergine, yarrow oil and shimeji mushroom.

This was a rich, meaty a air by far the most substantial o ering tonight and is the dish ’ll remember the longest from the evening, but the delicate and perfectly cooked trout held its own, helped no end by the individualist contributions of the lemon and fennel.

Time for a break now, with a mint granita, like a tiny, shivering Mojito.

A little rest, and then we took both puds, the tiramisu mille-feuille and the elder ower panna cotta The striking delicatessen window appeal of the mille-feuille was backed up by the pleasing contrast between crisp, akey pastry and decent co ee cr me, while the subtle tropical- oral taste of elder ower made the panna cotta the perfect finale r nearly a choice of co ees came last, accompanied by inventive, almondy biscuits.

This was an imaginative, entertaining meal in a pleasing, easily accessible setting for a fair price; something of the experience of a country house hotel tasting menu, but without the need to drive for half an hour even think that the more out-there and experimental this pair of chefs become in the months ahead, the better it will get.

“Thin slivers of courgette contrasted with the crunch of the fritter” DINING DETAILS Broad Street Townhouse, 32 Broad Street, Bath, BA1 5LP; 01225 330190; www.butcombe.com Opening hours (Pig & Fiddle) Monday- Sunday 12pm -11pm Owners Butcombe Name of chefs Alex Weber, Connor Pouncy Style of food Fresh modern classics, with the inevitable twist Covers Pig 66 (outdoor 72), Townhouse 14

Prices Supper club £40; otherwise starters £5.75- £10.95; mains £12.50- £25.95; desserts £6.50- £7.50 Disabled access Yes Drinks 2 ciders, 5 lagers, 2 ales, 1 stout on tap, plenty of wine, spirit and gin choices, and a good value cocktail menu Vegetarian options With appealing vegetarian options for each course, you couldn’t really ask for more Atmosphere Chilled and relaxed What else? Inventive dishes in a convivial space for a good price; what’s not to like?

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65

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MEET THE CHEF Cooking up a storm with the best local produce around BEN MCCUBBIN

ROB POTTER

FORAGE AT WADSWICK 01225 636096; www.foragewadswick.co.uk How did you start out?

I started out as most chefs do, working as a kitchen porter at the pub local to home, the Seven Stars at Winsley. I then left school and went to work at The Royal Crescent Hotel as a kitchen porter, moving my way up the ranks under Steven Blake, my first head chef.

What dish do you love cooking the most?

I love to make a good breakfast, whether it’s a full English, some tasty sweet pancakes or a good old eggs benedict. I think a hearty breakfast is the start of a good day ahead.

Which other chefs do you admire?

Locally I have worked at Lucknam Park under Hywel Jones and Bath Priory, under Michael Nizzero at the time.

Both amazing chefs who I learnt a lot from and am proud to say I worked for.

What are your plans for the next 12 months?

To develop the menu at Forage. It’s a new challenge for me. Once my wife, who is GM at Forage is back from maternity leave, I’m looking forward to continuing to push the menu forward further and run some exciting function evenings with seasonal menus.

Where do your source your ingredients from?

I try to stay as local as possible. Here at Forage we have a huge polytunnel where our fabulous resident gardener grows seasonal goodies ready for me to put on the menu the very same day.

EXECUTIVE CHEF AT BYBROOK RESTAURANT 01249 782206; www.bybrookrestaurant.co.uk

Ben McCubbin

Rob Potter

What sets you apart from others in your field?

We’re the first B Corp hotel group in the UK, celebrating our passion for exceptional menus, whilst looking after people and the planet. It’s important to me to design dishes for Bybrook considering both the provenance and quality of ingredients to maintain the Michelin star we’ve held for six years. Harvesting vegetables and herbs in our kitchen garden daily, using lamb from Langley Chase, five miles away, and seafood that’s hand dived or caught on day boats. We’re also one of the only hotels offering artisan bakery standard breads and pastries.

What are the latest trends in the industry?

There’s been a big shift within hospitality following the pandemic towards sustainability. We’ve seen vegan and dairy-free diets become extremely popular, a trend we’re embracing to create delicious menus that don’t feel like an afterthought.

What are your plans for the next 12 months?

Working more with our fantastic kitchen gardeners to increase our home grown produce all year round, continuing to develop our junior chefs’ creativity and career progression, not to mention a whole host of delicious new seasonal menus!

SCOTT WHEELER & JOEY ASHTON

JESSE DAVIES

What’s on the menu?

On a daily basis we open up in our little 10ft food trailer and serve authentic Italian pasta dishes in noodle boxes. Chatting to the public and seeing their reaction to our pecorino cheese wheel is our favourite part of our daily routine. We wake up, we serve pasta, we go home and prep for the next day.

What sets you apart from the rest?

There’s lots of great street vendors out there doing really interesting, good work, especially around Bath. We think that what gives us the edge is our speed and consistency. We can do four pastas in 90 seconds and offer a fast food-style way of eating classic Italian pasta dishes. We also combine great local produce with authentic ingredients imported straight from Italy.

What do you hope to achieve in the next year?

Our plans are to build a following at our food truck in Queen Square, as well as taking our passion for pasta to people at markets and festivals all over. We are really looking forward to being part of the Bath Christmas Market this year, also for the first time.

How did you start out?

When I was 17 I started as a trainee chef at the Michelin star hotel and restaurant Lucknam Park.

Describe your offering...

I offer a dinning experience packed with flavour, exploring different, interesting flavours from around the world. I help make special occasions even more special and stress-free.

What is your favourite part of the job?

When everybody is talking round the table and they take the first few bites of food and everybody goes quiet, and you can hear the enjoyment in them eating. I love being creative, meeting the customer, giving them a great meal to enjoy with friends and family.

What dish do you love cooking the most?

I like cooking food from around the world and I’m particularly interested in flavour profiles from different countries and cultures, so you could say my style is ‘international’ if there is such a thing. I love cooking Persian meatballs with sour cherries – that is on my menu at the moment.

Which accomplishment has made you proudest?

Touring the world as a chef, and catering for backstage events in the music business. I’ve worked on stadium tours in the US and Europe with bands such as Coldplay, Bruce Springsteen, George Michael and One Direction.

FEAST BROTHERS 07541247811; 07498813898 info@feastbrothers.co.uk; www.feastbrothers.co.uk

JESSE DAVIES – PERSONAL CHEF HIRE hello@aroama.co.uk; www.jessedavieschef.com

Scott Wheeler & Joey Ashton

Jesse Davies

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 67

Honey Willow handcrafts meaningful jewellery for loved ones and life’s milestones.

All jewellery is handmade to order in central Bath.

Going Away Gift for Daughter Visit the website to see the full range, or visit our shop on Pulteney Bridge.

8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AX

jewellery@honeywillow.com

01225 422 339

Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm. Sunday, 11am–4pm www.honeywillow.com

@honeywillowjewellery

• Roof Replacement • Detailed Lead Work • Repairs • Flat roofing • UPVC Fascias and soffits

01225 251458 | 07540 700908 JACKSON-DIXROOFING@OUTLOOK.COM

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

OUT OF THE BLUE

It’s nearly the end of summer and it’s all eyes back on indoors. A little birdie tells us, a little blue birdie in fact, that blue is the colour trend on the horizon.

This wallpaper by Mind The Gap is an original mural style design inspired by the Japanese art of Aizome, which is the Japanese word for indigo dying, and depicts ancient hand paintings made on di erent substrates The Indigo Addiction collection is by Mind The Gap and costs £195 for 3 rolls and is available to order through stockists Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

OCTOPUS MUG, £20 An imaginative collaborative piece featuring Puddin’head's whimsical design and Avenida Home creation, this hand-glazed, ceramic octopus mug will brighten up your tea, co ee, or hot choc breaks From Avenida Home; www.avenidahome.com APEX RUG, PRICES START AT £388 A super-fine hand tufted wool with a short and dense pile, and space dyed lines From India Jane, 20 Milsom Street, Bath; www.indiajane.co.uk

BOLT FROM THE BLUE

Home accessories are feeling a little blue right now, which is making us happy

JOURNEY CUSHION, £259 Woodhouse and Law have recently collaborated with textile designer Hannah Carson to create their own exclusive range of fabrics and cushions available online only, including this beauty on habotai silk From Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

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

IKAT CIRQUE GREY SIDE LAMP, £285 A large metal table lamp with a uniquely detailed hand painted Ikat pattern on the base in a two-tone grey on an ivory ground From French Bedroom; www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

ARNDEAN LUXURY VINYL TILES, POA arndean ooring is renowned, not just for its durability and ease of maintenance, but also its unique and gorgeous designs inspired by nature From Virtuoso Flooring, 10 Moorland Road, Bath; www virt osofloorin o

EDITOR’S CHOICE

BLUE URCHIN JUG, £39.95 This bold blue jug features a uniquely textured exterior which is inspired by sea urchins.

Perfect for displaying your favourite owers or to serve water, wine or juice at your dining table.

From Graham & Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

CHIDDINGFOLD CHAIR, PRICES START AT £1,672 Inspired by a 19th century chair, purchased in a Petworth antique shop, the Chiddingfold, seen here in matt velvet dark blue, takes the Howard arm and combines it with a beautiful deep buttoned back. rom o as t 7 New Canal, Salisbury, www so asandst om

SILVER DESIGN BLUE DRAWER KNOB, £3.95 A pretty light blue ceramic cupboard knob with unique silver design in a classic round shape, perfect for perking up an old chest of drawers, dresser or cabinet.

From French Grey Interiors,1 Burton Street, Bath, www.frenchgreyinteriors.co.uk

SOFT WOOL THROW, £80 Crafted from pure new wool in a deep shade of navy, this soft wool throw with elegant cream fringing is handwoven in the UK. Looks equally beautiful draped around the home, or around your shoulders.

From Cox & Cox, www.coxandcox.co.uk

ZAANI GLASS VASE BY NKUKU, PRICES START AT £30 The attractive asymmetric shape of these handblown Zaani glass vases made from recycled glass gives them a charming and individual feel, and the mixed sizes and shapes make for a striking display.

From Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com

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

STREET LIFE

MADE IN CHELSEA ROAD

S

The street in Bath that would give its London namesake a run for its money

By Sarah Moolla

itting ust o the long, wide, and pretty uneventful Newbridge oad, is an e clamation point of colour, innovation, and indie retailers Chelsea oad boasts its own art gallery, greengrocers, hardware store, a hip veggie restaurant, a deli, a barbers, hairdressers plus a whole raft of other thriving indies As Anne Anderson, owner of aprika, the home and gift store found on Chelsea oad, says, There’s a great sense of local community here and its both brilliant and useful that we have such an eclectic mi of businesses right in the midst of such a residential area Here we catch up with a few more of those Chelsea names helping put their area on the map Ann Perry, owner of Consciously You, the store that specialises in mindful living and gifting, 1 Kennington Road, Bath; www.consciouslyyou.co.uk Consciously ou has ust turned three years old and am so pleased that was able to open on the Chelsea oad Having grown up and always lived in Weston, have great memories of shopping here with my mum and always knew if one day opened my own business, it would on the Chelsea oad uring my time here see more and more families wanting to shop local, which is reassuring and appreciated And it is children that are driving the change for sustainability they are the ones making their parents refill ost traders on Chelsea oad have very small teams if any sta at all and so, as a street, we are one team There are lots of pavement co ee chats, which is great because even as a sole trader you never feel like you’re working alone Those of us who o er a delivery service will always check to see if we can combine a trip We all helped one another before lockdown, during it, and will continue to so in the future Duncan Nash, director of the estate agents Nash & Co, 17 Chelsea Road, Bath; www.nashandcobath.co.uk This whole area is easy to sell it has a heart and soul At its centre there are two popular shopping precincts in Weston High Street and

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

Chelsea oad The latter in particular with its caf s and restaurants o ers the community a taste of cosmopolitan living and brings people from all areas of the community and further afield together t also saves the need for trekking into the city centre everything is on your doorstep, even a Lidl, and arks and Spencer’s The balance between the shopping hub and easy access to recreational facilities such as great walks, cycle paths and open green spaces is ideal Good local schools mean it’s a great place for families to settle as well From an estate agent’s point of view, the area has character, with many fine period homes of all si es, interspersed with a more modern stock of properties giving it a nice balance y family and have lived in Newbridge for the last 25 years and am fortunate to say that my home is within walking distance of my office, so naturally am passionate about the area and have a vested interest in seeing it ourish

Duncan Nash of Nash & Co says the area has heart and soul

Ann Perry of Consciously You always wanted to open her store on the Chelsea Road

“Even as a sole trader you never feel like you’re working alone”

Louis Mullane of Gregorys Estate Agents which opened on Chelsea Road in October 2021

STREET LIFE Louis Mullane, senior associate Gregorys Estate Agents, 12 Chelsea Road, Bath; www.gregorysestateagent.co.uk “I think what sets Weston apart from other areas of Bath is that it blends the best bits of our city into one small pocket. We have Chelsea Road acting as the hub of our community, with a heap of independents showing o their personalities We also bask in picturesque greenery, surrounded by rolling countryside, riverside walks, and peaceful woodland. The area boasts some stunning architecture, sought after schools, and proactive neighbourhoods. It has all of this, whilst being on the doorstep to the vibrant city centre and scenic neighbouring villages. There’s also an array of excellent schools, it’s a short stroll to Royal Victoria Park, and the Cotswold Way nature trail is just on the doorstep.

“We opened our Gregorys doors here on 1 October just last year, and along with many other factors, it was the sense of being part of a traditional high street alongside lots of other independent businesses that really appealed. I live just up the road and having been in Weston now for six years – I just can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

“There’s a heap of independents s owin o t eir personalities”

Emma D’Aubyn, director of Mutu Accountancy, 7 Chelsea Road, Bath, www.mutu.uk “I’ve lived in Newbridge for a really long time, since leaving university.

It’s was a great place to live when we were younger and commuting to work as it’s easy to get to Bristol, and easy access to the motorway. Now with a family, we love the excellent local schools, the community spirit and the range of amenities.

“I’m addicted to Rooted’s Indian breakfast – and extra specially nice ABOVE: Emma D’Aubyn of Mutu Accountants loves Rooted’s Indian breakfast; LEFT: Ed Vincent, Leroy McKenzie, and Trenton Scantlebury of Schmidt Bath which has been a part of Chelsea Road for nearly 40 years

if you can get an outdoor spot! And when I need to buy a gift my first stop is aprika “As part of our environmental policies for the company we regularly use refillable soap and sanitiser from Consciously You. Debbie and team at Naughty but Nice hairdressers every time, the charity shops are excellent, the Deli serves the most perfect co ee honestly I think I use almost every business in the street and couldn’t do without them. In fact, I rarely need to go into town now.”

Leroy McKenzie, owner and manager of Schmidt Bath, 1 Park Road, Bath; www.schmidt-bath.com “Schmidt Bath, formerly known as Interior Harmony, has been based in ust o Chelsea Road for nearly 40 years, providing bespoke made-to-measure kitchens and interior solutions to customers across Bath and the surrounding area in all that time.

“I also live locally, so being able to share in the sense of community in Chelsea Road and the Weston area has been beneficial both personally and professionally. We’ve formed close relationships through our business, and this has led to many great friendships.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

STREET LIFE

ABOVE: Giuseppe Brucculeri took over as owner of the Chelsea Road Deli in January 2020;

BELOW: Manager of Rooted Georgina Read-Peter whose family have lived in the area for over 30 years

Giuseppe Brucculeri is owner of the Chelsea Road Deli, 8 Chelsea Road, Bath; www.chelseadeli.co.uk “We took over the Deli at the start of 2020 in January, just before Covid hit, but were fortunate that, with the support of the locals, we were able to keep going Chelsea oad is one of few streets in Bath that o ers that strong sense of community and genuine interaction between shop keepers and customers.

“We do feel like we are part of something special in this area – unique shops o ering great shopping and dining e periences Luke James Charity of Homecharmer, 7a Chelsea Road, Bath; tel: 01225 314008 “My uncle took over the shop about 35 years ago, and hopefully he will be about for the ne t 35 years t is a great place to be we are on first name terms with the ma ority of our customers and they are great people who you can always have a good conversation with.

Like us, most of the shops here go the e tra mile, and the eli’s bacon sandwiches are ust the ob on hangover days Georgina Read-Peter, manager of Rooted, 20 Newbridge Road, Bath; www.rootedcafe.co.uk ur family has lived in Chelsea oad for over 3 years, and grew up here, returning about five years ago We opened ooted in 2 1 my dad would drive past the old Dorothy House charity shop, which was derelict, and said he wanted to create a forward thinking vegetarian/ vegan restaurant, which had not been done in the area before.

“This is a brilliant spot overlooking Newbridge Road, with a melting pot of families, students and tourists using Airbnb’s, plus it’s not that far from Saltford and Bristol.

Chelsea oad has its own unique vibe and is ourishing We have everything we need in the area on our own mini high street love going to see Ann at Consciously You; the greengrocers for all my fruit and veg get my owers from iane of Garden oom Flowers of Bath who is based in the grocers and like to walk down to Basil Bakery for bread

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

Luke James of Charity of Homecharmer is on first name terms with most of the hardware store’s customers

“Most of the shops here go the extra mile”

Consciously You

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FOR THE BODY & MIND Take care of yourself inside and out

VERVE FESTIVAL

is this month! Escape the everyday with goddess workshops, Gaia meditations, breathwork, gong baths and yoga. Relax in the Zest Spa, listen to expert talks then dance to DJ sets by Huey Morgan, Will Streetwise & DJ Emma.

VERVE is the ultimate sanctuary for your soul.

Hatch House, West Hatch, Tisbury, Wiltshire SP3 6PA;

THE TEAM BATH GYM & FITNESS CENTRE. Even modest physical activity is known to

REBECCA O’REILLY is a certified holistic

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 staff and trainers will be there to support you. Everyone welcome. 01225 383597; teambath-memberships@bath.ac.uk; www.teambath.com/fitness

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

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

DR LUCY FACIAL AESTHETICS

BISHOPSTROW HOTEL & SPA

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 offered to discuss options. Key treatments include: wrinkle reduction injections, dermal fillers, nonsurgical face lifts and advanced laser hair removal.

01225 760556; www.revitaliseskincareclinic.co.uk

www.feeltheverve.com

LIVELIFE HEALTH & FITNESS

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 unique art pieces, underfloor-heated, and offers 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

Nicolle Appleton, a fully-qualified Nutritionist with 15 years-experience in Alzheimer’s disease research. She is a specialist in optimising the health and wellbeing of those affected by Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Our diet can deeply affects 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

is a medical Aesthetics clinic situated in Widcombe, Bath offering a bespoke service for all your aesthetic needs.

With an emphasis on ‘natural’, Dr Lucy uses Wrinkle relaxing, Dermal Fillers, 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

LITTLE LAB offer 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 4,500 people their bespoke routine. Think of it as shy-ofmakeup mentoring aimed to give confidence. Book Live for your beauty appointments. 20 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LN; 01225 310849; www.littlelab.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

HEALTH & BEAUTY CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: No.15 by GuestHouse houses a gorgeous spa; the massage room is a dreamy

scene of muted taupe; take time to explore the nooks and crannies at the Guest House Spa

THE GUEST HOUSE SPA How the spa team at No.15 by GuestHouse have literally managed to ‘bottle that feeling’

By Sarah Baker

H

ave you ever wished that you could take your blissedout post-massage state home with you? Well, the Guest House Spa at No.15

by GuestHouse are working on just that.

The Spa is situated at the rear of the main hotel, accessible through the main entrance for the most chichi of arrivals but you can also access via a dedicated entrance from Henrietta Gardens. Top tip, go through the hotel and marvel at the beautiful, amusing, and clever curated collections that adorn the corridors and walls.

It’s important to state very clearly that The Spa is most definitely open to non-residents a fact that had somehow passed me by – making this delicious corner of Georgian Bath one of the city’s best kept secrets, which, absolutely must stay that way and I insist that you tell no one, it was that good.

I was greeted by Charlotte, my therapist, who asked me to complete the usual type of form you’d expect as a client in a new salon. It is used to check all is good and well and helps

to highlight any specific concerns or health conditions that your therapist should be aware of. However, this check also provided a clever and slick extra that made this treatment stand out from the rest – more on that later.

I was having the excellently named ‘Lessen the Stress’ – hell yeah – 60 minutes of massage designed to target the tensions in your neck, shoulders and back; a cortisol lowering, mood boosting hour, ending in an organic facial. The Spa uses Britain by Pinks Boutique formulations and blends, eco luxury products that are vegan, organic, sustainable, and ethical, and accredited by the Soil Association. All the ticks.

The room itself was a dreamy scene of muted taupe with a single and warming pink neon strip of light that edged the room.

Everything about this room (and the previous waiting room and entrance lobby) was gorgeously finished, again, as you’d e pect

The website refers to ‘soothing vibes’ and I concur; it was indeed soothing and with a mellow hum of music in the background.

The treatment itself, which costs £105, was equally delicious with delicate and thoughtful attention to detail that made the massage seamless and bespoke. Charlotte clearly knows bodies and tuned in to mine to find those areas of stress that needed lessening and worked on those with a pressure that suited me whilst also being relaxing. The oil fragrance was divine, and the facial products were calming and cooling. I absolutely had my stress lessened.

Here’s the clever bit. After the inevitable grief of such a luxurious hour being over, you learn that the form you completed earlier where you’d picked a feeling that you would like to experience at the end of your treatment had a greater purpose. The playlist and oil blend had been selected to re ect that choice, and I was handed a small bottle of the same oil and a Spotify link to the music that had been playing during my treatment. I mean, that’s brilliant right? Essentially, an opportunity to replay the whole thing again at home and tap into my new re uvenated state But definitely don’t tell anyone.

For more: The Guest House Spa at No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath, 15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; tel: 01225 807015; www.guesthousehotels.co.uk

ers an opportunity to replay the whole treatment again at home”

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

It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>BIZ CLUB CLEARLY PR (85) >>BIZ Q&A CLAIRE WALKER (83) >>BATH LIFE AWARDS HOUSE OF FRANKENSTEIN (87)

Allison Herbert, chief executive of Bath BID

The BID means business Allison Herbert shares what’s coming up at the Bath Business Conference

T

he Bath Business Conference is a morning-long event filled with insights into the city, where it’s been, and where we can go ne t A combination of networking sessions and talks from spokespeople from the local business community, it will o er a chance to celebrate all that we are, identify areas for improvement and work together on finding solutions all hosted by Buro Happold, from its beautiful central Bath location over the river The talks and interactive sessions that make up the conference come after months of

development in collaboration with di erent organisations and voices, in particular our steering group, which includes Buro Happold, isit West, St Johns, BAN S nitiative, BAN S Council and Bath Spa niversity Together, we have formulated a programme which can appeal to the wide range of businesses in the city and will include panel discussions on Net ero, the State of the City, mployment and Skills and eveloping the estination We have recruited speakers and facilitators for each topic, but the real purpose of the panel discussions is to hear from businesses Working with Bath College,

Bath adio and Labyrinth night club, we are also incorporating video and audio clips so that businesses and young people who aren’t in the room can be heard We’ve collaborated with partners on an interactive e hibition area, and we have even arranged a booth think Big Brother Diary Room) for people to share their brilliant ideas privately From our perspective at the Bath B , developing the conference has felt like a very natural step in the rapidly changing post-Covid economic world our business members are facing t links to our commitment to both a Connected and a Successful City which we put forward as part of our five-year plan, published in 2 21 ore than ever, businesses have had to e and respond to challenges like the pandemic, Bre it, the subsequent recruitment challenges and the Clean Air one, and now the cost-of-living crisis We were hearing from local businesses that they wanted to be part of the conversation about how the future of Bath could look and so the conference came about as a platform where discussions can begin, people can share their brilliant ideas and inspiration can be turned into action We can’t change the global situation, but the collective entrepreneurial spirit of Bath’s business community is a force to be reckoned with, and we believe that we can make an impact locally ur keynote breakfast speaker will be Steve Scott from GH We have been working with GH for several years as they provide us and other cities with essential data about who is visiting the city and patterns of spending Steve will bring an e ternal perspective re ecting on Bath’s relative position in comparison to other cities and the general outlook as we look forward over the ne t five, 1 or 5 years There are only a handful of tickets left for the event, but all the feedback will be gathered and published, and the real work will begin after the conference, when we will oin forces with our partners across the region to assess, prioritise and progress the ideas For more: www.bathbid.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

BATHWORKS

“EVERY CHILD IS ENCOURAGED TO SHARE THEIR OPINIONS AND IS INVOLVED IN DECISIONMAKING” and keep track of each child’s academic progress. They are also responsible for identifying the interests and abilities of their students and then supporting them to devise projects that help them to practice their skills and grow new ones.

BIZ Q&A

Claire Walker

C

Claire shares a progressive alternative to mainstream education

laire Walker is the headteacher of Lumiar UK, a progressive primary school that is reimagining what education can be.

What is your role in the school?

As headteacher and director of education, I am responsible for both the operational running of the school and creating an exciting, inspiring, and genuinely progressive education for our students.

What’s the Lumiar school like?

Lumiar UK is in an old barn set within a cluster of historic 15th-century medieval buildings on Stowford anor Farm in Wingfield, just outside Bradford on Avon. It is a working farm with a campsite and a number of workshops and studios on site including an art school, glassworks, a stonemason, and many other small businesses.

Are there other Lumiar schools?

The Lumiar education model was devised in Brazil 15 years ago by a group of pioneering educators.

Their intention was to transform

how and what children learn to empower them to create the future, rather than just keep up with it. It is recognised by UNESCO, Stanford University, and Microsoft as one of the 12 most innovative education systems in the world. Although other schools use Lumiar’s Mosaic online platform, we are the only one outside of Brazil.

What appealed to you about working in this particular style of education?

I am passionate about transforming education and rethinking our current system. After working in mainstream education for 13 years, I started to really struggle in a system so focused on testing, with a narrow, prescribed curriculum, and no room to follow the students’ interests.

What were some of your frustrations with these traditional education methods?

There was no real time to explore creative thinking or the richer concept of human creativity, and I longed to work in an environment where children were free to learn, where young people felt engaged and empowered, where curiosity is celebrated and where asking difficult questions is encouraged.

Talk us through some of the differences with Lumiar Our approach is focused on giving every learner a sense of agency – knowing they can in uence their own lives and the world in which they live. That’s why every child is encouraged to share their opinions and is involved in decision-making around what projects they will be working on.

Do you have any examples of this?

Every Friday, we have a weekly meeting, led completely by the children, where issues are raised and discussed, and decisions are made. This allows the students to be recognised and participate in decision-making structures as equals, which means the students know that their voice matters and counts now, not just in the future.

What about teachers – how is their role different?

The teachers are divided into tutors (class teachers) and masters (visiting project experts). The tutor provides day-to-day support and knows each child, their strengths, and challenges. They support their social and emotional development

And the masters?

Masters are subject matter experts who come into the school to share knowledge in a particular area. Often, masters are not ‘teachers’ in a formal sense, but individuals from business and industry, or people who can share their interests, knowledge, passions, or life experiences with the students.

As an example, over the last academic year, our students have learned from an architect, a chef, an astronomer, a refugee, a photographer, an aquatic expert, an inventor, and an actor.

Would you say its a more practical approach to education?

We are based on a farm, we do farm school activities and love to learn in nature. Our beautiful site means the students get to work with the animals one morning a week and have access to the woods and river – but we are all about teaching 21st-century skills to equip our students with skills for life.

Are there any common misconceptions about your school you’d like to address?

We fall into the progressive education sector, which gives more value to experience than formal learning and focuses on the whole child – but we are not just for students who struggle with the mainstream. We place more value on transferable skills and competencies than the mainstream system but we do also value knowledge. We do teach maths and literacy but in a more engaging and real way, linking them to projects and workshops.

For more: Lumiar School, Stowford anor arm in e d i ts ire www.lumiar.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 83

BATHWORKS Bath Spa University presented more than 740 teaching alumni with honorary degrees

BORN TO WIN University of Bath-based athlete Joe Choong has won gold at the UIPM Pentathlon World Championships in Alexandria, Egypt. Fellow Team Bath athletes Olivia Green, Jess Varley and Charlie Follett also recorded top ten finishes for the GB women’s team “I have the set now, so I’m pretty pleased,” says Joe, who won Silver when Britain last contested the World Championships in 2019.

“Ever since I was a kid I’ve always wanted to say I was the best in

the world at something. I won the Olympics, and that’s the biggest thing you can do, but World Champion means you are literally number one in the world.

“I took a lot of time out after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which I needed mentally, and this was the first competition where have felt anywhere close to the level I had at Tokyo. I’ve been super-focused and it’s been a nice competition.”

For more: www.teambath.com

Bath Spa University celebrated more than 740 teachers with honorary degrees. The Honorary BA Education Degrees were presented to alumni who previously studied for a Certificate of Education at one of the University’s predecessor colleges between 1948 and 1981.

“I am delighted to extend my warmest congratulations to all our alumni who have received an Honorary Bachelor of Arts in Education Degree,” says vice chancellor, Professor Sue Rigby.

“The award was given in recognition of the academic rigour demanded by the Certificate in ducation and for subsequent services to education they have all given.”

Due to an overhaul of the education system in the 1940s, and a shortage of teachers after the Second World War, Bath Spa is made up of three predecessor institutions – Bath Academy of Art, Bath College of Domestic Science, and Newton Park Teacher Training College.

Sue continues, “Together we are celebrating Bath Spa University, the colleges that came before, and all the lives that have been touched through teaching. The impact of education and teaching has been and will continue to be one of the most defining areas of growth throughout our communities and we thank them for all they have done during their careers.”

For more: www.bathspa.ac.uk

Joe Choong (centre) is now a World Champion pentathlete

HIT REFRESH Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa has launched a new partnership with leading global brand 111SKIN and local favourite Natural Spa Factory to give its spa facilities a refresh.

111SKIN was developed by one top cosmetic surgeon and Harley Street resident Dr Yannis Alexandrides MD FACS, while Natural Spa Factory boasts homegrown, locally sourced luxury treatments derived from herbs, plants and owers “This is an exciting new chapter for the Spa at Lucknam Park,” says Sakus Dinas, general manager at the hotel. “Our mission is to cater for all wellness desires and preferences by o ering an amalgamation of the high-end, results driven 111S N treatments and quality, plant-based products from Natural Spa Factory. This is a unique and e ceptional spa concept and we are looking forward to welcoming our guests and members and introducing them to our new range of products and treatments.”

For more: www.lucknampark.co.uk

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

BEST IN CLASS

Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa has a new partnership with 111SKIN and Natural Spa Factory

© SOUL MEDIA

Ann Meddings and Theatre Royal director Danny Moar cut the cake together at Ann’s retirement party

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC BOWING OUT

Theatre Royal Bath’s customer services manager Ann Meddings has retired after a 41-year career. Ann joined the theatre sta in 1 1, where she was secretary to the administrator Crispin Raymond during a time when there were only five full time sta , and the theatre was closed to the public She has since been assistant to the theatre director, friends secretary, sponsorship manager, acting bo office manager, operations director, membership and special events director before taking up her role in customer services t’s the people who make a theatre, and theatre thrives on those people going above and beyond the call of duty, says Christopher Luscombe, the West nd theatre director, who has been responsible for 25 shows at Theatre oyal over the years, including The Rocky Horror Show and Private Lives Ann epitomises that n a sense, she created a role for herself at Bath and then became utterly indispensable very theatre needs an Ann eddings www.theatreroyal.org.uk

THE BEST CARE

Dorothy House Hospice Care has retained its ‘Outstanding’ rating from the CQC. Ratings are based on unannounced visits that assess a combination of what was found during the visit and ongoing monitoring of Dorothy House’s services.

“I am delighted to learn that Dorothy House has retained its ‘Outstanding’ rating by the Care Quality Commission, says Stephen Taylor, chair of trustees for orothy House To be placed in the top three per cent of healthcare providers after more than two years of a pandemic, is a remarkable achievement. I am so pleased for the hardworking sta and volunteers at the hospice www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

CRYSTAL CLEAR

Paul Mackenzie-Cummins, founder of Clearly PR

Paul MacKenzie-Cummins of Clearly switched out a career in media sales to launch his own business At the Bath Life Business Club at Hilton by oubleTree this summer, he shared the journey from his beginnings from launching on his own to becoming the multiaward-winning, B-Corp certified agency Clearly is today.

Why the big career change? t was boring ’d ust turned 33 and realised that wanted to move away from doing the ad sales. I loved the idea of PR. I wanted to stay in media loved writing, loved newspapers, loved T and radio stu and maga ines, and how it felt to get my clients featured But when was applying for obs, was just getting told no no no all the time eople were saying well, you’ve been working in media sales for the last 1 or 11 years, you’ve got golden handcu s, you can’t possibly change into a di erent career think must have applied for over 100 di erent agencies What was the turning point? thought sod it ’m going to do it for myself. I did a post grad in and set up on my own vowed at that point if was going to turn it from freelancing into a business, wouldn’t disadvantage those people who didn’t have e perience, who were looking to make a switch from one industry into another. wouldn’t disadvantage them because of their age either kept being told was too old and thought ’m 33 for god’s sake ’m old now, but then certainly didn’t feel it.

Running a business with purpose with Clearly PR You’re a B-Corp…

B-Corp is a company that makes a commitment to environmental and social impact a bit higher than most others. The process itself is probably one of the most intrusive, intensive, interrogatory kind of process you’ll go through ur first application failed miserably because you have to hit a point score of think 5 points we were 1 What went wrong with the first application?

We applied for it two years ago purely because we’d already put a lot of initiatives into place to be more sustainable and to reduce things like paper wastage, how we pay suppliers, sta , conditions in the office, even the kind of clients we work with checking them out first and saying well what are they doing for sustainability and social impact Because of what we were doing communitywise as well, we thought we were doing okay was getting increasingly frustrated that I didn’t know if okay was enough or if it was classed as good B-Corp o ered a benchmark How did you change things for the second one?

We made some changes within the business, introduced more policies it’s even things like changing maternity pay to three months full pay, turning paternity pay into three months full pay, etc That put our score up, a lot of the initiatives put our score up We resubmitted and that application went through, but that was only the beginning of the process.

Then what happens?

11 months and 11 days to go through of providing documentation to companies house, to finding all the accounts information and then being interviewed quite e tensively remember the week that we got certified we had the final interview and they asked what will this mean to you ’ and said, don’t really mind if we get it or not She was kind of taken aback she said but why ’ said because we didn’t come into this to get a badge, it’s not a marketing thing, we came into it because we knew we could be doing better but we didn’t know what better looked like You’ve achieved your B-Corp status. Now what?

When we were certified last year, we were only the second out of , agencies in the to get certification that number has since increased. There is greater responsibility on you, but that’s a good thing, because if there’s no pressure then you’re not going to seek worst case scenario to maintain your standards. Hopefully you’ll improve on them and ultimately in uence your own supply chain, in uence your own customers This is what we’re actually doing.

The Bath Life Business Club is a regular networking lunch featuring a ive interview wit a rominent re in the local business community.

Keep an eye on our social media @bathlifemag for future Clubs and tickets.

For more: Clearly PR, 1 Saville Row, Bath; www.clearlypr.co.uk

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BATHWORKS

Jon Ducker, Charlotte Mullen, Lucy Harverson, Heidi Street, Chris Harris and Jonathan Willis at the 2022 Bath Life Awards

© SOUL MEDIA

House and Escape Room bring the untold story of Mary Shelley and her novel to life in an engaging and totally fresh way. We believe our attraction has captured the imagination of all those who live and visit the city at a time when we were all looking to learn and discover new things about what it is to be human.

What do you really love about working for the House of Frankenstein?

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2022 Jon Ducker, general manager of Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein shares what a Bath Life Award means to the new attraction The whole team are overwhelmed. We had intended to win the hearts and minds of our guests, since opening in July 2021 but didn’t anticipate our new attraction would win the Leisure and Tourism Award so soon in our journey. We are all extremely proud of what we have managed to achieve so far and so grateful for the recognition.

SPONSORED BY

M

ary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein in Bath tells the compelling story of author Mary Shelley and her infamous creation, Frankenstein.

Extending over four atmospheric and multisensory oors, including a dark and foreboding basement and Escape Room, the attraction is bursting with unusual artefacts and assorted body parts. Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein delivers a uniquely entertaining literary experience. Jon shares his thoughts on what it takes to be an Award winner…

HEADLINE

What are some of the frustrations right now in the leisure and tourism industry?

How did it feel to win a Bath Life award?

LEISURE & TOURISM WINNER

t’s clich d, but every day really is di erent There are very few roles in which you work with an eight-foot breathing creature, ensure our rooms capture the aroma of popcorn or singed skin, educate our visitors into the fascinating world of Mary Shelley and how she came to write one of the world’s most in uential novels, and of course, getting to terrify our visitors silly in our scary basement.

How did it feel being at the Awards ceremony on the night?

Having so many people under one roof, it felt almost … normal!

Where do you keep the Award?

ride of place in our ticket office and gift shop with the winner’s logo proudly across our marketing materials.

Why do you think the judges chose you as this year’s Leisure and Tourism winner?

Launching a new business mid-year is daunting at the best of times but that was coupled with opening in the midst of a global pandemic. The

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BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

Leisure and tourism, like so many other industries, are still feeling the e ects of the Covid-19 pandemic, with visitor numbers currently only at 50 per cent their pre-Covid levels. The industry is working tirelessly to address this, but until UK domestic and international visitors feel sufficiently confident, or are able to travel again unrestricted, there’ll continue to be a negative impact on tourism.

What are some of the benefits about working in Bath and being part of the local business community?

Aside from it being a beautiful place to live, a real appreciation of the positive relationships and mutually beneficial collaborations within the business community. We really enjoy working closely with other companies and are keen to forge even more relationships.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?

Feedback is a gift.

For more: Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein, a treet at www o seo ran enstein om

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MEET THE

ACCOUNTANT The guiding lights behind many successful businesses share their top tips

EMMA D’AUBYN FCA BFP

MATTHEW RUTTER

Tell us something about yourself We’re a small, personal accountancy practice specialising in the technology and creative sectors and businesses with an environmental or ethical focus. I’ve worked in a large accountancy practice, in industry, and I’m a small business owner. So as well as the usual services, we can help with most of your business problems as we’ve been there too.

Tell us a little about your business…

Pearson May is a leading firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers with a Bath office located in Great Pulteney Street. The firm was established in Bath 180 years ago, and we strive to help our clients realise their personal and business goals.

MUTU ACCOUNTANCY 01225 582582; www.mutu.uk

What advice would you give to a new business start up?

Three tips: create a business plan to track your progress against; getting your pricing right is key; and find someone (like us) that you can turn to when you feel alone, to get back on track.

How is accountancy changing?

Technology is automating more tasks, which we love (who wants pay someone to enter data?), but as a result we’ve seen people DIY-ing their accounts and getting into a mess or making mistakes on their tax returns without realising. We have also found that there has been a move towards more ethical business practices. We can’t simply assume these days that everyone’s main focus is to save tax regardless of the impact.

BSC(HONS) FCA CTA, PARTNER, PEARSON MAY 01225 460491; www.pearsonmay.co.uk

Emma D’Aubyn

Matthew Rutter

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath is a vibrant and eclectic mix of business and pleasure. Against the backdrop of our beautiful city, Pearson May provides advice to owner managed businesses, fellow professionals, and private individuals who value a quality personal service – and paying less tax, of course!

What advice would you give to anyone considering accountancy as a career?

Training in a firm such as Pearson May can give you the opportunity to gain all-round experience in areas such as accounts, tax and audit. Look for a firm with good progression prospects – for example all six of our partners started their accountancy training at Pearson May.

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SPONSORED CONTENT MARTIN LONGMORE

relationships with our clients have allowed us to grow as a regional firm but with national and international reach.

Martin Longmore is a partner at Monahans in Bath, where he has run the office’s diverse portfolio since 2006, from small owner-managed businesses through to companies with a turnover of more than £100 million. He advises on a range of issues whilst also overseeing the firm’s audit practice.

What are some of the key mistakes you see businesses making?

In the current climate, the biggest mistake we see is businesses not being flexible enough.

With the prices of raw materials so volatile at the moment, businesses that commit to quotes for customers too early risk selling at a loss further down the line, unless they can buy forwards and guarantee their prices.

MONAHANS 01225 472800; www.monahans.co.uk

What makes working in Bath special?

You just have to walk out of the door to appreciate that Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. I remember the sunny, crisp morning in November when we first opened the office, a stone’s throw from the historic Abbey, thinking, ‘I must never take this for granted.’

What are the key values of your business?

Monahans has been at the heart of local business communities for 120 years, always with the ethos of being supportive and approachable. We pride ourselves on knowing our clients well and we want them to feel that we’re right there with them, standing shoulder to shoulder, especially in the difficult times that many businesses are facing. These close-working

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

What’s one piece of advice that you would give to a client in the current climate?

Good staff are very hard to come by – and retaining staff is far cheaper than recruiting – so do everything you can to make your working environment as attractive and welcoming as you can. That’s not just in physical terms but also in the support that they receive.

Staff that are empowered to grow and thrive will feel valued and, in turn, be more productive, and the business will see the benefits through the bottom line.

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have a team of over 200 people across offices in Bath, Bristol, London, Taunton and Yeovil, with a shared vision to help our clients thrive.

Although we are predominantly a South West firm of Chartered Accountants, we belong to a global network through our membership of MGI Worldwide. This means we have access to almost 9000 professionals in over 250 locations worldwide, so that we can offer creative and pragmatic solutions in almost every jurisdiction.

IAN LLOYD

MILSTED LANGDON 01225 904940 www.milstedlangdon.co.uk Tell us a little about your business...

Milsted Langdon provides award-winning accountancy, tax and business advice to help our clients innovate and embrace change. We

RACHAEL RACKHAM RICHARDSON SWIFT 01225 325580 www.richardsonswift.co.uk

Tell us a little about your business...

Richardson Swift is an independent accountancy and tax advisory company specialising in owner managed businesses and individuals throughout the South West.

What is your firm’s philosophy?

At Richardson Swift, we believe that we should be there to help our clients prepare for life’s twists and turns, giving guidance where necessary and providing timely insights to help them make the right decisions and keep them feeling in control. Our goal is to be recognised for delivering valuable, trusted advice to businesses and individuals when it comes to their accounting and tax needs.

What is your firm’s philosophy?

Milsted Langdon’s philosophy is ‘helping you thrive’. This is a message that is not only focused on our clients, but also on our people. It’s an ethos that can be applied to everything that we do, across our many teams of specialists – from accountancy, audit, tax and VAT to wealth planning, Forensic Accounting, and Corporate Finance. There is a real focus on the client experience, as well as the employee experience, and going above and beyond to exceed expectations.

How has Accountancy changed in the last few years?

The way we work has changed significantly over the last few years, with the pandemic having a huge impact. Advances in technology and digital life becoming the norm has made a big difference to the lives of business owners – with access to accurate and

timely management accounting information that can help you make better strategic business decisions. Our Business Innovation team specialises in researching and introducing new technologies which when implemented, can help your business thrive.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath is an amazing place to work, and our office is situated in a fantastic location in the heart of the city on Queen Street. But one thing that stands out is the close-knit business community – we’ve built long-lasting relationships with clients and contacts locally and whether we’re in business meetings or social activities such as Bath Boules, it’s a wonderful thing to be part of.

Tell us about your community/charity involvement...

We were a founding partner of the South West Charity Conference which takes place in Bath and throughout the Covid pandemic we hosted a series of digital seminars to provide charities the opportunity to discuss ideas with an expert panel. As part of our CSR initiative, the team recently volunteered with Bath Rugby Foundation’s outreach programme, which involved teaching young adults about managing their money with some sport thrown in for good measure.

the business as a whole and not just the bit it specialises in.

What makes you different from others in your profession?

I don’t consider myself to be your typical accountant. I am a people person and am hands-on in my role. I work to understand and integrate into my clients’ businesses, to ensure I can anticipate their needs and provide meaningful advice throughout the company’s life cycle.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding accountancy?

That we’re all boring! It’s also assumed that we’re number crunchers and all about compliance – whereas we’re not! We’re advisors and can be involved in all aspects of the business, whichever stage clients are in.

What are some of the mistakes you often see businesses making?

Not seeking advice and guidance before starting on the business journey is a big mistake and one we see all too often. Setting and implementing proper internal procedures from the start is invaluable and important for the foundation of any successful company.

It will help with a broader understanding of

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

Local Legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains the meaning of a ‘Living Will’…

A

dvance Directive or ‘Advance Decision’ refers to a statement signed by an individual, setting out what medical treatment they would and/or would not want to receive if at some future date they were to lack capacity to make informed decisions and give appropriate instructions to their medical advisers themselves. The term ‘Living Will’ is also sometimes used but is becoming less popular as it can cause confusion.

A ‘Will’ deals with a person’s property and finances. A ‘Living Will’ does not; it deals only with health decisions in extreme situations.

So, what is the use and effect of an Advance Directive? And how does it differ from a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) relating to an individual’s health and welfare?

An Advance Directive is an instruction to the medical advisers, current and future, of the individual making it, to give or withhold certain types of treatment in particular situations. Once signed, it is registered in the individual’s medical records. It is binding upon medical practitioners in England and Wales and its contents will override any contrary decisions made by any representative of the patient. A doctor giving life-saving treatment to a patient against their wishes would be laying themself open to potential legal action.

An Advance Directive may address: Particular forms of treatment – e.g. cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the use of intravenous fluids, pain control and or nutrition and hydration Particular conditions – e.g. brain damage.

Particular religious beliefs – e.g. blood transfusion for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

What an Advance Directive cannot do is: Request something illegal – e.g. assisted suicide Request specific medical treatment (in terms of specific medication and/or surgery) which must be decided by the medical adviser in the light of his or her specialist knowledge but in line with the general aims of the patient Appoint someone to make decisions for you – this can only be done in an appropriate Lasting Power of Attorney.

A doctor may not follow the directions given in an Advance Directive if: The wording of the document is unclear The individual has made changes invalidating its contents – e.g. changed his or her religion

“ONCE SIGNED, IT IS REGISTERED IN THE INDIVIDUAL’S MEDICAL RECORDS” There have been advances in medical treatment which may have affected the individual’s original decision – unless the Advance Directive specifically stipulates that he or she would decline treatment even if scientific advances had been made.

To be effective an Advance Directive must be signed, dated and witnessed and made of his or her own free will by an individual with the mental capacity at the time of signing to make the decisions reflected in it. If there is any doubt about any of these elements the doctor will be unable to act upon the instructions contained in the document.

An Advance Directive differs from a Lasting Power of Attorney in relation to an individual’s health and welfare in that the latter appoints a third party (the attorney) to make decisions about medical treatment – but also in relation to general care, residence and other welfare matters. Whilst the LPA gives authority to the attorney it does not give instructions, as the Advance Directive does, to the individual’s medical advisers.

For anyone concerned about their potential treatment in a time of particular need the most secure way of making their wishes known and ensuring that they are carried out is to make

both an Advance Directive and an LPA for their health and welfare. The two documents should be carefully drafted to ensure that their contents are consistent with each other and that neither inadvertently revokes the other. The Advance Directive should be registered in the patient’s medical records and a copy deposited with their Will. The LPA should be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian so that it will be immediately available for use in an emergency and the registered LPA should again be deposited with their Will.

This article contains general advice and anyone contemplating making either an Advance Directive or a Lasting Power of Attorney should seek advice specifically designed to cover their particular views and circumstances.

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2NT 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk

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

Make sure you don’t miss your chance to be a Bath Property Awards winner

Bath Property Awards

BUILT TO LAST! Nominations close and tickets sales open for Bath’s most prestigious property awards The nominations closing date for this year’s Bath Property Awards is looming fast – it is 15 September. Businesses can enter into as many categories that they are suited to, and it is completely free to enter.

It is recommended entrants take a look at the Top Tips on Bath Property Awards website to ensure companies put forward

an impressive nomination and don’t sell themselves short.

Categories this year include architects, interior designers, and there are brandnew awards for co-working spaces and sustainability.

The ceremony will take place at the Apex City of Bath Hotel on Friday 4

November 2022 with partner tables of ten available now. Single ticket sales will open on 20 September, and sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information on this please contact pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk or annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk.

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

sbsdesignandbuild.com 01225 874676 info@sbsdesignandbuild.com

PROPERTY NEWS The charity Fusion Lifestyle will manage the day to day running of Cleveland Pools

Cleveland Pools

POOLS WIN Cleveland Pools Trust has announced its future operating partner will be Fusion Lifestyle. Following the recent completion of restoration work, Fusion Lifestyle will manage the day-to-day running of the Pools. This will enable local people to enjoy swimming at this nationally important historic facility once again, following a major campaign and capital project to restore the venue.

Fusion Lifestyle is a registered charity created to promote the benefits of healthy lifestyles and encourage participation in sport, physical and cultural activity. It manages around 60 facilities on behalf of its partners most of whom are either local authorities or trusts.

Fusion Lifestyle operates existing renowned and successful outdoor swimming pools including Saltdean, Brockwell Park and Shepton Mallet lidos.

Paul Simons, chair of Cleveland Pools Trust, says, “Fusion Lifestyle is an ideal operating partner for the Trust, they have a wealth of experience in the leisure sector and a real passion for engaging with communities to ensure ma imum local benefit We are very pleased to be working with them to deliver access for all to this remarkable, restored unique heritage pool.”

For more: www.clevelandpools.org.uk

Sean Randall Morris joins Stone King

An apartment has come up to let at the Royal Crescent

Appointments

HOWDY PARTNER

Stone King has welcomed a new construction partner Sean andall orris to the firm, representing an expansion of its construction law practice He oins the firm from W Goodman Sean is an award-winning advocate and arbitrator with extensive experience in the construction and infrastructure sectors, handling contentious and non-contentious legal matters, and drawing on his background as a civil engineering surveyor and chartered surveyor.

Sean says, “I have had the good fortune to support a great variety of clients including developers, contractors and consultants on some very complex and technical legal issues, and look forward to bringing this experience to Stone King and working alongside my new colleagues at the firm For more: www.stoneking.co.uk

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

Lettings

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS

A premium apartment has come up for rent in one of Bath’s most exclusive addresses, No 5 the Royal Crescent.

The recently renovated two-bed, two-bathroom property comes unfurnished and occupies the entire second oor of the fine, Grade I listed Georgian building.

The open plan lounge o ers unrivalled views across the exclusive Royal Crescent lawn, which residents have sole use of.

The apartment is available from 20 October and is £2,150pcm.

For more: www.zestlovesproperty.com

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Scan Me!

PROPERTY

36 UPPER AST HA Matilda Walton explores a luxury Grade II Bath home

N

umber 36 Upper East Hayes has the feel of a modern fortress. From its castle-like bearing and placement above the city to its annexes – yes, there are two – complete with short term accommodation and its own access road and gated entrance, 36 Upper East Hayes seems to thrive within its own ecosystem.

Built by Bath architect Thomas Jelly in 1785, the Grade II listed detached Georgian villa is its own peaceful world away from the stress of modern life. The property is immaculate, thanks to the stylish upgrades made by the previous owners. Think crisp white walls that capture the brightness of daylight ooding in through elegant, oorto-ceiling windows, and lu urious fi tures and fittings giving chic, unfussy glamour.

There are seven bedrooms in the main house, three of them suites on the first oor The first oor bedrooms all o er the ultimate, rich girl in an American movie luxury of a walk-in wardrobe or dressing room – a home comfort guaranteed to take personal style up a notch – and en suite with a bath or shower. Imagine it – no morning queue for the bathroom ever again, and no fear of a misguided sibling or spouse using your good shampoo. The living spaces, meanwhile are plentiful and beautifully decorated. The living and dining rooms, each with triple bay windows, have the cosy addition of wood-burning stoves installed in the original period fireplaces As the evenings draw in ever earlier as we slide into autumn, the prospect of winter isn’t nearly so bad if you picture a delicious meal with loved ones, lit by candle light and a crackling fire in the hearth, the distant glow of the city below peeking in through the shutters.

The location on the Northern slopes of the city o ers dreamy views across Bath and the luscious green fields beyond t’s the best of both worlds with the feel of a countryside manor, only a short distance from the cultural life of the city centre – and, if you’re feeling a more casual, village-y day out, an even shorter walk into nearby Larkhall.

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S

PROPERTY

“It’s the best of both worlds with the feel of a countryside manor” Now, those anne es 3 pper ast Hayes o ers a rare opportunity of a fresh new home and a fresh new income stream. Currently its two annexes, ‘Brew House’ and ‘Downstairs Apartment Walcot’ are listed for short-term rental via Airbnb. The Brew House is the most recent addition to Airbnb. Converted ancillary accommodation, it’s space detached from the main house that was, at one time, used to supply beer, hence the name. It’s entirely self-contained, with its own kitchen/living/dining room on the first oor, and two bedrooms and a shower room on the ground level. The other apartment on the lower ground oor of the main house has one bedroom, its own kitchen and all the amenities for a short-to-long term rental. Both are accessed via the courtyard, and have a rustic feel with carefully preserved original features like beautiful stone oors, craggy and characterful fireplaces and wide, Georgian doorways. It’s a property with options – you might keep the Airbnbs, you might go for a long-term rental, or perhaps keep the space entirely free for a future granny annexe, or perhaps a selfcontained space for a recently graduated adult child.

Whatever works. The best part is, it’s entirely up to you.

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HOUSE NUMBERS Price Square foot Bedrooms

£2.95m 6,961 6-9

Reception rooms

4

For more Knight Frank Bath, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath; www.knightfrank.co.uk

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ffering stylish, innovative flooring 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 floor into a reality. all now for a free consultation or visit their new show room on Moorland Road.

To enquire, email info@virtuosoflooring.co.uk or call 01225 972715; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk

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 flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include hesney’s, Barbas Belfires, wam, tuv and etmaster. et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD; info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

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

JENNIFER MOSSE DESIGN STUDIO

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

SCHMIDT BATH

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath itchen ompany become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. t’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service based in Bath. pecialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal service adapted to each client’s needs, ennifer’s unique style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, reflecting 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, chmidt Bath offers luxury solutions for the home at affordable prices. ith 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 offer. 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE; Tel: 01225 337276; www.schmidt-bath.com

lair trong nterior Design is a boutique, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. er portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as hotels, sports clubs, offices and other commercial venues. Contact Clair on 07855 797311 or 01225 426905; www.clairstrong.co.uk

COOPERS HOME APPLIANCES

oopers ome 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. alue driven and customer focused. triving to make shopping a pleasurable and human experience – a real antidote to the soulless online shopping ‘trip’.

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BATH LIVES

“Like many other Bath natives, I knew I’d come home” working in the Guildhall and listening to schoolchildren holding a mock funeral outside about climate change Like many other Bath natives, I knew I’d come home, swapping the ‘breadth’ of the US for the ‘depth’ of Bath, the walkable scale, how

SARA GRIMES The climate officer on house music, living in America and the voluntary project Eco Together Sara was born and raised in Bath, attending St Saviour’s Infants, Swainswick, Ralph Allen and St Brendan’s sixth form, then Sussex University to study Geography.

After graduating she moved to the US working with the Public Interest Network campaigning organisation, before moving back to do a Masters in Environmental Policy at Oxford University.

Sara worked on climate change for BANES Council for 12 years, and for the last year has been the climate officer with Wiltshire Council.

My American mother is a long-time activist who was part of the great social movements in California in the 1960s. Some of my earliest

memories are of organising craft sales with the neighbourhood kids to raise money for the World

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Wildlife Fund, or making up our own songs about the plight of the elephants I had a job when I was a teenager at the burger shop in Larkhall. ’ve been vegetarian

since was eight so ust ate my bodyweight in chips and learnt to make the perfect veggie burger The US was great in my 20s, vast and wild. t also had hot

springs you could actually get into, ’d always dreamed of sneaking into the oman Baths

everyone knows a friend of a friend, and the need for family and deep friendships after years of transience

Coming back to Bath being unemployed was a shock and I was very claustrophobic at first, with the small hills and

low sky temped at a ercedes garage and took remedial trips to the Forest of ean to try to get into the wilderness My husband is an aerospace engineer and my seven-yearold son also loves highpowered engines. We have a

good range of perspectives in the family and all en oyed watching the James Webb space telescope launching at Christmas I’m involved in the local charity Transition Bath which

realised you could protect the environment for a living, that’s what ’d have wanted to do

runs positive, practical eco pro ects an e-bike commuter loan scheme, home energy efficiency, transport and community growing pro ects ur work is particularly important with the increase in the cost of living

One of things that made me realise again how terrifying the climate problem is, was

A lot of my energy is going into a voluntary project, Eco Together, where small groups

I had a vague idea about becoming a marine biologist when I grew up, but if ’d have

of friends or neighbours get together to run five sessions on di erent eco topics t helps busy people work out quickly what actions suit them best with a supportive group My most prized possessions are my vinyl records. The

genre mainly own is now think called ad’s house’ basically creaky old house music from the 1 s and 2 s They’re gathering dust, but on the rare occasion fire up the old turntables, they still electrify me I am lucky to live in Widcombe, with the city on one

side, and the Beechen Cli woods and glorious Lyncombe Fields on the other particularly love my neighbours it takes me about an hour to walk down the street because there are so many great people to chat to The last meal I ate out in Bath was from Mission Burrito.

lived on burritos in the S and was pining for them when came back, so am very glad they have made it across the Atlantic My ‘secret Bath’ is Solsbury Hill, where we often played as

children At Christmas my old Larkhall neighbours and would walk up the hill, through the little fairy woods on the side, around the grass ma e that was made by the road protesters in the 1 s, and onto the top where the wind blows We now take our own children

For more: www.ecotogether.info