Bath Life – Issue 492

ROAST DEF GUIDE TO THE BEST OF BATH’S SUNDAY LUNCHES

LAUGHTER LINES

THE BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL RETURNS

Acouple of weeks ago I had an hour to kill between meetings. I remembered my colleague Lydia extolling the virtues of JAQ at The Provenist and practically demanding I should call in, and soon. Lydia had visited to review the place (the full lovely account you’ll find o er on age and she was utterly smitten – with the food, with the ambience, and truth be told, with the chef Jaq Brewer herself. One bowl of chestnut soup and one cappuccino cannoli later, and I’m equally head over heels. Which is probably one of the very good reasons a finds herself on our co er he has created a welcoming space that is calming, friendly, where the food is divine, and yet manages to be reasonably priced. JAQ’s is a wonderful example of an indie business bringing something special to the city.

Celebrating such things is at the core of this magazine, this issue and every issue, from business success stories age to local sho ing edits age , and from ro erty market u dates age to tra el round u s age

We also quiz Bath’s talented designers and interior experts on how to refresh our décor in time for s ring age we ha e a walking guide to the best unday roasts in the area age and there’s foodie news age , a beauty re iew age and much, much more to en oy

Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag

Instagram @bathlifemag

SARAH MOOLLA

Issue 492 / 24 March – 13 April 2023

COVER Jaq Brewer outside her new café in Provenist, Neptune

INTERIORS

22 SPRING QUEEN Ditch your paint brush, this is DIY-free design

THE ARTS

57 ARTS INTRO Sophie Duker comes to Bath Comedy Festival

58 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music,

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk

Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Rachel Ifans, Lydia Tewkesbury, and Wendy Lyne 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 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 Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

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MAKE BELIEVE

The Bath Inventors’ Trail launched at the recent Invent It exhibition in the 44AD gallery. The trail is a walking route around Bath which highlights more than 30 inventors and innovators, alongside places of interest. It includes links to the Dyson vacuum cleaner, the Anglepoise lamp, and Stothert & Pitt, the British engineering company founded in 1855 in the city.

The publication of the trail booklet and guide ties in with the launch of Bath Young Inventors Award 2023 which has an entry deadline of 25 June. The results of the competition will be on display at 44AD between 12 – 16 July 2023, and a prize-giving event will be held on 15 July at the Museum of Bath at Work.

For more: www.44ad.net

Books NOVEL IDEA

Bath and North East Somerset Libraries are holding a recycled ex-library book competition which asks entrants to come up with creative and artistic ways to reuse an ex-library book.

To enter, pick up an entry form and an endof-shelf-life book from Bath Central, Midsomer Norton or Keynsham library, and create a masterpiece by 22 July. The results will form part of an exhibition at Bath Central Library with the winner selected by public vote.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

Performance

DANCE HALL

Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance has put together a production showcasing over 400 children. In Snapshot features a mix of dances selected from shows and performances spanning the last 100 years.

The show has been performed six times at ayesfield chool and is due to culminate in two performances at Theatre Royal Bath on 26 March. It includes everything from tap to ballet, hip hop to contemporary and pointe to jazz, and features children aged between three and 18.

Annette Hind, principal of Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance, says, “The pandemic took so much away from children. This is our chance to come together to celebrate not only our dance school’s 100 anniversary, but perhaps more importantly to pay homage to our students’ resilience, talent and love of dance.”

For more: www.dorothycoleborn.co.uk

The In Snapshot production has showcased the dancing talents of more than 400 local children

A new chapter for an old book

The Bath Young Inventors Award invites little people to think big

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Only one detached bungalow remaining on a 1.68 acre plot

FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

City limits

Flats on the pros and cons of being a townie

Iinadvertently overheard a conversation last week involving three women, two of whom had recently moved house. The non mo er first asked one lady if she and her family were all pleased they’d ditched city living and moved into the countryside he a rmed that, yes, they weren’t missing town at all and that they frankly couldn’t believe they hadn’t done it sooner. “Ah, the space…” etc. Inevitably the second mover, presumably biding her time in delicious style, answered the question in almost identical fashion.

For the non-mover, her retort was, “We go days at a time without using our cars. The kids just wander into town and back again.” Passive aggressive brilliance both ways. It was like the Cold War, and all while the kids played some average hockey nearby. When their chat moved on to their husbands, I moved on in

search of some better secondhand content.

It got me thinking, though. We had the same decision to make a couple of years ago; between buying in town or buying further out and getting a bigger place with a bigger garden and room for cars and ride-on mowers. We chose to be in town because I have one teenage daughter and one who’s not far off, so soon enough they’ll want to be hanging around in town with mates, and soon after that they’ll want to party. Quite rightly.

The oldest one has already wandered down to meet her mates on her own and made her own way back, thereby fulfilling the role of town living. I tracked her phone all the way, obv, but hopefully I’ll relax at some stage…

I cycle my little electric Brompton (yes it can take my weight – good gag though!) to the gym, to meet u s, to coffee sho s ife is very convenient indeed. But I think I – or we – are conditioned to declare our chosen living situations ideal because we’ve spent all of our

money on them. We’ve all spent too much to be objective. Does the lady who moved to the countryside genuinely not resent the 90 minutes a day she spends on school runs. Does the lady whose kids now walk to school not wish she still had a view? A side gate to the house? Somewhere to park her SUV?

o let’s be ob ecti e e find city li ing very easy indeed, but there are drawbacks. Unless we drive somewhere – which defeats the purpose – dog walks are a bit too on-lead and a bit too urban. We have no access to the house besides our front door, so bin day is a messy and dri y affair for our hallway, and any garden maintenance results in the house quickly resembling something like a bombed owerbed

And the kids’ bikes? We’ve binned them. No storage, see (we have vaults which are completely sodden at all times but, of course, we’re not allowed to fi them u and actually use them. Of course!). I don’t want to parallel park every time I get home, or to walk up a steep hill to my car but sometimes I have to, toddler in arms. And I’m not sure if council tax gets cheaper the further you go out, but ours is now roughly the same price as a small family car. As lovely as it is to live here, it’s feels like an utter scandal, that bill.

Overall, we know we love where we live, but we are not certain that we don’t truly belong in a field miles away, ankle dee in cow poo. For now, and for the children, we will stay where we are. A decade from now, who knows.

Anyway, best decision we ever made. Can’t believe we didn’t do it sooner.

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

“Dog walks are a bit too on-lead and a bit too urban”

SCENE

THE LATEST ADVENTURES IN PARTY-GOING ACROSS BATH

JAQ OF HEARTS

To celebrate the opening of JAQ at The Provenist within Neptune’s Bath store, chef Jaq Brewer recently hosted a launch party. More than 130 guests attended to enjoy canapés which included roast potato cubes with harissa and confit garlic, and egan nduja sausage rolls with beetroot dip, along with hand-shaken gin and ginger citrus gimlets. The founder of Neptune John Sims-Hilditch made a speech welcoming Jaq and there was music from jazz musicians David Newton and and Matt Hopkins. Turn to page 70 for our visit to the new Walcot Street café.

John Brewer

Neil Fortin

Melanie Cantor and Colette Dartford

Photos by Lloyd Evans www.lloydevansphotography.com

Emma Sims-Hilditch, Jaq Brewer, and John Sims-Hilditch

Simon Bond, Bryan Sargent and Wiz

Michael Cordell and Rachel Brocklehurst

Lydia Conradi

Hugo Hagger and Charlie Brewer

Lulu Keyzar and Claire Birkbeck

NETWORKING

Bath Spa University and 3SG recently launched the first network in dedicated to growing social enter rises and economy ath ocial m act etwork is aimed at bringing together grou s and indi iduals s ecifically from social enter rises with a shared ur ose of im ro ing and growing the local social economy ore than eo le attended the launch at the ocksbrook am us on February and heard talks from rofessor ndy almon the ro ice chancellor e ternal at ath a ni ersity, and director ecky rooks www.bathspa.ac.uk | www.3sg.org.uk

Alison Howell and Adrian Boreham

Hannah Whiting and Dr Anna Walker

Amanda Crutchley and Lucy Stone

Holly Dabbs, Louise Campion and Stu Matson

Steve Fuller, Wayne McMaster and Rhyannon Boyd

Caroline Anstey and Annie Legge

Rebecca Di Corpo and Alice Eaglestone

Miles Lloyd, Toby Hawkins and Angela Emms

Stacey Pottinger and Rachel Washington

SPRING QUEEN!

Spring is here! Well actually, as we write this, it’s blowing a gale and the memory of a snow day is fresh in our minds, but we all know what a difference a cou le of weeks can make in Bath.

With spring imminent, you may be feeling the need to purge, to refresh, and to make a fresh start on your house. If you’ve got fed up of looking at your own four walls over winter, you are probably itching to get yourself a whole new look for spring.

Well, before you don the decorating clothes, clean off your aintbrush, dust off the roller and try and rise the lids off those manky tins of paint, have a little think.

Maybe you can give your home a spring reset without decorating. What, none of the hard work, we hear you murmur? Yes, we’re talking DIY-free design (praise be!) and we’ve gathered together Bath’s best interior designers, craftspeople and homes retailers to pick their brains on the best way to add impact to your home this spring with the minimum of hard work.

Thank us later – for now, all you need to do is grab your tools; don’t worry, we’re only talking a notepad and a pencil to pop behind your ear.

EACH TO ONE’S OWN

Let’s ease in with some general advice on the change of seasons. Vanessa Sayce at The Marmalade House has some practical advice after a cold and ossibly financially challenging winter he says, “I think warmth, simplicity and making the most of the items you already have is key this spring. A refresh can just be about re-arranging furniture, re-hanging artwork, de-cluttering – even the simplest changes can have a big impact on your home and how you feel in it.”

And when it comes to what’s hot and what’s not, Vanessa is just as pragmatic in her counsel, saying, “For me, it’s not about what’s trending because seasons and fashions come and go all the time.” In other words, Vanessa’s advice go with your own personal tastes rather than rigidly following what you’re told to like.

Is your place feeling like a palace or has it lost its shine over winter? Don’t worry, says Rachel Ifans, it might be a case of a bit of spit and polish rather than a top-to-toe makeover

Nick from Woodhouse and Law is happy to open the windows and doors, and let the fresh air blow in when spring arrives

“I believe that colour is a powerful, emotive way to transform the energy and feel of your home”

COLOUR ME HAPPY

Liliya Salakhutdinova from Anor Living agrees in the importance of personal taste rather than broadbrush trends especially when it comes to your colour scheme, and whatever the season. She says, “Choosing colours is a ersonal e ression, affected by dee rooted feeling, and I truly believe that colour is a powerful, emotive way to transform the energy and feel of your home.”

And Toby Eliot from Just Shutters also believes that ‘spring’ colours are not set in stone; rather that the perfect tones and schemes vary from person to person. “Personally, I love subtle yellows and pale blues,” says Toby. “I recently painted my bathroom ceiling in a gentle sky blue and the result is stunning. In terms of fabrics, I love denim in spring. For me, winter is for velvet and thick cord but spring ushers in the need for much lighter materials.”

In contrast, James Horsfall, from Bath Kitchen Company, tends to veer away from lights shades in spring. He muses, “Sure, put the big woolly blankets away, and bring out softer throws, ases of owers and new table décor, but you don’t have to go with the obvious light colours as the weather warms up. Instead, I go for richer hues, and maybe even some bold velvet.”

Kirsty Lake from Etons of Bath is all about mixing it up when it comes to spring colours. It’s less about which colours you choose, she says, and more about how you fit them together

“Brands like Colefax and Fowler and Jane Churchill have a wonderful array of embroidered contem orary oral linens that often become our hero fabrics with design schemes,” says Kirsty. “This is mostly due to the wonderful interplay of colours in one fabric; with unsaturated base tones and bold pops of strong colour forming the design, it is the combinations of shades and colours that makes these perfect for spring.”

For ath based interior designer lair trong, it’s all about warmth and boldness when it comes to colours for 2023: “I love the new trend for earthy tones; they feel fresh and modern. The combination of a rich chocolate brown and a soft dusty pink looks soft and gentle without being overly feminine. Rich oxblood and terracotta reds also work wonderfully with this palette.”

ABOVE: Anor Living’s showstopper linen; BELOW: A new chair livens up a dull corner

“You don’t have to go with obvious lighter colours when the weather warms up. Instead, I go for richer hues and maybe even some bold velvet”

Annie Sloan’s Capri Pink has the perfect richness for both walls and furniture

STYLE COUNSEL

We’re loving this bold theme coming through for spring and you can be bold in so many ways – not just with your colours. Boldness is an attitude too, says Clair Strong, and the time is ripe to go large.

“Think modern maximalism when you look at your home,” Clair says. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a design movement that is full of pattern and personality but is less chaotic and more considered and streamlined than pure maximalist. Clair elaborates on how you use its principles in your house. “Layering is key so arrange objects that are in similar colour or material to design a modern maximalist space.”

Alternatively, why not put the ‘hip’ in hipstoric, as Clair explains: “A ‘hipstoric home’ combines vintage and antique styles with modern trends. Whether it’s an antique cabinet passed down the family or a intage rug bought in a ea market, we should all be looking to shop more sustainably and mixing treasured and contemporary items together. It’s all about making your home unique and rejecting mass-produced high-street items.”

When she’s wanting to make a bold statement in a room, Georgia etcalfe at French edroom finds it hel s to channel a lu ury ibe She advises, “Think about the lobby area of your favourite hotel; the huge urn dri ing with owers, or the o ersi ed iece of art and chandelier… These items visually encapsulate the tone and style of the hotel the moment guests arrive, and your home can do just this.”

This is such great advice; far better to concentrate on one bold statement rather than trying to throw everything you’ve got at every room of the house.

LEFT: Clair Strong loves the power of a gallery wall; ABOVE: French elegance

“I love a wellgallerythought-out wall; it adds character and interest and you can edit the mix frequently to keep it fresh”

© FRENCH BEDROOM

NATURE’S CALLING

ne of the defining features of s ring is the change in weather and with that, the re awakening of the natural world ometimes we don’t e en look into our gardens for months as winter stri s the lea es and chi s the lant ots on the atio nd then, when s ring comes, it’s a re elation lants grow, cats wander the fences, blossom clings on to s iny branches

There’s no reason you can’t use a bit of ins iration from nature in your interior design and s ring is the erfect time to do that ick from oodhouse and aw says s ring is all about bringing the outdoors inside, and although it sounds a bit of a chilly thing to do, he has a oint e’re always looking to connect indoor and outdoor s aces, he e lains, so we try to reference the colours that are beginning to emerge o er the s ring months after their winter hibernation

This might be by adding a new roman blind to the window that looks onto that outdoor s ace, incor orating those ery colours en oyed by the iews beyond ick’s ad ice brings us back to focal oints n esting in a colourful and atterned blinds will draw your eye to the window and into the great outdoors beyond

ut, says ick, you don’t e en ha e to go that far in order to get that much needed breath of fresh air in the house For an instant fi , a similar connection to the outdoors can be achie ed by introducing house lants that re ect the colours, te ture and tones of the lants in your garden

ABOVE: Spring is all about nature’s re-awakening; BELOW: Bring the outside in

“Introduce houseplants that refle t t e o o rs te t res and tones of the plants in your garden”

© WOODHOUSE AND LAW

© THE MARMALADE HOUSE

THE WHOLE SHEBANG

So, now we’ve got the thematic advice out of the way, how can we give our whole houses an instant facelift in one go, rather than concentrating on just one room? Just a warning upfront that large-scale changes we’re talking about here will doubtless be a larger investment but the overall difference to the feel of your house may make it worth the money, and you never know, some of these bigger changes can even add to the value of your home.

Toby liot from ust hutters kicks off with some ad ice about windows and light e says, fit lantation shutters for a li ing and they are honestly one of the best ways to create the maximum house transformation with the minimum work. That is not just sales talk, ask anyone who has had their curtains replaced with shutters and they will tell you the same. Your rooms feel so much bigger, lighter and warmer and the impact is instantaneous.”

Toby has seen an increase in the popularity of shutters recently, something he puts down in part to rising fuel prices. “Keeping our homes warm has been a priority this winter and I think shutters are going to become more of a ermanent fi ture in the due to the heat sa ing benefits s s ring a roaches, customers tend to refer our extra large louvre shutters because they are a real statement and let in the maximum amount of light.”

imilarly, making large scale changes to your ooring at home can make it seem like a whole new house, es ecially if you consider the ow of the house and ha e the same oors throughout a whole oor

Vanessa Garrett at Broadleaf Timber says that trends for wooden ooring ha e changed this s ring Te ture and character are o ular right now when it comes to wood ooring, with an em hasis on nature and the great outdoors,” she says, “so I’d advise choosing a timber that retains its natural variation and has a more rustic style.”

To chime with that advice, Broadleaf has recently launched a new uances Te tures ollection, which offers a choice of solid and engineered plank and parquet that combine colours, soft texture and a rich patina to add even more depth and character to the natural beauty of the oak beneath.

ABOVE: Create impact with a new floor; BELOW: Shutters maximise light and space

“I’d advise a timber that retains its natural variation and has a more rustic style”

anessa ayce from The armalade ouse says that different looks can be achieved by giving your old furniture an overhaul that doesn’t involve the intricate skills of upholstery. “Instead of buying new, how about painting furniture?” she suggests.

“Our popular courses in How to Paint Furniture to Professional Standards and our interior design days that focus on colour are all about making the most of what you already have and creating something beautiful.” (Yes, we know we said no painting, but this is different it’s not , it’s arts and crafts

Interior designer Clair Strong say that you can make a big impact by having, what’s called in our house, a shift-about. She says we need to focus on our focal points and on the position of our furniture. Firstly then, the focal points. “Every room should have a focal point so think about whether you are drawing your eye to the right place in each room Ty ical focal oints are fire laces, mirrors, artwork, windows or the TV and they tend to be at eye level to attract the attention of the viewer,” Clair explains.

“Experiment by moving things around to create the most interesting effect f all your furniture is facing the T , mo e it around to face the fire lace f you ha e a beautiful garden, make sure your furniture is arranged to appreciate the view. If a room doesn’t have a focal point,

you need to create one. A stunning headboard in the bedroom, a dramatic piece of artwork in the hallway or an elegant mirror in the bathroom can all be beautiful focal points that give your room drama and style.”

And when it comes to changing things up, there are cunning tricks to room design that are definitely worth a try in your home this s ring Clair explains, “Sometimes, the best way to redesign your space is to experiment by moving the furniture around – it can have a large impact on the way you use a space.

There are certain tricks that will enhance the feeling of space in your room, says Clair. “Move furniture away from the walls to give your pieces breathing room, position sofas and chairs to face each other to create con ersation areas and ha e a think about the tra c ow around the room.”

“Balance is important in interior design,” she adds. “So it’s important to consider the size and shape of your furniture. Don’t group all the big pieces together or the space will feel lopsided. Make sure you have a ariety of sha es in a room a round coffee table ne t to a modern straight sofa or curved wing back chairs near a refectory table, for instance ou may find that buying a few new ieces a new chair, storage bench or console table – solves multiple problems.”

Create a colour scheme for your furniture and soft furnishings, says Etons of Bath

o ma nd t at in a ew ie es a new air stora e en or onso e ta e so ves m ti e ro ems

TALKING OF TIPS

t’s time to get room s ecific now e’re homing in on the kitchen, lounge and the bedroom, as they are the laces in which we s end the most time, and grilling our e erts for three to ti s in each Finally, we’ e got a s ecial section on budget friendly ti s for on a shoestring makeo ers Three, two, one, let’s go

KITCHENS

1

PLAY MARBLES. ames orsfall from ath itchen om any is the man to ask about kitchen trends this s ring e says, eined and bold marble kitchen counter to s are still, and will continue to be, ery on trend ou can either choose to re lace all your workto s, ames says, or if that seems like too big an in estment, why not introduce marble and natural stone in the form of coffee tables or side linths

2

GO BRIGHT. elly arie awker icks from elly arie itchens says that colours are ust as im ortant in kitchens as they are in lounges and bedrooms Turn on the brights, she says ’m thinking astel inks, yellows, greens or dee er blues, ur les and lilacs lthough mustard yellow and green are o ular colours for s ring, also like astels, which bring a sweet intage touch to your kitchen nd atthew ates from lake and ull is all for brights too f we are talking transformations, why not get your ga range cooker re enamelled huge colours to choose from, but greens are definitely trending from our e erience

3GO FOR MATERIAL GAIN. atthew also says that a new look doesn’t ha e to cost the earth ring is about colour and nature, and if you’re on a budget you can really brighten u a kitchen with some new and e citing te tiles ur ear lossom range of kitchen towels, o en glo es, hob co ers and a rons is an e clusi e design, created in house by our talented illustrator aty

“Veined and bold marble kitchen counter tops are still, and will continue to be, very on trend”

BEDROOMS 1

DO SOME NESTING. eorgia etcalfe at French edroom is, as you’d expect, a bit of a bed expert. If you’re looking to make a simple change to add a je-ne-sais-quoi to your bedroom, she says that new bedding is a great choice.

airing stri es with owers sets a eaceful and retty tone in s ring, and find the mi brings a sense of oy, ho e and ha iness to interiors.”

If you’re going big, a new bed can be a form of decoration in itself. Take, for instance, arah’s fa ourite, the indsor arden Floral ed She says: “It’s a timeless design in a pretty and spring-like colour palette of pink, magenta, blue and yellow that will stay with you throughout the years as you change your style and even your home.”

2TAKE A LOAD OFF. Kirsty Lake of Etons of Bath advises a statement armchair in the bedroom. It won’t cost the earth and gives you a stylish place to chuck your clothes at bedtime (it’s not just us who do that, is it?). She says, “A patterned accent armchair would have to be my budget buster buy; it’s a practical yet frivolous purchase, and can lead to a whole new look in a space that you have grown tired of. Matching cushions on the bed will tie the scheme together.” 3

GET TO THE ART OF THE MATTER. Two tips in one from Clair Strong on how to accessorise your bedroom with artwork. She says, “If you’ve got a collection of artwork gathering dust, now’s the time to hang those pictures up. I love a well-thought-out gallery wall; it adds character and interest, and you can edit the mix frequently to keep it fresh.

lan your gallery wall by laying your ictures out on the oor and working out what works best. Paint your frames to unify the prints or mix and match frames for an eclectic look.”

Clair, unsurprisingly, has an artistic background, and she likes to add her own touches to the art on her bedroom walls. “I love to collect artwork from art fairs and ea markets and then add ilding a to create an anti ue look For a more traditional look, try gilding with loose or transfer leaf – brass, silver or copper all look wonderful.”

LOUNGE 1

GO BIG AND BOLD WITH A RUG. Sarah Howells at TR Hayes thinks an eye-catching rug can banish any lingering winter blues. “We have a fabulous rug from British brand Harlequin (part of the anderson esign rou and can’t take my eyes off it The Fuchsia colourway of the Dahlia ties in with the new trend towards warmer berry colours. The rug is 100 per cent wool and hand tufted in India, and comes in several sizes.”

Clair Strong agrees, “Rugs are everywhere on Instagram (some even have their own hashtag!) and they really are a great way to pull the colour scheme of a room together. Rugs, like artwork, can also form the basis of a whole new spring-like colour scheme in a room. A fabulous rug will add depth to a room and pull an open plan space together es ecially if you ha e solid wood ooring They fill the s ace and anchor the furniture and colour scheme together.” 2

LET THERE BE LIGHT. Kirsty Lake from Etons of Bath is back with advice on how small-scale patterned lampshades from loved brands such as Pooky can lift a simple pendant or table lamp in a cheap and hassle-free way. She also says: “If you have a little more money to spend, then a new bold-coloured ceramic table lamp will add a statement to a console or sideboard; and you can even double it up to ank a mirror or icture for a classic look

3BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS. Liliya Salakhutdinova is keen for you to consider replacing traditional pictures with a beautiful suzani. She says: “These luxurious statement pieces are unique works of art and can be used in many ways; to make a curtain, reupholster an old chair or ottoman for an elegant and beautiful look, or to be framed and hung on the wall so that every detail can be visually appreciated.”

ABOVE: Earthy colours work well in spring; LEFT: Change the vibe with a bold new rug

“The combination of a rich chocolate brown and a dusty pink looks soft and gentle”

© TR HAYES

© CLAIR STRONG

10 BUDGET-FRIENDLY TIPS

We hope you’ve got loads of inspiration on how to inject some springtime joy into your home décor, but if even thinking of the cost of a refresh is bringing you out in hives, don’t panic, we’ve got some seriously wallet-friendly tips for you (some of them are even free!).

• Nick at Woodhouse and Law thinks lighting is super important but if a full overhaul is too pricey, you can get a great effect from individual lights. He explains: “Introducing free-standing, plug-in uplights to backlight your houseplants is a simple but immediate way of adding further depth, interest and drama to the room.”

• Kirsty Lake from Etons of Bath says, “For those on a shoestring, I would invest in books. They serve a dual purpose in the home; obviously, you can read them, but their covers and spines are also often awash with colour, texture and detail and are perfect items to style a coffee table or shelf with.”

• Toby Eliot from Bath Kitchen Company advises you cast an eye on your artwork. “You can get a lot of impact from making changes to your artwork and I’m not even talking about buying new. If you are wanting to transform without any drastic changes, even swapping some art pieces to different rooms can bring variety.”

• Liliya Salakhutdinova from Anor Living suggests buying a few scatter cushions to brighten up your lounge and draw the eye with colour. “I’d suggest that one of our beautiful hand-woven Ikat cushions in a vibrant colour will bring maximum effect at a reasonable cost.”

• Nick from Woodhouse and Law has already advised adding houseplants for a natural makeover but if these are too pricey, no worries, he says. ”For an instant fix, a connection to outdoors can be achieved by bringing in cuttings from the very beds and borders over which that room looks.”

• Clair Strong advises a bit of elbow grease when it comes to brightening your rooms in spring. “When the weather is warm enough to open the windows fully, it’s time to clean your windows too. You’ll be amazed at how much brighter your home looks after a proper window clean.”

• Kelly Marie Hawker Hicks from Kelly Marie Kitchens has a great tip for a kitchen glow-up that won’t blow the bank. “Small appliances are a good way to add character to your kitchen. Perhaps a KitchenAid mixer in a bright colour on your worktop in full view, or you could install a Quooker tap in gold or black for a real wow factor!”

• Vanessa Clark from Homefront says that natural fibres are all the rage in homewares this spring and little on-trend touches like this can be very reasonable to buy. She says, “In our shop, you can find lamps made from recycled glass, marble and rattan alongside woven baskets, handmade lampshades in bright floral patterns or made from natural materials such as cork, jute and rattan. We’ve also got vases made of recycled glass and reclaimed wood and prints by local artists to brighten your wall space.”

• Clair Strong is keen to bring back echoes of the 1980s and 1990s in our homes but don’t worry, she’s not advocating anaglypta (shudder!) or a lorry load of chintz. No, instead she’s all for the return of wallpaper borders and they can create a whole new effect without the cost of total redecoration. She says, “Use them around door frames, between the walls and ceilings or to create a dado effect in a hallway. If you don’t want to invest in wallpaper borders, painted borders are an inexpensive way to play with a room’s structure and perspective, and they also give you the chance to create interesting colour combinations.”

• When it comes down to it, there’s nothing that replaces a de-clutter and almost all of our experts suggest starting with a good clear out this spring. It’s hard work but it’s totally free and it will have a really big impact on your home, not only in how it looks but how it feels too. And, if you’re lucky, you might find some hidden gems that will sell well online, enabling you to re-invest the money in new additions to your home!

Natural fibres have a sunshiney feel

All you need is a bit of petal power

The future’s so bright…

at ra res are a t e ra e in omewares t is s rin

© THE MARMALADE HOUSE

THE LIST

BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES

Plastercraft

4 Lyndhurst Mews, Bath; 01225 315404; www.artisticplastercraft.co.uk

JAS Building Services

The Quadrant, 2440/2430, Almondsbury; 01454 877520; www.jasbuildingservices.co.uk

Nexus of Bath

Unit 9, Ashmead Business Park, Ashmead Rd, Keynsham; 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk

Noad Roofing

4 Cork St, Lower Weston, Bath; 01225 941949; www.noadandsons.co.uk

Plushh Restoration 01225 767148; www.plushhrestoration.co.uk

SBS Design and Build

439 Bath Rd, Saltford; 01225 874676; www.saltfordbuildingservices.com

Sydenhams

Hawthorn Grove, Bath; 01225 833585; www.sydenhams.co.uk

Wraxall Builders

Brewery, Toll Bridge Rd, Bath; 01225 859865; www.wraxallbuilders.com

Youngs Roofing

Braysdown Bungalow, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath; 01225 421499; www o n sroo n at o

BATHROOMS

Bathrooms at No5

5 The Shambles, Bradford-on-Avon; 01225 309110; www.bathbathrooms.com

Formosa Kitchens

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire; 01225 308541; www.formosakbb.co.uk

Hobsons Choice London Road, Bath; 01225 433511; www.hobsonschoice.uk.com

Ripples

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

BLINDS AND SHUTTERS

Aspect Window Styling 1 Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 469559; www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

The Marmalade House

Roundhill Farmhouse, Bath; 01225 445855; www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk

CURTAINS, SOFT FURNISHINGS AND UPHOLSTERY

Anor Living www.anorliving.com

The Curtain Exchange 11 Widcombe Parade, Bath; 01225 422078; www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk

Perfect Rooms & Interiors  Silver St, Gastard, Corsham, Wiltshire; 01249 716445; www.perfectrooms.co.uk

FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS

Mendip Fireplaces (Bath)

The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706; www mendi re a es at o

FLOORING, CARPETS AND TILES

Artisans of Devizes

Stonebridge House, Banda Trading Estate, Nursteed Road, Devizes; 01380 720007; www.artisansofdevizes.com

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire, BA14 6PX Tel: 01225 308541 • info@formosakbb.co.uk formosakbb.co.uk

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home décor needs this spring

Woodhouse and Law

INTERIORS

Boniti

Dunsdon Road, West Littleton, Chippenham; 01225 89200; www.boniti.com

Broadleaf Timber

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

Capitol Carpets of Bath

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

Radstock Carpet & Bed Centre

The Old Cinema, Coomb End, Radstock; 01761 432808; www.radstockcarpetandbeds.co.uk

Silk Road Rugs

Westway Farm, 1, Bishop Sutton, Somerset; 01275 319950; www.silkroad-rugs.co.uk

Simon Davis Flooring Unit 1 Old Mills Industrial Estate, Old Mills, Paulton; 01761 410779; www.simondavisflooring.co.uk

FURNITURE, INTERIORS AND HOMEWARE SHOPS

Bed -E-Buys

26 27, Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 313421; www.bedebuysltd.co.uk

French Bedroom 01444 415430; www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Homefront Interiors

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

Modern Artbuyer 01225 839834; www.modernartbuyer.com

Neptune

One Tram Yard, Walcot St, Bath; 01225 465301; www.neptune.com

Sofas and Stuff

7 New Canal, Salisbury, Wiltshire; 01722 280131; www.sofasandstuff.com

TR Hayes

15-18 London Street, Bath; 01225 465757 www.trhayes.co.uk

HOME APPLIANCES AND COOKERS

Blake & Bull Hartley Farm, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire; 01225 541006; www.blakeandbull.co.uk

Coopers Stores

13-15 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 311811; www.coopers-stores.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design

5 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 690019/ 07855 797311; www.clairstrong.co.uk

Etons of Bath

Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath; 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com

Libby Carter & Co

14 Queen Square, Bath; 01225 971374; www.libbycarterandco.com

Rebecca Morgan Designs 07827 772700; www.rebeccamorgandesigns.com

Woodhouse & Law

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

Woolf Interiors

Broome House, Upper Lansdown Mews, Bath; 01225 445670; www.woolfinterior.com

KITCHENS

The Bath Kitchen Company

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

Cheverell Wood

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

Formosa Kitchens

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire; 01225 308541; www.formosakbb.co.uk

Hobsons Choice London Road, Bath; 01225 433511; www.hobsonschoice.uk.com

Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors

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

Neptune One Tram Yard, Walcot St, Bath; 01225 465301; www.neptune.com

Saltford Kitchens 439 Bath Road, Saltford; 01225 874676; www.saltfordkitchens.com

LIGHTING

Antique Textiles and Lighting Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 310795; www.antiquesofbath.com

WINDOWS

Timber Windows of Clifton 29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www.timberwindows.com

Vyoo 439 Bath Road, Saltford 01225 874676; www.vyoowindows.com

Blake & Bull

THE JOY OF COLOUR

One of the greatest joys of interior decorating is that no two homes are ever the same. Our individual approaches to colour and pattern and the stories we tell through our homes means that the opportunity for creativity is never-ending. How we use colour can say so much about us – from the fresh greys and whites of a kitchen to the lively ochres of a dining room. A room’s decor articulates the environment we want to create and live in, as well as our own histories.

Choosing paint colours is one of the most exciting and affordable ways to transform your home, with the ability to create different moods and emotions. Yet, the intricate nuances and interactions between these colours, as well as their response to different types of lighting, can make the process daunting and time-consuming.

Neptune’s new colour consultancy demystifies this process, bringing you the unrivalled understanding of colour held by their own design experts. Neptune’s edited collection of interior paints includes over 50 shades, and they add a new seasonal colour twice a year. They believe that colour is the bedrock from which we weave our stories, whether that’s the enveloping richness of shades like Constable Green, the pale refinement of Salt, or the uplifting joy of their new shade, Rhubarb.

To book a consultation, visit www.neptune.com/colour-consultancy Or call or visit Neptune Bath One Tram Yard, Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD tel: 01225 465 301

HOW IT WORKS

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION

A consultation can be arranged online, or by calling or visiting your nearest store.

INITIAL BRIEFING

Your chance to share your vision with your consultant and give them an idea of the shades and combinations you’re drawn to.

AT HOME VISIT

Your consultant will visit your home and, at the end, give you a wallet containing swatches of the proposed paint colours for each room.

A CUSTOM COLOUR PLAN

You will then receive a detailed plan outlining the colours, finishes, areas of application, and quantities.

COST

For £200, you’ll benefit from a one-hour consultation at home, and expertly-chosen palettes for four of your rooms. If you’re looking for help with more than four rooms, it’s an additional £50 for every hour thereafter.

NEPTUNE’S new colour consultancy guides you in curating a cohesive paint palette that’s tailored to you and your home, from walls and ceilings to woodwork and architectural features

ART MEETS LIFE

ANOR

Growing up in Uzbekistan Liliya was surrounded by the exotic history of the silk route and the rich colours and patterns that immersed themselves into her everyday life – this gift in uenced her imagination from a young age. Being a visual person, surrounded by this beauty helped to inspire her passion for colours and design. This nurtured an idea that one day she would be able to share this dream and it was the beginning of her path to the creation of Anor Living. Anor means pomegranate in Uzbek, a symbol of strong union, friendship and happiness.

Anor Living curates a collection of individually hand-crafted pieces for you and your home. Its interior collection offers a beautiful variety of silk and cotton cushions in hand embroidered and Ikat fabrics.

Anor Living also has a selection of stunning traditional Suzanis which can be used as bed or sofa throws or framed as an artwork.

Its clothing collection includes unique coats that truly make a statement and wonderfully versatile jackets and elegant silk and cotton

dresses. Each run of fabric used in the collections is made by hand in the classical Uzbek tradition and crafted by artisans in Uzbekistan. The dedication and time put into the creation of each piece ensures the finest quality in what could well become a staple piece in your wardrobe and can be handed down from generation to generation.

Anor Living is dedicated to creating a more sustainable future with Fair Trade principles at the heart of the production process. It is committed to working with local artisan communities in Uzbekistan who share Anor’s values and work to ensure worker wellbeing in every part of the process.

20% OFF FOR BATH LIFE READERS! Simply quote “BATHLIFE20”. Valid from 25.03.23 to 30.04.23

Liliya has lived in Somerset for 12 years and her studio is in Shepton Mallet, next to Mulberry’s warehouse. You can visit Anor’s showrooms by appointment.

Scan the QR code to visit the website and view the collections www.anorliving.com

anor@anorliving.com

f @Anor Living  anor_living

“

EACH RUN OF FABRIC USED IN THEIR COLLECTIONS IS MADE BY HAND IN THE CLASSICAL UZBEK TRADITION AND CRAFTED BY ARTISANS IN UZBEKISTAN”

LIVING curates a collection of individually hand-crafted pieces for you and your home.

Run by interior designer Vanessa Sayce, Marmalade House also runs hands on courses in how to Paint Furniture yourself to Professional Standards, and how to use colour within your Home.

Working holistically with sustainability at its core, Marmalade House brings together a depth of experience in paint and style to enable clients and students to create both beautiful pieces and spaces, working with what is already there and adding a touch of new.

Marmalade House is an award-winning interior styling company that specialises in French and Gustavian furniture painting. Long established as a lead in its field, the company is all about making what you have truly beautiful again, using paint, patina and colour to bring old pieces to life and creating something new from something old.

Using both age old and modern techniques, and with up-todate access to the very best in paint and products, Marmalade House brings its own distinctive style and energy to the world of interiors and design. Based in beautiful barn studios in Kelston, Bath, the company is both friendly and welcoming and all course students are treated to their renowned farmhouse lunches.

Perfect Rooms & Interiors provide a superior interior design service that fuses your ideas and our creative expertise

With a passion for interior decor, we create stunning design schemes that will complement your home or business. All aspects are covered from floor to ceiling, including paints and wallpapers.

Cole & Son celebrate their new 'The Garden’ range, whilst the unique and striking luxury animal

wallpapers, suitable for multiple types of room are still a popular choice.

Sanderson Design Group are delighted to launch their ‘Arboretum' collection of fabrics and wallpapers for SS23. Sanderson Paint is available in over 150 colour ways and a choice of two finishes,

Our suppliers

thus this timeless palette offers a versatile range of durable, yet beautiful paints.

We also supply blinds, luxury fabrics, upholstery and designer flooring to appeal to all tastes. Whatever your vision, we have the perfect finishing touches!

Silk

THE FUTURE OF PRIVATE HOSPITAL CARE IS HERE

The brand new NORTH BRISTOL PRIVATE HOSPITAL opened its doors to patients in February 2023

This new facility of medical excellence is set to become the private treatment epicentre for patients in Bristol and the south west of England and Wales. With individualised, bespoke treatments at the heart of its offering, you will experience expert care within exemplary facilities locally.

With an eye on the detail and patient welfare at its core, your stay at NBPH promises to provide the best possible recovery experience. Located on Aztec West Business Park, it is only a 30-minute drive from Bristol Airport and very close to both the M4 and M5 motorway junctions and Bristol Parkway Train Station.

A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE

Specialist care governed by safety will be the hallmark of your hospital treatment. You can expect best-in-class nursing support and clinical facilities delivered in luxurious surroundings and supreme comfort.

Kelly Cavallo, Hospital Operations Manager says, ‘At North Bristol Private Hospital patient care is at the heart of everything we do. Being able to welcome patients to the hospital and watch our exceptional team support them through their surgical experience is amazing and I am very proud of what the team have achieved so far. I am looking forward to leading the team through the continued development of our facility’.

YOUR TREATMENT, OUR SPECIALITY

Whether you are visiting us for cosmetic surgery, with procedures such as breast reduction, breast enlargement, tummy tuck, or labiaplasty, a routine operation or medical treatment, our facilities are designed to make your entire journey smooth, safe, relaxed, and comfortable.

AT NORTH BRISTOL PRIVATE HOSPITAL,

WE PROMISE:

• Meticulously trained administrative and front of house staff

• Exceptional management staff who take pride in making your treatment journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible

• Friendly specialist consultation provided in the privacy of comfortable chaperoned consultation rooms

• Excellent and spacious operating theatres and treatment rooms

• Round the clock nursing staff, with femaleonly team available on request

• Ultimate in luxury and comfortable surroundings for the perfect post-operative overnight stay – a home from home experience

• Variety of restaurant options and comfortable hotel accommodation facilities for your family and visitors within walking distance

• Free onsite parking

Come and see why we are different and contact us for a consultation.

North Bristol Private Hospital, 150 Aztec West, Bristol, BS32 4UB info@NBPH.co.uk; tel: 01179 114 000 www.northbristolprivatehospital.co.uk

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS

HAVING A LAUGH

Goodness knows we could all do with a laugh right now so thank the gods of mirth for the return of the Bath Comedy Festival, starting on 26 March and running until 16 April.

Artists including Reginald D Hunter, Helen Lederer, Julian Clary, Elf Lyons, and Sophie Duker (pictured), will be performing at venues all over the city such as Bath Forum, Walcot House, Bath Cider House, and Widcombe Social Club, with some of the smaller gigs operating a pay-what-you-feel system, giving us even more reason to smile.

Festival director Nick Steel says, “Bath Comedy Festival has grown in scale year on year, and Bath is now widely recognised as a centre for comedy and a key date on the annual comedy calendar. We’re back with a vengeance and can’t wait to welcome Bath’s residents and visitors for another year of laughter.”

For more: www.bathcomedy.com

WHAT’S ON

25 March –21 April

EXHIBITIONS

Until 11 April

CAPTURING LIFE: A CENTURY OF THE NEW ENGLISH ART CLUB

The New English Art Club was founded in 1886 by a group of rebellious young artists protesting against their repeated rejection by the Royal Academy, and this Victoria Art Gallery exhibition showcases work by members past and present, including Gwen John, Winifred Nicholson, John Singer Sargent, Walter Sickert, and Paul Nash. The paintings can also be viewed in an online exhibition, with many on sale. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 11 April

JESSICA PALMER: WETLAND SPRING

Jessica, whose work spans collage, paper sculpture, paper cutting, digital drawing and painting, is in-house illustrator for English Heritage and her current Victoria Art Gallery exhibition displays collages of meadows, meadow lants and the ora from around Bath. The exhibits are for sale, with the proceeds of one piece to be donated to the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 29 April

UNTITLED

For the group show Untitled, co-curators Francis Gallery director Rosa Park and independent curator Emily Andrew of EKA

Art Advisory, bring together the work of British painter Luke Samuel, Franco-British photographer Charlotte Colbert, and Australian sculptor Ceara Metlikovec. www.francisgallery.co

Until 23 April

ILLUSTRATING THE WORLD: WOODCUTS IN THE AGE OF DÜRER

This is a rare opportunity to view the complete set of woodcuts known as The Great Passion, produced by the most famed artist of the German Renaissance, Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528). www.holburne.org

Until 30 April

BATH MIND: ART AS THERAPY

Jason Dorley-Brown, artist and Bath Mind ambassador, has curated this extensive RUH exhibition featuring 52 artists, many local, with the purpose of raising awareness and much-needed funds for the important community work done by Bath Mind. On display is an

eclectic mix of mediums including sculpture, illustration, and even the written word. www.artatruh.org

Until 8 May

ALBERTA WHITTLE

Alberta Whittle’s exhibition, Dipping below a waxing moon, the dance claims us for release, includes the themes of pleasure and health, as well as directly addressing some uncomfortable truths of the 18th-century including those of the Holburne itself. www.holburne.org

Until 8 May

RODNEY GRAHAM

Currently on show at the Bruton gallery, Hauser & Wirth Somerset, is the work of Canadian artist Rodney Graham (1949 – 2022). ith a ractice s anning fi e decades, he operated through systems of quotation, reference and adaptation, often revolving around a central absurdity. His signature photographic lightbox works are elaborate, allegorical and witty compositions focused on his use of the self-portrait to explore scenarios from our collective cultural memory. www.hauserwirth.com

Until 8 May THE NEW BEND

The New Bend travels from the Hauser & Wirth gallery in Los Angeles to Somerset, and brings together 12 contemporary artists working in the raced, classed and gendered traditions of quilting and textile practice including Anthony Akinbola, Qualeasha Wood, and Zadie Xa. www.hauserwirth.com

Until 3 June REVOLUTION, PROPAGANDA, ART: PRINTMAKING IN MODERN CHINA

This striking, informative exhibition at the Museum of East Asian Art showcases a series of prints selected from the Muban Educational Trust’s collection of over 6,000 works. It explores artistic trends, political movements and technical developments in modern Chinese printmaking. www.meaa.org.uk

Until 4 July AMERICA IN CRISIS

This show, which includes as interactive experience, is an American Museum partnership with the Saatchi Gallery and juxtaposes images of current US troubles with photographs from more than half a century ago. www.americanmuseum.org

Comedian Alex Kealy brings his Winner Takes All tour to the Rondo on 13 April

TOP: Rodney Graham is currently the artist on show at Hauser & Wirth Somerset until 8 May;

MIDDLE: The work of Charlotte Colbert can be seen at the Francis Gallery as part of its Untitled exhibition; BOTTOM: The Bath Photographic Society are exhibiting at St. Michael’s Without Church

7 April – 1 May

PICASSO: 50 YEARS ON

Marking the 50th anniversary of the artist’s death, the Hidden Gallery’s exhibition includes the distinctive Dove of Peace and the striking Portraits Imaginaires, demonstrating the remarkable breadth of Picasso’s artistic output which so famously changed the course of modern art. www.hiddengallery.co.uk

18 – 22 April

BATH PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

The Bath Photographic Society presents its annual exhibition at St. Michael’s Without Church. The collection is a wide variety of work from local amateur photographers, and includes landscapes, travel, nature, portraits and abstracts. www.bathphotographicsociety.org.uk

THEATRE / CINEMA

27 March – 1 April

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

Joe Absolom and Ben Onwukwe take the leads in this stage adaptation of the Stephen King novella at Theatre Royal Bath. Despite protests of his innocence, Andy Dufresne is handed a double

life sentence for the murder of his wife and her lover. Incarcerated in the notorious Shawshank facility, he strikes up an unlikely friendship with the rison fi er ed ee overleaf for our Culture Club interview with Ben Onwukwe who plays Red. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

30 March – 1 April

THE GLOVE THIEF

Bath Spa Productions present this new roduction of eth Flintoff’s The Glove Thief at the Ustinov. Inspired by the tapestries created when Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned by her cousin Queen Elizabeth I, the play tells the interwoven story of four women and their power to change the course of English history. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC

29 March

BILLY OCEAN

Performing at the Bath Forum is the legendary Billy Ocean – the biggest selling Black recording star Britain has ever produced. Thanks to classics such as Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car, Love Really Hurts Without You, When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going, and Caribbean Queen, he has sold more than 30 million records in his lifetime. www.bathforum.co.uk

29 March

KATHRYN ROBERTS AND SEAN LAKEMAN

The husband and wife duo are at Chapel Arts to promote their seventh album, Almost A Sunset –a collection of thoughtful, varied songs that range from re-worked traditional ballads to the off iste storytelling style that has become their trademark. www.chapelarts.org

31 March

TUBULAR BELLS LIVE IN CONCERT

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tubular Bells by multiinstrumentalist, composer and songwriter ike ldfield, the masterpiece will be performed live with a full band at Bath Forum, conducted and arranged by ldfield’s long term collaborator Robin Smith. www.bathforum.co.uk

15 April SAMFEST

This new family music festival held at Somervale School in Midsomer Norton plans to raise money for and

awareness of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Along with live music from Nick Parker and the False Alarms and musical comedy from Gavin Osborn and the Comment Section, there’s family entertainment, spoken word artists, craft stalls, bars, a BBQ and a big ri e ra e www.ticketsource.co.uk

COMEDY

26 March – 16 April

BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL

The Bath Comedy Festival returns bringing with it a host of comic names including Reginald D Hunter, Helen Lederer, and Julian Clary. For more details turn to page 57. www.bathcomedy.com

5 April

RAY BRADSHAW

In his new stand-up show Deaf Com 1, the comic covers his recent fatherhood, teaching his young son sign language, and a disastrous trip to Bahrain. Ray grew up with deaf parents, and all of his shows are performed in both BSL and English. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

12 April

EMMANUEL SONUBI

After a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe run earlier this year which earned him a Dave’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Newcomer nomination, Emmanuel is bringing his hit show, Emancipated to the Rondo. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

13 April

ALEX KEALY

Alex, who mixes smart political material with self-deprecation and relatable observations and has recently been described as the ‘rising star of the British stand-up scene’, comes to the Bath’s Rondo to talk Silicon Valley tech monopolies, advertising, and addiction. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

CHILDREN

Until 31 July

THE WILD ESCAPE

Victoria Art Gallery is taking part in The Wild Escape, a nationwide project uniting hundreds of museums, schools and families to find nature in museums hildren are in ited to find a fa ourite animal in the gallery, create an artwork imagining its ‘escape’ back to its natural habitat. The pictures and

stories created will then be brought together and launched online and in museums for Earth Day on 22 April. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 19 September

ZOG TRAIL

Thanks to amazing augmented reality technology, you can follow a golden star trail around Westonbirt Arboretum, which is home to one of the most important plant collections in the world, with 15,000 specimens, and 2,500 s ecies There are also ruffalo statues to be spotted, a nature play trail, guided walks, sensory walks and the treetop walkway. www.forestryengland.uk

1 – 16 April

and hazards, and stop them in their tracks. www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

15 April MARK THOMPSON’S SPECTACULAR SCIENCE SHOW

The Romans’ upcoming National League South Table Twerton Park home games include Taunton Town and Concord Rangers. www.bathcityfc.com

31 March, 8 & 14 April

WEAVE

YOUR OWN EASTER BASKET

This Easter No 1 Royal Crescent are keeping heritage skills alive with Easter basket-weaving drop-in sessions throughout the holiday. There’s also the Georgrobe – with the opportunity to dress up like a Georgian and pose against the new pop-art style Bath city mural, and the Conservator Challenge which follows an investigation trail round the house to find museum ests

As an astronomy populariser, Mark Thompson introduces a contemporary and fresh image of science to the public and lectures on everything from the moon to black holes and the end of the universe. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

SPORT

7 & 15 April

BATH CITY FC

TEAM BATH NETBALL SUPER LEAGUE

Team Bath home matches include Leeds Rhinos, Severn Stars, London Pulse. University of Bath; www.netball.teambath.com

26 March

BATH RUGBY FC

The home side take on Exeter Chiefs as part of the Gallagher remiershi ick off at the ec 3pm. www.bathrugby.com

ABOVE: Visit the tree-filled world of Westonbirt Arboretum and follow the Zog Trail; RIGHT: The Victoria Art Gallery celebrates 100 years of the New English Art Club

OTHER

28 March

GLADYS PERINT PALMER

Explore the world of couture with renowned fashion illustrator Gladys Perint Palmer at the Royal Crescent. Co-hosted by Connie Gray, fashion curator from Gray M.C.A, the afternoon includes drawing materials and a champagne afternoon tea. www.royalcrescent.co.uk

31 March

ELIZABETH DAY

In this exclusive Bath event, Elizabeth Day is in conversation with her friend Andi Oliver, and together they unpick the significance and e olution of friendship to celebrate the publication of Elizabeth’s new book Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict www.komedia.co.uk

3 April

THE N MOST IMPORTANT SYMBOLS IN MATHEMATICS

Join mathematician Dr Katie Steckles at Bath Guildhall for a free lecture as she explores the huge array of symbols and ingenious notation used to communicate mathematical ideas, and how they can help drive new mathematical discoveries. www.katiesteckles.co.uk

CULTURE CLUB with Ben Onwukwe

Actor Ben Onwukwe is starring as Ellis ‘Red’ Redding in Stephen King prison drama The Shawshank Redemption at the Theatre Royal Bath, from 27 March until 1 April, alongside a 12-strong cast including Joe Absolom. Well known for his 11-year role as Stuart ‘Recall’ McKenzie in ITV’s London’s Burning, Ben has played guest roles in numerous primetime dramas including ITV1’s Marcella, the Netflix series Safe, Coronation Street, Death in Paradise and, most recently, starred as Jackson Donckers in ITV1’s quirky crime series, Professor T. In a 30-year career on screen and stage, he has also played leading roles with the RSC and London’s Royal Court.

The last great film I saw The Banshees of Inisherin –a devastating and plangent exploration of the death of male friendship, beautifully evoked in a remote Irish setting.

The film I could watch over and over again

In The Heat Of The Night

A dignified Sidney Poitier and an unrestrained bigoted cop, Rod Steiger, offer a masterclass in acting. Great score, fantastic dialogue, and dripping with hope for civil rights.

A painting that means something to me

That of Dido Elizabeth Belle by David Martin at Kenwood House painted in 1778. It is one of the

only portrayals of a Black person in 18th century art which does not present them as servant or slave. She was an enigma – brought up by Lord Mansfield, cousin to Lady Elizabeth Murray. The painting inspired the film Belle in 2013.

My lockdown boxset

Breaking Bad. It is a brilliant and absorbing drama about a regular guy getting deeper and deeper into depravity, drugs and crime, all of which is provoked by financial desperation.

Best TV show ever…

Obviously in a biased way (!) but London’s Burning. It was a naturalistic portrayal of life in a fire station set in London in the late 20th century. I appeared in more than 100 episodes as I recall! Fires, family stress, work relationships all depicted in an engaging way – and this was when post ‘watershed’ was a thing. My next choice would be Only Fools and Horses. The machinations of the Trotter empire will never not be funny!

The book that changed my life

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. Introduced to me by my US literature tutor at Middlesex University in 1978. It changed my life to see how a memoir or a biography of an inspirational person can be.

The book I could happily re-read Any P G Wodehouse. The misadventures of Jeeves and Wooster are always hysterical

with exquisite writing, and dialogue to die for.

Last live music gig I went to Sauti Sol, a Nairobi-based pop combo, who finally played London’s Jazz Café after lockdown cancellations and postponements. Beautiful melodies and harmonies over the seductive Afrobeat rhythms.

My desert island disc I have to take two. The Beatles –A Day in the Life from the album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club An incredible musical journey that, as a young Beatles uber fan, signified a massive departure from simplicity to full blown aural soundscape of dizzying proportion. And also Redemption Song by Bob Marley. This one is so poignant and inspired, reminds one of the thoughtful genius of Marley, still creative in his last years of life.

My karaoke go-to Three Little Birds by Bob Marley. “Don’t worry ’bout a ting, cause every little thing gonna be alright!” Always uplifting and joyous. Enough said!

Podcast recommendation

I have recently got into the Louis Theroux lockdown podcasts which display a different side to a host of celebrity personalities. The Ruby Wax episode was fascinating.

For more:

www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Ben Onwukwe, left, as Ellis ‘Red’ Redding with Joe Absolom as Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption

Bath Spa Productions presents The Glove Thief at the Ustinov

© JACK MERRIMAN

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

ast ives

Ilove a story that takes a deep-dive into a character’s unexpected past. Take Rebecca Makkai’s I Have Some Questions for You (Little, Brown, £16.99) for starters. The novel blends modern-day issues with murder mystery, but really centres on its main character, Bodie Kane. She has returned to her upscale boarding school in New Hampshire in her 40s to deliver classes on podcasting to teenage students. Once homework is set, one student chooses to begin work on a podcast that looks back at one particularly dark episode from school’s history when a student was murdered in the mid-90s.

For Bodie, this reawakens long-suppressed memories, as the murder took place during her time at The Granby School. A coach working at the school had been convicted, but it soon becomes apparent that the investigation had been cursory and that online sleuths have long debated other theories. Studiously trying to remain detached from her students’ fresh investigations, Bodie ne ertheless finds her memory ashing back to her time at the school, as a Pandora’s box of her interactions with other students begins to reveal details that cast further doubt on the conviction and how it was reached.

Aside from functioning as a gripping literary whodunnit, I Have Some Questions for You asks so many questions itself. Cancel culture, racial prejudice, and the di culties of udging the ast through a modern lens are all considered. And with the plot’s core taking inspiration from eria n rders in t e i din , and every true crime podcast in between, there are also insights into the phenomenon of podcast investigations and how they complicate the justice system.

Beneath it all is Bodie’s convoluted personal journey as she becomes increasingly consumed with the case and confronts aspects of the past she’d long swept under the carpet, dragging others along on the same journey. This is a

fantastically multi-layered novel that’s going to a eal to many different readers

Book of Goose by Yiyun Li (Harper Collins, £16.99) lifts the veil on the past of two characters, as it follows a somewhat disturbing friendship in mid-20th century France. Agnes, our narrator, and Fabienne were raised in an impoverished rural environment and developed an intense and uneven relationship. Fabienne, a charismatic and clever maverick, dominates, whilst Agnes is overshadowed and lives in thrall of her confident friend

Whilst Agnes starts school, Fabienne remains a farmhand and in her spare time begins to write. She has a vivid imagination and soon she and Agnes decide to write a book together. With the creativity of Fabienne, Agnes as scribe and an unsuspecting local postmaster cajoled into editorial duties, they create a manuscript which is sent to Paris and threatens to become a literary sensation, forever altering the life of Agnes who is persuaded to have her name alone attached to the work.

This is a quirky philosophical novel in which Agnes looks back at a life crammed with unexpected twists and turns. It’s a tale of power-struggles, loyalty, manipulation, domination and which considers the very different sha es a friendshi can take

Lastly a nod to Fire Rush by Jacqueline Crooks (Vintage, £16.99), where the action –in part – happens closer to home. This debut novel about music, civic unrest and Black womanhood takes place in London, Jamaica, and Bristol. Yamaye’s dramatic personal journey is set amidst the police riots of the 1970s and is layered on the atmospheric soundtrack of dance-halls and clubs.

Author Jacqueline is coming to Mr B’s soon (on 29 March) to discuss this spectacular musical debut which, just like Makkai and Li’s novels, thrusts us into a character’s tumultuous and unpredictable life story.

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

odie nds er memor flas in a to er time at t e s oo ”

Nic explores three books with unexpected back stories

THE REEL THING EMMA INGLEDEW

I Get Knocked Down with live Q+A Screens 31 March

What’s life like after a one-hit wonder?

That’s the question asked by I Get Knocked Down, a new documentary exploring the untold story of Leeds-based anarcho-pop band Chumbawamba.

In this twist on the musical documentary, former Chumbawamba front man Dunstan Bruce is visited by the ghost of his own anarchist past, Babyhead. Forced to confront his legacy both as a former novelty act and activist, Bruce sets out on a personal voyage of rediscovery and redemption.

Whilst most of us will not be able to relate to making one of the most catchy singalongs of all time, many of us will relate to the themes Dunstan explores, such as how do we continue with activism as we age into adulthood? There is the chance to ask him such things ourselves when he visits The Little after the screening for a question and answer session.

The Night of the 12th Release date 31 March

It is said that every investigator has a case that haunts them: for the young and ambitious Police Captain Yohan Vivés ‘the night of 12th’ is one such case. In this taut and piercing thriller, he investigates the murder of a young

woman, Clara. Killed for no obvious reason or motive, he and his team are forced to delve deep into her complex life and relations. However, what starts as a professional and methodical immersion into the victim’s life soon turns into a haunting obsession.

This film ele ates itself abo e the standard police procedural by intelligently exploring the issues of violence, gender, and policing in contemporary France.

A Good Person Release date 24 March

A Good Person is the latest film by actor director ach raff, following two eo le who must come together to seek redemption. Florence Pugh stars as Allison, a young woman who, after surviving an unimaginable tragedy, is now emerging from recovery with an opioid addiction and unresolved grief.

Her salvation comes in the form of Daniel, played by Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman. Also emerging from tragedy and now navigating raising his teenage daughter, he and Allison must come together to discover that friendship, forgiveness, and hope can ourish in unlikely laces

Both Freeman and Pugh are outstanding in their respective roles, in this respectful musing on grief and addiction.

NT Live: Life of Pi

Screens Live 30 Mar, Encore 2 & 11 April

More than 22 years after the original novel became a bestseller, and ten years after the award winning film ada tation, Life of Pi has now taken to the stage. After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the ast acific cean, a 16-year-old boy named Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with a Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive?

Using innovative puppetry techniques and stunning stage design, Pi’s animal travellers are brought gloriously and, at times, terrifyingly to life. Not only is the production completely gorgeous, but the story itself is a beautiful ode to humanity’s ability to survive against all odds. Whimsical yet philosophical, the story of i atel’s fight against the odds is now being transported straight from the stage to screens at The Little.

Emma Ingledew is manager at The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; www.picturehouses.co.uk

Spring arrives with a crop of great new films including tales about redemption, an unsolved murder, and a look at what happens to activists when they get old

CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Life of Pi is now a thrilling stage production; Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman star in A Good Person; The Night of the 12th is a taut and piercing thriller; former Chumbawamba front man Dunstan Bruce tells his story in the music documentary I Get Knocked Down

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH

to host both short-term and long-term students. We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, Kaplan International Languages Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

THRINGS MEETS… BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION

THRINGS’ private client executive Dayton Little meets Lynne Fernquest, chief executive of BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION

Dayton Little: Can you tell us a little about Bath Rugby Foundation and its history?

Lynne Fernquest: Bath Rugby Foundation exists to change the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in and around Bath. The dark secret of this beautiful city is that 20 per cent of children live in poverty, face fewer opportunities and career prospects and can expect a life expectancy of up to ten years less than those living in more affluent areas.

In Bath and North East Somerset around 10,000 children and young people fall into this category. We’re proud to work with about 3,000 of them.

We were created in 2003 by Bath Rugby who recognised the levels of inequality and wanted to take action. They have always been community-focussed and formed the Foundation as a way of using sport as a vehicle for social change.

The charity has since become its own independent entity although maintaining strong ties to the club. I was recruited as CEO five years ago to ensure the Foundation continued to grow and succeed in its mission support and empower more young people than ever.

DL: What services do you provide?

LF: We focus on three areas of growth and development: To reignite confidence and selfworth in young people, make sure they develop the skills they need to succeed and finally create independent pathways. This happens in two ways. Firstly, at our Alternative Learning Hub, based near the Rec, gives 14 to 19-year-olds who struggle with

mainstream education a place to feel safe and valued enough to realise their own potential. Secondly, through our Outreach programmes in primary and secondary schools, in community settings throughout the week and at youth clubs during the school holidays. You will find us where children and young people are.

Not everything we do is focused on academic success, we’re all about helping young people to reach their potential, with sport and wellbeing as central pillars. We also work with young people with learning difficulties and disabilities so, while for some their potential is a successful education and career, for others it could be gaining the confidence and the ability to take a bus on their own or grow their social circle.

DL: What are the challenges you face as a local charity?

LF: The challenges we face will often be financial. We expend a lot of energy every year raising money to keep the charity going; the more we can raise, the more children we can help!

We have five revenue pillars: grant funding; partnerships with primary, secondary schools, and Bath College; fundraising events; Bath Rugby matchday raffles and bucket collections; individual and business donations.

It makes no sense for at-risk children to fall through the net. If they were to enter the judicial or benefits system, they’d cost the economy up to £75,000 a year. With our support, and a £5,000 annual investment, we can empower them to build a future and contribute to society.

DL: And presumably the outcomes make it worthwhile?

LF: Very much so, the work we do can be life changing for young people and it’s so rewarding to see them succeed!

A great recent example was when we worked with a young girl a few years ago named Meg after she was excluded from school, despite being very bright. She spent a year with us and worked hard to improve before returning to school, where she earned A*A*A at A-Level, went onto Bath University and will soon be joining Wiltshire Police.

DL: It’s a big year for you with the Foundation’s 20-year anniversary. What have you got planned?

LF: As well as our annual fundraising dinners and a cycling event in Portugal, this year we have launched our ‘Lose the Labels’ campaign, which gives a clear headline about what we do. We’re proud that the youngsters we work with are able to tear off the negative labels society has placed on them and proudly

display the positive ones.

We also want the campaign to be an opportunity to harness the collective potential of Bath and we are calling on as many people as possible to donate just £10 a month to support our work. It might not seem like much but if 1,000 people join our campaign it would raise an incredible £120,000 a year.

With that support, just imagine how many young lives we could change!

To find out more, visit www.bathrugbyfoundation.com.

JAQ AT THE PROVENIST

Lydia Tewkesbury checks out the cool new lunch s ot on alcot treet

Ja rewer has had a di cult year ince February , she has suffered a horrendous, near death car accident, lost her belo ed dad and then had a edgling business a short li ed collaboration with the lways unday tore on road treet go under after she wasn’t granted the table licence that would ha e alerted ha y sho ers to the fact she was there

t was ust as she was clearing out of lways unday and taking time to re e aluate that ohn and mma ims ilditch, founders of e tune, in ited her to itch a lan for The ro enist, the caf at their lu ury interiors sho in Tram ard, ust off alcot treet For the chef who had re iously worked at ford anor rior to her accident, and been the regular demo chef for To ing om any’s fan fa ourite cookery e ents, the collaboration ust made sense, and thus at The ro enist o ened its doors in o ember

at The ro enist offers an e erience can only describe as food erfection escribed by a as egetarian fare, from field to fork’, what you’ll find on entering the little caf is a beautifully resented counter of salads think huge bowls iled high with egetables in rainbow colours ast, illow y astries freshly made that morning wheels of uiche icture erfect like a ainting, and the cakes freshly baked and uffy, billowing with fruits and dusted with sunshine yellow lemon rind or dee orange ecks of carrot

nd of course, a herself, who you’ll find behind the counter smiling, with her signature red li s and not a latinum blonde hair out of lace at The ro enist doesn’t feel like somewhere you o in for lunch from the moment of arri al, you’ e ste ed into a ’s world

Trained under the watchful eye of industry legend ntonio arluccio, and the founder of her own catering com any and bes oke cookery school ook with a not to mention a eriod in the ondon marketing world

and a brief stint as a leg model – Jaq has had a long and storied career leading up to this point. She worked as executive head chef at her eponymous restaurant Jaq at Ilord, regularly hosts supper clubs in Bath and London, and has also created recipes for the likes of Yotam Ottelenghi, Michel Roux Snr, and Raymond Blanc. And her many years of illustrious experience comes out in the finer details of lunch at her lace

The locally fuelled egetarian menu offers two main options: soups – we tried a pea and wasabi and also a tomato, both delicious and served with a gorgeous, almost fudgey bread – or a quiche and salad combination. The quiches were utterly divine, and will change regularly according to the seasons.

On the day of our visit, there was a Spanish parcel of chick eas, tomatoes, almonds and cumin in a aky pastry parcel (yum), and a goat’s cheese, rhubarb and mascarpone quiche with tarragon and pesto which my companion and I were utterly bowled over by. It was like eating a savoury cheesecake – the rich, crumbly base and a ours of mi ed egetables and sour rhubarb contrasted with the creaminess of the richj mascarpone and the goat’s cheese, resulting in a decadent dish.

nd the salads howe er you configure your lunch with Jaq, make sure you sample as many as you can. We marvelled over the tangy orzo and tomato salad with Kalamata olives, capers, pine nuts, sunblush tomatoes and crumbled feta; the pudding-like roasted aubergine with honey, rose harissa and toasted sesame seeds; and the crunch of the fine green bean and sugar sna ea ile with popped coriander, mustard, and poppy seeds and a fresh garlic and lemon dressing. All were completely hea enly, and the sweet, s icy, brine y fresh a ours complemented one another to perfection.

Make no mistake – salad is not your only option. Remember, salads form only one part of Jaq’s counter, which is also piled high with cakes and pastries. For dessert, we went for a sumptuous chocolate tart. A thick layer of melt-in-your-mouth mousse-like chocolate nestled on a biscuit base spiked with ginger. And it’s vegan, not that you’d have guessed by the taste – it was a beautiful marriage of a our, te ture and chocolate y indulgence, and we ooh-ed and ahh-ed over every bite.

Set as it is, a little way back from the hubbub of the main street, within the aesthetically immaculate Neptune world, something other-wordly happens when you step inside Jaq’s café. A cool calm takes over your body, your world reduces to a counter filled with s ectacular salads and you’re in no hurry whatsoever to leave.

DINING DETAILS

JAQ at The Provenist, One Tram Yard, Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD. tel: 01225 934400; www.theprovenist.com

Opening hours Tuesday – Saturday 10am –4pm, Sunday 10.30 – 3pm

Owner and chef Jaq Brewer

Established 2023

In a nutshell Field-to-fork vegetarian fare inspired by flavours from the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean, with all the ingredients sourced locally Covers 28 inside, 28 outside

Recommendation Shakshuka

Prices Lunch costs between £8.75 - £17.50, salads between £12.50 for a small plate of 3 - £17.50 for a large plate of 5, pastries and desserts £4.95 - £5.50

Drinks A full range of espresso drinks, using Bristol’s Clifton Coffee, fine teas from Jing, a range of soft drinks including ginger beer, sparkling elderflower and juices

Disability access Good disability access and a disabled toilet

Atmosphere Café culture meets a warm welcome in a stylish setting.

“The sour rhubarb contrasted with the creaminess of the rich mascarpone”

FOOD & DRINK

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S FOOD SCENE

IN SEASON

VERITY GENCO on the ravishing radicchio

Spring signals its arrival with birds getting noisier as they nest, bees buzzing around in search of early owers and blossoms and lambs bah ing their arri al into the world

The longer days encourage a bounty of roduce to grow and it’s a good month for the tentative or beginner forager, as wild garlic and sorrel arri e in the woodland These free greens are among the easiest to identify and add delicious a our to your sa oury dishes

This month, our in season produce pick is a dashing looking thing white eined red sturdy round leafy egetable and a welcome a our change to the root egetables broths, soups and stews we’ve been huddling around these ast few months, offering a nice transition to the fresher tasting food we associate with s ring

adicchio is sometimes known as Italian chicory as it’s part of the chicory species and is widely associated with Italy as its culti ation and de elo ment took lace in the north of the country in the early 1900s when agronomists de elo ed the techni ue called imbianchimento’ whitening

balancing This in ol es ulling the lant from the soil and lacing it in water and then in dark sheds to inhibit its chlorophyll production, causing it to lose the green igmentation and roduce the dark red, white eined lea es instead

There are a few varieties, shapes, sizes and colours that are produced in the UK as well as im orted arieties ook out for red wine and yellow to blush inks, some are s eckled with dark s ots, some with white eins and some e en resemble a mad curly wig The most commonly a ailable radicchio in su ermarkets now is the one often mistaken for a small red cabbage or lettuce; round, wine red with large white veins with leaves that, once they are pulled off, re eal a root the si e of a small hand The bitterness of a radicchio could be deemed as a little unsettling and isn’t to everyone’s taste however it unexpectedly pairs beautifully with soft cheese, like feta, goat’s cheese or burrata Ripple and shred into a salad, adding your cheese of choice, sliced ear or smoked fish for a fresh tangy salad lo e to gi e my radicchio the talian treatment by cho ing it into four uarters, seasoning with salt, and grilling or roasting in the oven for minutes which slightly mitigates any bitterness, and cris s u the edges This dish for me is com lete when you add soft cheese, curls of salty rosciutto ham, a dri le of good uality e tra irgin oil, and a handful of crushed pistachio nuts to the cris y grilled warm radicchio, For step-by-step recipes and inspiration, head over to Verity’s Instagram page @ ort eflavo r

Radicchio is often mistaken for a small red cabbage

© VERITY GENCO

FOOD JOURNEY

Coming to Toppings Booksellers on 13 April to talk and about her new cookbook Andaza: Food, Flavour & Freedom in the Pakistani Kitchen is the award-winning food writer, Sumayya Usmani. Her new recipebased memoir tells her foodie journey starting from the first eight years of her life which were spent at sea, with a father who captained merchant ships and a mother who preferred to cook for the family herself on a tiny electric stove in their cabin rather than eat in the officer’s mess. Her evocative and moving tale includes meaningful recipes from her childhood: Nani Mummy’s prawn karah, potatoes with curry leaves and turmeric; Mummy’s wedding-style chicken korma, bitter lemon, mustard seed and garlic pullao; and Dadi’s banana and fennel seed gulgulay doughnut – some of which will be available to taste during the evening. For more:

www. toppingbooks. co.uk

KITCHEN GRILL

Chef and recipe developer Emily Cameron on growing her Instagram community

Emily Cameron is a food content creator and recipe developer from Bath. In 2021, after working in marketing for a couple of years, Emily created Myriad Recipes; an online space to share tasty dishes inspired by foods from around the world, which now has an Instagram community of more than 350,000 followers. Emily also works as a chef at Noya’s Kitchen, the independent Vietnamese restaurant on St James’s Parade.

When did you fi rst become interested in food?

My dad’s job took us all over Europe as a child, so I was fortunate to experience a diverse range of cuisines early on. At university, there was a gentle transition from consumer to creator, where I gained a desire to experiment with a ours from around the world.

What’s the fi rst thing you remember making?

Sushi. My dad was taught how to make sushi while we were living in the Czech Republic (of all places!). When I was around six years old, it became a family tradition that every year on Christmas Eve, we would make sushi.

How did you get into Instagram?

I wanted to change jobs and become a recipe developer. I had no tangible experience, so I set up an Instagram account to demonstrate my passion for world foods. I never once thought it could be the start of my own business and career.

And what’s your secret to building such a large following?

Persistence and consistency. My goal wasn’t about growing fter fi e months of posting every day, I had less than 1,000 followers. If I’d stopped posting because I wasn’t growing, I never would have made it. I kept going because I enjoyed it.

What’s your desert island dish?

Ramen. It’s hydrating, filling and sim ly delicious

Best ever food memory?

Visiting the Great Wall of China. We were lodging at a homestay. The owner of the property served us an abundance of homecooked food from kung pao chicken, to pork and chive dumplings. The authenticity sang through the dishes, and that was the beginning of my obsession with Chinese food.

Your fail-safe, fast-food recipe?

My chipotle carbonara. It takes less than 20 minutes to whip up and is a personal favourite of mine.

Secret ingredient?

Mayonnaise. It adds a creamy richness to any dish.

Dinner party staple?

Artichoke dip. This is always a crowdpleaser!

Guilty pleasure?

ha e a soft s ot for the syru soaked filo pastry dessert, baklava.

And fi nally, where do you like to eat out in Bath?

I’m biased but Noya’s Kitchen of course! For more: www.myriadrecipes.com

Sumayya Usmani is visiting Toppings on 13 April

There will be food tastings during Sumayya’s talk

FILL YOUR BOOTS

Whatever you fancy when it comes to that perfect Sunday-lunch-and-a-good-walk mix, we have something to please – and all within walking distance of the centre

By Rachel Ifans

Whether you want to fill your boots a few ste s from town, row row row your roast by ath’s canal or ri er, or sit back and admire ath’s legendary iews, we ha e a delicious o tion for you and a suggestion of a walk too

CENTRAL PERK Green Park Brasserie

Location working train station until the s, reen ark has atmos here oo ing from its bricks The building looks ust like it would ha e done back in the day shut your eyes and you can see the holidaymaking ictorians ste ing off the trains and wandering off to e lore reen ark rasserie is right in the middle of town, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a nice route to walk off your roast wander to ueen uare, head u to the ircus, hang a left towards the oyal rescent and ictoria ark is your oyster Food The team at is serious about undays e ser e roast beef and chicken with orkshire udding, roast otatoes, honey gla ed carrots, cauli ower cheese, red cabbage and arsni s e get our meats from Terry on butchers, our steaks from ewton Farm and our wonderful egetables from ath Fruit and eg holesalers ontributing to the local economy is one of our moti ating factors, whether it’s buying local or creating obs for locals

Vibe There’s nothing like sauntering through the restaurant as if onday morning is a million miles away, with the sound of red wine corks o ing in the background and the aroma of rich gra y and cris y roast otatoes wafting around Roast boast e like to think we’re ery generous, es ecially with our orkshires

Details ening hours for unday roasts

m rices starters from , roasts from children’s from , desserts from Green Park Station; tel: 01225 338565; www.greenparkbrasserie.com

SKYLINE VIEW

The Bird

Location

The ird has an e cellent osition with the ec in the foreground, the bulk of the

bbey and the roo ine of the m ire otel ust behind, as well as the s ire of t ohn the angelist’s hurch in outh arade on the left and eechen liff looming large o that’s the iew but how do you en oy it while eating your roasties ell, the late nder The ird has a big outdoor s ace with erfectly laced dining domes from which to en oy the anorama good walk from here would take you u athwick ill, on to athwick Fields and through mallcombe emetery Food f you know The ird, you’ll know it has an energy, an urge to kee things fresh and to do things a bit differently, so the fact it has e cellent egetarian and egan o tions on the unday menu and its own eg garden shouldn’t be a sur rise e use local su liers for e erything and our o ig itchen arden at omewood su lies our egetable

TOP: The Green Park Brasserie team is serious about Sundays; ABOVE: Spot the pigs in blankets at The Bird

and herbs (and soon we’ll have honey from our bees!). It’s great that we can grow exactly what we want to put on the menu.”

Vibe “It’s super relaxed, the bar is open, the music is on, the cocktails and wines are owing ne thing we notice is that our guests are always chatting to each other! It’s like we’ve created our own little community, how cute is that?”

Roast boast “The ingredients are strong but I think our playfulness with the roasts is really special. Every week there will be something different, our lates are ibrant, our team is enthused… it’s a great place to be.”

Details ening hours for unday roasts m rices starters uds from , roasts from Plate under The Bird, Pulteney Road; tel: 01225 580438; www.thebirdbath.co.uk

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

Hare and Hounds

Location The Hare and Hounds is a hike up the hill but it’s worth it for the views. The big outdoor dining terrace was revamped during the andemic and re o ens in ril for al fresco food through spring and summer. If you start your walk in town, head out to Larkhall on the canal before turning up Charlcombe ane, cutting u o er the fields to nsleigh and loo ing back down to the ub etite guaranteed after that hill climb!

Food Three meats and a veggie option are on offer here e ser e roast rum of beef, slow roasted pork belly with crackling or traditional roast chicken, all of which are served with massive homemade Yorkshire puddings. For those who like a challenge, we have a giant sharing platter for two people or more; it comes with all three meats, trimmings and an added side of cauli ower cheese too ur meat is sourced from ristol based butcher, uby hite and our delicious eggies from the nearby French Garden.”

Vibe e are blessed with a lo ely ambience in our listed building, and this is complemented by the outstanding views. aired with the hubbub of our always busy unday ser ice, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Roast boast

“Incredible Yorkshire puddings, great quality meat and generous ortions igs in blankets and cauli ower cheese nough said Details ening hours for unday roasts

m m rices starters , roasts , uds

Lansdown Road; tel: 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com

CANAL LIFE

The Locksbrook Inn

Location Right on the side of the canal, this spacious yet cosy pub makes the most of its location. The large outdoor area has a view o er the eston ut canal, where it brie y lea es the i er on, and the terrace is

“A roast is about more than just the food”

TOP: Enough yorkies for all hares and hounds; ABOVE: Eat your greens at the Locksbrook Inn

covered by a lit, wooden-framed marquee. It’s erfect for a at there n’ back walk or cycle from town, and is an achie able distance for your two-legged and four-legged friends. Food ike sister ub The are and ounds the ocksbrook’s meat comes in fresh e ery day, directly from ristol based butchers uby hite and the eg is su lied by The French arden who carefully select the freshest seasonal ingredients from su liers in the outh est and France

e offer beef, ork, chicken and a egetarian s inach, lentil and s uash wellington, all of which are a ailable gluten and or dairy free on re uest The wellington is also available as vegan option. All are served with homemade roast otatoes, orkshire pudding, a carrot and swede purée, roast parsnips, spiced red cabbage and seasonal greens ou can also add a side of igs in blankets or our indulgent cauli ower cheese to share

Vibe undays are li ely and bustling e pride ourselves on providing a welcoming, relaxed and informal family-friendly atmos here our four legged friends are also welcome in our restaurant and can enjoy some doggy treats from the bar

Roast boast aking a roast is a labour of love and lots of time-consuming preparation goes into bringing it together t is about more than ust the food, it is a time for eo le to get together and en oy each other’s com any and we ro ide the erfect lace for that

Details ening hours for unday roasts m m rices roasts from 103 Locksbrook Road; tel: 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com

DOWN BY THE RIVER

The Bathwick Boatman

Location iners whether they are locals or isitors to ath ra e about the oatman’s location t’s something about the ro imity to town combined with the green banks and ri er iew either from a table on the terrace or through the numerous windows , the cosiness of the wooden boathouse ibe and the ability to watch eo le ha e fun on the ri er The walks around here are a no brainer there’s a lo ely route which goes along the ennet and on canal to atham ton and loo s back o er atham ton eadows Food The oatman offers shoulder of lamb with mint sauce, to side of beef and horseradish sauce, roast loin shoulder of ork with a le sauce and roast free range chicken breast as well as tasty eggie o tions like lentils and beans in astry ur ortions are generous and the food is well sourced, re ared and cooked by our team ccording to feedback, eo le say our gra y is su er tasty, the orkshires are fantastic and the broccoli mornay is legendary Vibe “We pride ourselves on a very warm welcome eo le talk about there being a ery s ecial atmos here in the oatman, something that is thanks to our lo ely team of ser ice and kitchen staff and their genuine assion and loyalty

Roast boast There’s nowhere like The oatman on a unday unch There’s so much to see from swimming dogs to paddleboarders, tourist boats and rowers –and we lo e the ri er community Details ening hours for unday roasts m m last orders bookings

rices courses courses

child’s courses

Forester Road; tel: 01225 428844; www.bathwickboatman.com

OFF THE LINEAR WAY

The Moorfields

Location ot so much as off the beaten track, but off the inear ay in ldfield ark, and comes with a huge ser ing of that lo ely local feeling There’s a large ub garden and newly reno ated outside bar, and there’s no need to book if you’re eating in the garden our walk from here has to be the Two Tunnels ath, the four mile stretch of disused railway line that lea es the city behind and s its you out in dense woodland where you can ootle back down to Widcombe.

Food The oorfields offers a selection of meat, vegetarian and vegan options including, beef, ork belly with cris y crackling, free range chicken su reme with a ork and sage stu ng, as well as egan nut roast with egan cauli ower cheese

Vibe e are always busy which gi es the ub a lovely buzz, but we also pride ourselves on giving a unique and personal level of service which ensures the ub doesn’t lose any of its homely charm

Roast boast ur skilled kitchen team takes ride in the finer details e use fresh herbs and s ices to com lement our roast to add a de th of additional a our and te ture

Details ening hours for unday roasts

m m rices starters , roasts , udding

T e oor e ds T ird ven e d e d ar te www t emoor e ds om

The Bathwick Boatman has a very special location by the River Avon

“The Boatman’s broccoli mornay is legendary”

BATH SPA HOTEL

We o er a choice of four meeting rooms and the largest can accommodate up to 120 delegates. Our meeting rooms feature natural lighting and exible room layouts so you can make the most of our spacious areas. Our dedicated team will o er impeccable support during your event, working with you to ensure its success. Plus, when you choose Bath Spa Hotel for business, you'll also have the choice of 131 luxurious bedrooms, free Wi-Fi access and complimentary onsite car parking. Please contact Benice on events.bathspa@macdonald-hotels.co.uk or 01225 476 892 for more information.

SHOPPING

EGG & SWOON

This is an egg cup you can be proud of. Designed by ceramicist Hannah Turner, it has been inspired by a Sri Lankan antique carving, but also by the bird life once local to the artist. Hannah, who now lives in Bradford on Avon, used to live in Corsham where the legendary peacocks can often be found preening and strutting around the streets. Peacock egg cup by Hannah Turner, £24, www.hannahturner.co.uk

RABBIT EGG CUP, £16.95

Delicately handpainted, this adorable ceramic egg cup is the perfect gift for any animal lover. From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

BLACK TOAST SET OF 3 EGG CUPS BOXED, £34

SUNNY SIDE UP!

SET OF SIX FELT OEUF DECORATIONS, £25

Whisk together a fabulous Easter display with these whimsical blue eggs crafted from felt and lightweight foam. From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

In the distinctive black lettering design by Emma Bridgewater, these egg cups spell out exactly what’s for breakfast. Stockists Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

These egg-centric accessories make the perfect Easter gifts

EASTER EGGS GREETINGS CARD, £3

A beautifully illustrated greetings card designed by Hutch, a husband and wife duo, and comes complete with Kraft brown envelope. from Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com

EGG STACK, £39

These six stackable boiled egg and salt mini boards are perfect for eggy pairings. Crafted by Bruun, they are responsibly sourced and use sustainably grown English ash. From Clarence Court; www.clarenceboutique.co.uk

OLNEY EGG CUPS, SET OF 6

This set of six Olney cups is decorated with a 19th century spongeware pottery inspired, thistle pattern. rom e t ne ne Tram ard a ot treet at www ne t ne om

DUO OF CARAMEL FILLED DRIPPY EGGS, £8.99

We had to have chocolate eggs somewhere of course! This smashing duo of elgian chocolate eggs filled with a thick, gooey, caramel centre, is from the Rode chocolate makers. rom o on o www o on o o

OLIVE WOOD EGG CUP, £8

Created by Aarven, these wooden egg cups are hand carved in Kenya from sustainable wild olive wood. rom ome ront Interiors ar aret s i din at www ome rontinteriors o

PAPER EGG DECORATION, £2.50

Paper decoration which folds out to form a honeycomb effect egg, with a yellow ribbon for hanging. rom ine ar i i som treet at www vine ar i o

EGG: THE VERY BEST RECIPES INSPIRED BY THE SIMPLE EGG , £22

A collection of 90 fabulous recipes inspired by one of the most simple, versatile, nutritious and convenient natural foods—the egg.

vai a e to order rom T e d e d ar oo s o oor and oad at www t eo d e d ar oo s o o

Introducing Hook & Eye

The premier alterations tailoring business in the heart of Bath, offering expert alterations and made-to-order pieces. Founded by Rosie, a passionate and experienced seamstress, Hook & Eye values sustainability and quality craftsmanship over fast fashion.

Whether you need your favourite outfit altered for a special occasion or want a custom-made garment that perfectly fits your body shape and style, Rosie and her team can help you achieve your vision. And the best part? Hook & Eye offers fittings in the comfort of your own home, so you can enjoy a hassle-free, personalised experience.

Please get in touch to book a fitting at your convenience on 07851 348578 or visit our website: www.hookandeyetailoring.com

: Whatley’s spacious spa benefits from an indoor/outdoor

TAKE 5

Sarah Baker e eriences a blissful fi e ste Sothys facial at Whatley Manor

It’s been a while since had a full s a e erience which is ridiculous given that I live in Bath, but there we are The long wait did, howe er, mean that the minute dri e to Malmesbury was the perfect e citement builder ahead of a few hea enly hours out of town can’t really think of a bad time to go to a s a but, as we emerge from the winter months, March seems like the perfect time to spring clean both the mind and body

Whatley Manor is a country manor house set in acres of otswold countryside, described, on its website, as a grown u getaway’ a stately address with contem orary comforts’ es lease, thought as dro e towards it The s acious s a has a thermal suite and an indoor outdoor hydrothera y ool all designed to ma imise the benefits from the hotel’s scenic iew and surroundings

n , the uarius a announced a new spa-wellness partnership with multi award winning French salon brand othys, which sees them offer a collection of results dri en skincare treatments othys is an eco res onsible family run brand which uses acti e ingredients from its famed es ardins The othys arden and is fa oured by the best beauty institutes, clinics and s as

I chose the Sothys Youth Intensive Treatment; a 90-minute facial using their Tricom le T affron so hora e tides system, which romises to be lifting, firming, and restoring t was a romise made good

The treatment room had attering mood lighting and was a beautiful fuss-free space that felt comfortable, roomy and cosy all at once y lo ely therapist was – like the space –wonderfully uiet, and en oyed no mundane chat about weather or holidays and really rela ed into the eaceful and indulgent hour and a half

The facial consisted of the othys honed, fi e ste rocess which uses eight of their s ecific formulas with all this magic at work, I felt the £140 price tage was definitely going to be good alue

The main event was the ‘multi-mask’, which is a serum like mask that is ainted on and then followed by a thick gau e The gau e stretches o er the face and under the chin and then another thicker cream like mask is a lied which focuses on the chin and dreaded owl All this felt a little strange but it wasn’t in any way uncomfortable, and it became e ident afterwards that my skin had lifted as a result

The mask was receded by the best facial massage ha e e er had a diligently skilled working of all the facial muscles promoting lym hatic drainage, massaging of lines and wrinkles and a neck and shoulder massage which created a feeling of dee and intense rela ation t was sim ly delicious, and the entire treatment left me looking and feeling like ’d had a dee and long slee all unch drunk and drowsy and not dissimilar to that summer holiday, ost ool side state y skin was s arkling and glowing and saw e ident tightening across the bottom half of my face

The time, of course, assed far too uickly but my treatment ended with a cu of a anese tea in a uiet area of the s a, with the smell of the hydro ool wafting o er to me time for a uick di y this time, it was dusk, so got to see the sunset from the inside outside ool and drink in the otswold iew left feeling and looking like ’d had a ro er mini break rela ed, restored, and re u enated

For more: Aquarias Spa at Whatley Manor, Malmesbury, Wiltshire; www.whatleymanor.com

LEFT

hydrotherapy pool; BELOW: The Sothys Youth Intensive Treatment is a five-step process; INSET: Sothys is an eco-responsible family-run brand that uses active ingredients from its famed Les Jardins – The Sothys Garden

“My skin was sparkling and withglowing evident tightening”

GO WITH THE FLOW

A whole new world awaits on a river cruise holiday

By Jo Fee and Rachel Ifans

A typical floating community on the Mekong river

The Saint-Georges footbridge on the banks of the Saône in Lyon

The parliament building on Danube river in Budapest

The idea of mega boats, round-theworld trips and (deep breath) ballroom dancing may turn you off, but that doesn’t mean that cruising isn’t for you. Exploring the world via inland waterways rather than skirting a coastline can give you a more immersive and intimate experience, and cruising by river also means smaller boats (with just the same level of luxury), great access, relaxation and even a bit of romance. After all, there’s something so therapeutic about being on water, es ecially when finding your sea legs isn’t a consideration!

e’ e icked fi e ri er regions in uro e but also further afield in wonderful ietnam, so sit back and imagine yourself on deck, sundowner in hand watching the vineyards/ mud huts/cathedrals/hills/bridges (delete as appropriate) pass by…

THE DANUBE

River deep, mountain high, as Ike and Tina Turner sang, and they were right when it comes to the Danube which runs through countries like Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary among others and cuts through incredible landscapes on the way.

The Danube really is a monster of a river; it first s rings u in the town of onaueschingen in ermany’s lack Forest, and then ows southeast for 1,785 miles, connecting 10 countries, before reaching the Black Sea at ulina in eastern omania t ows through four capital cities –Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade – which is more than any other river in the world.

Vienna is probably the most famous spot along the Danube and it’s a real feast for the senses; seeing its impressive imperial architecture, listening to the wonderful music of Beethoven, Brahms and an entire family of Strausses and, of course, tasting and smelling those wonderful Viennese cakes.

THE DOURO

You won’t forget the drama of Portugal’s Douro river in a hurry. The views from the boat are a mix of ancient banks, which are covered with peaceful terraces where olives, almonds and grapes are cultivated, and dramatic cliffs, medie al walled illages and fine ineyards

Like much of Portugal’s countryside, the regions around the Douro have remained very

much unspoilt through the centuries. The river is 557 miles long and forms part of the border between Spainand Portugal, its narrow canyons having made it a barrier to invasions throughout history, and an enduring cultural and linguistic divide.

For the oenophiles out there, wine is always close at hand on the Douro and there are plenty of opportunities to try out local favourites like sparkling Raposeira of historic Lamego, the rosé of Mateus Palace, or the Port wine, still trodden by foot, that’s a large part of the history of Oporto.

THE RHINE

The Rhine has quite a rep when it comes to river cruising. Wending its way 766 miles from the Swiss Alps to Rotterdam in The Netherlands, the majestic Rhine is one of Europe’s greatest international waterways. Enshrined in the culture and literature of the six countries through which it passes, no other river in the world has so many old and famous cities on its banks.

Variety is the spice of life on the Rhine and there’s never a dull moment as you glide past dense forests or between towering cliff sides, craning your neck to spot the precarious ruins of castles perched on top that once extracted tolls from passing mariners.

Later on, as you take a pause from your well-thumbed book or sip from a cold beer, you might see steep vineyards clinging to the hillsides where Riesling or Gewürztraminer wines are produced, pretty waterfronts of riverside towns, delightful stone quaysides,

spectacular locks or even Oxbow lakes that have long ago run dry and now form wonderful havens for bird life.

THE MEKONG

Two of the most beautiful, historic and friendly places in Asia – Vietnam and Cambodia – are fascinating places to visit, particularly from your base right in the middle of the action, on the world-famous Mekong river. Both countries brim with charm and traditions and it’s fascinating to learn more about their tragic and complex pasts.

Ho Chi Minh City is a whirlwind of a city to visit, but utterly unmissable if you’re after a real view of Vietnamese city life. Once you’re done with sightseeing, hop on the boat and e erience the ekong’s colourful oating villages and communities. Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s thriving capital, is also on route, as is colourful Siem Reap which provides a gateway to the vast UNESCO-designated jungle temple complex of Angkor Wat.

THE RHÔNE AND SAÔNE

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gauguin on a journey through southern France by river. If you love France but have spent much time there on land, in cities or at the seaside, the perspective you’ll get from the ri er is entirely different and refreshing

This is your opportunity to cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying the regions’ incomparable wine and cuisine and discovering their many treasures.

If life’s feeling a bit sedentary on deck, there are lenty of o tions to work off all that French food: grab a kayak and paddle up the nearby Gardon River and under the UNESCOdesignated Pont du Gard; hike the steepest vineyards on the Rhône; and pedal through Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, where the a ne meets the hone before it ows off to the mediterranean via the Camargue.

Down south, you can stroll the beautiful streets of Arles, made famous by Van Gogh, visit Avignon’s majestic Palace of the Popes, and go back in time at medieval Viviers. For more: www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk

A river view of Basel’s old town and its famous Münster cathedral

Surrounded by vineyards on the Douro in Portugal

JERSEY JOYS

Sarah Moolla explores the charming, and also intriguing, Jersey shores

CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: The harbourside in St Helier; evening views of the Atlantic Hotel in St Brelade; the lighthouse of La Corbière; the hotel sits in six acres of beautiful grounds

TRAVELLERS’ CHECKS

Air Decker – operates hourly between Bath bus station and Bristol Airport costing £22 for an adult return; www.airdecker.com

Blue Islands airline – operates daily flights between Bristol Airport and Jersey, slightly less during off-pack season, with prices starting at £47.99; www.blueislands.com

The Atlantic Hotel – a luxury hotel nestled in the west side of the island in the parish of St Brelade with tennis courts, swimming pool, spa and fine dining. It adjoins the La Moye championship golf course and overlooks the unspoilt conservation area of Les Mielles. Prices start at £144 per room; www.theatlantichotel.com

Taste Jersey – a series of foodie events showcasing the finest of the island’s cuisine runs until 9 May; www.tastejersey.co.uk

Potatoes. Cows. And Bergerac. That would’ve been my word association with Jersey before visiting. Now my words are – restorative, beautiful, and not that far from Bath. Like really, in less than three hours, we were door to fi e star door. It’s taken me longer to cook a roast with Jersey Royals than it has to hop over the hannel for this get away from it all break

It starts with an Air Decker bus from opposite the bus station we figured why bother with petrol costs and parking charges when we could sit atop a double decker reading our Jersey travel guides and be at the airport in just over an hour. Plus there’s the added bonus of feeling a little bit carbon off setting’ smug

The slick and comfy lue slands ight from Bristol Airport to Jersey claimed to be an hour but was nearer to 40 minutes, and then the taxi to the hotel took less than 20 minutes.

We arrive at the Atlantic Hotel around m, and we’re in a Friday night mood so we head to the bar. “What time do you stay open til?” we ask. “How ever long you want us to,” is the cheery reply. This is our kind of place. Along with our drinks, we order ‘raising the bar’ bar snacks of Jersey oysters on ice with lemon, tabasco, and red wine shallots; whitebait with Bloody Mary mayonnaise; and crispy pig’s ear strips served with apple sauce.

Everything about Jersey and our stay at the Atlantic Hotel turns out to be our kind of lace There’s a laid back ibe with all the ease of British holiday but with Gallic whispers of the exotic. The hotel, slightly tucked away in the more secluded west part of the island, has an old school glamour in an gatha hristie, art deco kind of way – from the polished baby grand iano in the light filled shiny lobby to the white lantation style shutters, and from the soothing sight of the indoor goldfish to the bold and im ressi e local art ieces adding ourish and interest. Our smallish but beautifully appointed room comes with its own balcony and the immaculate bathroom comes with luxe Molton Brown toiletries. Best of all is the swee ing iew of t uen’s bay, and the si acres of grounds below. And if you like golf, the impressive La Moye Golf Course founded in 1902 borders the hotel.

nother best of all is the staff they are all without e ce tion, another le el lo ely friendly without being over familiar, funny without being in your face, and slick without being obsequious. How the management recruit and train their staff should be a secret shared because this is the best hotel service we had ever experienced by a country mile.

The next day, after fuelling up on the su erb and aried breakfast offering, we’re off exploring and take the steep picturesque path down to the long, rugged coastline. We’re here on a grey, windswept weekend in early February The tlantic closes for anuary to allow staff to have a proper break which could go some way to explaining their upbeat demeanour) and despite being advised us we should come back

GREAT ESCAPES

in the summer when the surfers are hanging ten, the sun is in full force, and the sandy beaches shine golden, we’re actually loving the slightly stark and moody landscape. As we walk along the beach we spot the landscape is studded with a i built defences including tunnels and observation towers – a fascinating and also unner ing reminder of ersey’s fi e year period under German occupation during World War II. It gives this tiny island, nine miles by fi e, a oignant de th and history worth learning more about.

That e ening we dine in the award winning 4 AA Rosette Ocean Restaurant and opt for ‘celebration menu’ and yes there’s a lot to celebrate in this imaginative and perfectly executed collection of dishes created by chef Will Holland, originally from Bristol. If we had to pick one dish, take it home with us, and dine on it for the rest of our lives, it would be the Jersey lobster and scallop mouselline ravioli with buttered leeks, lobster bisque, English caviar, and leek oil. Heavenly doesn’t even come close.

The next day it’s a bus ride to St Helier with the ticket costing just £2 (or £8 for a day pass). t’s an effortless and cost effecti e way to absorb the Jersey sights. It’s also worth noting if you’d prefer to explore by car or bike, the islanders drive on the right, meaning no roundabout panic necessary.

Even though we’re here on a Sunday and many of the more interesting indie shops are closed, it is definitely worth the tri t may not be the most beautiful of capitals but St Helier is where a third of the island residents live – just over 35,000 – and it’s not without its charm including the Old Harbour and the marina, and the low tide walk along the causeway to the sprawling 16th century Elizabeth Castle.

There’s lots we didn’t get to see including the Durrell Wildlife Park and the Jersey War Tunnels, but now we know the ease of the journey, we are already planning our return to explore more of these Jersey shores.

KNEW JERSEY?

7 did-you-know facts about Jersey

• Jersey sits 14 miles from the French coast and 85 miles off the coast of England.

• Jersey is the biggest of the eight Channel Islands. The others are Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, Brecqhou, Herm, and Jethou which has a population of three.

• Until the Battle of Hastings in 1066, the Channel Islands formed part of the Duchy of Normandy.

• Jérrais was the language of the islanders, along with French and English. During the German occupation in World War II it was used as a way of secretly communicating, but is rarely spoken now.

• The actress Lillie Langtry was born on Jersey in 1853. She lived in London and America, and died in Monaco in 1929. Her body was shipped back to Jersey to be buried at St. Saviour’s Church.

FROMTHETOP: One of many coastal paths to the beach; the food is award winning in the 4 AA Rosette Ocean Restaurant; the beautiful lobby of the Atlantic Hotel

SCHOOL GUIDE VICTORIA BOND

School’s out

The rise of virtual academies and schools where pupils click and collect GCSEs

March brings an exhale on a national scale for many parents. Secondary school places are confirmed, and bla ers are bought with great expectations. For some families, however, the move may not work – or they may already know that a traditional academic environment, bound up with national curriculum red ta e and a one si e fits all testing system, won’t suit their child.

Historically, the only accessible alternative was homeschooling but there is a third way, and it’s growing in popularity.

Virtual schools that combine the experience of attending a bricks and mortar school with the e ibility of homeschooling are fuelling the estimated 75 per cent rise in the number of children

PICK OF THE CLICKS

Minerva Virtual (12 – 18 years)

With multiple national business and education awards to their name, Minerva has ‘handpicked the best teachers from across the UK’ and publishes impressive exam results.

www.minervavirtual.com

Kings InterHigh (7 – 18 years)

This school boasts 16 years of

being home educated since 2021. The new breed of online schools are a million miles away from the scrabble to cope with learning via computer screens during lockdown.

An ad for one such school popped up on my Insta feed recently and didn’t look out of place among the restaurants and spring fashion. The headline was ‘School, reimagined’ and it was sprinkled with parent-pleasing phrases like ‘effortlessly e ible’ and more affordable than private school’. I looked at the website and the testimonials had a different kind of e halation “Thank you for giving me my child back, wrote one Finally my daughter is motivated to learn again, added another

I’ve seen a real shift since the pandemic in parents wanting

a greater choice of schools that focus on wellbeing and offer teachers who ha e time to ‘get’ their child, as well as get them through their exams. Virtual schools with their small class sizes, 1:2:1 mentoring schemes and wealth of afterschool clubs – yes, after-school clubs –seem to have many of the benefits of an independent school education but with a more palatable price tag. Fees start at around £4,000 per year for lower secondary (Years 7-9) compared to upwards of £5,000 per term.

clinical psychologist and author of School’s Out: The Arguments for SelfDirected Education decided several years before the pandemic that school wasn’t the best place for her children to learn. She told me:

“Many children do find the right school, and settle in happily. For some children, it just doesn’t fit

experience in online education and has over 10,000 alumni.

www.kingsinterhigh.co.uk

Harrow School Online (16 – 18)

Yes, that Harrow School. Britain’s most academically successful online school offers the brightest homeschoolers access to a truly global sixth form.

www.harrowschoolonline.org

Advocates say that highly focused online classes teach twice as effecti ely in half the time, and it’s no surprise that many young actors and future sports stars are enrolled. Certainly many of the children I know who are most successfully learning online have a passion beyond the virtual school gates that gives them plenty of real-life contact with other children.

Virtual schools can also be a good option for so-called school refusers. Naomi Fisher, leading

Naomi writes with real warmth and insight about making proactive choices for children who may need a different approach to learning including homeschooling, moving to selfdirected learning centres (discover options via the social enterprise Progressive Education) or online school. She suggests we start to think of alternative learning options as families choosing to step in to something positive rather than thinking of it as our children dropping out

Victoria Bond is the founder and CEO of School Guide, an easy-to-use website that helps parents explore the best schools in the area including catchment maps and parent reviews. For more: www.schoolguide.co.uk

“There is an estimated 75 per cent rise in the number of children being home educated since 2021”

The options virtual schools offer, including smaller class sizes, are on a par to independent school education

BATH WORKS

On balance

The hugely successful ReBalance wellbeing festival is due to return next year

The Bath Business Improvement District (BID), founder and organiser of ReBalance Bath held in February, is celebrating the success of the city’s first wellbeing festival and has announced its return in 2024.

ith o er e ents and acti ities on offer as part of the three-week programme, and more than 70 businesses and wellness practitioners taking part, the inaugural wellbeing festival has been seen as a win for the city and will be back next year, 25 January – 18 February 2024.

BID chief executive, Allison Herbert, says, “Our main priority was to support businesses at a normally quiet time, but we have been absolutely delighted with the response and interest in the festival not just from businesses but also from residents, workers in the city and isitors coming from much further afield to experience ReBalance Bath.

“We look forward to reviewing and developing the programme for 2024, while we will continue to promote wellness events organised by Bath BID levy payers across the rest of the year via the BID’s digital channels: the Welcome To

Bath website, our social media platforms, and Rebalance Bath’s Instagram.”

Highlights and sold-out events of ReBalance 2023 included the festival ambassador Amy Williams’s Talent to Triumph book talk at Topping Booksellers; Aqua Sana sessions at the Thermae Bath Spa; hand massages at Molton Brown; spiritual meditation at Bath Abbey; yoga in The Chapel at The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel; bath bomb making at Lush; and a Voya skincare evening and kitchen garden tours at THE PIG near Bath.

For more: www.welcometobath.co.uk

ReBalance Bath Festival events, such as Bex Langford’s yoga classes at the Roman Baths, proved to be a big business boost for the city

FULL SPEED AHEAD

Bath Life Business Club are hosting James Lowther, CEO of Truespeed at their next lunch at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa on 24 April.

James will share insights into his career including his appointment as Truespeed CEO in December 2021 to lead the company through its next phase of expansion.

With a wealth of senior telecoms experience, James has a proven track record of leading businesses through significant hases of growth and was i otal in securing Truespeed’s second £100million tranche of funding. For more: www.mediaclash.co.uk

SILVER SERVICE

Jennifer Power, a mathematics PhD student at the University of Bath, has won silver at a maths competition in the House of Commons.

Jennifer’s work focuses on optimising radiotherapy cancer treatments. She presented her research to dozens of politicians and a panel of expert judges, as part of the poster competition Stem for Britain, on 6 March. Her research was judged against 19 other shortlisted researchers’ work and emerged as one of the three winners.

Jennifer says, “Winning feels surreal but I’m really leased my efforts to communicate science clearly ha e been rewarded.

“Science communication is so important – it’s vital that we work to bridge the gap between academia and the public, so that we can limit misinformation and continue to s read awareness of significant research

For more: www.bath.ac.uk

BOULES AND THE GANG

Bath Boules, the major fundraiser in the heart of the city which sees businesses, residents and isitors get together and now in its rd year, has o cially been launched. Team tickets went on sale 14 March and this year’s contest will take place between 29 June and1 July in Queen Square in the city centre. There are also opportunities to guarantee a place by becoming a Big Boules or Little Boules onsor or a artner to learn more, contact kate gri ths mediaclash co uk

To date, Bath Boules has raised more than £775,000 for many local charities. For more: www.bathboules.com

Left to right Christopher Hickey (bronze), Arkady Wey (gold), and Jennifer Power (silver)

Hear James Lowther talk business on 24 April

Hooray! Bath Boules has launched!

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

DIRECT ACTION

Former head of accounts and business services, Rachael Rackham has been appointed to the role of director to the Richardson Swift leadership team. She has worked with the ath based firm of chartered accountants and tax advisers for over seven years.

Managing director Debbie Boulton says, “Rachael’s great strength is developing client relationships and working with the team to ensure continued high standards of service delivery. She brings energy and great people skills to the board.”

www.richardsonswift.co.uk

WITH HONOUR

Bath Spa University has awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education to Russell Hobby CBE, CEO of the education charity, Teach First. On accepting at a ceremony at Bath Forum on 30 January Russell said, “Our university partners have played a key role throughout Teach First’s history, supporting our recruits to become the best teachers and leaders they can be and challenging us to provide the best possible start to their careers.”

www.bathspa.ac.uk

ACCOUNTED FOR

onahans, the inde endent firm of chartered accountants and business advisers in the South West, has appointed two new directors in the Trowbridge o ce ecky oung was promoted to director in January after 22 years in the industry. Becky’s promotion will allow managing partner Simon Tombs, also based in Trowbridge, to focus on leading the growth strategy for the practice.

www.monahans.co.uk

NETWORK HUB

Thirty self-service tablets, which are free to use with a library membership card, have been installed at Bath & North East Somerset Council’s three main libraries, Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton. The Samsung tablets, aka the ‘Hublets’, are for use only within the library and provide free internet browsing, access to e-books, newspapers and magazines and other library apps.

Residents with a Libraries West membership can scan their card at the docking station and a Hublet will be released for them to use. The tablets are ideal for people who are new to using

touch-screen technology and will help more people to access digital services.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for hildren and oung eo le, and Communities, says, “Not everyone is able to access the internet at home, so the Hublets will make sure digital library content, information on council services and e-learning is available to all our residents.

“The devices are simple to use and we hope they will break down barriers for eo le who might not be confident in using touch-screen technology.”

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

Rachael Rackham

Councillor Dine Romero at Bath Central Library with a Hublet

Becky Young

Russell Hobby

BATHWORKS

CAREER PATHS

Melissa Holt

How did you get into jewellery?

Jewellery and history have both been passions of mine from a young age so I always knew that I wanted to create something to bring those together. I feel very lucky that I have been able to forge a career doing something that I love, and that brings so much joy to people. I have added to my experience by studying gemmology and am a ualified diamond grader

Why did you choose to specialise in antique and vintage?

There are many things I love about antique and vintage jewellery. Each piece is unique and handmade to the finest uality, each iece is stee ed in history and allows us to glimpse into the past, and it is the most sustainable choice. Even with modern mining techniques, around 250 tonnes of earth has to be mo ed to find one carat of diamonds, so choosing antique jewellery helps to protect delicate ecosystems from being lost.

You also have your own collection. Can you tell us more about that?

I decided to create my own vintageinspired collection of engagement

rings using specially sourced original old cut diamonds and recycled metals. Each piece is designed by me, paying attention to beautiful features you see on antique rings. So far we have Eliza, a real Art Deco inspired design with tapering baguette diamond shoulders and Florence, a soft and romantic setting with trefoil diamond set shoulders. I am also working on some new designs which will be launching in 2023.

Have you always had your own collection and a vintage/antique collection or did one develop out of the other?

We started with antique and vintage pieces and particularly loved that they were all unique. However, many clients would ask if we could recreate some of those designs or take elements from them, and so we had the idea to create our own range of vintage inspired rings. It has always been important to us that we continue the tradition of quality and craftsmanship so we only make a few pieces at a time.

Is there a difference between antique and vintage pieces? There is an old rule that to be

considered antique a piece has to be over 100 years old. Pieces between 50 and 100 years old are generally considered vintage, and anything after that is called retro. It is usually possible to date jewellery that isn’t hallmarked by its design, the way it has been made or by the materials it uses.

Do you have a favourite era or style for jewellery?

My favourite often changes but at the moment I am loving the Art Deco era. I think the Art Deco movement was such a dramatic shift in style from before which must have felt so modern, and it used materials like latinum for the first time in ewellery I’m drawn towards the linear designs and geometric shapes, and just love imagining those pieces being worn at parties and glamorous events during the roaring 1920s.

When did you set up Holts Jewellery, and how it has it developed?

In 2013, when I was in my early twenties, my now-husband and I founded Holts Jewellery from a small shop in North Devon. We wanted to focus on providing a curated selection

of antique and vintage jewellery with exceptional personal service.

e ha e e ol ed and grown to offer more services like bespoke wedding rings, our own collection of vintage inspired jewellery and connected with other passionate jewellery lovers from all over the world through our social channels. In 2022, we moved Holts Jewellery to its new home in beautiful Bath providing more space and convenience for clients to visit us in person.

Can you tell us why the appointment structure works better for you than having a shopfront?

When I created Holts Jewellery, I recognised that the purchase of a key piece of jewellery, such as an engagement or wedding ring, is a really important moment in people’s lives and wanted to create a space where people would feel relaxed and informed about their choices. By providing our clients with a private appointment, we hope that they feel comfortable and that they can enjoy the process.

What can clients expect when they visit you?

Our new showroom is entered through a gorgeous Georgian townhouse in Laura Place, Bath with its beautiful central fountain and famous view down Great Pulteney Street.

On arrival, clients are welcomed into our lu urious and light filled showroom, and served a choice of refreshments to enjoy during their visit. We will then share our curated selection of jewellery and tailor the appointment to our clients’ needs, whether this be to discuss the practicalities of owning and caring for a piece of antique jewellery, or guiding them through the ualities of different gemstones. It really is about providing a personal service for each client.

For more: Holts Jewellery, 10 Laura Place, Bath; www.holtsjewellery.co.uk

The Bath-based jeweller on her love of history, new designs, and the difference between antique and vintage

“I FOUNDED HOLTS JEWELLERY FROM A SMALL SHOP IN NORTH DEVON”

EMPOWERING YOUNG CARERS TO REACH THEIR POTENTIAL

The Young Carers Development Trust was created following the incredibly low statistics of young carers in West Wiltshire accessing higher and further education. Today we operate across the South-West and beyond, with webinars that reach across the UK.

We aim to inspire and nurture young carers to achieve their potential. Our approach is to work with local young carers services to identify young carers with real potential who are unlikely to succeed without targeted support. We empower young carers to strive for ambitious goals, to advance in life and to become active, inspiring role models for others from backgrounds similar to their own.

Young carers are at the centre of everything YCDT do, from involving them in the future direction of the charity to ensuring we have Trustees and staff with first-hand experience of life as a young carer.

“It’s been really nice to have someone to talk to and get advice from outside of my family. It’s good to know there’s someone there just for me”

Tilly shares her experience of working with her Development Mentor.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. I know I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for YCDT”

Sammy

Tech Sponsor:

AT WORK THE CITY

MEET THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING THE CITY BUZZ

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS INTO LOCAL BUSINESSES

WELCOME

Meet the shining stars of Bath’s professional services community, from creative directors to financial e erts who hel your wealth grow, and myriad other rofessions in between ork hard, lay hard, so the mantra goes ut how do you make sure all your hard work ays off, allowing you to rea the rewards of your labours Talk to an e ert, of course and to make the choice easier, o er the following ages you’ll find a cross section of the cr me de la cr me of the city’s rofessionals, who can hel you get your life in order

SOLICITORS AND LEGAL SERVICES

BATTENS SOLICITORS

Tell us a little about the firm attens is a full ser ice law firm with a 300 year old heritage in the South West. We have staff based at si o ces in omerset and orset, including our ath o ce which is located in the city centre. Our specialist team in ath offer a broad range of commercial legal ad ice, focused on commercial ro erty, cor orate and commercial ad ice, intellectual ro erty, trade marks and media law

Who are the firm’s key leaders/founders and managers?

The firm was founded by the atten family years ago young new management team of long-standing senior solicitors of the firm took o er the running of com any in with ambitious plans for further growth and e ansion eri te hens, a specialist Planning lawyer is the anaging irector with hairman eter i ingstone, s ecialising in is ute Resolution.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

The new management team has recently launched a modern and easy to use website which is mobile friendly and client friendly. Battens has also undergone a rebranding, with brighter bolder colours and a new logo which re ects our rogressi e com any alues n u dated case management system has also im ro ed the e cient delivery of our client focused services.

What makes working in Bath special?

t is a ri ilege to work in one of uro e’s most beautiful cities, but ath is also a modern and ibrant commercial centre e are a egal com any with s ecialist lawyers who work closely with a broad range of media, tech and ro erty based com anies, ro iding cor orate and technical acumen to hel them succeed in a fast mo ing commercial world

For more: 0800 652 8373; battens.co.uk

ELM LEGAL SERVICES

Tell us a little about the firm ince the year , egal Services has earned a reputation as a reliable ro ider of ills and estate lanning ser ices resently, our organisation em loys a dedicated team of eighteen rofessionals e take great ride in offering sim le and cost effecti e solutions to eo le’s estate lanning needs, enabling them to secure the future of their loved ones and attain eace of mind

Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?

alues the im ortance of maintaining a healthy work life balance for its em loyees To achie e this, the com any offers half day Fridays and two weeks off during the hristmas eriod to allow staff members to s end more time with their lo ed ones dditionally, the director is keen on su orting rofessional de elo ment by ro iding funding for further education upon request.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

ne of the key differentiators of from its com etitors is that it offers both home isits and online consultations to cater to the diverse needs of its clients oreo er, the

firm ro ides a free initial meeting where clients can discuss their s ecific re uirements and ask any uestions before committing to a full a ointment

What challenges are your clients facing?

rafting one’s ast ill Testament can be a di cult to ic to address since it involves a sensiti e sub ect that many eo le tend to a oid dditionally, e ensi e solicitor fees and com licated legal terminologies can further discourage people from re aring these im ortant documents aims to sim lify the rocess and make it more affordable so clients can attain eace of mind knowing that their assets and loved ones are protected.

Tell us about the firm’s commitments and policies for sustainability. is committed to sustainability and su orting the local community through its partnership with the Bristol nimal escue entre The firm is also e anding its efforts to contribute to a larger nationwide charity, with more information on this initiati e to be announced soon.

For more: 0117 952 0698; elm-online.co.uk

Brian Levine

Patrick Mears

Oliver Thorp Katherine Gilmour

“SINCE THE YEAR 2000, ELM LEGAL SERVICES HAS EARNED A REPUTATION AS A RELIABLE PROVIDER OF WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING SERVICES”

GOUGHS SOLICITORS

Rebecca Dennis, head of employment

Tell us about the firm’s offices? e ha e o ces in Trowbridge, e i es, elksham, alne, orsham and hi enham and this high street resence’ is a huge art of our charm ach o ce is uni ue These buildings are all historic with elegant eorgian and ictorian facades t all looks ery traditional and in one sense it is owe er, as the legend says, ne er udge a book by its co er ’ nside, each o ce is indi idually and carefully designed to ro ide bright and moti ational works aces along with state of the art conference suites which makes life easy for our clients ur facilities are also designed to accommodate remote and agile working and reser e our sense of cor orate identity ur reenways o ce, which is not at all a high street setting, think o en lan, modern, and glass walls, is within a leafy business ark close to the road and rail network and ro ides the site of our e ert commercial hub

Who founded Goughs?

oughs was founded in by eorge saac ough when it was called ough and on’ eorge ough li ed with his family in hurch treet, alne and this was the site of the first o ce is second son, harles gle ough worked alongside him and then became the enior artner n turn harles’ son, harles ameron ough also become a artner in the firm oughs has been a significant resence in iltshire for years n an uncertain world where change is constant, this means that oughs has grown and e ol ed

and ada ted successfully o er a huge assage of time hilst eorge would not recogni e our di erse and thri ing workforce or our multi o ce set u , as an entre reneur and hilanthro ist, am sure he would a laud these de elo ments think female emanci ation and the number of female lawyers in the may ha e sur rised him though How does the firm look after the mental health of its employees?

That is an interesting uestion because oor mental health is not always isible ellbeing is ob iously essential if we aren’t hysical and mentally well, then life and work can be intolerable oughs do what you would e ect from a modern, rogressi e firm There is agile working and there are wellbeing dri es to romote healthy li ing and wellbeing

Fle ible working is encouraged and we offer more fruit than orrisons These are all standard now aren’t they am not calling them window dressing They are aluable y oint is that what oughs does and does well, is to encourage dialogue and to be unafraid of criticism or change y belief is that those businesses who foster a culture of sharing and talking and listening do better than others in terms of mental health and em loyee retention o, we ha e many talking’ systems in lace to rotect our own health and to look out for our colleagues There is a real concerted effort to sociali e within each o ce and with others This is such a sim le ro osition but hugely im ortant e ha e de artment meetings in different o ces and we are encouraged to work at other o ce locations This really does de elo friendshi s, im ro e

working relationshi s and build morale say the same for social acti ity outside of work but we are all busy and realistically any cor oration will tell you that ri ate time outside of work is to be cherished and reser ed o, instead we refer go out for lunch or breakfast regularly t hel s that oughs is o ulated with foodies There is also the system chance to s eak about things that are not related to work These really are recious moments where an o en dialogue in a safe en ironment can achie e so much n a busy ractice, it is massi ely beneficial to ha e diari ed time to ask, so, really, how are you ’ Then there is the mentor system unior em loyees are buddied with a more e erienced lawyer and from a different disci line t encourages familiarity and friendshi is designed to stimulate and challenge and educate and build trust riceless stuff

What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work? There are many rewarding as ects t is seeing how de artments work together for the benefit of a client lo e referring my clients to other lawyers within oughs and seeing a seamless ser ice in o eration eing able to ro ide a com lete ser ice is ob iously a fabulous offering but seeing it work in ractice is thrilling t is also hugely en oyable when you work with a small com any and stay with them as they grow and ros er haring that ourney is a com lete ri ilege Finally, ha ing s ecial relationshi s with your clients and your colleagues makes working at oughs a really rewarding lace to be

For more: 01249 475885; rebeccadennis@goughs.co.uk; goughs.co.uk

HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR

Helen Starkie

What area do you specialise in?

We are a niche ‘private client’ firm the only one in ath e s ecialise in non litigious work for indi iduals, families and entre reneurs Ta lanning, bes oke ills, robate, owers of ttorney, ourt of rotection work, are ome contracts, are Funding and ro erty transactions of arious ty es

When was the firm founded and by whom? founded the firm twel e years ago fter training and ualifying at a ondon firm had for o er twenty years run ery large ri ate client de artments in two si eable regional firms but became disillusioned by the way that they had become more cor orate’ in their a roach to ri ate indi iduals and the loss, as a result, of a ersonal ser ice to clients To me that is the essence of being a ri ate client lawyer and the time

seemed right to set u a ractice based on the remise of ser ice’ as o osed, urely, to rofit was right lients tell me that they wish had done it years before did

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

ur ethos and our si e, which facilitates us getting to know clients’ needs in de th any clients ha e mo ed to us from larger firms because they alue the fact that we know and understand them and ideally their families, too and their articular needs e make time for that any com lain that in larger firms they ne er got to s eak with the same erson twice ere, they feel they can always get hold of the erson they need, and that, if they cannot come to us, we will go to them at no additional cost

A surprising fact about the firm?

e are all women

For more: 01225 442353; helenstarkie.co.uk

RWK GOODMAN

Tell us a little about the firm Established in 1873, RWK Goodman provides a comprehensive range of commercial and private legal services across a number of key sectors.

e ha e o ces along the M4 from Bath to London, with over 500 people. Clients include businesses and individuals including victims of personal injury and clinical negligence. We are a founding member of the international network of inde endent law firms, nterleges

Last year RWK Goodman achieved six top tier rankings in The Legal 500 and 35 of our lawyers were ranked and recommended in Chambers & Partners UK directory of expert lawyers.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

At RWK Goodman we pride ourselves on providing a personal touch to every client. We understand legal matters can be stressful and overwhelming, and we strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our lawyers take the time to listen to our clients, understand their needs, and tailor our services to meet their s ecific goals e believe that open communication and collaboration are key to building strong and lasting relationships with our clients.

Tell us about the firm’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?

At RWK Goodman, we believe that ESG commitments are more than words on a page. They are part of our culture, enabling us to drive real actions, with real

purpose, that have real impact. We are achieving our commitments by:

m lementing carbon reduction actions as part of our Environmental and Sustainability Commitment, as well as a new ‘Digital First’ way of working.

• Setting clear targets to reduce consumption, waste and increase recycling across our firm and su ly chain

• Supporting our colleagues to reduce their personal impact on the environment.

• For over a decade, all energy used across our o ces has come from renewable sources.

Tell us about the firm’s

community/charity involvement

We support fundraising for the regional charities which are voted upon every two years by colleagues, as well as engaging in pro bono work within local communities. For the last two years, our chosen charities have been Trauma Breakthrough in Bath, Centre Point in London, Sobell House in Oxford, and Swindon Food Collective in Swindon.

Our 2022 ‘Step Ahead Challenge’, where colleagues walked the distance from Bath to London over the course of two weeks, raised almost £9,000 alone. All employees also get two volunteering days per year that can be used to do charity work, and we work with Community Foundations across our regions to deliver grants from endowed funds. Over recent years, we have contributed over £242,000 for our chosen charities and local causes.

For more: 0800 923 2073; rwkgoodman.com

“OUR LAWYERS TAKE THE TIME TO LISTEN TO OUR CLIENTS, UNDERSTAND THEIR NEEDS, AND TAILOR OUR SERVICES TO MEET THEIR SPECIFIC GOALS”

STONE KING

Alison Allen, partner

Tell us a little about the business

e are a national law firm with an e cellent re utation for our ri ate client work as well as our e ertise across the education, charity social enter rise, faith and business sectors

e’re committed to doing the right thing for our clients, in our communities and as an em loyer and as a business

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

a ing a continuous working history in ath since when obert larke set u in business as an ttorney at aw, in the ross aths n the first member of the ing family oined the artnershi e’ e certainly

grown since then with o ces in ristol, irmingham, ambridge, eeds and ondon in addition to our ath head uarters

What will be the trends in your specialism for 2023?

s ecialise in what’s known as ri ate lient work such as ills and dealing with trusts and estates n we will see more technology introduced as well as the go ernment making it easier to for some as ects of estates lanning such as asting ower of ttorney to be com leted online This will really hel clients as we’ll be able to su ort them with the more com le legal as ects nterestingly, com uter sa y clients will make use of tech as they tend to refer remote a ointments while, for some, face to face meetings are the referred o tion e are ha y to accommodate both

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

ur ethos is doing the right thing’ for our clients, our eo le and of course our communities e want to show how business can use its muscle for good that could be by us making donations through our tone ing Foundation, our eo le olunteering many are go ernors or trustees at schools and charities u and down the country and so su orting the communities in which we sit There are also our tone ing itter icks which see us taking time to hel make ath look ristine, su orted by other businesses in the city

For more: 01225 337559; stoneking.co.uk

“WE’RE COMMITTED TO DOING THE RIGHT THING FOR OUR CLIENTS, IN OUR COMMUNITIES AND AS AN EMPLOYER AND AS A BUSINESS”

THRINGS

Charlotte Dooling, partner

Tell us a little about the business

Thrings is an award winning law firm that has been advising private individuals, entre reneurs, family businesses and large cor orates in and around ath for more than years

mbracing a one firm a roach, our ueen uare based lawyers work seamlessly with their colleagues in Bristol, London, Swindon, omsey, and most recently the ye alley, bringing together an enviable wealth of e erience and knowledge to ad ise on a range of legal matters that enable our clients to grow and succeed

What area do you specialise in?

s a firm, we ha e a wide range of e ertise across multi le sectors, ranging from agriculture and de elo ment of land to business growth, banking and finance, and endea our to ro ide our clients with a holistic ser ice that meets their e ery need, whether as rofessional organisations or as ri ate clients

I have the pleasure of being part of the thri ing ommercial ro erty team, based in ath, and s ecialise in both commercial and

residential lending transactions This sees me act for a wide range of ri ate, commercial and retail banks in the and offshore y team deals with a range of commercial ro erty clients, including de elo ers, landlords and tenants, across a wide range of matters, including the ac uisition and sale of commercial ro erty in and around ath

What makes working in Bath so special? ath is a beautiful lace to li e, work, and isit ’ e had the leasure of li ing all o er the country and it is the lace that would definitely call home

ith such a ibrant and historic culture that transcends the eorgian townhouse image it has car ed out for itself, there is so much going on and, des ite the uncertainty from e erything that has gone on in the ast few years, ath continues to be a city that seems to operate in a slight bubble and the housing market remains buoyant

eo le remain as keen as e er to mo e to the city, enabled by hybrid working ou only have to drive around Bath to see the wealth of de elo ments going on and there continue to be opportunities for regeneration a round the city This has re ected in mo ement across the o ce market with many com anies looking to

downsize, creating opportunities for businesses to make the most of the s ace that is a ailable in more intelligent and collaborati e ways

What does the future hold for Thrings? sing our established resence within ath, we want to continue to collaborate and develop relationships with colleagues in the business community s lawyers, we e ect to be measured on the alue we bring to our clients e also know that in order to bring that alue, we need to be in it for the long haul – viewing each transaction as the foundation to a longerterm relationshi

e ha e seen for oursel es that, with this client focused a roach, comes a de elo ed role; not just that of providing legal expertise but also that of being long term trusted ad isers

For more: 01225 340000; thrings.com

“AS LAWYERS, WE EXPECT TO BE MEASURED ON THE VALUE WE BRING TO OUR CLIENTS”

ACCOUNTANTS

CONCINNITY CONSULTANCY

Anna Goodship, managing director

Tell us a little about the firm Founded 6 years ago by Anna Goodship, Concinnity Consultancy provides tailored Finance Director services to SMEs, such as business planning, management accounts, and foundational processes.

e ride oursel es on offering a unique, personal service that meets the s ecific needs of each client, whether they’re an established organisation requiring regular expert input or a budding business looking for growth.

What is the firm’s ethos and philosophy?

Concinnity’s ability to connect with clients is what makes us special. Our philosophy is centred on developing close relationships, which is crucial for providing the best advice. By investing time in getting to know clients, their goals, and aspirations, we ensure that we have their best interests at heart when providing recommendations.

Financial explanations and recommendations are tailored to the client’s level of understanding to ensure their comfort with the

advice given. Our friendly and personable approach helps with this, making us a trusted provider.

nna s a i it to e e tive omm ni ate and onne t wit a s e intera ts wit at eo e t means s e ts ri t into t e team nna is not on o r t a so a va ed mem er o t e eo e t ami - Cate Gwilliam, CEO, Geollect Limited e o d not re ommend nna i eno in er ro essiona a a it w i st a so e omin a we i ed res e ted and va ed mem er o o r senior mana ement team - Ed Lovett, The Collecting Group

What challenges are your clients facing?

Recent tough years have resulted in di cult trading and historical debts for many businesses. We have extensive experience in working with clients to overcome these challenges with budgeting, forecasting, and payment plans.

The current economic climate indicates that more challenges are likely. However, this situation presents an opportunity for businesses to review past performance, set budgets, and de elo long term financial plans to increase their chances of success in the future.

or more on innit ons tan o

MILSTED LANGDON

Zoe Chandler, tax manager

Tell us a little about the firm Milsted Langdon, originally established over 30 years ago, by two University of Bath graduates, is one of the leading independent firms of hartered ccountants and Business Advisors in the South-West.

With a team of over 200 specialists, we act for individuals, businesses and not for rofit organisations throughout the whole of the South West and further afield

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

The Milsted Langdon 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, cor orate finance and restructuring and insolvency advice. There is a real focus on

the client experience, as well as the employee experience, and going above and beyond to exceed expectations.

What challenges are your clients facing?

The cost of living is one of the biggest challenges facing clients right now. There are various schemes available to help ease the pressure including the Energy Bills Support Scheme, Price Guarantee and Energy Bills Relief Scheme for businesses. There are also various schemes to help with childcare costs including childcare vouchers and Tax-Free Childcare and further potential savings through ensions and salary sacrifice

Although the cost of living has increased, so too have incomes due to strong wage growth in many sectors.

Clients should ensure that they are accessing tax reliefs that might be available, as well as the support schemes to balance their household and business budgets.

or more

mi sted an don o

PEARSON MAY Matthew Rutter, partner

Tell us a little about the business

earson ay is a leading firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers with a Bath o ce located in reat ulteney treet The firm was established in Bath over 180 years ago, and we strive to help our clients realise their ersonal and business goals

What makes working in Bath special?

ath is a ibrant and eclectic mi of business and leasure gainst the backdro 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 earson May can give you the opportunity to gain all-round experience in areas such as accounts, tax

and audit ook for a firm with good progression prospects – for e am le all si of our artners started their accountancy training at Pearson May which demonstrates the otential

What do you specialise in?

s well as being a chartered accountant am a chartered ta adviser and a registered auditor. work with owner managed businesses in ath and beyond, assisting with both accounting and taxation support as well as providing auditing services.

Did you know…

a ing recently celebrated a birthday, was reminded of the coincidence that not only do I share a birthday with one of my fellow partners, we were actually born ust hours a art on the ery same day in the hos ital here in Bath. Roll forward a few years and after both studying maths at uni ersity we both oined earson ay in and are now both artners in the firm

For more: 01225 460491; matthew.rutter@pearsonmay.co.uk; pearsonmay.co.uk

RICHARDSON SWIFT

Rachael Rackham, director

Tell us a little about the firm Richardson Swift is Bath’s largest inde endent firm of hartered ccountants and hartered Ta Advisors, based solely in the city. Established in 2009, we are now a strong team, s ecialising in advising private individuals and local owner managed businesses At the beginning of March, I joined the RS board as a director after years with the com any

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

Each year we pick a local charity to support, for 2022 we supported the Ben Saunders Foundation, by providing accountancy services, business advice, and support. In addition, we sponsored vests for the Bath Half Marathon as well as donating roceeds from our internal annual hristmas ra e

e offer su ort to eo le in education or starting out in business via the Bath University mentoring rogramme ecently, we launched a series of business

support sessions co-hosted with Thrings olicitors and The usiness change to enable business owners to get together o er coffee and share insights into current challenges, as well as ha ing access to informal guidance from law and ta e erts

What challenges are your clients facing?

ther than the widely mentioned increases in cost of living and energy bills, our clients are finding increased pressures in the labour market ecruitment and sta ng is a ma or headache for business owners. We have been working with clients to review their current staff structures and consider what moti ates em loyees

s em loyers oursel es, we ha e introduced many initiati es to increase staff retention, including ay re iews and e ible working, plus health and wellbeing, internal career progression, and su lementary training

For more: 01225 325 580; hk@richardsonswift.co.uk; richardsonswift.co.uk

“WE OFFER SUPPORT TO PEOPLE IN EDUCATION OR STARTING OUT IN BUSINESS VIA THE BATH UNIVERSITY MENTORING PROGRAMME”

FINANCIAL ADVICE & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

BECKFORD SALTUS

Patricia Lake

Tell us a little about your business

Bath-based Chartered Financial Planners, Beckford James, are delighted to have recently merged with Saltus to enhance our clients’ financial lanning and in estment e erience altus was founded in 2004, and our new combined entity em loys o er eo le and has o er billion in assets under management altus is an inde endent, award winning financial lanning and in estment management business, working with ri ate clients, trustees, solicitors, accountants and financial ad isers ur mission is to im ro e e eryone’s relationshi with their wealth and to make it a ositi e force for their future

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

altus is roud of its ad anced technology ca abilities, which was one of several reasons Beckford James was drawn to them ur commitment to being constantly at the cutting edge, and embracing change, means that we can ro ide better solutions and be more accessible to clients through a variety of media, whilst of course still retaining traditional means of communication for those who refer this

Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?

Saltus is very conscious of eo le’s different working atterns and the need for everyone to have a good work/ life balance, including e ible working hours where ossible e ha e a weekly com any online meeting, allowing us to recognise individual achievements, thank team members for outstanding contributions, make suggestions for im ro ements, and share best ractices lthough we are based in several locations, we work closely together to su ort one

another, and are confident that the eckford altus ath o ce will continue to grow and thrive in this new structure

What challenges are your clients facing?

Clients are currently facing many challenges, not least trying to make sense of what is a ery chaotic market eadline in ation rates and increasing energy costs can be concerning Traditional sources of income, and articularly retirement income, have to be reviewed in the light of this changed landsca e, and clients are also increasingly aware that their estates are likely to be significantly eroded should they need to ay for future care costs in later life

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement

altus is roud to work with local communities by fundraising and volunteering for our chosen charities s well as being in ol ed in local s orts organisations, we are roud s onsors of Tall hi s outh Trust, who hel some of the ’s most ulnerable young eo le redefine their hori ons e organise regular charity activities such as ui nights and hysical challenges to su ort their work

Standout achievement from the past 12 months

The artners of eckford ames ha e s ent a great deal of time and effort o er the ast years looking for the right solution to su ort our growing business, and it is true to say that our standout achievement has been cementing the merger with Saltus in order to ro ide the ery best outcome for both our clients and our staff alike, and ensuring that we can continue to ro ide excellent service to our clients both in ath and further afield

For more: 01225 437600; saltus.co.uk

“OUR MISSION IS TO IMPROVE EVERYONE’S RELATIONSHIP WITH THEIR WEALTH AND TO MAKE IT A POSITIVE FORCE FOR THEIR FUTURE”

HANDELSBANKEN

Samuel Watson , private banking manager

What makes your company special?

We’re completely unique. I know everyone says that, but in our case it’s actually true! Handelsbanken is a strong, trusted and respected bank internationally, and it’s fantastic to have that backing. But for our customers, we’re also a local bank: they can pick up the phone and speak directly to the familiar staff in their local branch

For so many banks, local branches are increasingly a thing of the past. For us, they’re an essential part of what we do. Through colleagues like Lucy (right) we can also help with

wealth advice, and it feels great to be able to offer such a full ser ice

What is your favourite part of the job?

I love the variety of people I get to know through my job. I’m based at Handlesbanken’s Bath branch, where we manage both personal and business accounts, often for the same customer.

I really value that we’re given lots of time to focus on building good relationships with our customers – not just when they first oin the bank, but for the long haul. Because of this, our customers are not faceless, and neither am I.

For more: 07816 183559; samuel.watson@handelsbanken.co.uk; handelsbanken.co.uk

HANDELSBANKEN WEALTH & ASSET MANAGEMENT

Lucy Allington, client director

What do you say to clients who are nervous about financial markets? Financial markets had a pretty torrid 2022, and it can be really hard to hold your nerve with this period looming large in recent memory. This is a critical time for your financial ad iser to gi e you the right advice.

Our constant refrain to customers is that investing is about spending time in the market, not timing the market. What we mean is that it’s almost always better to invest a sum that you can adopt a long-term strategy with, and maintain through periods of highs and lows, rather than trying to jump

in and out of investments to avoid losses. Timing the market in this way is high risk and I have witnessed clients wishing they hadn’t tried. Timing it to perfection is, in my opinion, impossible!

What key financial tip would you give to people at this time of year?

I would say that it’s time to sto utting off making a good financial lan e’re at the end of one tax year, and the beginning of a new one. Use this as an opportunity to take the bull by the horns and get in touch with someone who can help you protect and make the most of your wealth.

For more:

lucy.allington@handelsbanken.co.uk; wealthandasset.handelsbanken.co.uk

“I REALLY VALUE THAT WE’RE GIVEN LOTS OF TIME TO FOCUS ON BUILDING GOOD RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR CUSTOMERS”

UNIVIDUAL

Tell us a little about the firm Established in 2000, Unividual is a Chartered Financial Planning like no other. Family-run, women and T led, we offer financial advice for everyone - not just the rich and famous. Our foundations have always been about treating people as unique individuals. In a non-inclusive industry, Unividual have become trailblazers for bes oke financial ad ice instead of a one si e fits all service.

Unividual has progressed from being a small family-run company to one of the largest, privatelyowned Chartered Financial lanning firms in the , with eight financial ad isers s read across the country, from Bath to London and up to Edinburgh, and around members of staff

How does the firm ensure equality, diversity and inclusion?

In 2021 the Financial Conduct uthority re orted only of

adults recei ed financial ad ice hy ecause eo le can’t find a finance e ert they can relate to. So, Unividual are on a mission to build a business re ecti e of today’s world that can educate eo le on their finances e want every person and business in our local communities, to have the opportunity to improve their financial situation, safeguard themselves against their fears and overcome challenges. This year we are applying to become an Includability Employer which recognises firms that rioritise the wellbeing of staff and inclusi e workplaces. Unividual have worked hard to change our marketing and our recruitment processes and as a result the business now has a diverse workforce with 47% of employees from an ethnic minority group, 57% are women and 43% of our leadership team are women. ur efforts in building a di erse business was recognised in 2021 when we were awarded a space on the HM Treasury Women in Finance Charter, something we have held for 3 years.

How does the firm look after employee’s mental health?

In 2022 Unividual spent £2,000 per employee on wellbeing for the second year in a row. We believe that employers have a duty to support colleagues with wellbeing because of the commitment they show within their roles that creates stress in their lives. Our support package consists of resilliance assessment and a one to one session with a coach. If this highlights mental health challenges each employee can gain e tra su ort from a business coach or therapist which Unividual pay for. We also took every member of staff for a wellbeing weekend n 2021 Unividual employee’s average wellbeing score was 5 and this moved to 7.8 after our most recent staff sur ey in anuary This

year we have asked colleagues what e tra su ort they want and we have specialists coming in to deliver workshops on self-care, nutrition and hypnotherapy.

What Awards has the firm [ or members of its team ] won?

Last year we not only won a Bath Property Award but we were awarded a Bath Life Award for the first time e er This year we have been short-listed for two Bath Life Awards and Best Family-Run Business by the FSB. Finally, two of our ad isers, imon ones and imon Hicks were awarded VouchedFor’s Top Financial Adviser for 2023, both of them have held this award for over three years.

For more: 01225 427 474; unividual.co.uk

“UNIVIDUAL ARE ON A MISSION TO BUILD A BUSINESS REFLECTIVE OF TODAY’S WORLD THAT CAN EDUCATE PEOPLE ON THEIR FINANCES”

INSURANCE

A PLAN INSURANCE

Tell us a little about the firm A plan was founded in 1963. The o ce here in ath has been o en since the ’s lan ath consists of members of staff, howe er there are o er high street branches em loying hundreds of staff e are an insurance broker, ro iding insurance in all areas ranging from car, an, motorhome, life, health, all the way to marine co er hate er you need, we’ e got it co ered

Tell us about the company’s community/charity involvement?

e like to be in ol ed with the local community and gi e back e ha e an entire week dedicated to fundraising, owden’s i ing eek e currently s onsor a cou le of youth football clubs and are always looking out for new o ortunities and causes to get in ol ed with ecently we ha e established a relationshi with enesis Trust

There will be s onsored sky di es, abseils and more e citing things to come

How does the firm look after employee’s mental health? art of our em loyee benefits scheme ro ides all members of staff with access to free counselling thera y ser ices ental health is such a rominent to ic in today’s world, we make sure to check in with each other and ro ide the necessary su ort if needed.

What challenges are clients facing?

There are so many choices for insurance out there today t can be o erwhelming and di cult to know where to start en more so if you ha e a com le or non standard risk to co er That’s where we come in, a bes oke ad ised ser ice from start to finish

For more: 01225 788044; bath@aplan.co.uk; aplan.co.uk

PARTNERS & Jack Wilks

Tell us a little about the firm artners is a s ecialist insurance ad isory business s the name suggests, artnershi is the core rinci le that dri es who we are and what we belie e for our clients and our eo le e challenge con entional thinking to ro ide ad ice that makes a difference for businesses commercial insurance and em loyee benefits and indi iduals ur ri ate lient ractice of s ecialist ad isers is leading a ositi e shift in the way broking is done today

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

e understand that clients alue and res ect relationshi , knowing that their ad iser will stand shoulder to shoulder with them when they need it y working collaborati ely with our clients, hel ing them identify their risks and challenging their e isting rogramme, we can ro ide the a ro riate solutions that will erform in the e ent of a claim nsurance can be com le , which is why we aim to hel our clients understand what insurance they

ha e and why they ha e it, clearly and without argon That’s what we mean by artnershi

What challenges are your clients facing?

ma or risk facing clients today is being unknowingly underinsured whether it relates to rebuild alues, o erall contents le els or increasingly more common, aluables, such as art, ewellery, or watches e encourage our clients to make sure they obtain an inde endent and u to date rofessional aluation for their aluables, such as ewellery and watches ually, rebuild costs ha e increased significantly o er the last cou le of years, the result of in ation, su ly chain shortages and greater demand lients often mistake the market rice for the rebuild cost, which can ro e ery costly in the e ent of a claim e ad ise our clients to ensure they ha e enough insurance co er to rebuild their home, like for like, should the worst ha en

For more: 07553 811389; jack.wilks@partnersand.com; hello@partnersand.com; www.partnersand.com

“WHATEVER YOU NEED, WE’VE GOT IT COVERED”

ASPIRE TO MOVE

Tell us a little about the firm Aspire To Move are an independent Letting Agent based in the heart of Bath. Aspire was set up by Caroline Baxter and Will Maslin in December 2019. Over the past three years Aspire has become a market leader within the lettings sector and distinguishes itself by delivering unrivalled levels of customer service. The team of fi e ha e a wealth of knowledge and expertise and look forward to assisting and advising the landlords of Bath and beyond.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity

involvement

As a company we are very aware that we operate within a fantastic community and that a large percentage of our clients are part of it.

From adopting horses at Bath’s local farm to pay for their food & care, to skydiving 13,500 feet to raise money for the RUH, we like to get involved as part of our company mission statement is to carry out community events and

support local charities in some way, every quarter.

We are also consciously trying to reduce our carbon footprint by walking to work and appointments & wasting less energy food within the o ce in addition to using electric cars.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We are dedicated to giving every customer an individual and s ecifically catered ser ice e are not afraid to get our hands dirty to ensure service excellence and will happily attend a property to avoid costly call out charges for our clients. We ensure our small friendly team always give honest advice in order to maximise the potential on your investment, we really do care about what we do and that shines through.

We pride ourselves on being local and using trusted contractors to ensure a seamless service throughout. This ethos, is what really does put us one step ahead of our competitors.

For more: 01225 444 333; aspiretomove.co.uk

BATH OFFICE COMPANY

Tell us a little about the company ath ce om any, both independent and local, provides spaces for businesses of all shapes and sizes to call their own – a place to call work – without the risk, or hassle, of a standard commercial lease while offering the right mi of affordability, location, and control. Established in 2020, the company currently comprises of two full time employees, with plans to expand within the next few months, and a number of contractors to support the various capacities involved with running the business.

Who are the company’s key leaders/founders and managers?

Jamie Williams is the Managing Director. Originally from Bath, he spent time working in marketing and advertising in the UK, Hong Kong and Australia before settling back in the west country in 2017. His wife, Felicity Williams, is the Communications Director, whose background is in global integrated comms, marketing and events.

Through their respective careers, they have spent stints in arious ty es of o ce accommodation – established locations of big brands, serviced spaces for smaller boutique agencies, coworking, and working from home as freelancers. And it was this, combined with some commercial property familiarity that instigated the founding of the business.

Tell us about the company’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?

Tell us about the company’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?

With sustainability a guiding light for the property industry, Bath ce o continues to challenge reinvention, and building reuse as a rimary dri er for o ce de elo ment cross our fi e buildings, we have re-analysed and utilised the entire building and individual spaces to realise its potential.

As we continue to evolve the way we work, we also believe that maintaining a comprehensive sustainability strategy will enhance the environment of innovation and social interaction. With real estate responsible for 40% of the world’s carbon emissions, we’re aware of the important role we have to play to reduce our own footprint and have implemented a plan to change things, with a series of considered responses, including the use of renewable energy sources.

What plans does the company have for 2023?

ath ce o lans to take on more space, serviced by a front desk This will enable us to offer a wider range of clerical services, and a friendly face to welcome visitors. Key to our vision is bringing local businesses together, collaborating to benefit the wider community and future of Bath’s city centre.

For more: 01225 632777; e o@ at o e o at o e o

CARTER JONAS

Tell us a little about your business ur ath o ce, em loying close to eo le, en oys a rominent osition in the heart of the ity centre and artners national o ces throughout the ur uni ue artnershi houses teams with di erse talents to include residential lettings, residential sales both city and country as well as retail, o ce, and commercial agency arter onas is now the e clusi e a liate of hristie’s nternational eal state and em loy close to eo le across the business e are determined to gi e the ery best ad ice, combined with ser ice of the highest standard, whate er your ro erty interests

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

hat sets us a art from any other national agent in ath is our di erse multi disci linary offering, ranging from sales of beautiful eorgian townhouses to country family homes as well as farms, estates and commercial agency in both ath and ristol ur key aim is to offer accurate, honest ad ice while being ambitious for our clients and their needs

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

s the e clusi e liate for hristie’s nternational eal state, the world is now o en to us with a cross nation artnershi with other a liates in many countries across the globe, referring business, buyers and clients to each other constantly e are also engaging hea ily with our social media latforms, ensuring arter onas ser ices are

a ailable to all, whether tech sa y or not

s an agile and di erse artnershi , arter onas is constantly looking to the future, and ath now has a uild to ent agency which is a ra idly growing sector ath residential lettings continues to e and and ada t to e er changing legislation and offers a robust and dynamic ser ice

What challenges are your clients facing?

Following the u s and downs of last year’s economic roblems, we are hel ing our clients face the headwinds which, as the ring market a roaches will start to turn in their fa our ath has always had a stable market and we ha e confidence and ambition for our clients nterest rates on mortgages ha e stabilised and in many cases are dro ing, freeing u borrowing again e work with ri ate Finance, a bes oke financial ser ices com any that hel s o ercome the challenges of urchasing a ro erty

e are looking after a large number of buyers across a range of budgets who are looking for a home or in estment in the city or country s ring shoots emerge, we look to market more homes as a large cache of our a licants are focussed on areas with good school catchments in ath and surrounding illages e also offer a ri ate and confidential sales ser ice with many of our endors wanting us to engage with a chosen buyer for a uieter sale ur ad ice is honest and there is no charge for a market a raisal so there really is nothing to lose

For more: 01225 747250; carterjonas.co.uk

HAMPTONS

Martyn Swinson Dip SP head of residential development – western region

Tell us a little about the firm am tons has been matching eo le with the ro erty, locally, nationally and internationally, since e were ioneers, setting standards that few of our ri als could match nd not much has changed since Today we combine o er years of accumulated knowledge and e ertise to hel eo le find new homes e offer ew omes ser ices across the entire am tons network ur dedicated team of residential de elo ment s ecialists boast decades of collecti e e erience er the years, we ha e built e ce tional le els of client satisfaction e elo ers trust us to sell their schemes again and again hether you’re a first time or an e erienced de elo er, get in touch to organise a call with a member of our s ecialist ew omes team to find out how we can hel sell your scheme

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector win 2023?

The ro erty market is likely to see a lack of ro erty entering the market for sale during this will, undoubtedly, hel to

maintain rices as demand will e ceed su ly The rental market also has a shortage of uality ro erties to let and in a fast mo ing sector the cost of renting remains high s confidence returns we e ect more buyer and seller acti ity during the s ring into the summer

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

e offer our de elo er clients s ecialist residential de elo ment sales su ort that’s tailored to the ath market whilst benefiting from the si e and scale of the am tons business trusted brand, e clusi e marketing tools, lus branch network and e tensi e database are what sets us a art

What makes working in Bath special?

t is a great lace to work, li e and en oy life for all age grou s The historic eorgian architecture and within the centre the ncient oman aths and athedral attracting isitors on a daily basis from all o er the orld ut also the fantastic caf , restaurants, sho ing and nightlife all your doorste There are lenty of em loyment o ortunities and beautiful countryside ery close by For more: 07734 743376; swinsonm@hamptons.co.uk; hamptons.co.uk

MEA CONSULT

Tell us a little about the business

MEA is a dynamic and progressive construction consultancy, providing Quantity Surveying Services to clients in the both the private and public sector. Based in Bath, London and Surrey, we have over 50 years of experience of delivering projects throughout the UK, in a diverse range of sectors, working with project values from £500k to £50m. We help our clients achieve their construction vision, by collaboration, teamwork, selecting the most suitable procurement strategies, minimising risk, and maximising value for money.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath has a lot going for it, it’s an ambitious, diverse and dynamic city that has attracted many highly skilled and forward thinking professionals - making for a vibrant business hub that’s ideal for networking and making

new connections. But also, it’s beautiful, steeped in history, has so many great places to meet and enjoy - it’s a lovely place to be.

What achievement is MEA most proud of?

It’s hard to choose one thing but winning the Bath Property Award for consultancy 2022 has got to be up there, our Brick Award takes ride of lace in our o ce and reminds us of just how far we’ve come! We’ve also been involved in some award-winning projects in Bath City Centre which deserve to be mentioned, the recently opened Newark Works, a unique co working space for creatives which was part of the Bath Quays South Regeneration project and House Of St John –a coworking space powered by social purpose. Both projects have been incredible, and we are really proud to have been involved.

What is the most rewarding aspect of MEA’s work?

We are lucky in what we do, we get to be an integral part of

some really exciting construction projects. The most rewarding part has got to be seeing a project completed and being enjoyed. At the beginning, it’s an architects drawing – someone’s vision, and at the end it’s a real life working building - that will last for years.

What plans does MEA have for 2023?

This year has some exciting milestones for us, we are due to mo e o ces to ee i e ard later this Spring, due to growthwe moved to Bath as a team of 4 and we are now a team of 7 and still growing, we’re just working on the final design for the o ce fit out t will be a great new s ace for the team and will support our future growth plans. Not only that

we are looking forward to taking part in this year’s Bath Boules, it was such fun last year and great to be a part of something that gives back to local charities. Finally, we have some very exciting new projects on the horizon, including some fantastic private homes that are focusing on passivhaus technology as well as work at local schools and several commercial developments in and around Bath. Watch this space!

For more: 01225 337793; meaconsult.co.uk

“WE ARE LUCKY IN WHAT WE DO, WE GET TO BE AN INTEGRAL PART OF SOME REALLY EXCITING CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.”

MARK VINCENT SURVEYING

Mark Vincent, chartered surveyor

Tell us a little about your business

I started as my own boss in 2013, following years being exhausted in the corporate grind. I still gratefully cover the same Bath and surrounding area that I have done since 1992. I only survey residential property. Every single day is different was born and raised in the area that I cover, and local knowledge is a great help.

Work/Life balance – how do you get it right?

I try and survey a property in the morning, and try to work from home on a Friday to catch up and to free-up the weekends, but it seems rarely to work that way, being self em loyed often fit in another survey to help a desperate client, which means catching up over the weekend. So I often fail in the best work/life balance. try to walk my sta e a couple of miles a day with

a view to achieving virtual walking challenges, and weather permitting at weekends, or in the week in summer, try and get to Cheddar Watersports to enjoy addle boarding and windsurfing Fine weather motorcycling is also relaxing. You will notice that there a lot of “try”s!

Describe your offices

During a normal working day, I work from my VW T6 Transporter, liveried in my company’s green colours with my name and details on it. It has a heater and wifi, and the iew from my o ce can change daily and overlook some of our beautiful West Country countryside. At home, I seem to be in a couple of rooms, currently the conservatory, watching a squirrel eat the bird seed.

Did you know?

I learnt to swim in the Cross Baths when the water was very dark green - I think Julius Caesar was in my class!

For more: mvsurveying.co.uk

KNIGHT FRANK

Sam Daniels, associate head of Bath city sales

What property predictions does the firm have for 2023? This year’s most pressing question in our sector; How has the property market changed, and what is expected in 2023? In Short, no one has a crystal ball; but it is no secret that transactions and mortgage approvals have slumped due to the spike in borrowing costs that followed the mini-Budget. Still, activity has been stronger than expected since Christmas; trading updates from housebuilders have turned more positive in 2023. Against this inconsistent backdrop, Knight Frank has u dated their fi e year UK housing market forecasts. As much as it is still expected that UK house prices will decline by around 10% over the next two years as the impact of higher mortgage rates takes its toll on affordability hereas in ath, we have seen around a 6% decline vs. this time last year; still, it is important to note that this is a correction – not a crash.

How does the firm ensure equality, diversity, and inclusion?

Our Business Balance groups - are focused on Race & Faith, LGBTQ+. Gender and Health & Wellbeing - continue to

spearhead a wide range of issues for Knight Frank colleagues and host an active program of well-attended topical events. Our groups and our external specialist advisers in employee culture and inclusivity review our policies and procedures to provide guidance and support towards achieving our future objectives and how we become a more inclusi e firm We are committed to ensuring that our six decision-making boards are increasing di ersified, including having female representation (40%) and suitable Race & Faith representation by the end of our ne t financial year

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

Without question, the highlight(s) for our o ce is that we ha e been instrumental in the most significant and highest alue sales in and around Bath; that I’m sure will not be rivalled for many years to come. I think it is fair to say that most people had an incredible 12 months, but for us, at Knight Frank Bath, we are proud to have been involved in many exciting changes within the City both, property related and being integrated within local harities otably, ff the Record and RUHX.

For more: 01225 685532; sam.daniels@knightfrank.com; knightfrank.co.uk

RENGEN

Jo Lloyd

Tell us a little about the firm Established in October 2021, Rengen House is a boutique co-working space in the heart of Bath; a community to co-work, host meetings, events and relax with clients or colleagues. Nestled between Pulteney Bridge and the olburne useum, it offers a range of e ible membershi options for co-working, from pay-as-you-go to dedicated desks. There are also a range of meeting and event spaces available to hire for non-members, as well as a regular calendar of events on offer, from networking, to s orts events, to wellness workshops.

Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?

At Rengen House, it is our priority to improve the work-life balance for our members. We are increasingly getting enquiries from workers who have become weary of home working. We provide a positive and inspiring space where members can focus on their work, whilst also engaging with others in the community. The workspaces are cleverly designed around social interaction, collaboration, and relationship building, whilst also providing quieter spaces for private meetings and calls.

What plans does the firm have for 2023?

In 2023, we look forward to continuing to build the strength of our membership base, offering the u most e ibility for members, as well as developing our community and hosting a busy events programme. We will also be increasing our focus on Rengen House as a venue for external meetings and events. We ha e a range of e ible, ri ate meeting and event spaces, perfect for exclusive hire for parties and gatherings, team events, workshops and much more.

e e en ha e our first wedding reception booked for 2023!

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months? Having initially launched with two oors of co working space, the growth seen in early 2022 allowed us to invest in the expansion of the Rengen House offer n ay we com leted a full renovation of our lower basement area, offering an additional 22 traditional desks, further meeting rooms and indi idual call ods to the offer

In November 2022, we were delighted to be awarded ‘Best Co-working Space’ in the Bath Property Awards. Just over a year into opening, this was fantastic recognition for all we ha e achie ed in our first year, and ho efully our first award of many!

For more: 07443 273921; rengenhouse.com

ROSIE MARLOW Personal estate agent

Tell us a little about your business

My name is Rosie Marlow and I am an independent personal estate agent. Bath has always been my home and I have been successfully selling property in and around the city for years offer a ersonal estate agency service, because estate agency is ne er a one si e fits all. My personal service is tailored to meet your individual needs and requirements. Being a personal estate agent means I am not tied to o ce hours, so can arrange valuations, viewings and open house days whenever is convenient for you. I have a great passion for delivering outstanding customer service and pride myself on how I look after my clients on their journey from valuation through to completion.

Tell us about your community/ charity involvement…

The business has supported two local charities. I was approached for help through a client of The Bristol and Wales cat rescue who have been struggling with fund raising and the rising costs of veterinary bills. In October I walked up Pen y Fan raising £284 for the Bristol and Wales Cat Rescue and £210 for the air ambulance. I climbed Pen y Fan in the worst weather possible and have targets set to continue to support the charities with volunteering. July 2023 I am doing a skydive and also climbing Snowdon for a local MS charity.

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

I have built the business from a cold start in October 2021, the main highlights of the last 12 months have been watching the business grow, I have had numerous clients contact me in 2022 who remembered me from when I sold properties for their family members when I worked for a large corporate Bath agent all wanting to work with me again as they love my approach to selling houses. This also shines through with the fi e star google reviews.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector

I set my business up with an ethos of providing a bespoke service to my clients with a one-to-one personal female touch. I pride myself on how I look after my clients on their journey from valuation through to completion. Selling a home takes more care than just uploading a property to the portals and hoping for the best. offer an effecti e marketing lan tailored to individual clients and offer day to day client su ort will always go above and beyond and help my clients arrange any extra services they may require for a smooth sale. For example arranging house clearances, booking window cleaners, speaking to planning consultants and chasing other agents and solicitors in the chain. My clients will deal only with myself and I get to know their properties as well as they do. I have 22 years experience working as an estate agent in Bath and I have a wealth of knowledge of the local Bath market. My aim is to understand individual client needs and what they want to achieve from the move and do everything I can to make the sale go as smoothly as ossible am not tied to o ce hours so can fit iewings and valuations around my individual clients needs.

For more: 01225 941008; rosie.marlow@exp.uk.com; rosiemarlow.co.uk

SAVILLS

Alistair Heather, head of Savills Bath

Tell us a little about your business…

Savills is a market leading business with a global network of over 700 owned and associate o ces a ills opened in Bath in 1989 and is now one of the com any’s agshi o ces

Our friendly and experienced teams cover advise on all aspects of residential and rural property in and around Bath and across Somerset, Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire, with in-house expertise in residential sales, residential development consultancy and sales and

rural estate management and rofessional ser ices

What are your expectations for the property market in 2023?

The residential property market conditions over the last few years –since the pandemic began – have been e ce tional

Within the prime property market, this high level of demand led to unprecedented price growth of er cent in ath since March 2020 and an incredible er cent in the surrounding country markets

Despite our local prime market being less e osed to affordability pressures, it is, of course, not entirely immune s such, we are seeing more price sensitivity this

year alues a ear to ha e hit a peak in the summer of last year, however price adjustments since then have been relatively modest –at ust er cent

We have also seen a return to more ‘normal’ buyer/seller dynamics this year and generally, e ectations are more aligned Sellers accept that market conditions have changed while most buyers appreciate that there is still strong demand for the right ro erty in the right location

In a more changeable market, property that is best in class rises to the to ath and its en irons are undoubtedly well-catered for in this respect and therefore we are e ecting a ositi e year ahead

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2023?

Residential property accounted for o er one fifth of emissions in and significantly, there has been no meaningful reduction in the carbon footprint of our homes in recent years

Increased scrutiny and significant rises in energy rices have made the issue much more

important to homebuyers in the last months or so ro erty’s nergy erformance ertificate , which measures its performance and recommends areas of improvement, now plays an important role in a prospective buyer’s decision making

With Bath being home to a notably high percentage of period homes, the challenge of reducing consum tion is articularly great Savills research estimates that 38 per cent of homes built before ha e a low rating of , F or , with the figure rising to er cent of those homes constructed before

Owners of listed properties, which are currently exempt from the regulations, face a uni ue dilemma ith buyer expectations regarding ecocredentials increasing and the green finance market e ol ing, so too will the benefit of in esting in sym athetic im ro ements

It will be interesting to see if the go ernment shifts its stance

For more: 01225 474500; savills.co.uk

Successfully letting residential property in Bath and Bristol, the counties of Somerset and Wiltshire and in South Gloucestershire since 1995.

TECHNOLOGY

DIGITAL SAMURAI

Tell us a little about the business

Digital Samurai are a team focused on Data Analytics, Database Management and Cyber Security. Storing data costs money but using your data to predict trends and increase sales makes you money. Start with our Data Discovery process and continue your journey to build a data driven business.

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

We have completed several major projects but the one with the biggest impact was a SQL Server consolidation project saving the client o er figures in er er Licensing costs. With all of our clients we try to save them money in various areas so that we are cost neutral at worst and a money saving, business boosting partner at best.

What predictions does the firm have for 2023?

The demand for data skills is going to increase higher than it has reached already. Add to that the need for rtificial ntelligence and Machine Learning skills and it will not be very long before smaller companies are unable to compete at all with their competitors that manage to get these skills f your business is in need of an edge to fight off the com etition, data skills will hel you take the lead f you are unable to find those skills or choose to ignore them, you can be sure your competition are either using them already or searching for a way to achieve better business decision making.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Our clients are having trouble finding data rofessionals to

fill roles e often see the same companies recruiting for months on a time and some spending an entire year looking for the right skills. The data professional market just does not have enough e erienced and ualified professionals to meet the demand which has caused a massive increase in remuneration. Even when you do find someone they can quickly jump to the next role that pays even more leaving smaller companies without these skills at all e fill that ga offering those skills at a fair price with the benefit of on going su ort which you would not get from a contractor or temporary resource.

For more: 01225 375005; info@digitalsamurai.it; www.digitalsamurai.it

“IF YOUR BUSINESS IS IN NEED OF AN EDGE TO FIGHT OFF THE COMPETITION, DATA SKILLS WILL HELP YOU TAKE THE LEAD”

MARLIN COMMUNICATIONS

Samantha White

Tell us a little about the business…

At Marlin Communications, we design and deliver end-toend business communications technology that helps companies connect, collaborate and grow.

Established in 1998, and with o er staff, we are a trusted inde endent ro ider of nified ommunications ollaboration

solutions, including voice, video, connectivity, network security, business mobiles contact centre for SME and corporate businesses. With our in-house consultancy, design and deployment capability, we have the power to bring these technologies together and, with our inno ati e financial packaging, deliver the best and most cost effecti e solutions to our customers.

Work/life balance – how does your company get this right for their staff?

Work/life balance - it’s one of those things that can feel like a juggling act! At our company, we totally get that so we’re always looking for ways to hel our staff strike the balance. We believe that ha y and fulfilled staff make for a more productive team, so we organise some retty fun stuff outside of work.

We’ve gone skiing/ snowboarding, go-karting, and we’re always up for social get-togethers after work – most recently at Bristol’s Roxy Lanes.

y gi ing our staff a chance

to unwind and connect, we’re building a strong community that supports one another, and that’s something we’re really proud of.

Tell us about the company’s community/charity involvement

Community and charity involvement is really important to us at our Marlin, and we try to do our part in making a positive impact where we can. One of the ways we do this is through our support of Developing Health nde endence , our nominated charity for the last 4 years. They do some amazing work helping people in Bristol ath who are struggling with substance misuse and homelessness, and we’re really proud to support them.

Recently, we organised a fashion-swap fundraiser for them, which was great fun and raised some much-needed funds. We also encourage our staff to get involved with charitable initiatives outside of work, whether that’s volunteering or fundraising, because we believe in being an

active and engaged part of the community.

What is the most rewarding aspect of the company’s work?

efinitely the most rewarding aspect of our company’s work is seeing the impact that we have on our customers’ businesses. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent service, whether it’s through delivering projects or through the support that we provide.

When we get positive feedback from our customers, it really makes our day t’s the ultimate validation that we’re doing something right, and that our hard work is aying off e lo e hearing about how our work has made a real difference to customers, or helped them achieve their goals. That’s what gets us out of bed in the morning and motivates us to keep pushing ourselves to be better.

For more: 0800 032 8274; marlincomms.co.uk

MOORE SW IT

Tom Cannon

Tell us a little about your business

Moore SW IT were established in 2014 to support organisations in Bath and the surrounding area with IT support and solutions. The company has grown each year and now supports hundreds of businesses, charities, and schools. We have recently completed our own Cyber Essentials Plus certification to show our dedication to Cyber Security, and help our clients with their certification.

What’s the hottest topic in your industry for 2023?

Definitely Cyber Security and Cyber Crime, and it has been for the last few years now. Unfortunately, Cyber Crime is constantly on the rise and

getting harder to tackle – which we hear about often on the news with large organisations getting attacked. There are lots of ways to prevent it and protect your organisations, a big one being multi factor authentication or MFA – make sure that is enabled on all of your accounts! We can offer most organisations a free IT audit or review which would highlight any weaknesses. Please visit www.msbit.co.uk/free-itaudit for more information.

How can you help with the way the pandemic has changed the way we all work?

Moore SW IT provide cloud IT systems, VPN’s, remote desktop and VoIP (telephones). We have helped a huge number of clients switch, during the last three years to be able to work from anywhere/ home. Some organisations have already adapted to permanently

working from home, which we were equipped to help with. We can supply a whole range of software to enable established businesses, or start-ups to be fully cloud based.

How has the pandemic altered the way you work, professionally and personally?

We have been able to allow staff to choose whether to work from home the last couple of years and be more flexible. We are looking to continue that as a lot of us have realised that we don’t need to be in the office every day.

Did you know?

We have an office in the centre of Bath, and Bristol which makes us close and easy to get to for a lot of organisations. We also provide schools with IT support? We work with plenty of schools in BANES and as far as Gloucester and Exeter? We work with various MAT’s to provide networking, devices and interactive screens.

For more: 01225 486100; www.msbit.co.uk

“WE HAVE HELPED A HUGE NUMBER OF CLIENTS SWITCH, DURING THE LAST THREE YEARS TO BE ABLE TO WORK FROM ANYWHERE/HOME”

• Complete tailoring service for ladies and gentleman

• Alterations and Repairs on all Garments

• Made To Measure Suits and Shirts

• Bespoke / handmade Suits and Separates

• Ladies bespoke tailoring

• Bridal wear and Evening wear Alterations

• Re-sizing and Re-Designing Suits and Dresses

• Replicating your old favourite clothing

25 Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1DG t: 01225 920 263 info@citytailors.co.uk www.citytailors.co.uk

Supporting individuals to progress their careers through coaching. Carefully structured sessions enable clients to identify challenges and create solutions to help them to meet their professional goals.

Coaching can help you with:

Career development, changes and transitions

Interview preparation | Developing leadership skills

Improving confidence | Creating a better work-life balance

To book an initial, free consultation, contact Dr Helen Curran: helen@helencurran.net www.helencurran.net 01225 560844 @drhelcurran

ONLINE AND IN-PERSON IN BATH

RECRUITMENT

CMD RECRUITMENT

Dan Barfoot

Tell us a little about the business

CMD Recruitment is a leading independent recruitment consultancy with a team of 19 and o ces in ath, windon, elksham, e i es, and alne ince , we ha e been ro iding e cellent recruitment solutions across the outh est

What challenges are your clients facing?

Candidate shortage remains an on going challenge alongside the need to stand out in a com etiti e market dditionally, our clients face the challenge of structuring their business amidst e ternal ressures such as day workweeks, e ible work arrangements, and in ation’s im act on salaries e recommend looking at how you can offer more ersonalised benefits to su ort em loyee’s financial well being articularly for ath’s micro businesses

Tell us about CMD’s community/charity involvement.

From partnering with local charities and food banks

to s onsoring e ents and empowering young people with em loyability skills, we’re always looking for new ways to gi e back ecently, we had the ri ilege of s onsoring o er children to attend Future of Football for the day, deli ering lunch and seeing their en oyment first hand e’re always o en to contribute and make a difference in our community

What sets CMD apart?

Our team of consultants is com rised of indi iduals who ha e dedicated themsel es to our business for years, with some e en reaching an im ressi e years of ser ice This unwa ering loyalty has enabled them to forge unparalleled relationships with our clients, which are built on a foundation of trust, e ertise, and e ce tional ser ice Through their e tensi e knowledge and latest recruitment tools, they ro ide a com etiti e ad antage to the local recruitment sector

For more: 01225 805080; info@cmdrecruitment.com; www.cmdrecruitment.com

EDUCATED RECRUITMENT

Emma Woodhall & Marie Cleve, directors

Tell us a little about the firm omerset ducation lliance is a recruitment agency that supply teachers and teaching assistants to schools across ath, ristol and throughout all of omerset orn from ducated ecruitment, was formed in uly following the increased demand for co er in schools throughout ath, ristol and omerset in recent years omerset ducation lliance is ran by irector’s mma oodhall and arie le e with the support of Compliance cers, Tegan owe, ate nderson and oe ndrews

What benefits does the firm offer employees?

can offer em loyees many benefits such as, a su orti e team of consultants with e tensi e knowledge of the area e can offer em loyees a

e ible work life balance to fit around their schedule and further to this fantastic long term and permanent career opportunities in schools local to them u ort can be offered also arly areer Teachers in finding them their first role in a school

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

hat sets a art from other firms is that we are inde endent offering a warm, friendly and ersonal ser ice and we are trans arent, honest and straightforward demonstrating openness and trust to all teachers looking to embark u on su ly

Tell us a little about yourselves

mma was re iously a rimary Teacher and has been working in the recruitment for education sector for years arie has also worked in the recruitment sector for o er years offering e tensi e industry knowledge

For more: educatedrecruitment.co.uk

“SINCE 2004, WE HAVE BEEN PROVIDING EXCELLENT RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS ACROSS THE SOUTH-WEST.”

Marie Cleve

Emma Woodhall

MEETINGS AND EVENTS VENUES

APEX CITY OF BATH HOTEL

Tell us a little about the firm Apex City of Bath Hotel is a luxurious 4-star hotel located on the corner of James Street West, just steps from some of the city’s most popular sites. Firmly centered in the community, the hotel is home to Bath’s only purpose-built city centre conference and events venue and boasts 177 sumptuous bedrooms. The hotel is also home to the Orange Artichoke - a chic restaurant and bar, as well as a heated indoor pool, a fully equipped gym, a sauna and steam room. The hotel was established in and is the first ur ose built property in Apex Hotel Group’s UK-wide portfolio.

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

In 2021, the hotel obtained a 1* rating for team engagement and then the coveted Silver Award for Green Tourism in 2022 thanks to their dedicated Green

Committee. An initiative the hotel is particularly proud of is their exclusive bio-diverse Green Roof Project. The space on the roof is home to some special guests – over 20,000 bees. As part of the dedication to green tourism, the hotel offered the space to the buzzy guests to help protect the species.

Who are the firm’s key leaders/founders and managers?

Apex Hotels was founded by Scottish entrepreneur Norman Springford OBE who opened his first hotel in , e Grassmarket Hotel in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Michael Musgrave is Apex City of Bath Hotel’s General Manager. He took on the role in 2018 and has more than 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, including general management roles for recognised industry names IHG and Hotel Du Vin.

For more: 01225 418500; apexhotels.co.uk

MACDONALD BATH SPA HOTEL

Raj Chakraborty, general manager

Tell us a little about the firm Macdonald Bath Spa hotel is one of 30 hotels which are divided over several places within the UK and Spain. We are situated only a short walk from the centre of ath and nestled acres of private grounds. We are easy to reach and have on-site parking for our guests. This makes our hotel in Bath the ideal location, whether you’re hosting a wedding, holding an event or popping in for a mid-week break.

What makes working in Bath special?

With its honey-coloured Georgian architecture, Bath is a prosperous, ambitious, diverse and dynamic city that has attracted many highly skilled and forward-thinking professionals. Bath has so much history and so do we! First built in 1835, the now Bath Spa hotel uses the same honey-coloured bricks as the rest of the city. The building’s owners over the years have played a small but important part in Bath’s

history. You cannot get more special than Bath!

How and who founded the company?

n , anaging director of Stakis Hotels Donald MacDonald, created Macdonald Hotels LTD by purchasing two Scottish Hotels. The company continued to grow through various acquisitions, including hotels formally owned by De Vere hotels and The Rank Organisation. It has expanded to become the UK’s largest privately own hotel group. It employs more than , staff and o erates in excess of 4,500 hotel rooms.

Did you know...

We have 2 bee hives on site, which are located at the entrance of our beautiful drive way. We collect the organic honey and you can buy jars of that honey from our reception team! This is one of our latest initiatives to help our environment, alongside our hives we are also having electric vehicle charging ports installed for our hotel guests to use.

For more: 0344 879 9106; macdonaldhotels.co.uk/bath

“THE HOTEL IS HOME TO BATH’S ONLY PURPOSE-BUILT CITY CENTRE CONFERENCE AND EVENTS VENUE AND BOASTS 177 SUMPTUOUS BEDROOMS”

“WE ARE EASY TO REACH AND HAVE ON-SITE PARKING FOR OUR GUESTS”

BUSINESS SERVICES

CITY TAILORS

Ben Aydin

Tell us a little about the business

We’ve been a business at the heart of Bath city, founded by my brother Mehmet and I in 2010, providing bespoke suit making for ladies and gentleman, dressmaking, wedding dress and clothing alterations for general public, local retailers and boutiques.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

As well as making high end bespoke/handmade suits, and alterations we have a team of dressmakers who are excellent in making and adjusting bridal wear.

What is your company’s ethos and philosophy?

Quality of our service and work is well known by clients, our ethos is based on understanding your needs, good listener and working together to provide you

with seamless, complimentary tailoring service. Mehmet and I have a wide range of experience including clothing manufacturing & training from Saville Row tailors, this gives us the expertise to deal with all tailoring requirements. Having a large team on site gives us ability to carry out most challenging work in short deadlines.

Did you know?

We are the only professional bespoke tailors in Bath and largest in south west who offer handmade suits, designed and made on the premises, using finest ritish fabrics ffer highest quality Bridal alterations and we are one of the few places in UK who can carry out vintage clothing restorations.

For more: 01225 920263; info@citytailors.co.uk; citytailors.co.uk

DR HELEN CURRAN COACHING AND CONSULTANCY

Dr Helen Curran

Tell us a little about the business

I provide bespoke career coaching to clients, both online and in person in Bath, to support individuals overcome hurdles and to progress in their careers. Whilst I provided coaching in my previous professional roles, I decided to formally develop my coaching business in early 2022. It is the best decision I could have made.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Career coaching has the otential to significantly im act, and improve, an individual’s professional life. It is incredibly rewarding to hear from clients who have secured a role after undertaking interview coaching, having struggled previously to progress. Helping clients develop confidence in themsel es, whether it be in their leadership approach, or how they manage a career change, and then hearing about the subsequent impact on their career progression, is brilliant.

What challenges are your clients facing?

A lot of the clients I am working with currently are experiencing challenges related to career changes and transitions. Clients not only have concerns about the transferability of their skills and experience, but also regarding how they can present themselves to future employers. Clients often feel overwhelmed by possibility, or hindered by self-doubt. Coaching provides the time and space to determine ways forward.

What is your ethos and philosophy?

To be authentically, client centred at the heart of every coaching interaction. This ethos in practice means that each coaching session is approached with a belief that clients can change things for the better, and the coach is there as a facilitator - being authentic means ha e the confidence of being a ro riately ualified and experienced to know what works. Having such belief in your clients is powerful.

For more: 01225 560844; helen@helencurran.net; helencurran.net

IMPERIAL STAFF

Sarajane Ambrose, managing director

Tell us a little about the business

The Agency was founded by Sarajane Ambrose, Managing Director, whose ethos was to focus only on the career-minded staff whowouldfit in easily to the client’s household and fulfil their role to enable the client to focus on their family, business empires or careers and their lifestyle.

What areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in placing experienced high calibre household staff who hold a full work history, checkable references and a cleared DBS. All interviewed in person, they are career minded staff who take pride in their work and position. Candidates range from temporary maternity nurses for post-partum mothers, to permanent nannies and governesses to single householdstaff and cou le teams for clients in London, the country and indeed across the globe.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Both clients and candidates will recei e a confidential attenti e ser ice from start to finish regardless of the fee scale and our ultimate goal is to achieve a successful long-term placement for both the client and the candidate(s).

What challenges are your clients facing?

Since working in this industry in 1995 the demand has far outweighed the supply and gone are the days when household staff are grateful for accommodation and a position as a means to employment. It is, and will continue to be, very much a candidates’ market where, for want of a better phrase, they call the shots. And once a client is on par with realistic market conditions which is very much set by the demand, our clients can then proceed with getting their house in order. This is where we facilitate this very aim.

For more: 01225 48422/ 01225 484190; im eria sta om

“CAREER COACHING HAS THE POTENTIAL TO SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT, AND IMPROVE, AN INDIVIDUAL’S PROFESSIONAL LIFE”

“BOTH CLIENTS AND CANDIDATES WILL RECEIVE A CONFIDENTIAL ATTENTIVE SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH“

MINUTEMAN PRESS

David Ghent, founder/ managing director

Tell us a little about the company

We are a design, print and signage com any also offering ehicle gra hics and all your e hibition dis lay re uirements n ril this year we celebrate our th year of trading and we were e tremely

leased in to ha e had one of our best sales growths e er ur success last year is down to our e cellent growing team of and our successful mo e from alcot treet in late when we mo ed to our ommercial unit at ines ay

How has the company adapted to stay relevant?

a ing o ened in ril

we soon realised that to grow the business and to be the to rinter in the city we needed to ha e the best and most u to date e ui ment a ailable er the years we ha e u graded our e ui ment many times and when we mo ed into our new unit we in ested in two of ero ’s to of the range digital resses worth , These machines can rint s eciality colours such as

white, uorescents, gold and sil er which enhances the rint obs resulting in rinting that really stands out e ha e also added foiling in house and our ehicle bay means that we can do ehicle gra hics on cars and ans

What plans does the firm have for 2023?

e will be celebrating our th anni ersary in style a ing o ened on ril st we ha e established oursel es as ath’s leading rint and ignage com any e will be marketing oursel es more than e er with s ecial anni ersary offers and we will ha e another of our successful o en e enings soon so look out for details n ay we bought a Trotec laser cutter which now means we can roduce laser cut and engra ed roducts such as crylic, leather, glass, wood etc

For more: 01225 442000; david@minutemanbath.co.uk; minutemanbath.co.uk

CULTURAL EVOLUTION

Tell us a little about your business…

Jess: We believe at the heart of every successful business is a group of passionate and engaged people. How you ensure your people feel connected to your company and are happy at work is where we step in.

Tim: Our team are a mix of cultural change and communications specialists, talented creatives, coaches and facilitators. Essentially, we blend behavioural psychology with creativity to change things for the better.

What key trends are you seeing right now?

Tim: The virtual world has many advantages, yet having the opportunity to come together in person remains the most effective way to build a more connected team. We’ve been facilitating more team effectiveness workshops and many have never met in person. It’s a real privilege to enable these moments to happen.

Jess: Hybrid working is here to stay, which means we need to communicate across a variety of channels to reach people. We’ve supported organisations to effectively use enterprise social technologies such as Yammer and seen a sharp increase in requests for employee generated video content.

What one thing could businesses do to improve their culture?

Tim: For leaders to increase self-awareness and reflect on their own leadership shadow. Consider the impact you have on your team through what you say, how you act, and what you measure and prioritise.

Jess: Close the say-do gap. Review what you say about your company and ask the question “is this what it’s really like here?” – then look at ways to close those gaps.

What are you excited about right now?

Jess: The continued growth of our business. With every new team member, we bring in fresh thinking and new perspectives, which I love.

Tim: We have seen lots of businesses create vibrant and collaborative spaces in their offices, so I am excited to see the positive impact this will have for employees.

The Georgian Lodge, 25 Bridge Street, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1BY

For support with your culture and communications, start a conversation with Bowline on 01225 931012 or email hello@wearebowline.com www.wearebowline.com

BOWLINE are a culture and communications agency based in Bradford on Avon. We spoke to company directors Jess and Tim Jeary to understand more about their world.

S&B ORIGINALS

Chris Kemp, co founder and company director

Tell us a little about the firm

Based in the heart of Bath S&B riginals offer a full in house video, animation, and live streaming roduction ser ice e ha e o er years e erience in creating ideo content that really connects our clients to their audience orking with a wide ariety of sectors and brand including science and tech, education, food drink we roduce ideo marketing, cor orate ideos, internal communications, T ad ertising and social media content

What predictions does the firm have for 2023?

ideo continues to be a need to ha e rather than a nice to ha e element of any successful marketing strategy ocial media latforms are now firmly ideo first and all these latforms lo e ertical ideo so we will all be thinking ertical in roduct and ser ice e lainers

continue to get the best as do the use of targeted and direct res onse T ad ertising

What challenges are your clients facing?

ee ing u with feeding the content monster can feel o erwhelming, both from a ca acity and budgetry oint of iew ideo strategy that allows you to roduce content you can re ur ose and reuse throughout the year can really hel with this The ele hant in the room with ideo marketing is getting seen by the right eo le ake sure you set aside budget for aid lacement as well as ideo roduction to get the best

What plans does the firm have for 2023?

This is an e citing year for us as we transition the com any from uited and ooted tudios into riginals and fully embrace our mo e to or status

For more: 01225 338294; suitedandbooted.org

TOBY PINN CHARTERED ARTS & ANTIQUES SURVEYORS Toby Pinn MRICS

Tell us a little about the firm Toby inn hartered rts nti ues ur eyors is a regulated aluation firm ro iding certified aluations of art, anti ues, ewellery, sil er and personal property for professional and ri ate clients e roduce aluations for the ur oses of inheritance ta , insurance, family di ision, ca ital gains ta and sale by auction ith o er twenty years’ e erience in this sector and a team of s ecialist consultants, we deli er these ser ices nationwide dditionally, we arrange consignment of art and anti ues to a network of s ecialist auction houses

What sets you apart from other businesses in your sector?

nstructing a regulated art anti ues sur eyor affords clients the eace of mind that they are choosing an a ro ed aluer with the uality assurance that o ting for a regulated business ro ides

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

f the distinct ty es of aluation we offer, ro iding a way forward for families at a time of bereavement is the most satisfying as ect of our aluation work

The ros ect of dealing with the entire contents of a relati e’s home is often a daunting and o erwhelming task for a family at a articularly di cult time ith more than twenty years of e erience recei ing instructions from robate solicitors and e ecutors in the ath, ristol and surrounding areas, we regularly find that a home contents aluation for inheritance ta ur oses, initially iewed by the family as a necessary intrusion, becomes a ourney through the life of a lo ed one as new light, and with it a fresh a reciation is shone u on ob ects that together hel ed create the fabric of a lifetime ith a range of ost aluation su ort including auction consignment and clearance, we can take care of it all

For more: 0117 2517251; tobypinn.co.uk

Mark Vincent Surveying provides surveying advice on residential properties primarily across North Somerset, Bath and North-East Somerset and West Wiltshire. As a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and with experience of properties ranging from modest studio apartments through to multi-million pound country estates, Mark’s advice is impartial and provides peace of mind to his clients.

Operating in and around Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Frome, Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Warminster, Wells & Westbury – Mark provides a wide range of services related to the condition of residential property, including:

• Homebuyers reports

• Building Surveys

Mark is independent of estate agents and financial institutions which means he gives unbiased advice and can offer complete peace of mind with RICS Approved Professional Indemnity Insurance cover.

PLAN IT IN ADVANCE

Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains the use and effect of an Advance Directive

Astatement signed by an individual to confirm 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 is most frequently termed an ‘Advance Directive’ or ‘Advance Decision’. The term ‘Living Will’ is also sometimes used but is becoming less popular as it is thought that it can cause confusion. Whereas a ‘Will’ deals with a person’s property and finances a ‘Living Will’ does not. It deals with health decisions only.

So, what is the use and effect of an Advance Directive? And how does it differ from a Lasting Power of Attorney 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 him or herself open to legal action.

An Advance Directive may address:

• particular forms of treatment – eg cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the use of intravenous fluids, pain control and or nutrition and hydration,

• particular conditions – eg brain damage,

• particular religious beliefs – eg blood transfusion for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

What an Advance Directive cannot do is:

• request something illegal – eg 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 – eg changed his or her religion,

• 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

GOVERNMENT DELAYS MTD FOR INCOME TAX

Matthew Rutter from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers

PEARSON MAY on the Treasury’s decision to delay Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment to April 2026

The Treasury has confirmed that Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (“MTD for ITSA”) will be delayed by a further two years until April 2026. It will now be introduced in phases from 6 April 2026, rather than 6 April 2024. The original start date for MTD for ITSA was planned for April 2018 and this is the fifth deferral of the start date.

According to the First Secretary to the Treasury, this delayed phased approach will give businesses more time to prepare and adapt to new ways of working.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) stated that the UK government understands businesses and self-employed individuals are currently facing a challenging economic environment, and that the transition to MTD for ITSA for the self-employed and small landlords represents a significant change for taxpayers, agents, and for HMRC itself.

Not only is the start date being deferred but as mentioned above, it will now be introduced in phases. The minimum reporting level for self-employed individuals and landlords will be increased from £10,000 to £50,000, meaning that those self-employed individuals and landlords with turnover/gross rental income

over £50,000 will be mandated to join first, from April 2026. HMRC estimates this will apply to 700,000 taxpayers.

Those with turnover/rental income over £30,000 will be mandated to join MTD for ITSA from April 2027. HMRC estimates this will apply to a further 900,000 taxpayers.

The government is now reviewing whether smaller businesses/landlords with an income below £30,000 will be mandated to join MTD for ITSA. It is estimated that 2.6m taxpayers are within this group.

requirements among taxpayers – particularly those with a single source of property income.

The lack of functionality to allow taxpayers to appoint more than one agent (e.g. a bookkeeper to handle quarterly updates and an agent that completes the year-end processes).

The lack of adequate solutions for the complexity associated with jointly-held property.

The lack of a design solution for non-tax year accounting periods.

The design around amendments and corrections and how they are made.

Taxpayers being resistant to using commercial software. This is partly due to its cost, but also because many taxpayers use their mobile phone for simple record keeping.

The capacity of HMRC, software developers, agents and taxpayers to deliver the change.

In the light of these fundamental issues, our Institute (the ICAEW) is urging HMRC and the government to reconsider some of the key policy and design decisions and return the focus to businesses keeping good quality digital accounting records. Otherwise, they say, there is a risk that this further deferral will not be the final one and it will be difficult to persuade taxpayers to prepare.

Partnerships will not be brought into MTD for ITSA in 2025 as previously planned and while no date has been set for extending MTD for ITSA to partnerships, the government has stated that it remains committed to introducing MTD for ITSA to partnerships at a future date.

Furthermore, a points-based system aimed at making penalties fairer and simpler will come into effect for taxpayers when they join MTD for ITSA.

Over the last few months there had been increasing speculation that a deferral was inevitable, given the very small numbers of taxpayers in the restricted pilot scheme and a long list of problems with digitalising tax reporting of trading and property income. These problems include the following:

A lack of awareness of the MTD for ITSA

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

Matthew Rutter BSc(Hons) FCA CTA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge

37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491; mail@pearsonmay.co.uk

www.pearsonmay.co.uk

Matthew Rutter, a partner at Pearson May

“ OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS THERE HAD BEEN INCREASING SPECULATION THAT A DEFERRAL WAS INEVITABLE, GIVEN THE VERY SMALL NUMBERS OF TAXPAYERS IN THE RESTRICTED PILOT SCHEME”

GARDENS

Nick Woodhouse e lores an historic cottage garden that now hel s ser e the community

For horticulturalist erryn reece, ro ed an e entful year t was in this year that, not only did she become a mum, but she also mo ed to the omerset illage of ells, where through some serendi ity, she realised a long held assion to run her own series of gardening worksho s hortly after arri ing in ells, erryn isited the illage’s renowned alled arden riginally a monastic garden and belonging to the estate of lastonbury bbey, it is belie ed that herbs were initially grown here, both for medicine and research The original rectory on the site was demolished during the dissolution

the garden offered seed growing kits for those in the local community to raise at home nce restrictions were eased, artici ants were in ited to bring in their seedlings for growing on in the walled garden’s own olytunnel ore than eo le signed u for the initiati e, roducing more than lants that would all be shared at a community lant swa The ro ect is now in its fourth year, an ongoing art of the garden’s commitment to im ro ing hysical and mental wellbeing, articularly in those e eriencing isolation and loneliness

meandering gardens and a community nursery ecialising in cottage garden erennials, articularly those friendly to bees and other insects, the nursery in ests all its roceeds into initiati es that offer access to gardens to those that might otherwise not ha e the o ortunity

of the monasteries in the s but the garden has continued under arious stewardshi s as art of the ells state until the resent day tewardshi of the gardens, caf and nursery currently resides with social entre reneur amantha ans, who took the reins in hen erryn and amantha met by chance at the gardens, they hit it off straightaway amantha was keen to de elo the community side of this uni ue s ace, while erryn was looking to combine her lo e of lants with an e ual assion teaching es ite the im ending arri al of the andemic, the following year saw the air debut four worksho s in the gardens ith su ort from the go ernment’s ocal onnection Fund, that year also saw the launch of eeds of onnection imed at easing the transition out of lockdown,

longside the worksho s within the walled gardens, erryn recently launched a series of further courses in her own kitchen garden nearby ollecti ely, the sites offer a range of courses and worksho s throughout the year ourse sub ects ary, from taking cuttings to wea ing willow lant su orts, to growing autumn and winter edibles The horticulture career change worksho s ha e ro ed articularly o ular, ins ired by erryn’s ery own career change in her mid s a ing initially undertaken a series of horticultural courses as a hobby while working in the charity sector, it was as a regional ad isor for the on its am aign for chool ardening that erryn disco ered her lo e for teaching orking alongside school staff, home educators, hos itals and community grou s, this ongoing initiati e aims to ins ire young eo le to disco er the outdoors and to learn how to care for lants and the lanet alike er time on this cam aign ro ed a defining moment for erryn, who went on to work for u a and The ational Trust before setting u her own garden maintenance and consultancy com any, arsley ardens

erryn now shares her time between arenthood, arsley ardens and this year’s rogramme of worksho s at the alled arden, due to reo en for the season in ril The grounds of the former rectory run to around an acre, and are s lit between

Through grou acti ities and olunteer days, ue and her team constantly look at how they might harness the thera eutic im act of nature based acti ities such as gardening nd what a setting in which to do so while the garden’s walls afford it shelter and rotection, the s ace also en oys magical iews o er ancient meadows to its south fter its winter break, the garden’s caf will also continue in its commitment to sourcing local ingredients and working with local su liers isitors will be chom ing at the bit to return and en oy the fare, such as i a baked in the garden’s own i a o en They’ll be able to take their i as and find a secluded s ot in the rambling gardens to eat erha s they’ll ick the rose terrace in the sun or grab a s ot under the greenhouse’s ine on rainier days

Twice a month, they might also find lisa eleste running one of a series of full and new moon e ening meditations

Those ancient walls are erha s like our ery own garden walls there not ust to rotect and nurture the lants that grow within them, but but to ro ide solace and oy to those who tend them too

The Walled Garden at Mells, BA11 3PN

For more: www.thewalledgardenatmells.co.uk | www.parsleygardens.co.uk

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

“Originally a monastic garden, it is believed that herbs were grown here for medicine and research”

CLOCKWISEFROMABOVE: The Walled Garden was originally a monastic garden belonging to the estate of Glastonbury Abbey; horticulturalist

Merryn Preece moved to the village of Mells in 2019; Seeds of Connection is a community plant swap initiative; regular workshops are now held within the gardens starting in April

© MERRYN PREECE

© KIRSTEN PLATT

PROPERTY

PLACES TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY

FARMERS’ MARKET

Grade II listed farmhouse near Bath comes up for sale

Dreaming of a life in the country but with the modern convenience of city centre nearby? Then Kites Farm near the conservation village of Upton Cheyney, might be just the ticket. It is a beautifully refurbished Grade II listed farmhouse set in seven acres, with stables and a paddock and far-reaching views over the Avon Valley.

On the market with Carter Jonas for £2.5million, there’s 3,300sq ft of accommodation including fi e bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a separate utility room with stable door leading to a terrace. Then there’s the andarin tone limestone ooring with under oor heating throughout, a Fired Earth farmhouse kitchen with island Aga, woodburner, inglenook fire lace, formal gardens, gra el seating areas, children’s play area and kitchen garden. The barns could also be converted into additional living spaces subject to planning.

For more: www.carterjonas.co.uk

This Grade II farmhouse is on the market for £2.5million

Beautiful views across the Avon Valley

Residential

erseas ro erty ortal yero has announced its certification as a or oration or The ath based firm, which has o er , ro erties listed on its site, achie ed the accolade after being certified by ab, the not for rofit behind the or mo ement This means that yero met rigorous social and en ironmental standards which re resent its commitment to goals outside of shareholder rofit artin ell, co founder of yero says, yero has always cared about doing the right thing for our eo le, our customers, our lanetand our community, and we are honoured to ha e earned or certification in recognition of this e belie e you shouldn’t ha e to choose between running a successful business and doing good you can do both, and we are

n ain, we donate er cent of yero’s total re enue to anish homelessness charity ogar i and we ha e in ested in becoming carbon negati e for the ne t years e’re a fully remote com any with a small carbon foot rint, but we belie e our industry should take res onsibility for its im act, so we’ e offset double the tra el that’s ty ically in ol ed in iewing ro erties and mo ing abroad in this calculation, on behalf of our clients

For more: www.kyero.com

Property symposium SPEAKERS’ CORNER

The keynote s eakers ha e been confirmed for the ro erty ym osium ha ening on ril at ristol’s hed eli ering s ecial resentations on the to ic of The ity of the Future’ are ’s director of regeneration and housing imon artin an ollinson, director of city de elo ment at eter ity ouncil uliet amlin, rinci al o cer at n est in ardiff and te hen eacock, chief e ecuti e o cer from ristol ity ouncil

lso s eaking is Tim Fendley, the founder, , and creati e director of lied nformation rou , who is a leading authority on cities worldwide

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

The team behind the eckford rou , which is run by co founders an rod, harlie u ton and att reenlees, will o en their first hotel, Teffont ouse, later this year The ro erty, re iously known as oward’s ouse hotel, is situated in the historic illage of Teffont ias in iltshire’s adder alley, and is a traditional stone building originally built in

The Teffont ouse lans include en suite bedrooms, a walled garden which will grow roduce for the kitchen and bar , a new orangery dining room and mini ramley s a within the grounds

This ac uisition will mark a new cha ter for the grou who already ha e The eckford ottle ho and eckford anteen in ath, along with four acclaimed country inns with rooms dotted across iltshire and omerset

For more: www.beckford.group

Gemma Coles, managing director, Louise Dell, co-founder, and Martin Dell co-founder of Kyero

Beckford Group co-founders Charlie Luxton, Dan Brod, and Matt Greenlees

Teffont House

Simon Martin

Tim Fendley

Juliet Gamlin

By Wendy Lyne

Bath has no shortage of glorious honey-stone crescents, with fans of each arguing their corner vociferously. The Royal Crescent is the famous one, of course: 30 houses wide, 150 metres from end to end, and one of the great and most-loved achievements of Georgian architecture.

Lansdown Crescent is a hidden gem for those who like to think of themselves as a little more discerning; high on the hill at what was once the city’s northern boundary; it comes (eccentrically) in three pieces. The conca e central crescent is anked by ansdown laces ast and est, which e the other way

Then there’s Camden Crescent, shorter than it should be thanks to an unfortunate landslide that wiped out the nine easternmost homes; Cavendish Crescent, shortest and plainest at just 11 houses wide; Norfolk Crescent, the only one ne t to the ri er, so erha s the most une ected and affordable and idcombe rescent, unique in its south-of-the-river location.

nd then there’s the rade listed omerset lace, designed by John Eveleigh in 1790 and among the most striking yet secluded of the crescents, located in a culde-sac at the western end of Lansdown Crescent.

ight in the middle of the row you’ll find this stunning lateral maisonette, occu ying the first and

HOUSE NUMBERS

Bedrooms 3

Bathrooms 2

Sq ft 1,832

Guide price £1.75m

What else?

Private gated parking

For more: Savills; www.savills.co.uk

Tsecond oors and thus high enough to en oy ama ing views over the city and beyond. Accessed by lift or stairs, it’s an im ressi e, light filled s ace that re ol es around a central entrance hall with stairs.

n the first oor, you get a large ’ li ing room opposite a slightly longer, tiny bit narrower kitchen/ dining room. Then, above, a large master bedroom with en suite, two further bedrooms it might make sense to configure the smaller of these as a study lus a utility room, family bathroom and walk-in wardrobe.

Keep going up, though, and you get to perhaps the most s ectacular and une ected art of the whole lace inch yourself, because there’s a wonderful private roof terrace up there, huddled amongst the pitched roofs, and big enough for seats and a table. Sitting here with the noise of the city just a faint hum below you and the blue sky arching above, it really must be one of secret Bath’s most enviable treats.

Alternatively, if you fancy moving around a little more (and very occasionally talking to other people), the at also has use of the well ke t communal garden almost a small ark, really o osite the building, with trees, shrubs and a large central lawn. Though not quite as e clusi e as your ri ate terrace, this is still restricted to residents only, and you’ll often find you’re the only one there.

From this light filled a artment in one of ath’s premier crescents, you really are on top of the world

FOR THE HOME

ASPECT WINDOW STYLING

Inspiration for windows. Based in the heart of Bath, Aspect Window Styling are suppliers of top quality shutters, blinds of all types, curtains, poles, and awnings. Visit their showroom for inspiration and ad ice from e ert staff on how to transform your windows into something gorgeous. Full design, measuring and fitting ser ice Tel: 01225 469559 www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk

WOOLF

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE

&

MENDIP FIREPLACES BATH

NEXUS OF BATH is a Bath based family business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety Tel: 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

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

DESIGN

create unique, client-focused contemporary and traditional interiors, valued for their individual, beautifully tailored characterful design. With 25 years of expertise delivering space planning, detailed design, procurement, art curation and project management. An award-winning practice with studios in Bath & London, WOOLF are accredited designers of historic, period, listed houses and hotels. Tel 01225 445670; woolfinterior.com

ath’s leading fire lace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and ue s ecialist From classic to contem orary, conce t to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, arbas elfires, wam, tu and etmaster et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, at in o@mendi re a es at o

Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

VIRTUOSO FLOORING

ffering stylish, inno ati e ooring solutions to meet the needs of the savvy Bath homeowner. Virtuoso em loy the largest team of e erienced fitters in ath Their dedicated team are ready to turn your dream oor into a reality all now for a free consultation or visit their new show room on Moorland Road. To en ire emai in o@virt osofloorin o or a 01225 972715; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk

JENNIFER MOSSE DESIGN STUDIO

A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service based in Bath. Specialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal ser ice ada ted to each client’s needs, ennifer’s uni ue style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, re ecting her clients’ lifestyles and ersonalities

Tel: 07738289189; www.jennifermosse.com

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

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

SCHMIDT BATH

Providing bespoke kitchens and made-to-measure interiors across the Bath area for more than 35 years, chmidt ath offers lu ury solutions for the home at affordable rices 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

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for Spring

IAN ROSS

The historical novelist on how he grew to love Bath, and the power of the past

Ian has been writing historical fiction for over a decade and is the author of the six-book Twilight of Empire series, about the late Roman world in the age of the Emperor Constantine. His next novel, Battle Song , is a tale of medieval adventure and chivalric conflict set in the 13th century against the backdrop of the Barons’ War and the rebellion of Simon de Montfort. After travelling widely, Ian settled in Bath nearly 20 years ago and lives in the city centre.

My childhood appears quite idyllic in retrospect, although at the time it seemed entirely normal. I grew up in Cornwall, in the countryside, and spent my days roaming the fields and woodlands, exploring and having adventures.

Most of my family holidays involved touring around ruined castles. Not surprisingly, I developed an appreciation for history at a very early age.

I learned almost nothing at school except, strangely enough, how to ride a horse. There was something on the curriculum called ‘Learning for Living’, and one of the options was to visit a local riding stable and learn all about horses, saddles and tack, and then go trotting about the lanes once a week.

After leaving art college, I did a bewildering variety of quite random things just to support myself while I wrote. I worked in sho s and o ces and call centres, on film sets and on building sites, did painting and decorating for a few years, and spent a while in Italy teaching English.

When I was an art student, I had a beer with Kurt Cobain. That was before he became a global megastar, so it took a while for the story of my encounter to impress anyone.

I like to remain as immersed in the period I’m working on as possible. I’m currently in the opening stages of writing a sequel to Battle Song, so I’m listening to a lot of Guillaume de Machaut and the Cantigas de anta aria at the moment ’m also reading all about medieval outlaws and burial customs, Cistercian monasteries and 13th century surgical techniques, and anything else I might decide I need to know about as I’m developing the story.

I recently made a list of my current ideas for future novels, and found I have 21 of them. My ambition is to write them all, of course, but simply continuing to work and be published from one year to the next feels like a suitable goal. o efully artificial intelligence will not replace us all at any imminent moment.

History has a weight and power that can add tremendous momentum to a story, but my main interest has always been to portray the experiences of individuals –usually fictional characters who get caught up in great historical events.

I do not own a television or a smartphone and I cannot

drive a car. I am very slow to adopt new technologies.

Before I moved to Bath, I’d been living by the sea for several years, and at first I missed the open horizons and found Bath very closed in and even oppressive at times. But very soon I came to love the city and its setting, and the wooded hills you can see whenever you look up, from wherever you might be.

I’ve always loved to travel, but lately I’ve found that returning to Bath after a trip away, and the first iew of the city wra ed in its green hills, gives me a profound sense of homecoming. The view from those hills –from Bathampton Down, or eechen liff, or olsbury is even better still, especially on a warm summer evening with the limestone glowing in the last of the sun.

My last dinner out was at Mantra. I eat there fairly frequently; my partner lives in London, but she enjoys a meal out when she’s in Bath. We’ve also been to Comptoir + Cuisine recently, and Tagine Zhor has long been a favourite.

Battle Song by Ian Ross, comes out 30 March (£21.99, Hodder and Stoughton) and is available to order through local indie bookshops For more: www. ianjamesross.com

“I do not own a television or a smartphone”

Queens Square

Gainsborough Hotel

Sydney Gardens Church