Will and Jayde go head to head Crash course for the ravers
We’re staying up late with Colin and Jazz Whisky Galore ‘Professional drinker’ Andy Clarke Pieminister’s question time Going the whole Hogg
And so this is Bristmas
You know us, we don’t hold back. Start turning the pages, and succumb to the festive madness within
OK, we haven’t exactly reinvented the Bristol Life Christmas wheel for this issue – but seriously, would you want us to?
Isn’t that one of the things we love most about the season – the cosy reassurance of familiar traditions, the tried-andtested treats guaranteed to warm the cockles in the deep midwinter? Why else would we dig out frankly average pop songs made half a century ago and play them on repeat for a whole month? Why put up with the needle-dropping inconvenience of a full si ed tree in the living room hy stuff ourselves with more food than anyone needs or wants on Christmas Day? Does anyone really like turkey? Or sprouts? Or Christmas pudding? Of course not. If we did we’d eat them all year round.
It’s tradition. It’s Fairytale and fairy lights; paper hats and parties; traumatic soap storylines and cheesy romcom ads. It’s crackers, and chestnuts roasting on an open re, providing you use an authorised fuel or exempt appliance, obviously.
Who are we to mess with the mojo? So yes, of course we have a beautiful snowy front cover. Of course there’s a big gift guide inside, along with a round-up of the best Christmas shows, a Bristmas Heroes, a silly Bristol Lives, the Bristmas quiz and a What’s On section in which every other word appears to be ‘festive’. Of course we’ve grabbed the opportunity to feature the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Museum, and led with icy, wintry images. And of course there are Christmas cocktails, because the prospect of spending 48 hours with the family loometh, and all you want for Christmas is booze.
So, what do you reckon? Is this jolly-holly issue predictable to a fault, or a sparkly, cherished, highly anticipated part of your yuletide season?
Anyway, it’s what you’re getting. Merry Bristmas!
DERI ROBINS Bristol Life editor @BristolLifeMag
Issue 377 / December 2025
ON THE COVER
Small Street Espresso in the snow by Edd Cope; see page 11
ARTS
11 BL LOVES Meet the guy behind our beautiful front cover image
12 WHAT’S ON You’ll never guess what it’s beginning to look a lot like
20 THEATRE Let the panto wars commence
30 NIGHTLIFE Bristol after dark
37 BOOKS op notch stoc ing llers
38 PHOTOGRAPHY Wild at heart
46 BRISTOL HEROES The festive edit
FOOD & DRINK
50 RESTAURANT Killing it at The Kenny
54 BOOKSHELF It’s ‘professional drinker’ Andy Clarke!
56 COCKTAILS Spirits of Christmas present, toasts of Christmas past
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THE BRISTMAS LIFE FESTIVE QUIZ!
1Who is commemorated with a statue on arrow uay, outside rnol ni
2Which Bristol musician is sometimes nown as nowle est oy
3Where was the Roman port of Abonae in Bristol?
4
Which ground-breaking Bristol band did Mark Stewart front?
5
Which two founding members of Bananarama come from Coalpit Heath?
6Who plays drums for Idles? The Bristmas quiz, as ever, is
7
Which area of Bristol, according to the Dictionary of Bristle, is known by some as El Dub?
8
Which member of Wild Bunch wrote a memoir called Stray (Tangent Books)?
9 hich band ic ed off their tour at the Bristol Hippodrome in May 1973 to accompany their Red Road Speedway album?
10
hen was lastonbury estival rst held, and what was its original name?
11 he etflix ilm Joy tells the story of the origins of what Bristol woman?
12
ritain s rst woman doctor was born in Bristol – what was her name?
13What was the name of the 18-year-old black servant who has an elaborate tombstone in Henbury Churchyard?
14
What is the name of the swing bridge at the Cumberland Basin?
15
Which allotments are named after the 1914 Bristol International Exhibition?
16
Helios and Gaia are creations by which Bristol artist?
17
Acker Bilk reached number one in the American charts in May 1962 with Stranger On The Shore. He was the second British artist to reach Number One in the tates ho was the rst and who was the third?
18
What is the real name of Mushroom, one of the founder members of Massive Attack?
19
Which Bristol artist had a Number One hit with Side Saddle in 1959?
20Which Bristol dog became the international symbol of The Gramophone Company from 1909?
THE ARTS
SNAPSHOTS OF BRISTOL’S CULTURAL LIFE
COVER STORY
Just like the beautiful snowy Small Street image featured on our front cover, this misty shot of the Gorge was taken by Edd Cope – a freelance photographer who, he says, is proud to live in the incredible city of Bristol.
“I can vividly remember taking my first photos and being blown away that I could freeze precious moments in time”, says Edd. “This feeling still happens every time I press the shutter button. Photography has taught me to truly appreciate the world around me and it’s a pleasure to inject my positivity and warmth into a photo.”
Edd started out in the fast-paced world of motorsport photography and has since developed his skills to suit a variety of situations and subjects. “Travel truly opened my eyes to the beauty all around us, and the diversity of people. I was able to capture situations that told a story, and this has shaped the way I approach my work.
“I’m proud to work with awesome clients, from couples who’ve just got married through to businesses large and small. My aim is to always deliver a service that will make you smile; please get in touch for a chat, the opportunity to work with you would be amazing.” www.eddcopephotography.co.uk; @eddcope
WHAT’S ON
5 December 20252 January 2026
EXHIBITIONS
Until 21 December
STEVE MCCOY: PROXIMITY
Retrospective exhibition of photography by Steve, exploring a deep connection with the people and places of Merseyside, where he spent 45 years living and working; at MPF, martinparrfoundation.org
Until 28 December
RWA 172 ANNUAL OPEN
One of the UK’s most prestigious open-submission exhibitions returns, welcoming artists at all stages of their careers; at RWA, rwa.org.uk
Until 11 January
NOUR JAOUDA
Solo exhibition by Libyan artist our, whose fluid, multi layered textile works traverse the languages of painting, sculpture and installation to produce ‘landscapes of memory’. Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk
DAN LIE: SLEEPING METHODOLOGIES
Dan’s commission celebrates natural cycles of transformation and the interdependent exchanges that structure ecosystems; Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk
Until 8 February
EMMA TALBOT
Emma brings her complex visual poems to life across drawing, silk paintings, sculpture, installation and animation rnol ni ar olfi i.org.uk
Until 26 April
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR
The prestigious exhibition of nature photos, back at Bristol Museum; see page 38. bristolmuseums.org.uk
SHOWS
Until 4 January
SLEEPING BEAUTY
Polka Dot Pantomimes do what they do best, with this classic panto at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com
Until 10 January
TREASURE ISLAND
What could be more Bristol than this piratical yarn? More on page 20; BOV, bristololdvic.org.uk
ANTARCTICA
The South Pole is a magical, windwhipped world of snow, ice and some of the most wondrous creatures on Earth. It’s another BOV Christmas shows for very young theatregoers,
offering them an ideal introduction to theatre. bristololdvic.org.uk
Until 11 January
MOULIN SCROOGE
It’s a comedy mash-up, so it can only be The Wardrobe; see page 20. thewardrobetheatre.com
Until 17 January
RAPUNZEL: A HAIRY TALE he s hristmas offering see page 20. tobaccofactorytheatres.com
5 December
GEOFFREY CHAUCER’S MEDIAEVAL CHRISTMAS FESTIVITYE
John-Luke Roberts’ annual night of festive carousing hosted by the ‘great poot’ Chaucer. Alma Tavern, almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
6 December-4 January
JACK & THE BEANSTALK
It’s the Hippodrome’s big traditional panto with Will Young and Charlie Brooks; see page 20. atgtickets.com
9 December-3 January
MIRACLE ON NORTH STREET
Gurt Haunted brings a participatory paranormal parody to TFT which will leave you pondering:
is it the festive spirit, or have I just had one too many brandies? tobaccofactorytheatres.com
11 December
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Courtesy of Count Arthur Strong, who brings his own adaptation of the tale to Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
CABARET & COMEDY
Ongoing
CLOSER EACH DAY
The world’s longest-running improvised comedy soap continues at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
BRISTOL IMPROV THEATRE
For the full programme, see improvtheatre.co.uk
THE GAFFE
Stand-up LOLs from some of the sharpest, funniest comedians on the circuit, at Bristol’s hottest new comedy club: t egaffecome club.com
Until 6 December
ROB BECKETT: GIRAFFE
Rob’s wife thinks it’s going to be tough for him to be away from the
Santa & Sven: you know who Santa is, Sven’s the reindeer handler
family, but since he quite enjoys a lie in and a hotel buffet brea fast he thinks he’ll cope. What else did you have planned for this evening? Sitting next to your partner on the sofa scrolling TikTok in silence? You did that the last three nights. Head to Beacon instead; bristolbeacon.org
9 December
ROB BRYDON
Stories and impressions from Rob, along with his eight-piece band, a proper fun night out, then, at Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
Shaun Ryder and Paul Leveridge bring their trademark Mancunian swagger, fun and cryptic humour to Electric; electricbristol.com
7 December
TONY HADLEY
13 & 14 December SANTA & SVEN
Enchanting interactive show for ages 2+. You have to come with them, obviously, you can’t just drop them off and go down abot s ardrobe thewardrobetheatre.com
14 December WONDERHAUS
The brightest and bravest gems of live performance, comedy, clowning, circus, music and miscellaneous other stuff, freshly mined from the depths of the collective subconscious; at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
15 December CHRISTMAS LEFTOVERS
It’s Christmas time, there’s no need to be afraid: SCRAPS present an all-round chaotic Christmas show full of sketches, dance and lip sync at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
It’s the Christmas Big Band Tour with Spandau’s Ballet’s big Tone. The New Romantic has turned crooner, so along with Sinatra classics you can expect to hear True and Gold as never before; Beacon, bristolbeacon.org
8 December
PESTILENCE
Not into carols or chorals? How about a nice bit of Dutch death metal at The Fleece? t e eece.co.uk
9 December
BABYSHAMBLES
Having rocked the Pyramid Stage earlier this year with his reunited Libertines, Pete Doherty’s now on tour with the band he formed when the Libs chucked him out. Fun fact: he nearly called Babyshambles ‘’T Libertines’ due to the high number of Yorkshiremen in the line-up. We’re just happy to see him back. O2; academymusicgroup.com
12 December
ALABAMA 3
MUSIC
For more events see: Bristol Beacon (bristolbeacon.org); St George’s Bristol (stgeorgesbristol.co.uk Trinity tri it bristol.org.uk The Louisiana (thelouisiana.net); Thekla t eklabristol.co.uk O2 Academy (academymusicgroup.com); Bristol Folk House bristolfolk ouse.co.uk Electric Bristol (electricbristol.com); The Hen & Chicken e a c icke .com Prospect Building (theprospectbuilding.com) and Gallimaufrey t egallimaufr .co.uk
Carols & choral
There are dozens of traditional and classical concerts to enjoy – too many for us to list here – so see Bristol Beacon; St George’s Bristol, St Stephen’s Church; John Wesley Chapel; Bristol Cathedral and St ary edcliffe, among others
5 December
FATBOY SLIM
He’s right here, right now, at the
A3 brings its blend of country, acid house, gospel, electro, blues and dub to O2; it’s a bit like a Pentecostal meeting in a Manchester warehouse rave. academymusicgroup.com
17 December
KATE RUSBY
Kate’s pure vocals breathe new life into traditional South Yorkshire carols, winter songs, and Christmas classics, creating an enchanting, magical atmosphere at Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
18 December
THE BOOTLEG BEATLES
The tribute band which has been together far longer than the actual ab our wouldn t be di cult must be rubbing their hands in glee over Sam Mendes forthcoming mega biopic series – though even without the extra publicity they’d pack out the Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
19-20 December
DOREEN DOREEN
Bristol’s ultimate party band bring
TOP: Who doesn’t like a comeback kid? Pete with his Babyshambles crew
MIDDLE: Born to hang (on a Christmas tree); it’s Rob Brydon
BOTTOM: Christmas at Broadmead – good luck exiting the car park, everybody
their signature flair, powerhouse vocals and party starting anthems to the lectric electricbristol.com
20 December
HANDEL’S MESSIAH
ristol horal ociety and ritish infonietta bring the classical feels to eacon bristolchoral.co.uk
21 December
JOOLS HOLLAND
and his hythm and lues rchestra, of course, and also in this instance, melda ay and uby urner xpect all the classics at eacon, bristolbeacon.org
BRISTMAS
Until 21 December
YULETIDE AT WINDMILL CITY FARM
ave a cool ule at the arm with a variety of crafts and wor shops, along with relaxing retreats windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk
ESCAPE CHRISTMAS: A CAPITALIST ESCAPE GAME
et inside a mysterious cabin in the woods for an immersive performance blending storytelling, pu les and technology to explore what a fairer, more sustainable economy might loo li e t par s, sparksbristol.co.uk
SPIEGELTENT
he lovely wooden tent returns to ristol with events ranging from family cabaret and baby dis o to drag act Camp as Christmas!, he llergies un y estive hrowdown and ondon ommunity ospel hoir christmasspiegeltent.co.uk
Until 23 December
THE FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE
ne of many venues featuring the guy in red this time he s at shton ourt ansion ticketsource.co.uk
Until 24 December
A CHRISTMAS GROTTO: SANTA O’CLOCK
tep into a world where hristmas runs on time, than s to magical cloc s and the elves who care for them anta with a narrative, at abot s santaoclock.seetickets.com
CHRISTMAS GROTTO AT ST NICK’S
ould there be a more appropriate venue to host t ic est boo ahead, he s bound to get busy bookfatherchristmas.co.uk
BRISTOL POP-UP SHOP
ifts from local ma ers, artists and designers, at he alleries it s led by the owners of nine female led small businesses who want to support the local creative economy bristolpopupshop.co.uk
CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE AT AVON VALLEY PARK
festively curated day, with three theatrical shows, the olar xpress ide on the miniature train, a magical forest wal and many other themed activities and entertainment areas. avonvalley.co.uk
BRISTOL CHRISTMAS MARKET ifts, gl hwein, you now the drill it s the mega chaletfest down roadmead bristolchristmasmarket.com
SANTA SPECIALS AT AVON VALLEY RAILWAY
estive steam train aunts with the man in red on board his year s gift for ids of all ages is a bespo e von alley ailway reindeer plush toy Want!! quaytickets.com
Until 27 December
BRISTOL CHRISTMAS VILLAGE ac at astle ar with ollahub, curling, classic rides, an escape room and lots of other games christmasinbristol.uk
Until 28 December LUMINATE
new winter light trail at shton ourt the trail is about m long, with over light displays and interactive moments here are marshmallows to toast, mulled wine to drin , etc luminate.live
Until 4 January
BENEATH THE WAVES
festive light and sound experience at the ss Great Britain turns the lower dry doc into a luminous seascape, tracing the ship s voyage from the icy depths of northern waters to the warm, golden shimmer of distant shores ssgreatbritain.org
MERRY AND WILD CHRISTMAS
estive trail at the oo ids can visit the lves ost ce and write a wish for wildlife in their letter to anta awwh step inside a giant snowglobe, see anta s sledge and giant hanging bells, and wind up in the ipi rotto bristolzooproject.org.uk
6 December
GLOBAL GIFT FEST
world of uni ue handmade gifts, international flavours, wal about
TOP: That Alfie Ordinary, he’s Camp as Christmas MIDDLE: Woke up this morning, booked tickets for Alabama 3 BOTTOM: After all, there’s only one more sleep ‘til Christmas
WHAT’S ON
performers and heartwarming stories from Bristol’s diverse communities; at Sparks, sparksbristol.co.uk
6-7 December
CHRISTMAS FAIR AT UNDERFALL YARD
A rare chance to explore The Matthew out of the water; there’s music and poetry, hot drinks and snacks and you can have a go at the ‘create your own trinket’ station; take your creation home or add it to the Underfall tree. underfallyard.co.uk
6-23 December
A FESTIVE VOYAGE
Step on board the ssGB to discover how passengers and crew marked Christmas at sea and warm your cockles with hot chocolates and mince pies in the dockyard as roving musicians perform carols, shanties and familiar tunes. ssgreatbritain.org
7 December CHRISTMAS MARKET AT ARNOS VALE CEMETERY
Local stalls, seasonal gifts, crafts, and food and drink, all in the atmospheric surroundings of the cemetery; arnosvale.org.uk
13 December
CIRCOMEDIA’S WINTER MAKERS’ MARKET
Music, hot drinks and plenty of festive cheer as you support independent creatives from across the city; circomedia.com
14 December MADE IN BRISTOL GIFT FAIR
Unique handmade gifts from over of the outh est s nest artists and makers, all under one roof at Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
20-23 December WILD
erds charge, birds ta e flight, and great beasts emerge in dazzling patterns of light at Seat Unique Stadium for this year’s drone light show; wilddroneshow.com
OTHER
Ongoing
BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL
Ever watched Die Hard and thought, ou now what this lm needs wine tasting.” If so, the BFF has the perfect event for you, among many others; bristolfilmfestival.com
Until 7 December
BRISTOL PALESTINE FILM FESTIVAL
The BPFF returns with a vital programme spotlighting the creative storytelling and de ance of lmma ers from alestine and beyond. bristolpff.org.uk
6 December RECORD FAIR
You know the drill: purveyors of vinyl, CDs etc take over Bristol Beacon, with rare gems and bargain buys. bristolbeacon.org n
CULTURE CLUB with Vicky McClure
Thought clubbing was just for the under-25s? Day Fever, the daytime disco run by actor Vicky McClure, husband Jonny Owen, and pals including Jon McClure of Reverend & The Makers, is flipping the nightlife script – and this month it’s all gone festive
At O2 this month, Sleigh Fever is a festive take on the Day Fever event, which brings affordable, joy-filled clubbing into the daylight hours. “It all started with a simple idea”, says Vicky. “Jonny just said, ‘Have you ever seen those bars in town during the day? They’re rammed!’ We were like, come on then, let’s do a daytime club – and it went nuts.”
Day Fever sees people from 20 to 70 letting loose on packed dancefloors, and the warmth, spontaneity, and inclusiveness keeps people coming back. “It’s mothers and daughters, friends reconnecting. We’ve had people in wheelchairs come up on stage. We want it to be accessible to everyone.”
Most Day Fever events are led by local DJs. “We’ve been really selective,” says Vicky. “They know their crowd; they know what their people want to hear. And they’re smashing it.”
“There’s a loose structure,” says Jon. “Bit of Northern Soul to kick off, disco, ’80s bangers, ’90s dance, a singalong, maybe some indie... and always Whitney. If Vicky’s there, it’s the law.”
“Hits across the generations, that’s the key”, says Vicky. “We’ve done themed nights, Christmas clubs. Sometimes we’ll ask, ‘Do you want more Christmas songs?’ and people are like ‘Nah, just give us the hits!’ You just get a feel for it.”
Regional pride plays a part too. “Manchester goes mad for Oasis, Nottingham’s got its favourites, and we make sure to tap into that local energy”, says Vicky. “It’s about community, about people being together.”
It’s not uncommon to see Vicky herself dancing on stage with partygoers, selfies flying and smiles everywhere. “When people realise we’re just there to have fun too, that we’re not up on a pedestal, they really get into it,” she says.
“And I mean, come on – when else do you get to go clubbing with your mum?”
Sleigh Fever comes to O2 on 20 December www.academymusicgroup.com
Rumour has it that dark entities lurk in BS3. But it’s OK!
Gurt Haunted’ll sort them out!
PANTO
WILL YOUNG IN JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
JAYDE ADAMS IN TREASURE ISLAND
WARS
Bristol’s big Christmas shows are up and running –but whose box office are you hitting up this year?
Words by Deri Robins
BRISTMAS SHOWS
E
very Bristol venue has its own signature Christmas vibe. Bristol Old Vic and Tobacco Factory Theatres will take a tale as old as time and inject it with just enough indie chutzpah and contemporary resonance to engage both the grown-ups and entrance the kids; at the Hippodrome there’ll be lashings of bling, innuendo and famous faces off the telly; there’ll be a naughty adults-only mash up at The Wardrobe.
It’s a magical, festive wonderland out there, but which of our Christmas stars will persuade you to part with your hardearned cash this year? Will it be Will at the ippo r ayde and olin at ristol ld ic et s nd out what the headline acts have to say…
SMELLS LIKE BEAN SPIRIT: Will Young
Panto is no longer the last resort of the fading soap star. If it’s good enough for the likes of Sir Ian McKellen (and, bizarrely this year, Jeremy Corbyn), it’s good enough for anyone. Including Will Young, it seems. Astonishingly, it’s been 23 years since Will won Pop Idol. Long since freed of the shackles of Simon Cowell (cue pantomime-villain hiss) he’s had a successful career in music and drama, and he’ll be drawing on both this month when he appears as the Spirit of the Bean in Jack and The Beanstalk at Bristol Hippodrome.
“I’m very excited to be making my panto debut at the Bristol Hippodrome”, says Will, “because I’ve come with my family for many years to see the pantomime here.”
What was your first acting role?
y rst acting ob was in the movie Mrs. Henderson with the wonderful Bob Hoskins and Judy Dench and the inspiring Kelly Reilly. I learned a lot under the director Stephen Frears. I was also in a Noel Coward play in Manchester.”
What’s the best panto you’ve ever seen?
“Cilla Black as Dick Whittington in Reading. They threw out sweets into the audience, and we sang a song about speaking Italian, which I remember still to this day. Panto is so important because for many children it s their rst experience of live theatre, and so m ta ing this very seriously, as well as, of course, ensuring I have a little fun.”
The Spirit of the Bean is a comparatively modern pantomime invention. What is it?
“The Spirit of the Bean is a cannellini bean. I did think it might be a broad bean, but ve decided that it s de nitely cannellini, and m running with this. I am very excited to wear the incredible costume, but I don’t want to spoil the surprise of how brilliant it actually is. [Oops; see page 20] All I can say is, it’s very heavy.”
Can we expect to hear some of your past hits in the show?
“I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but there’s a high likelihood that some of my songs will be in the show. There are also plenty of puns and funny jokes, and I’m so pleased with how humorous the script is.”
You dance, you act, you obviously sing; have you got any other secret skills?
“I’m very, very good in the garden, and I’m also very good at calligraphy.”
According to Wikipedia, ‘Will Young appeared in several school productions and often gave speeches in assembly, despite later admitting that he never felt completely comfortable paying central attention’. Presumably you’ve got over that now? “No, I haven’t. But I do love the attention when I’ve got a costume on.”
“I’’ve decided the Spirit of the Bean is a cannellini bean” –Will Young
LOCAL TREASURE: Jayde Adams
Meanwhile, in Treasure Island over at Bristol Old Vic, it’s only Bristol’s Jayde Adams! Jayde’s done a fair bit of TV acting in recent years, of course, but it s her rst time in a professional stage show
You were once a member of Bristol Old Vic Young Company –can you share a few memories of that time?
“Honestly, I don’t remember much apart from playing someone called Tulip in a play called Eclipse. Sorry babes. My career’s been so dense that my memory feels like an archive I’d need a hypnotist to unlock.”
What took you into stand-up comedy?
“I always wanted to be an actor, but I couldn’t get into it through any of the usual routes. No family in the business, no handy connections. So I went into cabaret, doing an Adele drag act, then entered a comedy competition singing Nessun Dorma in an all-in-one nude suit and won.
“My career’s never taken the normal route. I’m a working-class girl from edminster, so nothing about it has been standard ut it s nally worked out, and now I’m on stage as a proper theatre actor. It’s basically the plot of Moulin Rouge without the saucy bits.”
What persuaded you to go onto stage for Treasure Island?
“Honestly? I’ve got bored of stand-up. It’s restrictive, and the environment can be pretty tough. Truthfully, stand-up’s never been my
passion. I’ve never even watched a full stand-up show. I was ready for something new. The magic happens when you’re out of your comfort zone, and right now I’m being tested in the best way.”
Who do you play in Treasure Island?
“Who don’t I play? It’d be easier to list that. I’m Ben Gunn, Jim Hawkins’s mum, a landlady, and a parrot.”
How does being in a stage show differ from TV acting?
“We’re rehearing in a huge room with the whole company; in TV you pop in, do your scenes and leave, so this feels much more collaborative. We actually felt like a company on day one. In TV there are so many moving parts, so you don’t always get that time. Here, you do. This is new territory for me, and that means there’s room to fail. Like I said on Strictly, there’s no art without failure. That’s what makes it exciting.”
You’ve trained as a dancer and have an amazing voice – will you be drawing on these talents for Treasure Island?
t s de nitely all hands on dec m also playing percussion glockenspiel, cajon, triangle, wood block, and I think I’m shaking an egg somewhere too.”
Do you have any other secret skills?
“Beatboxing, rapping, and I’m a pretty nifty hairdresser and makeup artist. After this show I’ll be adding puppeteer to the list.”
Presumably the piratey accent was hardly a push for you “I’ll probably end up being the dialect coach, being the only Bristolian in the cast.”
“In the play I’m Benn Gunn, Jim Hawkins’s mum, a landlady and a parrot. It’s easier to list the characters I don’t play” – Jayde
COLIN LEGGO
Also starring in Treasure Island is Colin Leggo. You’ll never guess who he plays . . .
Hello Colin! Who do you play in Treasure Island? Ahoy there, Bristol Life! I’m delighted to be playing the notorious Long John Silver.
You’re a Cornishman. Do you have a piratey accent? There is a touch of pirate when I talk, that’s for sure. It’s either ‘pirate’ or ‘confused farmer’, depending on what kind of day I’m having.
There have been a number of Long John Silvers in the past; who did it best?
I loved Eddie Izzard’s portrayal for Sky TV about a decade ago. It was so different from their stand-up comedy, quite sly and unpredictable, a lot less cartoonish than other versions.
What qualities make you the perfect fit for the role?
Well, I’ve lived by the sea all my life in Falmouth. It’s a smuggler’s playground. But also, famously just like Long John Silver, I only have one leg. Yes, my surname is Leggo and I lost my leg in 2014. You couldn’t make it up! There aren’t many roles specifically designed for a below-knee amputee, so this is a dream part to play.
Why is Treasure Island enduring favourite?
such an
It’s pure adventure and escapism, what’s not to love? The fact that we’re rehearsing and performing almost next door to pubs that the Admiral Benbow inn is apparently based on makes it a very special experience.
What else do you get up to in your career?
Although I trained in theatre, one of my first loves is comedy. So when I’m not in a show, I’m either writing or saying (hopefully) funny things on a stage somewhere.
Do you have any secret skills?
Last Christmas I discovered that I can unpeel a satsuma and, not only keep the peel as one piece, but also make that piece incredibly long. My record is 89 centimetres. One day that skill will come in incredibly handy I’m sure.
What other theatre roles would you love to play?
I’d love to play Willy Wonka one day. Or I’d like to play a more realistic version of Ross Poldark – more six pasties than six-pack. Have you seen me when I’m out scything in a corn field? It’s a sight.
Colin is Long John Silver. “My surname’s Leggo, I lost my leg in 2014: you couldn’t make it up!”
BRISTMAS SHOWS
WHAT OTHER THEATRE ROLES WOULD JAYDE ADAMS LOVE TO PLAY?
“Great question. I’d love to play Miss Trunchbull in Matilda, Ursula in The Little Mermaid, Mrs Wilkinson in Billy Elliot, Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors, and the Witch in Into the Woods. I’d have a great time as Nancy in Oliver! or as a proper villain like Miss Hannigan in Annie. I’d love to take on Mrs Potts in Beauty and the Beast, Dolly Levi in Hello, Dolly!, or even Mama Rose in Gypsy
“On the more dramatic side, I’d love to play Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing, Martha in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire, and Tracy Turnblad’s mum Edna in Hairspray. Basically, anything with heart, humour, or chaos – ideally all three.
“I’d love to do some properly left-field stuff too. Like play Hamlet or Richard III, something with real darkness underneath it. Or take on Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman, but make it about a woman who’s burnt out from hustling her whole life.
“I’d love to be in Waiting for Godot as one of the tramps, or do No Exit with three women who all look like they could work the bar at the same pub.
“I’d play Frankenstein’s Creature, or Salieri in Amadeus, or maybe even do a gender-flipped Jekyll and Hyde where the transformation is from nice girl to full chaos. I’d love to play a faded cabaret singer in a new play too, or a cult leader who starts a wellness brand. Basically anything strange, clever, or morally messy that makes people go, ‘wait, she’s doing that?’”
Not that she’s given it much thought or anything.
ALSO SHOWING…
TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRES
Rapunzel: A Hairy Tale
You know you can always count for a heartwarming and inventively playful Christmas show at the TFT, and this year’s production comes with pedigree: it’s been created by the team behind such previous hits as Cinderella: A Fairy Tale, The Borrowers, and Oliver Twist
Here’s the shizzle. “In a secluded tower deep within the forest, Rapunzel charts the stars and planets and dreams of a world beyond her walls. When an unexpected visitor climbs through her window and into her strange little world, he brings colour, chaos, and the thrill of the unknown. Soon, Rapunzel must make a choice between keeping herself safe or exploring freedom.”
It is, they say, “A story about growing up, venturing out, and discovering your own voice – all wrapped up in an unforgettable adventure, with plenty of extraordinary hair.”
For grown-ups there’s Gurt Haunted: Miracle On North Street, a participatory, paranormal parody that may well leave you pondering: “Do I have festive spirit, or have I just had one too many brandies?”
“My career’s been so dense that my memory feels like an archive I’d need a hypnotist to unlock”
– Jayde Adams
LEFT: Hairy adventures with Rapunzel at TFT; RIGHT: Putting the hum in humbug at The Wardrobe
BRISTMAS SHOWS
THE WARDROBE
Moulin Scrooge
lit howgirls giant, gaudy elephant elcome to a flamboyant nightclub cum bordello writhing with tassels, tits and tuberculosis, the number one pleasure spot where every vivacious ictorian with a taste for the unrestrained wants to be this hristmas ve veryone, that is, except stuffy old crooge a greedy, hateful miser who detests merriment ut when some spoo y ghosts push his buttons, can can crooge nd love and learn the true meaning of a olly winter festival before his soul is doomed forever
mash up musical from the ardrobe team guaranteed to put the hum in anyone s humbug, Moulin Scrooge is a fast, smart and adult only new comedy that promises a brilliant hristmas night out past, present or yet to come
“I either sound like a pirate or a confused farmer, depending on what kind of day I’m having” - Colin Leggo
Gurt Haunted: Miracle On East Street, 9 Dec-3 January – age 16+
Scruff’s Christmas Adventure, 4 Dec-4 January – ages 3-6
THE WARDROBE, www.thewardrobetheatre.com
Moulin Scrooge, 21 November-17
Kid Carpet & The Noisy Animals: Jack & The Beanstalk (Sort Of), 18 Dec-4 January – ages 3-10
THE REDGRAVE www.redgravetheatre.com
Sleeping Beauty, 5 Dec-4 January – age 3+
BELOW: Gurt Haunted; back to sort out them BS3 spooks INSET: Scruff’s Christmas Adventure
WE WISH YOU A MERRY BRISTMAS
This year, the newly unified BRISTOL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (BID) is lighting up the season with its most ambitious Christmas programme yet, placing one unmissable competition at its heart
Bristol sparkles all year round, but there’s something extra special in the air at Christmas. The city glows brighter than ever, with its winter lights and array of festive offerings. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply revelling in the magic, Bristol is the place to be this December.
GIVE THE GIFT OF BRISTOL
At the centre of the festivities is the Love Bristol Gift Card, which enters every buyer into 12 Days of Bristmas, a festive prize draw offering exclusive, money-can’t-buy Bristol experiences. A few of the standout prizes include: a bespoke UPFEST mural created by a lead artist, giving one winner the chance to bring a piece of Bristol’s creative identity into their home; backstage access at a Bristol Beacon show, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the city’s most iconic venues; a comedy set writing session at The Gaffe, plus the chance to perform the set at a Comedy Club night; and a private Bristol Ferry tour, giving one winner the opportunity to see the city from the water with the people who know its routes best. With the Love Bristol Gift Card accepted at over 190 businesses, from boutiques and salons to bars, restaurants and cultural spaces, every purchase supports the city’s local economy at the most vital time of year. It’s a gift that celebrates Bristol while offering the chance to win something truly unforgettable. Those wanting to enter the competition simply need to purchase a Love Bristol Gift Card and complete the sign up form.
BRIGHT MOMENTS ALL SEASON LONG
Alongside the competition, the BID is transforming the city with festive activity. Winter Lights illuminate areas such as Welsh Back, Temple Gardens and Portwall Gardens through to February, while an expanded Christmas Lights programme stretches across Park Street, College Green, Broadmead, the Harbourside and more, creating a free, city-wide trail.
Festive events will also bring people together, including the uplifting Christmas Star Concert at St Mary Redcliffe Church in aid of local NHS charities, and family-friendly activities at Cabot
Circus, such as Santa O’Clock and the return of the 15-foot Elf on the Shelf, Isambard Kingdom Brunelf.
As Bristol fills with light, music and festive cheer, the Love Bristol Gift Card becomes the simplest way to spread the magic and could even win you one of this year’s standout Bristmas experiences. n
Buy a Love Bristol Gift Card at: lovebristolgiftcard.co.uk for your chance to win an exclusive money-can’t-buy experience
*Terms and conditions apply. Find out more at bristolbid.co.uk
UP ALL NIGHT
A new book by photographer COLIN MOODY and journalist JASMINE FETIBUAH-FOLEY is a love letter to Bristol’s after-dark culture
Pics by Colin Moody
Celebrating everything from traditional pubs on the brink of extinction to the new shiny superclubs and all things in between, new book Up All Night takes a fascinating trip through Bristol after dark; part gallery, part thoughtful investigation.
The book grew organically out of an ongoing project by Colin Moody and night time culture campaigner Annie McGann, who set out to examine the way Bristol venues had been affected by ovid olin then decided to condense ve years worth of photography into a boo , at which point Jazz Fetibuah-Foley came on board.
“My work was taking me into night spaces where something amazing was happening”, says Colin. “Night time is where the music becomes louder m not ust tal ing about music at gigs or me, life the rhythm of it, in the way people move and gather is a sort of music t s my music to work that into a photograph. The book was a chance to base a great deal of our focus on grassroots cultures, safe spaces, the things that all got shut down during Covid. It was the side of lockdown nobody was talking about, the way people were socially isolated. And that drove my passion to show how we lived and loved at night before, during and after Covid. We had to keep the music going.”
“Nightlife, creativity and music is the reason I came to Bristol”, says Jazz. “I grew up in south east London, I became a musician and did lots of gigs, but I felt very alone in that big sea of noise and art and I wanted to feel more connected to other musicians and people. I found that creative community straight away as soon as I moved to Bristol, and I was instantly hooked on this whole city, which had little pockets of artists who all wanted to share their ideas and work together. I instantly fell in love with Bristol. Being able to share that love back meant a lot to me.”
OPPOSITE: The legendary Bristol Ballroom Community ABOVE: Meet me at the front; BELOW: Love Save The Day
So, what kind of night life are we talking about here? A late one at Lakota? A gig at The Louie? A trip to the local pub?
hose are important, yes but the way uno cial spaces get adopted at night time is also so Bristol”, says Colin. “It’s a party in an underpass, a party during freshers’ week outside on the pavement by a student high-rise. It’s sound systems pulled out into the street. A DIY culture that keeps growing like a mycelium network.
“The starting point for me is where the culture shows its passion, and that’s outside the walls in so many places in our boo round the re on urbo, kisses on the top of a shopfront window. And placing these random (they are never random) moments with images and interviews from clubs and some pubs it shows that our night experiences come through a network that is culturally and socially alive in ways that need to be seen. And heard. Hard to put your nger on exactly how it all wor s, it s ust does o a and went exploring, documenting… And we discovered scenes that are thriving.”
“To watch Strange Brew being built during lockdown, without any guarantees that a single person would ever be allowed to dance there – wow!”
Jazz: “One of my favourite images in the book is of two people sitting on a roof – I believe it’s during what used to be called Rave on Avon, an event that doesn’t happen any more. They’re embracing each other and they just look like they’re full of so much love, kind of getting lost in their little cloud of joy and soaking up everything that’s happening around them.
“It’s a feeling that I’ve had many times wandering around Bristol, and finding myself at a party that’s happened at the drop of a hat on Turbo Island or in the Bearpit tunnels or somewhere else really random, and you end up dancing for hours. It’s after you’ve already gone to a gig and you thought you were gonna go home; instead you stumble across this second little bit of fun, and you don’t want it to end, and you’ve been hugging everyone and making all these friends you’re probably never gonna see again.
“Yeah, I love that picture.”
“In the book I focus not just on venues, but spaces and places that are integral to the fabric of going out in Bristol”, says Jazz. “Areas like urbo sland, which even though it s not a speci c venue, things happen there and it has cultural signi cance in the way people experience going out in Bristol. In the book I liken those kinds of areas to the dark matter in space, because they re the glue in between all of the stuff that holds everything together, even though they may look like nothing. We need those empty, ugly voids of spaces because they’re areas where people can have freedom of expression and turn up with sound systems or flyers e all need those little spaces. There’s a modern-day obsession with turning those little spots into shops, or paving over them with concrete and steel to make them squeaky clean. Do we really need that?”
There’s an immediacy to Colin’s photos which feels a world away from highly processed gig photography. “There are many photographers who chase getting good images, when the best work for me now is being useful to the community you are shooting”, he says.
“So many projects can seem like they are not really about life, they are about the photographer. I’m no longer chasing ‘hero’ shots, I’m about what the story is, where the people are at, and it’s my job to present that in a way which showcases how diverse and unique Bristol’s nightlife is.”
Cities change when darkness falls; Scorsese knew that, when he made After Hours very city has two different sides to it , agrees a n the daytime it’s people going to cafés and working. It all feels, kind of… nice. But Bristol at night is a place where people want to feel a bit more hidden, when people come out to play and want to get up to no good, in the most positive sense of the phrase.
ABOVE: Hanham Youth Club, Creative Youth Network
ABOVE: Hanham Youth Club, Creative Youth Network LEFT: A triumph of optimism over lockdown: building Strange Brew
n the boo tal about leaving a club at ve or six in the morning, when you end up crossing paths with someone who’s on their way to wor hat uxtaposition ust feels so bi arre ou both don t want to be seen looking at each other, but you can’t help it because it’s strange and it’s funny. You both feel like the other person shouldn’t be there.”
“At night, you can get a glimpsesideways of something you feel more than see”
“During daytime we spend most of our time at work or at home”, says Colin. “But night time is a third place; you can get a sideways glimpse of something that you feel more than see. It’s hard to photograph, but I’ve given it a stab. And Jazz is spot on about it being funny – there’s a lot of humour in this book. The way we lug sound systems around at 2am, blurting out drum and bass, lit only by a gaffer taped bi e rear light, is both serious (all documents of life have a serious edge) and funny because you can just grab some bits and make a thing.
ight is where these experiments ta e place, in the same way an sy works; funny and serious, throwaway and culturally rich at the same time ou don t now where a night can go, and nd that exciting The people who have ended up in the book are in many cases found by chance and not design, and that’s so Bristol.”
BELOW: Last day of The Invisible Circus at their former home at Unit 15 Creation Space; ABOVERIGHT: Somebody has to clear up after the fun’s over
Unsurprisingly Colin and Jazz have a few favourites among the venues. “One that tops them all for me is The Jam Jar in the Malt House”, says Jazz. “It was started by group of likeminded individuals who really cared about creating a space that looked after its artists and audiences, and who wanted to put all of their love into this kind of rundown space that had been left for a long time.”
For Colin, it’s Strange Brew. “To watch them build it during lockdown without any guarantees that a single person would ever be allowed to dance there – wow! And now it’s really thriving, and a hub for many communities. I was able to chart its start, with a sound system in a supermarket trolley, pasted art going up, to the thriving scene it is now. That space nurtures culture; it feels like the sort of place you heard about growing out of East Berlin after the wall came down.
“We’ve lost quite a few iconic venues over the years through various reasons, and ovid de nitely added a lot of fuel to the re o many promoters and venue owners were looking at the possibility of having to close, to stop doing this thing that was their whole life. I think a lot of people still haven’t really recovered from that.
“When I spoke to Annie about all the venues that closed she described the kind of natural order of things that cities have, where one place closes and another opens, and that is the cycle, and that is how it has always been. So I think there’s hope for the future, and a lot of amazing people creating new creative communities and spaces here in Bristol. I don’t think the story of this city’s nightlife is anywhere near ending yet.”
What do Colin and Jazz hope people will take away from the book?
“I hope they’ll get a sense of what a night out for me and a night out for Colin looks like”, says Jazz. “I hope it will inspire people to just go out in Bristol and support our venues and promoters and artists and musicians by going to their events, and I hope it leads them to discover something new and make new friends along the way.”
“It’s a book about an active night life, one fuller than the sum of all the ravers, DJs, owners etc combined”, says Colin. “And I hope the book will act like a fertiliser, making some people choose to engage with after-dark shenanigans to grow something new. It’s a love letter, and I hope you ll nd stuff that resonates with you
Finally, then: is the future looking hopeful for Bristol’s nightlife?
Colin: “Yes.”
Jazz: “Yes.” n
Up All Night is published by The History Press at £15. Buy several. Stick it in Christmas stockings www.thehistorypress.co.uk
EMILY & DAN ROSS STORYSMITH BOOKS
Only the very best will do for the Storysmith Christmas stocking
As you might expect, there are countless syrupy books about the magic of Christmas this year, as there are every year
And although we might sometimes curse the nite shelf space of our shop, at times li e this it can be an unexpected advantage: it means we only stock the very best, most interesting and unusually delightful stories in all our sections. This being our nal column before hristmas, it seems only right that we whisk you through our highlights in order of ascending reading age.
Top of the pile for us this year is undoubtedly Mr Santa, by the mononymous author illustrator known simply as Jarvis. We were honoured to have Jarvis come and
paint a massive Mr Santa in our window – truly the perfect way to ic off the festive season, even if it was a little uncomfortably close to the beginning of November for our liking. The book itself is a perfect story for the nights leading up to the big day, as our strong willed and inquisitive narrator absolutely grills Santa with the most important questions: dogs or cats, can reindeer tal , do you eat clouds, that ind of thing lsewhere, Meowy Christmas by Panos Christodoulou & Daniela Stamatiadi (translated by Manos Bonanos) is the ultimate tale of cat versus tree, and Santa’s First Christmas (by Mac Barnett & Sydney Smith) is that rarest of things: a heartwarming Christmas picture book that will likely make adults a little moist eyed too
We also have to give a quick mention to an exquisite (yet not
strictly festive) picture book which has truly found its audience in the shop: Firefly is a collaboration between the feted nature writer Robert Macfarlane and artist Luke dam aw er, a visually stunning story of hope, light and nature for early readers and beyond. or older readers, we are elated to report that perennial shop favourites Dave Pigeon and Peanut Butter & Crackers both have festive offerings in the shape of Turkey Dinner (Swapna Haddow & Sheena Dempsey) and Christmas Surprise (Paige raddoc , and will have ids lol ing into their sprout free dinners.
ow, regular readers may already be familiar with our reticence when it comes to what we might call ‘biography season , or more speci cally the seemingly unmetered proliferation of celebrity memoirs with garishly lit pictures of their silly famous faces on the cover. To be clear: we’re generally not in favour. But when the celebrity in question happens to be argaret twood, then well, we ma e a blessed exception. Her typically spiky life story, Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts, is oyous and confronting in the manner to which we’ve become accustomed from one of our greatest writers.
The only other thing close to resembling a celebrity memoir
“ Our choice from the shortlist,Booker The Land in Winter, is set in a village outside Bristol as the storm of 1962 blankets the country in snow”
that we’re willing to get behind this Christmas is A Complicated Woman by ebecca ucy aylor, better nown as the all con uering bastion of revolutionary realness that is Self Esteem. A gorgeously presented hotch potch of biographical snippets, pithy and devastating aphorisms and semi poems; overlook it at your peril. You may also have noticed that the winner of this year’s Booker ri e has been announced, and we send many congratulations to David Szalay for his novel Flesh, one that is sure to be hitting the soft bottom of many stockings this year. But the connoisseur’s choice has to be fellow Booker Prize nominee ndrew iller, whose novel The Land in Winter is set in an unnamed village on the outskirts of Bristol as the storm of 1962 works to blanket the whole country in snow. Besides the very appealing local connections, the novel is an especially wonderful read for this time of year (it spans ecember and anuary , a taut yet floridly told study of two young couples on opposite sides of a farmer s eld as their complex inner lives gradually yield to the strains of the storm. It’s certain to be a hit round these parts.
Storysmith, 36 North Street 0117 953 7961
www.storysmithbooks.com
LEADERS OF THE PACK
They’ve been judged the best nature photographers in the world. Here’s why now is the perfect time to go and see their wild and wonderful work
Although the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is in town until April, the quiet days between Christmas and New Year are an ideal time to pay a visit. There’s unlikely to be much else going on, after all, while the thought-provoking captures suit the melancholy, reflective nature of this time of year beautifully, offering a perfect antidote to all the festive kitsch and over-indulgence.
The photographers featured in the show have dragged their camera kits to all corners of the world, pointed their lens, then watched and waited. And waited. The images are a tribute not only to their technical skill but also their preternatural patience; the kind of stoicism which involves wading thigh-deep into icy lakes, or spending a fortnight in a musty hide, just in the offchance that something exciting might deign to pop up to the surface or amble past.
Some of the photos are Pixar-level cute; others are more disturbing, showing nature red in tooth and claw, or the negative effect of human activity on the planet. We’re not showing you any of those ones, though. It’s Christmas, after all. n
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025, developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, is at Bristol Museum until 26 April 2026 www.bristolmuseums.org.uk
Inside the Pack by Amit Eshel
Animal Portraits: Highly Commended In temperatures of -35°C Amit struggled to fulfil his dream of photographing the elusive Arctic wolves of Ellesmere Island. Then, on the twelfth day of his second trip, they came closer than he had ever imagined, so close that he could smell their breath.
Arctic wolves don’t encounter humans often, and are curious when they do.
Synchronised Fishing by Qingrong Yang Behaviour – Birds: Winner Qingrong was at Yundang Lake near his home in Fujian Province, China – a site he visits regularly to photograph the little egrets which patrol the surface, ready to pounce on fish leaping to escape underwater predators. Here he captured a ladyfish snatching its prey from right under this little egret’s beak.
A Monk’s Life by Greg Lecoeur Underwater: Highly Commended Greg was documenting the work of seal biologists in Greece when he met a wide-eyed, curious monk seal at the entrance of a sea cave. In the quiet, protected waters, the seal was relaxed enough to peer out from the entrance of the cave.
This species was once nearly extinct due to habitat loss, hunting and human disturbance. Now their numbers are increasing, thanks to dedicated conservation programmes and increasing public awareness.
The Feast by Audun Rikardsen Oceans – The Bigger Picture: Winner Audun photographed this chaotic scene of gulls attempting to catch fish trapped by nets around an Atlantic fishing vessel during a polar night in northern Norway. The gulls have learnt to follow the sound of the boats to find a herring feast.
Ghost Town Visitor by Wim van den Heever Urban Wildlife: Adult Grand Title Winner
A haunting scene of a brown hyena among the skeletal remains of a long-abandoned diamond-mining town in Namibia.
With sea fog rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean, Wim chose this spot for his camera trap after noticing hyena tracks nearby.
“It took me 10 years to finally get this one single image of a brown hyena, in the most perfect frame imaginable”, he said.
Ice Edge Journey by Bertie Gregory
Animals in their Environment: Highly Commended Bertie freeze-framed the moment fledgling emperor penguin chicks walked along the edge of Ekström Ice Shelf in Antarctica He’d spent two months with the colony, and saw most chicks using ice ramps to descend to sea level for food. But this group missed the easy way down. Keeping his drone at a safe distance, he watched as they took a 15-metre leap into the water.
Avian Tailgating by Bence Máté
Behaviour – Birds: Highly Commended Bence watched as a European roller and little owl chased each other repeatedly through the undergrowth in Kiskunság National Park in Hungary. It isn’t clear what prompts this behaviour, although Bence noticed that the chases stopped once the birds had young to look after.
Winner of the Rising Star Portfolio Award
Luca Lorenz from Germany explores his passion for the natural world by viewing it through an artistic lens. His childhood ambition was to learn everything he could about birds, and he spent long hours observing them in the parks around his home on the outskirts of Berlin. He bought his first camera when he was 13, and photography became a passion.
Meet the Neighbours
Luca was photographing mute swans on an urban lake when a coypu appeared in the frame. Having been shipped across the world for the fur trade, coypu have since established many feral populations.
Seal Serenity
Luca was out with his camera when the heavens opened. He minimised the lens aperture to ensure the full expanse of the sea was in focus and framed an inquisitive harbour seal enjoying the patter of the rain.
Dawn Watch
OPPOSITE: Small but Mighty
This tiny, secretive Eurasian pygmy owl hunts using both sight and sound, striking silently. This unusual black-and-white composition makes the most of the background silhouettes, which Luca felt suited a bird which spends its life among the shadows.
Luca was lying flat on the dewy grass for a better perspective of one of the park’s ubiquitous blackbirds when four deer emerged from the mist and stopped to assess the situation. Time stood still and he caught the moment.
Reflected Glory
Luca arrived early as dawn broke, ensuring he didn’t miss the first rays of sunlight on the water. He heard the redthroated divers before he saw them. Later, he rotated his original image 180 degrees to bring the mirrored pines and spruces into an upright position.
A MISSION THAT MATTERS
When CHANGING TUNES started its rehabilitative music work at HM Prison Bristol in 1987, few could have imagined the impact it would have nearly four decades later
Today, this Bristol-based charity continues to unlock the power of music to help people lead crimefree lives that are meaningful and creative. It achieves this mission by running longterm music programmes in prisons, young offender institutions, secure children’s homes, alternative provision schools, and post-release. Changing Tunes’ record label, Red Tangent Records, also drives forward this mission, by promoting positive pathways for talented musicians with lived experience of the criminal justice system.
FROM CELLS TO STUDIOS
Today Changing Tunes still has a strong presence and impact at HMP Bristol, hosting weekly music sessions, recording projects, and performances. And its reach extends beyond these walls, with long-term programmes at HMP Eastwood Park women’s prison, HMP
“ DEMAND FOR CHANGINGTUNES’ SERVICES IS GROWING, BUT FUNDRAISING CHALLENGES ARE MORE BRUTAL THAN EVER ”
Leyhill, and HMP Ashfield.
In 2019, Changing Tunes piloted a music project at Vinney Green Secure Children’s Home. Its success sparked a thriving programme that now supports creativity, mental health, and skills for young residents there. The charity also works with vulnerable young people at risk of school exclusion, partnering with Urban Pursuits and BeXcellence to support self-expression, selfreflection and inclusion.
LIFE AFTER PRISON
Since 2000, Changing Tunes’ Post-release Hubs have provided community, purpose and progression routes for prison leavers in Bristol. These include sessions for women who have been in prison and collaborative sessions with Bristol Drugs Project to support prison leavers who are in recovery.
THE POWER OF LIVED EXPERIENCE
Red Tangent Records was born from the vision of a former participant. Managed by a talented musician-producer with lived experience of prison, it’s more than a label—it’s a platform for growth, creativity, and second chances.
PROOF IT WORKS
The numbers speak volumes: Changing Tunes has a participant reoffending rate of just 5% over the past three years—far below the national average. But the real impact lies in
personal stories.
One participant put it best: “Changing Tunes is the best thing I’ve done since being in prison.” They continued: “I’ve completely changed my behaviour since starting Changing Tunes. Before, I was the worst prisoner in the jail – down the bloc every week, assaulting staff, etc. Changing Tunes has been the biggest part of my rehabilitation. I’ve been staying out of trouble and turned everything around. I stay busy all week writing for the sessions and avoid situations where I would have previously been involved in violence. If I’d had this course when I was young, I would never have been to jail.”
HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Demand for Changing Tunes’ services is growing, but fundraising challenges are more brutal than ever. Every donation directly supports frontline work with excluded young people, vulnerable prison residents, and prison leavers striving to maintain crime-free lives that are meaningful and creative.
If you want to do something that matters, visit changingtunes.org.uk/donate. Contact details: info@changingtunes.org.uk / www.changingtunes.org.uk/ 0117 920 0151
HO HO HO! HEROES
It’s the annual festive edit! Words and pics by Colin Moody
It gets easier and easier each year to bring you a Bristmas collection of Heroes, because it now seems that Halloween tips over right away into Christmas, and in no time at all the Keira Knightley feelgood ad vibe is all around us.
So this year I’m sending you all the season’s cheer with some old and new Bristmas Heroes. Somewhere between picking up the wine order or ham, you ve ta en time to grab a coffee and are flic ing your way at speed through the pages of this magazine.
So let me get you in the mood.
1
First up, it’s these two – three if you include that Nordic-vibe Father Christmas in Broadmead. As they were picking up their Xmas shopping as ed about their ama ing out ts, only to be told that the waxed ’tash and general ensemble were their everyday wear. I’m ma ing them our rst eroes for stepping out with such vigour
2
3 2 4
“Is it just me, or has the membrane which separates Christmas past and present just got super-thin?”
Just before we depart from Broadmead I see they have a rotating bauble-ride Christmas-tree thingy this year. And so I’m hanging this photo here, like a bauble of a picture, to get you thinking about passing from your day-to-day grind, and just imagine for a moment what it would be like to exist… inside… a bauble.
ou would see the world from a completely different perspective, wouldn’t you? And then consider all those other baubles all around. Whole other Christmas universes, happening simultaneously. Or maybe I shouldn’t have watched Interstellar the other night.
3
It was the night before Christmas. Up by Clifton Triangle on 24 December someone had parked their classic car under those old street lights, and is it just me, or has the membrane which separates Christmas past and present just got super-thin?
You could imagine some reformed Scrooge pulling up one of those upper floor windows in the morning and leaning out to shout at some passing student: “Hey boy, what day is this? Christmas morning, you say? Then hark, take this crisp tenner and go procure yourself a festive meal deal at once!”
4
Now, sometimes I take photos but don’t write down what it was. This appears to be a Christmas turkey, so look away now if you are vegan, veggie, or just don’t like violence.
Looks like the turkey is going down.
You see, while for some of us it’s a holiday of celebration and collecting gifts, with hopefully the receipt attached, for the turkeys it’s ‘the event’ and quite a horror show.
Big love to the Creative Youth Network who were putting on a play of sorts from whence this shot came.
5
5
What’s that fella thinking on the left?
After the clocks go back and it gets dark so much earlier I’m glad for all the extra light the Christmas wheels and sheds bring us. Without them it would just be an empty sky.
Light is hope. And these days we can say that the power it takes to illuminate one Ferris wheel per hour is only the equivalent of just three AI video prompts.
Merry Bristmas!
6
What happens at the end of the Christmas party? Where do you end up in your Rubix-cube Xmas or New Year’s get up? On the pavement outside the kebab shop with your mates? Result.
To all those about to have their Christmas party, I salute you.
7
Christmas shopping is hard. I hear that.
8We three kings. That’s where this one starts.
It’s a close-up of an ad on a bus shelter digital display after a) someone has drilled it to oblivion and then b) someone else has wrapped it around in insulation wrapping tape (in very festive black) and then c) a local artist has added an angel sticker.
I believe the original vandalism took place around Black Friday. And the three kings appear to be holding up their hands to say ‘stop’, and is there not something festive about the way those damaged pixels have gone all northern lights on us?
Christmas shopping: when the fun stops, stop.
9 h ffs, even the dregs in my coffee loo li e a winter festival forested wonderland.
And note to self; need to use my keepy cup more often.
ne of the hristmas treats ta e the maga ine right now and flic through the whole thing and sniff mells li e hristmas, right mells li e you are twelve years old and ust nished opening all your presents, paper all around you.
ave a great hristmas o good things for each other hop local ave lattes in independent coffee shops aybe pay it forwards a little bit this year by helping out at your local community centre. Dig out those coats you never wear from the back of the cupboard and drop them off at the shelter, the charity shop a e a hamper out of ristol made gifts from par s and the li e, and give it to a friend nd then stop n oy ee you in the new year
Sunday lunch at The Kenny. If you know, you know. If you don’t, read on
and food)
Words by Deri Robins
Photos (main pic
by Ben Robins Photography
Back in 1991, The Eagle in Farringdon revolutionised the concept of dining out by serving restaurant-quality grub in the casual surroundings of a boozer. And lo, the word ‘gastropub’ was born.
It’s not a particularly attractive word. Even Dave Eyre, the owner of The Eagle, never much cared for it. He probably cares for it even less these days, now that it’s bandied about with such elastic abandon, being used to cover everything from pubs serving genuinely elevated food to those which think that sending out a plate of battered cod with a microherb garnish is usti cation enough
The word has been downgraded to the point where it’s almost meaningless. Maybe that’s why The Kensington Arms in Redland has decided to swerve it, billing itself instead as a traditional pub, chop house and grill e don t claim to be anything flash and fancy, ust a proper British local”, they say, and while this is true, the fact that their cooking is always so outstanding, their seasonal produce so immaculate, makes that claim sound almost disingenuous.
In praising The Kenny we may well be preaching to the converted. If you’ve ever visited, you’ll already know that it’s the kind of place anyone would kill to have at the end of their road. If you haven’t, just imagine a smart West London pub crossed with a rural inn in the Cotswolds, rinsed of the Sloaniness of the former and the stu ness of the latter, given a Bristol accent and plonked on a corner of leafy BS6.
downstairs diners given that everyone in this family has to shout to make themselves heard.
i e returning birds exhibiting site delity, we settle into the exact same seating con gurations as we do at home e salivate over the menu while slurping roasted Bloody Marys made from vodka, PX, rosemary and stock: practically a consommé: “All can be made virgin for £6”, advises the menu. I think this just applies to the drinks, but who knows? It’s Christmas after all.
etween us we order all of the starters, reluctantly proffering small morsels on forks for other family members to taste. My chicken liver parfait arrives not in a predictable ramekin, but as a quenelle with a dollop of blood plum sauce and house pickles, arranged with the ne dining prettiness of an artist s palette hose who ve plumped for the mussels are wowed their size and succulence. “They’re the biggest bivalves I’ve ever seen”, declares the second son, except he doesn’t use the word ‘bivalve’. Toasted focaccia is on hand to soak up the creamy, aniseedy cider and tarragon sauce.
DINING DETAILS
The Kensington Arms, 35-37 Stanley Road 0117 944 6444; thekensingtonarms.co.uk
Opening: Tues 5-9pm; Wed-Fri 12-2pm, 5-9pm; Sat 12-2pm, 6-9pm; Sun 12-4pm
Prices: Sunday lunch: 2 courses £32.50, 3 courses £38; see website for other menus Veggie? Both veggie and vegan options Service Friendly and efficient Atmosphere Casual and relaxed
It’s been owned by Josh Eggleton since 2016. You’ll rarely see him in the kitchen because he has a sizeable empire to oversee – frankly I’d be amazed to learn he ever nds time to boil an egg these days – but the head chefs he’s put in his stead have always been exceptional. For a long while it was Oscar Davis, but Oscar’s now the executive chef for the whole Pony group. Don’t fret, though, because his successor Hector Brown hasn’t messed with the mojo one little bit; the focus is still on sourcing the best in West Country goodness, from aged beef to fresh seafood and local veg, and cooking it beautifully over wood and coal.
The Kenny is a delight at any time of year. We’ve happily sipped pomegranate and rose negronis out on the terrace in summer. We’ve visited on warm days during shoulder season and dithered over whether to eat in or out (top compromise: an inside table by the open door). In autumn and winter it offers the perfect cosy refuge, and when you throw the prospect of Sunday lunch into the mix you’re pretty much in gastro –sorry, ‘traditional pub and chop house’ – nirvana. here s a proper bar, and two dining spaces lled with wooden pews, tables and chairs, the bac room offering views of the chefs che ng away in the open kitchen. On this occasion, though, being a party of seven, we justify the use of one of the private dining rooms – a lucky break for the
Malfatti translates as ‘badly made’, something of a misnomer given how good The Kenny’s are (yes, I know it just refers to the shape). Hector swaps the more usual spinach and ricotta for delica pumpkin and squash, forming them with spenwood cheese into little gnocchi li e dumplings nished with toasted hazelnuts and almonds. They’re incredibly good.
Our dedicated young waiter, in both senses of the word, talks us through the roast options, lingering with so much enthusiasm over the dry-aged Angus rump cap that most of us order it on the spot. Richly flavoured and basted to uicy, rosy tenderness by a generous layer of fat, it comes thickly sliced and ready plated up with fluffy roasties, e ually fluffy or ies and pur ed veggies (there’s something about Sunday roast that has you reaching for nursery diminutives).
ll come doused in the enny s famous gravy, which is given ve days to simmer in order to create its intense, meaty flavour yes are fre uently narrowed at family dinners when it comes to gravy allocation, but there’s plenty here for all, with extra portions of the elixir presented in miniature jugs. For the table to share there are dishes of greens, broccoli and leek cheese, wintry braised red cabbage and a medley of glazed beets and carrots, so vibrant I want to take its photo and hang it on the wall.
epending on how defeated you are at this stage you can round off the meal with a stic y toffee pudding or lighter options t the ris of ma ing you think badly of us, I’ll admit we mostly just go for more booze.
It’s a mixed-up, muddled-up, shook-up world out there, but in this small corner of Redland The Kenny remains a reassuring beacon of excellence. I can’t think of anywhere in Bristol I’d recommend more unhesitatingly. I wouldn’t bother using the word gastropub, though.
WHISKY GALORE
No wonder Andy looks happy. You’d be happy too if you spent your life as a professional food and drink writer and presenter, with a nice line in dreaming up cocktails and creating food and drink pairings.
including
Our favourite ‘professional drinker’* ANDY CLARKE has a new book out in time for Christmas
(*Our careers advisers at school never explained that this was an option)
Born in and raised in Bristol, Andy originally studied drama and theatre studies and has a background in TV production. He now hosts TV programmes, as well as festivals and events. He’s had cocktail books published around the world, House of Gin and Home Bar; the latter was nominated for the First Book Award by the Guild of Food Writers.
His latest book,
House of Whisky & Bourbon is a compact, chunky tome with a sexy Wild West-style front cover. So let’s tie up the horse to the hitching post, kick open the saloon doors, and meet Mr Clarke. . .
Andy tells us that he grew up in Thornbury, in a house blessed with a large garden. “My parents grew a lot of fruit and veg, and we had home-cooked meals practically every day”, he says.
“I worked in hospitality while studying for my A-Levels and degree, and returned to the industry in between TV production contracts when living in London. I was part of the team which developed the Saturday Kitchen when James Martin took over hosting in 2006 and I went on to produce the show for seven years.
format of
“Food and drink was always a passion of mine from a young age and I realised at this point that I wanted to focus on producing and directing food, drink and travel TV. It was during this time that many of the chefs and wine experts on the show encouraged me to take my love of communicating
food and drink further. When I moved back to Bristol I started hosting food and drin matching events and creating coc tails ne thing led to another and I started being ask to write magazine articles and books as well as host cocktail demos and events around the world. I never wanted to become a chef the mar et is flooded with talent there but as a drinks guy I can complement what they do perfectly.”
For a job that involves a lot of eating and drinking, Andy’s in enviably good shape m very conscious of the need to t in a healthy dose of exercise , he says ve always en oyed being outdoors ll be honest, my weight has often fluctuated as a id and an adult, but love swimming, cycling and running. My amateur dramatic dancing has often kept me trim, and I’ve recently taken up tennis again. I drink a lot of water, which I believe helps with body health, and I love my greens, It’s all about balance.”
It’s also about having a healthy attitude to booze. “I always say you should ‘sip happy’ if you are going to pour an alcoholic drink, so if you are in a good place, make it celebratory. If you’re melancholic or upset, make a cuppa and get a good hug from a friend.”
o where are his go to local bars
“There are so many great places to drink in Bristol. Carmen Street Wine in Stokes Croft is a new favourite for really intriguing sips. Also KASK in Bedminster and now KASK 2 on the corner of Zetland Road and heltenham oad are fab for something a bit different, and love the laidback waterside setting of Rick’s at The Bristol Hotel. I also love the bar at ristol ld ic they have a great wine list that they buy from Avery’s and they support local independent spirit makers. eing a cider lover, m now ma ing it my mission to nd the best ciders in ristol aving ust moved to otham, ve nding some fantastic boozers; I’m a big fan of a traditional pub with good pints. n my younger years, was a clear spirit lover, but as ve got older, ve developed an interest in dark spirits, and their distilling and ageing. his y, neat or with a dash of water is now my go to after dinner drin ,
FRISKY WHISKY
“Whisky and cola is a classic pairing, and I often forget just how good it can taste with the right cola and the right whisky. I’m also a fan of a Long Island Iced Tea so I wanted to create something that was nearly as boozy and just as refreshing. The idea is that this cocktail is for any time you need that little pick-me-up at a party. The frisky whisky will certainly get your juices flowing.
INGREDIENTS
3 handfuls of ice
100ml/3½fl oz rye whiskey
25ml/1½ tbsp triple sec
25ml/1½ tbsp dry gin
25ml/1½ tbsp lemon juice
200ml/7fl oz cola
TO GARNISH
Lemon peel ribbon
METHOD
1 Put all the liquid ingredients apart from the cola into a jug along with a handful of ice. Stir gently.
2 Pour in the cola by tilting the jug on its side to avoid frothing. Stir again.
3 Put the rest of the ice cubes in the glasses and strain the cocktail mix into the glasses.
4 Garnish by winding the lemon peel ribbon around the ice.
Note This also works well with bourbon, but if you want a smoother, more subtle version, use blended whisky.
but it also comes into its own as a cocktail ingredient. There are so many types and it’s so versatile, I’m really excited by it. So many people tell me that they ‘don’t get’ whisky, until they taste one of my cocktails! Whisky is only one ingredient in a cocktail, it doesn’t have to take over the drink. The recipes I write are easy and fun to make. I love an intricate cocktail, but that’s what we go to cocktail bars for. At home, it should be about making cocktails easy and delicious.”
Having an Irish husband, he says, has drawn him into the food and drink of that country.
“I love going over to Ireland and I like to explore distilleries there whenever I can. So, while Scotch was my rst foray into whis y, tend to favour Irish whiskey as I’m fascinated by the history of its production, the wealth of amazing whiskeys out there and the modern ways of distilling, blending and marketing that make it a contemporary drink rather than being an ‘old man’s drink’.”
“So many people tell me that they ‘don’t get’ whisky – until they taste one of my cocktails”
After providing introductory information, from ‘what is whisky?’ to descriptions of the various types, Andy takes us into the kit and glasses we need, a guide to mixers and other tips. There are unusual syrups to ma e golden tahini, anyone , there are decorative, flavoured ice cubes, even different shaped garnishes and then we re into the recipes proper
“One of my favourites is Frisky Whisky”, says Andy. “At this time of year, food can be heavy and every other drink is either mulled, has hints of cinnamon or is relatively sweet, so a long drink involving whisky, gin, triple sec, lemon juice and cola will quench your thirst and cut through the mince pies. It’s simple to make and is luxuriously refreshing. [See left]
“If you want a shorter party drink, go for the Whiskypolitan, my take on a Cosmo. The cranberry juice can be mulled or not mulled. This cocktail is great at any time of year and it’s a lot of fun for a Christmas party. n
Andy’s new cocktail book House of Whisky & Bourbon, published by Hardie Grant, is widely available online and at bookshops Follow Andy on insta @tvsandyclarke
ABOVE: Andy in his natural habitat; OPPOSITE: Your Christmas needs a Whiskypolitan
A glass of fizz to kick off Christmas morning? Sure, but you can do better. Here are some fresh mixes from our favourite bartenders, along with a few toasts of Christmas past we’re still drinking today
PASTURE
The Festive Spritz "Capturing the season’s spirit with bright, warming flavours and a sparkling touch"
What do I need?
20ml Campari
20ml grapefruit juice
15ml Falernum syrup (available from Bristol Syrup Company)
15ml simple rosemary syrup (infuse simple sugar syrup with a rosemary sprig
50ml soda water
100ml prosecco
Extra sprig of rosemary
What do I do?
Shake together and pour over ice. Garnish with rosemary
Where they at?
2 Portwall Lane www.pasturerestaurant.com
GAMBAS
Blanco Infierno
"Christmas gone rogue. Smooth, creamy and sure to keep you warm throughout December. Available at Gambas all month"
What do I need?
25ml white rum
25ml milk
25g white chocolate
A pinch of salt
15ml amontillado sherry
2 maraschino cherries (the kind that come in a bit of syrup)
2 teaspoons of the cherry syrup
What do I do?
Melt the white chocolate into the milk. Stir into the rum and add a pinch of salt. Muddle the two cherries in a shaker and then add all of the ingredients, including the white chocolate rum. Shake over ice for around 10 seconds and then double-strain over a glass of ice
Gambas like to garnish theirs with a cherry on a stick and an orange zest.
Where they at?
Cargo 2 www.gambasbristol.co.uk
BRAVAS
Pedro Martinez
Christmas Cocktail
"An absolutely gorgeous digestif or liquid desert after a big Christmas lunch. Hunker down into this cosy drink next to a roaring fire!"
What do I need?
35ml Gin Bravas, or any London dry gin
20ml Pedro Ximénez
12.5ml maraschino liqueur
3 dash aromatic orange bitters
What do I do?
Combine all the ingredients in a mixing tin, or a glass if you don’t have one. Add plenty of ice and stir to dilute, for a good 45-60 seconds, and garnish with a maraschino cherry –"We rinse ours to avoid sweetening the cocktail too much!"
Where they at?
7 Cotham Hill www.bravas.co.uk
CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS
BANK BRISTOL Morning Royale
“Every Christmas morning I have a Kir Royale with my mum and sister to get the party started”, says manager Matt. “I wanted to take that simple drink and just elevate it slightly"
What do I need?
25ml sweet vermouth 15 ml creme de cassis 90 ml cremant (or similar brut/sparkling wine)
What do I do?
Serve in either of two ways: in a coupe, as here, or in a flute with lots of ice and a lemon peel garnish
Where they at?
107 Wells Road; www.bankbristol.com
RICK’S BAR at THE BRISTOL Pine Tree Spritz
"The spritz captures the scent of cosy Christmas memories. The lightness of the bubbly drink makes it perfect for festive celebrations"
What do I need?
50ml DOM Benedictine
20ml pine and rosemary syrup (infuse a simple syrup base with clean pine needles and fresh rosemary)
15ml lemon juice
60ml prosecco
15ml soda top up Rosemary sprig
What do I do?
Build cocktail in wine glass. Add Benedictine and syrup, top with prosecco, stir, finish with a dash of soda, garnish and serve.
Where they at?
Narrow Quay www.doylecollection.com
CARGO CANTINA
Cinnamon, Chilli & Chocolate cocktail
"Tequila. Chocolate. Say no more"
What do I need?
35ml cinnamon and morita chilli tequila*
8ml Cointreau
50ml Mozart dark chocolate liqueur
Dash of agave syrup
Chilli salt for the rim
Slice of orange for garnish
*To infuse the tequila, leave the bottle for five days with three cinnamon sticks in, and then add the dried morita chilli 15 minutes before you make your cocktail
What do I do?
Add all the ingredients to a shaker, shake, serve over ice, and garnish.
Where they at?
Cargo 2
www.cargocantina.co.uk
THE GRANARY
Christmas Breakfast Martini
“In swapping the gin for vodka, and the marmalade for cranberry, as well as adding a splash of blackcurrant, we bring a subtle, Christmas twist to a true modern classic"
What do I need?
50ml vodka
25ml Cointreau
20ml lemon juice
10ml creme de cassis
1 tsp cranberry sauce
What do I do?
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain and garnish with orange peel.
Where they at?
32 Welsh Back www.granarybristol.com
NO.1 HARBOURSIDE Gingerbread Espresso
Martini
"In this season of excess, exless by shaking up a delicious mocktail. Making Christmas memorable and the next day bearable!"
What do I need?
50ml fresh espresso
25ml Lyres Coffee Original non-alcoholic liqueur
25ml Lyres White Cane non-alcoholic rum
15ml gingerbread syrup (eg from Bristol Syrup Company)
What do I do?
Shake hard and double-strain into a coupe. Garnish with three coffee beans and dust with chocolate powder.
Where they at?
1 Canon's Road
www.no1harbourside.co.uk
BOMBA TAPAS
White Christmas Margarita
"Almost too pretty to drink. We said almost"
What do I need?
35ml tequila
15ml Cointreau
15ml coconut rum
15ml lime juice
50ml coconut milk
10ml agave
To garnish: rosemary sprig and cranberries
What do I do?
Shake all ingredients then strain with ice; double strain into a coupe. Or just serve over ice if preferred
Size isn’t everything when coffee and cake are concerned
did; but not quite in the way I expected.
This issue s coffee shop of choice may be small (3ft 6 by name, 3ft 6 by nature) but it has a heart big enough to melt away all your caffeine, cakey cares. And your Christmas ones too, to keep things topical. t s over in ed eld, right next to Netham Park, which is not an area I am overly familiar with, but after stumbling across it online I just had to check this place out. You see, when you look at it on Google maps, this modest little place has a really rather rare, 5.0 rating. Don’t think I’ve seen too many cafés with that sort of score before. So I decided to give it a go, see if it lived up to the hype. It
“It may be only 3ft 6, but it’s a giant among cafés”
Must say, the cycle over there was worth the trip all in itself. Rufus the dog and I had a great time. Whatever else is going on with the world, the cycle lanes of Bristol are going great guns. They’re breeding, like Santa’s little helpers on holiday (topical tick #2), and I like it very much.
As I said, the café’s not big. The owner can’t remember whether the name refers to the depth of the serving space, or the length of the counter. Either way, they’re not lying. It really is a teeny tiny bauble of joy (topical tick #3).
Originally it was converted from a garage during lockdown, but these days it has expanded (slightly) to include a most marvellously decked out area in front of the pavement, complete with pretty flowers all in a row and some nice loo ing stuff growing alongside.
I chose an Americano with something snacky to keep it company. There wasn’t a huge selection, but when the friendly bloke behind the counter told me one of them was a sort of affa cake slice, I was sold.
he coffee was superb and the cake was excellent, but I still
couldn’t quite work out why it had that rare 5.0 rating.
But then I noticed the feel of the place. It really does have a friendly, welcoming, community vibe going on. Locals would wander up for a coffee and a chat, people would walk past and wave. As I sipped and munched, in the background I could faintly hear someone playing the piano in one of the nearby houses.
In front of me, the friendly barista was telling some other customers about the alcohol licence, explaining that they put on regular events in the evening. They even open up on Christmas day for mince pies and whatnot (#4 ).
Basically, if you ever have a friend over to visit and they want to know what it is that makes Bristol such a beautiful place to live, bring them here and it will all make perfect sense.
It may only be 3ft 6, but it’s a giant amongst cafés. More power to their community caring coffee ways, that’s what I say; and not just at Christmas. n
Former The Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer; @stancullimore on instagram Google up Stan’s daily substack blog: Diary of an Urban Grandad
CHARLIE TAYLOR KASK WINE
Drink English (and a little Welsh) this Christmas
This time last year, I came up with the remarkably original theme of Perfect Wines for Christmas. If you go back through your framed copies of my previous columns, you ll nd it there, which is handy, because what you’re reading now is the sequel. But if, for some strange reason, you haven’t been keeping them, don’t worry – this one stands on its own two feet.
I was struggling to think of a new theme for this year’s Christmas edition, until we had a visit from Adam, the winemaker behind Saddle Goose in Frome. Adam’s right up our street: fun, irreverent, doesn’t take wine too seriously, but makes genuinely exciting bottles using English grapes in his small winery near the train station. Following a fortuitous visit by one of our team to his winery earlier this year, we’ve had several of his bottles on By The Glass, so
were excited to try his new vintages and, with Christmas in mind, one immediately jumped out. Which is when the theme for this piece appeared: Drink English (and a little bit of Welsh) this Christmas.
Let’s start with the catalyst. Saddle Goose’s brand-new Black Goose is a delightful Blanc de Noir, perfect as the day’s aperitif. When I say aperitif, that could be as a welcome glass for your guests. Or it could mean on your own, ideally around 10 am. Airport rules apply on Christmas Day.
Blanc de Noir is posh wine talk for sparkling wine made from red grapes, usually Pinot Noir. Because it’s made in Somerset rather than in Champagne, it can’t be called ‘Champagne’, though it uses the same intricate method of production. Adam’s gone a step further: traditionally, some Champagne makers added a splash of brandy during the process to create a slightly richer, rounder wine. Adam’s twist?
He used English brandy aged in English oak, giving Black Goose a lovely depth and complexity. It’s a fantastic bottle that deserves a spot in any Christmas line-up.
Adam’s visit wasn’t the only inspiration for this article. Over the past year, the English (and Welsh) section of our lists at KASK and KASK² has grown rapidly. There’s a real buzz around British wine right now, especially within the natural and low-intervention scene. One winemaker I’ve been particularly excited by is Ben Walgate, who produces wines down in Sussex. The founding winemaker at Tillingham, he now works independently, and we’re all the better for it.
His approach ticks every box for us: exciting; no chemicals; grapes from growers who care deeply for their land, but without the ‘funkiness’ that’s sometimes associated with ‘natural’ wines. His Blanc de Blanc (a Champagne-method sparkling made from Chardonnay) is one of the best I’ve tasted this year, but it’s his Walgate Pinot Blanc that I’ll be pouring with lunch. Made with grapes from Crouch Valley, it’s got notes of apple, lemon, and mandarin (your Christmas satsuma in a glass), a little richness from partial oak ageing, and a subtle smoky character that will sing alongside pigs in blankets.
“Airport drinking rules apply on Christmas Day”
If you fancy something a bit different, loo out for Blanc on Blonde 2023 from the brilliantly named Cowboys Don’t Have Curls, a collaboration between Somerset’s Mayland Vineyard and Welsh winemaker Dave Morris.
Remember how Blanc de Noir is sparkling made from red grapes? Well, Blanc on Blonde is a still white wine made from Pinot Noir, so it drinks like a bright white but smells like a red, with those telltale berry aromas. And yes, it’s got a cracking label too.
Or if you prefer a red that looks like a red with your turkey, there’s no shortage of options from the UK, thanks to our predilection for planting Pinot Noir, despite its notorious di culty to grow there s a reason it’s called ‘the heartbreak grape’ and it’s not romantic). One of the best is Monmouthshire’s Ancre Hill Pinot Noir ’20: light, fresh, and silky, with bright cherry and strawberry notes and a gentle hint of spice and forest floor It’s textbook Christmas lunch wine. Now for
dessert or the cheeseboard. Go even more local with a new release from Chew Valley’s Limeburn Hill. Solaris Mistelle is, we think, the s rst biodynamic natural dessert wine ac ed with flavours of apricot, orange peel, and honey. I’m betting it will be a dream with Christmas pud.
And there you have it. Christmas wine, done British. All delicious, all guaranteed conversation starters, and all available at KASK or in one of our Christmas cases. So, this year, while everyone else is reaching for something French or Italian, grab a bottle that was made just down the road.
Visit KASK Wine at 51 North Street and KASK² at 243 Cheltenham Road 07522 198081; www.kaskwine.co.uk
THE GIFT OF KINDNESS
Charity donations are for life, not just for Christmas –but this is the perfect time of year to give generously to help the lives of those in need
EMMAUS BRISTOL
TEL: 0117 954 0886
WWW.EMMAUSBRISTOL.ORG.UK
In the UK, too many people are facing the pain of homelessness. When you lose your home, you don’t just lose a roof over your head; you lose your people, your safety, and your sense of belonging.
That’s where you come in.
At Emmaus Bristol, we provide more than a bed for the night, but it’s only possible because of people like you. Your kindness helps create a safe, welcoming community where people are seen for who they are, supported as they rebuild their lives, and empowered to shape a brighter future for themselves.
Every day, the people who live and gain work experience in your local Emmaus community regain confidence, new skills, and move forward because you chose to stand beside them. You’re giving more than shelter. You’re giving purpose. You’re giving hope.
This Christmas, you can be the difference for someone here in your community. You can help someone find more than shelter. You can give them a family to stand alongside them, a safe place to rebuild, and the chance to move towards a brighter future. Together, we’re creating a world where everyone has what they need to thrive: more than a roof. A place to belong.
Please donate today by visiting the Emmaus Bristol website and clicking the donate button on the homepage.
THE BRANDON TRUST
TEL: 0117 907 7200
WWW.BRANDONTRUST.ORG
At Brandon Trust, we work alongside autistic people and people with learning disabilities, supporting them to make choices and lead fuller lives. We bring together individuals, families, communities, and partners to create opportunities, remove barriers, and drive lasting change. Our support ranges from light-touch help in people’s homes to 24-hour residential care with nursing. We also provide children’s play schemes and short-break services, delivering life-changing experiences for individuals and families. In addition, we offer supported employment opportunities through our not-for-profit social enterprises.
BRISTOL ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRE
TEL: 0117 980 3906
WWW.BRISTOLARC.ORG.UK/GIVE-BACK
This Christmas, give back to the animals who give us so much. From the dog who lifts your spirits to the robin singing on a frosty morning, animals bring warmth, comfort and joy while asking for so little.
At Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, we’re caring for more animals in need than ever; by Christmas Day, nearly 950 will have come through our doors this year. Many arrive frightened, injured or abandoned, experiencing kindness for the first time. Your donation can give back to them, providing warmth, safety and love when they need it most.
CHANGES BRISTOL
TEL: 0117 941 1123
WWW.CHANGESBRISTOL.ORG.UK
Changes Bristol has teamed up with the Big Give Christmas Challenge. We are in a mental health crisis and more people than ever are accessing our services for support and connection. Our charity offers free support groups across Bristol and online, telephone befriending and walks. Last year we supported over 1000 people.
The Christmas Challenge means donations will be doubled until midday on 9 December through match funding, so a donation of, eg, £20 will be worth £40. We need your help to continue to offer this support,so please donate here: www.bit.ly/4nQMGf8. We’re aiming to raise £6,250!
SOUTHMEAD HOSPITAL CHARITY
TEL: 0117 414 0170
WWW.SOUTHMEADHOSPITALCHARITY.ORG.UK
Support Southmead Hospital Charity’s Christmas Appeal. Southmead Hospital Charity is the official charity of North Bristol NHS Trust, funding projects that go beyond what the NHS can provide. This Christmas, we’re asking you to help spark innovation and give hope to every patient. Your support funds life-changing technology and pioneering programmes – from 3D-printed prosthetics for patients like Dave to mental health support. Every donation makes a real difference. Donate today at www.southmeadhospitalcharity.org.uk/ HopeStartsHere
MIGRATEFUL
TEL: 07843145256
WWW.MIGRATEFUL.ORG/CLASSES/BRISTOL
Award-winning charity Migrateful has opened a cookery school at Windmill Hill City Farm, offering classes taught by refugees and asylum-seekers. The classes, which feature cuisines from Trinidad and Tobago, Sri Lanka, Sudan, and beyond, are open to the public and available to book via their website. Migrateful also runs private classes for team-building days and socials.
The new cookery school will provide refugees and asylumseekers with a path toward independence by giving them access to paid work, training, and opportunities to build confidence, improve their English, and make new connections. By attending a class, Bristolians can learn to cook delicious dishes, explore new cultures, and support refugee and asylum-seeking chefs to build new lives in the city.
CHILDREN’S HOSPICE SOUTH WEST
TEL: 01275866600; WWW.CHSW.ORG.UK
EMAIL: AMANDA.GALLAGHER@CHSW.ORG.UK
“Children’s Hospice South West is the primary service for all parents and carers of children with short lives. It is the helping hand for the worn out dad who lifts their child to bed every night, the entertainment committee for the siblings who never get a holiday, the steady voice on the phone for the weary mum with too many choices to make, the medical advice for your kids unique needs, and the ongoing hug for the grieving parent.”- A family supported by CHSW.
This season, give the gift of care and hope to the children and families who need it most across Bristol.
NICE LIST
Eight pages of Bristmas gifts – each one vetted and endorsed (and in the case of the gin on page 76, over-enthusiastically sampled) by the Bristol Life elves
SPARKLE AND SHINE
SILVER BANGLE, £45
From Velvet Umbrella Clifton Metro. Whiteladies Road www.velvetumbrella.co.uk
Nine out of ten Emma Thompsons say they’d prefer to find a bit of bling under the tree than a remastered Joni Mitchell CD
SILVER ETCHED LACY TAPERED RING, £160
From Diana Porter, 33 Park Street www.dianaporter.co.uk
SILVER RIBBON EARRINGS, £118
From Silver & Steel, 74 East Street www.silverandsteelstudios.co.uk
PLATINUM AND DIAMOND STUDS,£1,095
From Clifton Rocks 54 The Mall www.cliftonrocks.co.uk
LARGE ‘DAZZLE’ MISTLETOE
NECKLACE, £1,950
From Nicholas Wylde 6 The Mall www.nicholaswylde.com
DIAMOND RING, £1,110
From Diana Porter, 33 Park Street www.dianaporter.co.uk
NALI SHOP SPOKES EARRINGS, £19
From Fox + Feather 41 Gloucester Road www.foxandfeather.co.uk
SILVER FEATHER RING, £150
From Rainmaker Gallery 140 Whiteladies Road www.rainmakerart.co.uk
ESTELLA BARTLETT COWBOY EARRINGS, £27
From The Pod Compnay, 24 The Mall; www.thepopdcompany.co.uk
3D LUCKY ELEPHANT NECKLACE, £10
From One Cat Boutique 3 Clifton Arcade www.onecatboutique.com
SELF-PORTRAIT SEA STAR BRACELET, £195
From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com
CLARE CHANDLER DIAMOND DOTS NECKLACE, £656
From Clifton Rocks 54 The Mall www.cliftonrocks.co.uk
ROCKMOUNT ‘ARNIE’ NECKLACE, FROM £190
Bristol jeweller Jane Kenney
created her signature necklace as a tribute to her much loved greyhound Arnie. Seen modelled ever so stylishly here by Eleanor Tomlinson in The Outlaws From www.janekenney.co.uk
If you know their style, clothing makes a perfect present. If you get it wrong, hey, there’s always the gift receipt
LOVE & HOPE TRUCKER HAT, £14.99
All profits from the sale of this special edition cap (and matching tee) will go directly to charity Talk Talk, providing one free therapy session for a man From Talk Talk, www.shop.talkclub.org
ROTOTO CHECKERBOARD ROOM SOCKS, £36
From Maze Clothing 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk
SECOND LAYER JEFE JACKET, £940
From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www. harveynichols. com
DRIES VAN NOTEN TIFNA ARGYLE CARDIGAN, £850
From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www. harveynichols. com
BELLEROSE SIDOR SCARF, £95
From Maze Clothing 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk
INDI & COLD WOOL COAT, £445
From Maze Clothing 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing. co.uk
CHLOÉ SPIN SMALL SHEARLING TOTE BAG £1,250 From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols. com
SEQUIN KNIT TOP, £120
From Mint Velvet 44 Regent Street www.mintvelvet.com
BRISTMAS GIFTS
DESMOND & DEMPSEY LINEN PYJAMAS £250
From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols. com
MUNTHE SAGOS DRESS, £209.30 (FROM £299)
From Grace & Mabel 18 The Mall www.graceandmabel. co.uk
OSCAR DEEN PANDA SUNGLASSES, £135
From Maze Clothing 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk
NALI SHOP JOANNE BAG, £114
From Fox & Feather 41 Gloucester Road www.foxandfeather.co.uk
FOREVER
Except they’re not. After the age of 10 they’ll all want iThingies, so buy the cute stuff while you can still exercise a bit of aesthetic control over the home
NAVAJO ‘HOZHO’ KIDS’ T-SHIRT, £22
From Mojakid, 5 Clifton Arcade www.mojakid.com
LIEWOOD JESSE THERMO BOOTS, £29 (FROM £58)
From Maze, 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk
JELLYCAT APRESSKI PEANUT, £24
From The Pod Company 24 The Mall www.thepod company.co.uk
KNITTED HIGHLAND COW, £18.99
From Born in Bristol, 197 Church Road, Redfield; www.borninbristol.uk
ROBIN ROBIN SOFT TOY, £19.95
From Gromit Unleashed Shop Upper Floor, Cribbs Causeway www.gromitunleashedshop.org.uk
CANDYLAB WOODEN VAN, £19
From Mon Pote, 217a North Street www.monpote.co.uk
From Maze, 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk
BLOOMINGVILLE KINTO ROCKING TOY LLAMA
From Fig 1 Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps & 15 Philadelphia Street www.fig1.co.uk
HOUSE OF DISASTER BRACHIOSAURUS
LAMP, £15
From Fig 1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps & 15 Philadelphia Street www.fig1.co.uk
BALLOONS ROMPER, £35 240-248 West Street, Bedminster www.iloclothing.co.uk
BLOOMINGVILLE POMP MOBILE, £52
From Fig 1 Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps & 15 Philadelphia Street www.fig1.co.uk
GROMIT CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS JUMPER, £19.95
From Gromit Unleashed Shop Upper Floor, Cribbs Causeway www.gromitunleashedshop.org.uk
FIONA WALKER CAT HEAD, £19.97 (FROM £39.95)
FOOD OF LOVE
Ideal host and hostess gifts. Who are we kidding? You’re totally eating and drinking all the stuff yourself, aren’t you?
‘HUNDRED NOT OUT’ BITTER, 6 CANS, £24
Created by residents at St Monica Trust, who grew and brewed the hops. Profits enable older people and those living with dementia to participate in future sessions
From Wiper & True, Unit 11 City Business Park & 2-8 York Street, St Werburgh’s www.wiperandtrue.com
OJO DE TIGRE BLANCO MEZCAL, 70CL, £39
From Spirited 196 North Street www.spiritedbristol.com
CHOCOCO CHOCOLATE PENGUINS, £13
From Chococo; try Papadeli, or www.chococo.co.uk
ROOT & EMBER HAMPERS, FROM £60
From Root & Ember
3 Bruton Place www.rootandember.com
SPICY CHORIZO POKERS, £3.90-£45
From Somerset Charcuterie www.somerset charcuterie.com
6 O’CLOCK DAMSON GIN, £5.20 – £39
From 6 O’Clock Gin The Glassboat, Welsh Back www.6oclockgin.com
London Camera Exchange has had a presence in Bristol for longer than most can remember. We’re sure many people can recall the shops both in the Horsefair and also Baldwin Street, which have now been replaced with a London Camera Exchange flagship store at 42 Park Street.
The core principles remain the same – it’s all about professional expertise, and most of all, the great customer service our staff offer. With our extensive knowledge, we are always happy to give help or advice. As well as being a photographer himself, our manager Mark has over 20 years experience
“ LCE’S MAIN SPECIALITY THESE DAYS IS IN CAMERAS AND BINOCULARS”
PICTURE PERFECT
Bristol is home to an ever-increasing number of professional and amateur photographers – and London Camera Exchange can supply all the kit they need
in the trade. All the staff are trained to know exactly what customers might need, and are highly adept at problem-solving.
LCE’s main speciality these days is in cameras and binoculars. For photographers we are a Nikon Professional dealer, Leica specialist and of course also keep all the popular brands such as Canon, Fujifilm, OM and Panasonic Lumix.
Regarding optics, the store has a huge array of binoculars, scopes and telescopes priced from £49 to over £3000. Top-end brands include Swarovski, Zeiss, Leica,Vortex, Hawke, Opticron, Celestron and Nikon.
As the name suggests,LCE is eager to part-exchange good-quality gear for those wishing to upgrade to newer or better models. It’s a form of recycling, and also a great way to purchase quality used equipment from a trusted source.
The LCE team also like to be involved
in local affairs and our expert knowledge can be found through their support of local camera clubs. Throughout the year we host various events at which top camera and optic brands take part to give advice and demonstrations. These include instore days, shows and camera walks.
At our shop located half way up Park Street, customers are always assured of a very warm welcome from Mark and the team. Whether it’s a camera, binocular, telescope, roll of film or any accessory, our staff would be delighted to see you there. n
London Camera Exchange, 42 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5JG. Tel: 0117 927 618 Email: bristol@lcegroup.co.uk
EYES ON THE PIES
THE STORY OF PIEMINISTER
PIEMINISTER’S QUESTION TIME
Tristan Hogg, co-founder of PIEMINISTER, is on a mission: to get us all eating as many pies as the Aussies do, just fancier, healthier versions…
Words by Paul Marland
As a teenager, Tristan fell in love with cooking; eventually he’d tour as a chef for the olling tones, et hop oys and obbie illiams n his early twenties he landed in Sydney, where he surfed, worked in Michelin star restaurants, and at some point came up with a pretty good pun ouldn t it be great to have a pie company called ieminister ustralia informed it he average Bruce or Sheila eats 44 pies a year; in Britain, where they compete with pasties and sausage rolls, we barely manage twelve ies are part of watching sport over there, and fuel for all the long ourneys they do, says ristan Back in London, and running through ideas with brother-inlaw Jon Simon, destined to be his ieminister partner, we soon realised there are endless puns on food, and particularly the word pie hat s where the ree anger – our free- range chicken and ham pie came from e thought of the name, then built a pie to t Tristan’s from Bristol, which seemed the perfect home for the fledgling ieminister better to be a big sh in a smaller pond, plus all those great est ountry ingredients on the doorstep e started in Stokes Croft, and leapt
from my parent’s kitchen table to , s ft straight away ut though we only sold ve pies on our rst day, was never worried new we d tested them too often to fail oday ieminister employs around 250 people and sells six million pies a year – market leaders in the ‘premium pie’ arena, but tiny next to rival family rm u a, who have 50% of the overall mar et art of their growth mission to really understand why people don’t eat more pies, then turn those objections around
“Younger British people often don’t trust what’s in them,” says ristan
“Mystery meat, hidden by soggy pastry? o, than s o we ma e sure we talk loudly about our great ingredients, the free-range aspect, all that t s important, for instance, that our chunks of chicken should always be large and easy to identify
ieminister does tea and ale was our number one pie when we started, 20 years ago, and it’s still up there today ve actually seen pies come back into fashion three times now, as every new generation seems to discover them afresh, but with different tastes and concerns ach time, we have to ta e a view put all our efforts into coo ing the healthiest pies possible, or instead position ourselves as more of an occasional treat?”
Tristan still visits Australia every year, checking trends and looking for new ideas
“That’s where our new, smaller, handheld pies came from – it’s a version of what they’d call ‘a traveller pie’, and is more the shape of a bar, making it easier to eat when you’re out and about ight now it s a small part of what we do, but I’m hoping it will grow
“THOUGH WE ONLY SOLD FIVE PIES ON THE FIRST DAY I WASNT WORRRIED; I KNEW WE’D TESTED THEM TOO OFTEN TO FAIL ”
such a great way to explain what we’re all about,” Tristan says), and continuing efforts to hit net ero “But, actually, the biggest moral issue we deal with day-to-day is over free range chic en e re the only high-street piemaker in the UK to 100% use free-range meat from day one, but that comes with a substantial cost eople inside and outside the company constantly challenge the ethics that have driven that, but I’m not willing to compromise e re really mindful that it’s one of the reasons people love the brand, and it’s also just the right thing to do rom the very rst, ieminister has had a shop at the front of their Stoke’s Croft building, and has always loved the direct interaction with customers this affords, but running their own restaurants –they had 17 at their peak, pre-Covid is a whole other ballgame t s a very different discipline, and so, so tough – especially with many people working from home, and not going out to lunch as often as they used to hese days we are loo ing at different ways to grow through the supermarkets, yes, but also places li e stadiums
The rise of plant-based food and gluten-free options have brought their own challenges, of course –but endless opportunities too
That said, there’s always been a strong traditional strand to what
As a counterweight to all those still-lingering ‘mystery meat’ suspicions, ieminister goes out of its way to be as ethical as possible –hence B Corp status, which they’re going for again this year it s
Anything’s worth trying once, Tristan claims – at one point he was cheerfully flogging pies on channel not that they li ed me being on, as I bite my nails and you could see it in the close-ups”) –though he admits to rarely eating a whole ieminister pie himself these days ve got into the habit of just trying a quarter or so, as part of a taste test – but, actually, yes, you ve reminded me t s still really important I try the whole thing myself from time to time…”
For more: www.pieminister.co.uk
LEFT: Tristan was the guest speaker at the Bristol Life Network Lunch, held at Harbour Hotel
PHOTO BY NARRATED FRAMES
LEGAL EAGLE
JENNY PIERCE
The
managing partner of WARDS SOLICITORS
explains what makes the firm stand out from the pack
Jenny has been the managing partner of Wards Solicitors since 2021 – “And, I’m proud to say, the rst woman to take on this role”, she says.
“My job is managing and mentoring the team heads of our different legal specialities as well as setting business strategy and working closely with the rm s practice management team nance, , compliance and marketing.
“My colleagues, who help me inform strategy, are all experts in their elds of law and am often in awe of their knowledge and professionalism. I’m never afraid to ask them questions, which I know is how our clients feel too.”
Please give a brief overview of Wards Solicitors and its history, and what it specialises in When Wards was founded 120 years ago, most of the work was in conveyancing and wills and probate, areas of the law in which we still excel. Today, we have grown to become a full-service, people-focused law rm with an overarching focus
on professional excellence, becoming ristol aw ociety s egional aw Firm of the Year for 2024.
When did you join Wards Solicitors, and how has it changed since then?
I joined Wards in 1999 as head of wills, probate and mental capacity with just two lawyers in the team. Now there are 28 lawyers plus a support team. We have developed specialisms including trusts, Court of Protection and older client law.
I continue to mentor the wills and probate management team and act as trustee, attorney and deputy for clients, enabling me to keep the person-to-person links which are so important to me.
We read that Wards is marking its 120th anniversary with some major news and a new home –please tell us a bit about that It’s been exciting to celebrate our special birthday with a move to light, bright, inviting new premises within the Prudential Building on Wine Street, just ten minutes’ walk from Bristol Temple Meads. Our Broad Street base, home for more than 70
years, had become outdated and we wanted to retain a city centre location for our clients.
We worked with a local business to t out the new, ground floor o ces to a high speci cation ere our clients will receive the same warm welcome as usual, while our staff bene t from a much more modern, collaborative workspace.
What sets Wards apart from other firms?
nli e many other local law rms, we have maintained and added to a networ of o ces across four different local authorities, preserving a clear high street identity in 13 locations.
t each of these o ces, clients can see a friendly, approachable lawyer in person in every legal specialism we offer with other experts in related elds also on hand if needed e also offer home visits and online video conferences.
What drives what you do?
Excellence in client service – and we have recently worked with an outside consultancy to further hone this. A trusted reputation, outstanding client satisfaction levels and acknowledged expertise enable us to give local businesses and individuals bespoke legal advice with the convenience of an accessible branch network but without the high charging rates of a large national rm
Tell us about your commercial property and business services
Our commercial property and business services teams have grown to become among the top service providers in these areas of the law. Immersing ourselves in the local business community, we attract work from small- to medium-sized enterprises, providing excellence in business law and outstanding service to our clients across the board, but
“WE HAVE GROWN TO BECOME A FULL-SERVICE, PEOPLE-FOCUSED LAW FIRM WITH AN OVERARCHING FOCUS ON PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE”
without the price tag of our larger corporate cousins.
Are there any specific sectors where Wards Solicitors has developed particular expertise? Our wills, trusts and probate team is one of the largest and most successful in the region and has won the Devon and Somerset Law Society’s Private Client Team of the Year award.
We are known for our expertise across family tax planning, trust management, wills and probate, powers of attorney, mental capacity, asset protection and Court of Protection work with skill in advising elderly and vulnerable clients. I remain passionate about this area of law having worked on the National Board of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly Solicitors for the Elderly) for many years.
The level of knowledge we provide is unparalleled. Not only is the number of professional accreditations within the team signi cantly higher than other local rms of a comparable si e, but we are one of only two rms in the South West to achieve two appointments to the ce of the Public Guardian’s Panel of Professional Deputies.
For more: www.wards.uk.com
YOUR RETIREMENT, YOUR WAY – START PLANNING TODAY FREEDOM.
That’s what most of us want from retirement, time to enjoy what we’ve worked hard for, without the worry of running out of money or losing our sense of direction. But building the retirement you imagine doesn’t happen by accident - it starts with a plan
Retirement today looks very different from our parents’ generation. The “magic 65” dates back to the late 19th century and introduced in the US in 1935 when average life expectancy was just 58. Now, according to the Office for National Statistics, one in four people aged 65 will live past 90. That means retirement could last 25–30 years, as long as your entire working life.
At the same time, guaranteed pensions have become rarer, and we’re expected to do more of the heavy lifting ourselves. That can feel daunting, but with good planning, you
“AT LAMPIERS, WE BELIEVE RETIREMENT PLANNING STARTS WITH YOU, YOUR VALUES, PRIORITIES, AND DREAMS”
can replace uncertainty with confidence and design a retirement that truly fits you.
WHY PLAN EARLY?
The biggest advantage of starting early is time, and the magic of compounding. Small, consistent steps can grow significantly over the years, while delaying can mean having to save much more later. But planning isn’t just about saving; it’s about understanding what you’re saving for.
At Lampiers, we believe retirement planning starts with you, your values, priorities, and dreams. Whether you picture an active life filled with travel and hobbies, or simply the freedom to slow down and enjoy time with family, we help you turn those ideas into a roadmap.
WHAT GOOD PLANNING COVERS
A strong retirement plan considers:
• How much income you’ll need and how long it must last
• How to make your money work taxefficiently
• How to balance investment growth with stability
• What to do if life takes an unexpected turn, such as illness or care needs
We use clear, practical tools to bring everything together, so you can see what’s possible and make informed choices with confidence.
YOUR FREE GUIDE: ‘YOUR RETIREMENT, YOUR WAY’
To help you get started, we’ve created a free, easy-to-read guide packed with tips, checklists, and insights drawn from decades of experience helping clients plan for retirement. You don’t need to enter your details; simply download it at lampiers.com/ guides
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE
Even if you feel you’ve left it a little late, there’s still time to make a difference. We’ve helped countless clients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond create sustainable retirement plans that give them peace of mind and freedom of choice.
For over 80 years, Lampiers has been helping families, professionals, and business owners across the South West build financial confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Start your journey today — your future self will thank you.
This advertorial is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Investments can fall as well as rise, and clients may get back less than they invest. We do not guarantee the success of any investment strategy or financial plan, and all clients’ circumstances are unique. Please seek personalised advice relevant to your situation. Capital at risk. Investment values can go down as well as up. Lampiers Financial Planning is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Number 606848. Registered in England and Wales under Company Number 02094288. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning or tax advice.
THE FIRS
Not only does our showcase this issue have
a
Christmassy-sounding name, but it’s hard to picture a lovelier home in which to spend the holiday
Words by Ursula Cole
The likelihood of someone simply choosing a new house simply because it would be ideal for Christmas is small, but never zero. After all, a new home should be the stuff of dreams somewhere you imagine yourself hosting happy family celebrations, and what celebration is (potentially) happier than Christmas?
It’s fair to say, however, that this immaculate wing of a Grade-II 18th-century village house in Chew Magna is a house for all seasons. Just picture its river-bordering gardens bursting into their spring glory, or buzzing with bees on a drowsy August afternoon. Imagine the autumn colour of its many specimen trees (no, they re not all rs
A house such as this deserves an auspicious entrance, so it’s no surprise to nd yourself turning off the village high street and entering the drive through tall entrance gates between venerable stone pillars. Set back from the gravelled parking area, the house’s rosy facade of mellow brick, its windows prettily set off by limestone surrounds, looks out at the world with an entirely forgivable complacency regarding its own beauty.
With expectations raised sky high for the interior, it would be dismaying to discover a dearth of original features within. Fortunately at The Firs this is far from the case, thanks to a careful refurbishment which has ensured that period replaces, shuttered windows, window seats and ceiling cornices are still very much present and correct.
large, stone floored entrance hall ta es you to a ne turning staircase, while the orangery beyond has folding glass windows opening to a decked balcony overlooking the garden and beyond.
To the left of the hall a bespoke kitchen with marble surfaces and a acanche three oven range coo er flows into a dining room with a walk-in pantry. This in turns
leads to a sitting room, elegantly panelled to dado height; both of the latter gaze over the garden.
An unexpected layout always adds charm, and at The Firs a staircase leads directly from the dining room to the lower ground floor, which suggests all manner of uses; currently you ll nd a flagstone floored utility room, a shower room, cinema or occasional bedroom. There are two cellars, too, with vaulted ceilings, though if you don’t need both of them you could have fun dreaming up alternatives: we’re thinking ‘sauna’.
The south-facing gardens are a dream. Shallow lawned terraces step down to the banks of the River Chew; there are mature trees, and deep shaped borders planted with a variety of shrubs.
A gravel terrace area immediately outside the back of the house has wonderful views over to the Chew Valley countryside beyond. There’s also a summer house, kitchen garden and a pathway leading through a natural garden down the river.
But let’s quickly head back inside the house before we go. Decided where you’ll put the Christmas tree yet?
HOUSE NUMBERS
2 Bath/shower rooms: 3
Outside: Lovely stepped lawns leading to river bank; summerhouse, garage
What else? Orangery leading to terrace
Call my agent: Knight Frank www.knightfrank.co.uk
BRISTOL & CLIFTON’S PREMIER COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS
Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk
Thornbury Industrial Estate, BS35 TO LET – POA
3,493 sq ft (324.5 sq m)
A modern industrial unit located on Thornbury Industrial Estate providing large open industrial space at ground floor. There are 4 car parking spaces to the front of the unit plus yard space in front of the loading door.
Gloucester Road, BS7 FOR SALE – POA
Fully let, mixed use investment opportunity on a fantastic retail pitch and popular location on Gloucester Road. Comprising three retail units, three residential flats, a four-bedroom HMO plus MOT/car repair garage with yard.
Hampton Road, BS6 TO LET – POA
5,382 sq ft (500 sq m)
Located at ground floor level the property has potential to suit a variety of different occupiers. E Class use - therefore suitable for a wide range of different uses. Could be split to offer two individual commercial units of c 2.600 sq ft.
Queen Charlotte Street, BS1 TO LET – POA. 667 – 2,556 sq ft
(61.96 – 237.45 sq m)
A fine example of a period property that has been refurbished to the highest standard providing high quality accommodation.
Available to rent as a whole, or consideration may be given to a floor by floor letting.
Liberty House FOR SALE – POA
10,851 sq ft (1,008.05 sq m)
Multi-Let Office investment in South Bristol with a total passing rent of £114,831 per annum. Future development (STP) and reversionary rent growth potential.
Alma Road, Bristol, BS8 TO LET - £16,000 pax
625 sq ft (58.06 sq m)
A high-quality newly refurbished self-contained retail unit. fitted to a modern finish offering sales space, a rear kitchenette and W.C. and a store. On street permitted parking available.
Hyland Mews, Clifton FREEHOLD FOR SALE — FOR OCCUPATION / INVESTMENT
A rare opportunity to acquire a mixed use freehold in one of Bristol’s most desirable districts. Comprising a well presented studio office of 1,646 sq ft and a 2 bed self-contained flat, plus forecourt parking for 5 cars. The freehold is available to purchase.
King Square, BS1 FOR SALE - £1.25M
5,910 sq ft (549 sq m)
A substantial commercial building available to purchase, with potential for residential redevelopment or other commercial uses (STP). Freehold for sale with vacant possession.
Waterside Offices, BS8 TO LET – £22 psf
2,375 sq ft (220.64 sq m)
Modern and contemporary offices, providing open plan space with stunning views overlooking the harbourside. 4 car parking spaces and fitted meeting rooms.
Unity Street, Bristol, BS1 FOR SALE (MAY LET) – POA 362 –2,750 sq ft (33.60 – 255.5 sq m)
A self contained building off Park Street. Potential for development /investment/ owner occupation. Suitable for a variety of different uses - office, med ical, or residential (to include a single dwelling house, flats or a non student HMO).
Julian Cook
BRISTOL LIVES
THE REAL F.C.
Newsflash: most of the Santas currently circulating Bristol are just imitating. If you want the real deal, head to Cabot’s, where the real Santa can be found presiding over a festive world in which time is of the essence
After a few years away from the circuit, the real Santa’s back in town with his elf massive, a magical owl and, for some reason, a broken timepiece.
Nice of you to show your face. We last saw you at Cabot’s in 2019 – what took you so long? The time just got away from me, which is a bit ironic given that the theme of this year’s grotto is all about clocks. It also didn’t help that the reindeer took a wrong turn under foggy conditions near Swindon.
But surely with his nose so bright, Rudolph guides the sleigh at night? There’s a reason his nose is red and glowing. And why the levels in my sherry casket are weirdly low.
Hence the straying off course, then. What did he have to say for himself? Ho ho ho. As you’d expect from a magical talking animal whose bloodstream was 95% Bristol Cream at the time.
Moving tactfully on, what exactly is Santa O’Clock?
One of the North Pole’s clocks has gone rogue and it’s throwing
“I don’t like to call the other Santas fakes; I prefer to regard them as tribute acts”
off the entire system ve relocated operations to Cabot Circus, where time runs on retail hours and the kids of Bristol can justify all their gift demands by unlocking the problem. Aided by the elves, naturally, and an owl.
We’re happy to help, too. Any travel suggestions for getting to the grotto? Magical sleigh is the safest bet. Obviously you can drive, but you’ll need to take your chances exiting the car park. [Topical joke].
And how do we find it? Given the size of the gurt threemetre clock standing in the middle of Cabot Circus, you’d have to try really hard to miss it.
What can we expect to find at the grotto?
All the North Pole festive feels, but with the excitement of a ticking clock. Cogsie is leading in the grotto this year; he’s used to a Christmas Eve deadline, and guaranteed to make sure the magic is at its max. I’ve been told it s better than etflix , which I’m taking.
What gifts will kids leave the grotto with this year? No spoilers, but they’re 100% North Pole-crafted: soft, snuggly and screen-and WiFi-free.
It’s a busy time for the elves. How are they holding up? Morale’s good, mostly because I’ve instigated a blanket ban of Bublé, Slade and Wizzard in the toy factory.
What are your own favourite Christmas songs? I hate them all.
Not long until Christmas Eve! How do you manage to travel the entire world in one night? Magic, we presume? Mostly it’s just a profound disregard for tra c regulations and the laws of physics.
What’s best to leave out for you: milk or mince pies? Got anything stronger? Asking for Rudolph, obviously.
How are the naughty-and-nice assessments going this year? I’m snowed under, as per usual. Begging letters by the sackful.
Do you read them all? s im the rst sentence, then guess the rest. Kids are remarkably predictable.
How do you feel about all the fake Santas currently filling grottos across the country? I don’t call them fakes. I prefer to regard them as tribute acts.
Given that you are the genuine Santa, we’re honoured to have you here. Why choose Bristol? Harts mince pies. The ready availability of a decent flat white Also the accent’s strangely endearing.
Weirdly, some adults claim not to believe in you
Adults don’t believe in themselves half the time m not offended
Will it be a white Bristmas? Sadly I believe those rumours are fla e news
Santa O’Clock is at Cabot Circus until 24 December. Booking essential: www.santaoclock.seetickets.com
