Bristol Life – Issue 336

GET IT W HILE IT ’S H OT

AN A-Z (WELL, ALMOST) OF AL FRESCO DINING

T REW

NANCY MEDINA IN THE HOUSE

H APPY VA L LE Y

WHY A FEAST IN A TENT MAY BE THE BEST THING YOU’LL EAT THIS YEAR

BEAC H, P LE A SE

IT ’S TIME TO DIG OUT THE WRONG T ROUSERS…

CLOBBER TO ELEVATE YOUR HOLIDAY GAME

ISSUE 336 / JUNE 2023 / £3

ISSUE 336 / JUNE 2023 / LET’S GET OUT OF IT

THE NEXT STAGE

HEAR THEM ROAR THE WAKE THE TIGER STORY

EDITOR’S LETTER

W

18

Clay with me, baby If there’s a more heartwarming Bristol collaboration than that between Aardman and The Grand Appeal, we have yet to come across it

hile it’s generally regarded as taboo to have a favourite child, or even a dog, I will cheerfully admit that I’ve loved some Bristol Life front covers more than others. y home office is dominated by a canvas of Gemma Compton’s blue-and-white art from issue 214 – Google it, and you may see why.

Over the past few years we’ve featured Jody’s Greta mural (we published two di erent versions of that one, just for fun), premièred Inkie’s Deco Liz, and created a dayglo collage of the animals at Bristol Zoo; we’ve also had lots of original covers created by design ninja Trevor Gilham. I remain very fond of our two front covers featuring aisie Williams, first as a gumchewing teenager in 2015, then poised and ethereal in the Christmas of 2022.

But it’s a sliding league table, and this issue’s cracker of a cover, created for us by the geniuses at Aardman Animations, has zoomed straight into my personal premier division. It’s all to do with the 30th anniversary of The Wrong Trousers, and the incredible fundraising campaign of the same name run by The Grand Appeal – read all about it on page 18. any of our features are regular, seasonal fixtures, and if it’s June it must be time for our annual guide to al fresco dining. In other, equally summery, sections, Colin anticipates Harbour Fest with a decidedly nautical Bristol Heroes, and we have a deliberately held-over review of a Feast from last year’s Valley Fest, so you can see what’s what when you book up this year.

But it’s not all weather-dependent; take Ngaio Anyia’s excellent interview with new Bristol Old Vic artistic director ancy edina, for example, in which she discovers what this powerhouse of the theatre has in store for us.

All in all, we feel this issue of Bristol Life pairs equally well with a chilled glass of rosé on the patio, or a single origin co ee when it’s chucking it down; hope you find plenty to enjoy between its covers.

DERI ROBINS Bristol Life editor Follow us on

@BristolLifeMag;

@BristolLifeMag

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

Issue 336 / June 2023

6

ON THE COVER What’s this? A special piece of Wrong Trousers art, created by Aardman just for us? We are unworthy! Feature page 18

ARTS

11 ART PAGE The fuzz is still hot 12 WHAT’S ON Summery shizzle 18 ANIMATION Has there ever been a lusher Bristol collab than

Aardman and The Grand Appeal?

24 THE BIG INTERVIEW Nancy Medina in the house 30 BRISTOL HEROES To Bristol Harbour, with love

12

FOOD & DRINK

38 RESTAURANT Valley Fest Feasts: book now if you want an

icicle’s chance in hell of bagging a ticket 40 AL FRESCO Get it while it’s hot 53 CAFÉ SOCIETY ou say tee, tan says co ee

SHOPPING

57 SHOP INTRO Sunnies afternoons 58 ED’S CHOICE Beach, please

NETWORK

63 THE CITY’S BUSINESS Business clubs, expert tips, news,

interviews, awards, events and dates for the diary

PROPERTY

82 SHOWCASE A Canynge classic

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT 9 BRIZZOGRAM 90 BRISTOL LIVES Anna Shepherd of The Grand Appeal

38 Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore Commercial manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Craig Wallberg craig.wallberg@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Jake Horwood jake.horwood@mediaclash.co.uk Production/distribution manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@ mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a West Country-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

4 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Offering thorough eye examinations using the latest Optical Coherence Tomography technology to ensure your eyes are looked after

NOW OPEN IN CLIFTON: 3 the Mall, BS8 4dp | clifton@lunaroptical.com | 0117 214 1444 & Celebrating 10 years at: 291 Gloucester Road, BS7 8NY info@lunaroptical.com | 0117 942 0011

© GUY PETERSON

SPOTLIGHT

The energetic Charles Hazlewood and Paraorchestra will launch the opening of Bristol Beacon, with a little help from (INSET) Surgeons Girl

Music

TUNES OF GLORY In the unlikely event that you haven’t heard, Bristol Beacon will open its lavishly refurbished new spaces – the 2,000+ capacity Beacon Hall, the 500-capacity Lantern Hall and the new 200-capacity Weston Cellar – on 30 November.

Anyway, that’s old news. The new news is that they’ve announced the opening-night programme, which features two Bristol’s acts; Paraorchestra, the groundbreaking ensemble of disabled and non-disabled musicians, along with electronic artist Surgeons Girl.

Under the artistic direction of conductor Charles Hazlewood, Paraorchestra will perform specially commissioned piece Trip the Light Fantastic, “a spectacular collision of sound and light that’s been specifically designed to highlight Bristol Beacon’s architecture and world-class acoustics.

“When considering how to mark the reopening, we thought immediately of Paraorchestra,” said Todd Wills, the venue’s artistic director. “Not only does the ensemble represent the spirit of inclusion and reinvention

that we cherish in this city, but they were also incredibly open to collaborating with other Bristol artists to create something truly innovative and celebratory. This is at the heart of what we want to do at Bristol Beacon – collaborating with artists at all levels, from local to international, to create a space that is truly open to all and full of possibility.”

On 2 December, the Beacon will also be throwing The Housewarming, an all-day free party across the entire venue, featuring artists gathered from across the city through an opencall. The weekend will end with a performance by the avant-garde ten-piece Penguin Cafe, whose musicians range from luminaries from the Royal College of Music to members of Suede and Gorillaz, on 3 December.

There are loads of top-class musical and comedy acts booked in for 2024; check the (slightly difficult to navigate website for details. www.bristolbeacon.org

Photography

POOL LIFE

OK, so Bristol-based photographer Martin Parr’s already a global name, he didn’t need one of his images gracing the latest album cover from one of the UK’s most beloved indie bands to get validation – but we still think it’s pretty cool. The band in question is Blur, the album is The Ballad of Darren; the photo is Gourock Lido, Inverclyde, Scotland, taken by Martin in 2004. © #MartinParr / @MagnumPhotos; www.martinparr.com

Art

tow, Upfest took itself up to Wild Place Project in May to create a live paint takeover of conservation-inspired street art. The eight artists – Aspire, Bex Glover, Cheo, Felix Braun, The Hass, Sian Storey, Silent Hobo and Sophie Long – created large-scale murals, drawing inspiration from the wide range of conservation work carried out by Bristol Zoological Society and telling the story of the Zoo’s work across the globe, from saving critically endangered lemur leaf frogs in the forests of Costa Rica to western lowland gorillas and the whiteclawed crawfish in K rivers. www.wildplace.org.uk

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© NEIL JAMES BR AIN

WILD STYLE With a diverse set of artists and a lot of paint spray in

SPOTLIGHT

TWO SCOOPS OF BRISTOL, PLEASE

There’s something about the Neapolitan pastels of Bristol terraces that always make us want to head straight to Swoon Gelato. Can’t think why…

@lorna_s_photography

@helenisbell

@the.blonde.blog

@craigderrick40

@zfjsutton

@joyfulbristol

@seaoflovephotography

@ellydeakin

@porthjess

@thepropertyphotographerltd

@ellydeakin

@thiscitymum

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 9

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

EAT , HOOT A D EAVE Yes, obviously Hot Fuzz is everyone’s favourite West Country cop-buddy action flick, but it’s not remotely new; in fact it came out in 2007, so why are we focusing on it now? Easy answer it’s one of 15 films showing at Bristol Film Festival’s inaugural Clifton ummer creenings between 2 - July, a mini-fest designed to bring an eclectic, crowd-pleasing programme of movies to an outdoor big screen.

It all takes place in The all Gardens, where a pop-up cinema, covered seating, a stateof-the-art LED screen and wireless headphones guarantee a perfect movie experience whatever the weather. If you’re feeling really fancy, you can sign up for a VIP package, with its private entrance, access to the hospitality pavilion, a pre-screening drinks reception and canapés or light dining. How very very Clifton. www.bristolfilmfestival.com/cliftonsummerscreenings www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 11

WHAT’S 23 June-14 O July 2023

Dig out the sequins, Carnival’s back

EXHIBITIONS

immersive D. At Bristol useum Art Gallery, bristolmuseums.org.uk

OIL FOUNTAIN Luke Jerram’s giant fountain sculpture flows with engine oil instead of water, intended to highlight how contemporary society is reliant on oil, and the need to move away from this dependency; at Bristol Cathedral; lukejerram.com/oil-fountain

24-25 June

Until 2 July

BS4 ARTS TRAIL ou know the drill. ocal artists and craftspeople display and sell their wares from homes and other venues this time in Knowle, Brislington and t Anne’s, bs4artstrail.co.uk

1-31 July

STREET LIFE An urban-themed exhibition of work by RWA Academicians, complementing Found City, Lost Objects; RWA; rwa.org.uk

BEYOND SUBMERGENCE World-first, 2 , sq ft. exhibition, curated by award-winning art collective quidsoup, transforming Propyard into a ourney through light, space and sound; beyondsubmergence.com

Until 30 August

13 July-8 September

Until 23 July

FOUND CITIES, LOST OBJECTS: WOMEN IN THE CITY Curated by Turner Prize-winner ubaina Himid, this Arts Council Collection exhibition explores modern city life from a female perspective, from safety and navigation to belonging and power. RWA; rwa.org.uk

Until 10 September

THE CAVE ART OF LASCAUX tep back 21, years in time and visit the tone Age cave art of ascaux in

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RENE MATIC: A GIRL FOR THE LIVING ROOM An intimate portrait of Bristol writer, performer and theatre-maker Travis Alabanza; PF, martinparrfoundation.org

SHOWS Until 24 June

ANNA KARENINA ove robs you of your sanity, mauls your heart, will probably kill you. But without love there is no point in living.

Tolstoy’s classic reimagined for the stage, specifically, Bristol Old Vic’s. bristololdvic.org.uk

Until 1 July

THE LION KING ants ingonyama bagithi Baba It’s the third outing for Disney’s lionfest at Hippodrome, with spectacular set pieces, puppets, masks and songs you know o by heart. atgtickets.com DORIAN Oscar Wilde’s life intertwines with his characters at Wardrobe; part of BOVT ’s ummer Festival, in a nightly double-bill with Wasted by Kae Tempest. thewardrobetheatre.com THE ADDAMS FAMILY Click, click. ot the mega touring am Womack shizzle, but BAO outh at Redgrave, redgravetheatre.com

27-29 June

SEVEN AND A HALF YEARS ark Glentworth composes the world-famous percussion piece Blues for Gilbert and becomes longtime musical collaborator with teven Berko . o, what next A most unusual, genuinely touching musical biography, at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

2 July

JON UDRY’S VARIETY BUNGALOW A cabaret night of circus, comedy and all things unusual; at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

4-5 July

THE FLYING DUTCHMAN Featuring recordings of community singing groups from across the K alongside world-renowned opera singers and players, intensely powerful and involved musical storytelling bring Wagner’s classic opera to life as an urgent, contemporary tale at Bristol Old Vic; bristololdvic.org.uk THE TWELFTH NIGHT After an apocalyptic event, Viola finds herself in an underground world where nothing is quite what it seems a snappy, teampunkinspired production of hakespeare’s sparkling favourite by the Actors’ Workshop, at oco Klub theactorsworkshop.co.uk

6-8 July

THE UNICORN An unmissable new play from award-winning writer am Potter about sex addiction; at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

WHAT’S ON

13-15 July

THE CHERRY ORCHARD Bristol School of Acting’s graduating students take on Chekhov’s deeply symbolic, tragi-comic masterpiece; a powerful evocation of a world on the brink of immense social change.

At TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

COMEDY Ongoing

CLOSER EACH DAY The world’s longest-running improvised comedy soap continues to bubble amusingly away at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

25 June

JAYDE ADAMS: MEN, I CAN SAVE YOU It’s Bristol’s Jayde, back at BOV due to huge demand, and still leading the men selflessly by the hand into the new world. bristololdvic.org.uk

28-29 June

HELEN DUFF An Edinburgh preview from the deliciously unpredictable provocateur comedian; at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

1 July

INSTANT WIT They’ve been at it so long they could improv in their sleep; at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk TOP: Anna’s a fool for love at BOV; TOP RIGHT: Looks pretty easy to us: Harbourfest;

MIDDLE: We doubt that Rebecca Lucy Taylor struggles with Self Esteem issues these

days; BOTTOM: Exploring Bristol through film in the Summer Takeover

7 July

JIMMY CARR: TERRIBLY FUNNY

Hubristic tour title, but we guess the master of the one-liner’s earned it; at Bristol Hippodrome, atgtickets.com

MUSIC

See also Festivals

Until 25 June

BRISTOL SOUNDS Five days/nights of big hitters: still to come are James on 23 June, A Beautiful Day out with The Levellers on the 24th and Self Esteem on the 25th, at Lloyd’s Amphitheatre; on Facebook

Until 26 June

GLASTONBURY If you have tickets, you’ll know who’s playing. If you don’t, don’t torture yourself by looking. Emily Eavis suggests going to Shindig instead. glastonburyfestivals.co.uk

26 June

SUDAN ARCHIVE The LA violinist, singer/songwriter fusing NE African beats with folk and electronica brings her singular sound to Trinity; trinitybristol.org.uk

4 July

GABRIELS Gospel singer Jacob Lusk, producer and keyboardist Ryan Hope and producer-composer and violinist Ari Balouzian formed after meeting in LA: their brotherhood is displayed through a synergy that is matched by usk’s e ortlessly, far-reaching rich vocal range. Trinity, trinitybristol.org.uk

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WHAT’S ON

TOP: Immersive artiness at Propyard;

MIDDLE: Painted mythical beasts at Unicornfest;

BOTTOM: Let’s turn the city into a rainbow: Bristol Pride

FESTIVALS Ongoing

BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL The year-round fest with the something-for-everyone remit; bristolfilmfestival.com

Until 30 June

14-16 July

BRISTOL HARBOUR FEST The one with the boats – and the rest. bristolharbourfestival.co.uk

OTHER

Until 16 September

FESTIVAL OF VOICE A month-long celebration of the power, beauty and universality of the human voice continues at St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

BRISTOL’S SUMMER FILM TAKEOVER Explore the city through a di erent lens with this takeover from Bristol’s UNESCO City of Film; bristolcit o lm.co.uk

Until 1 July

24 June

ST PAULS CARNIVAL It pains us not to put the apostrophe in Pauls, but we get told o when we do. Bristol’s celebration of African and Caribbean culture finally returns, culminating in the traditional Caribbean street carnival. st aulscarnival.net

24 June-10 July

QUEER EYE FESTIVAL Presented by Pride; a diverse programme of UK and International GBT+ films including independently-made feature, animation and awardwinning shorts. bristol ri e.co.uk

26 June-9 July

BRISTOL PRIDE Two weeks of the usual favourite events, with headline acts on Pride Day including Natalie Imbruglia, Jake Shears and Nadine Coyle; bristol ri e.co.uk

30 June-2 July

JEKKA’S HERBFEST Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme: celebrating the growing and use of culinary and medical herbs; ekkas.com

1 July

BRISTOL UKELELE FESTIVAL Beginner and advanced workshops, open mic sessions, live bands and band merch area, as well as a planned flash mob for all; at Hen Chicken, bristolukulelefestival.co.uk

1 July-3 September

UNICORN FEST The new public art trail sees a herd of unicorns prancing across the city, painted by Bristol artists; in aid of Leukaemia Care, and to celebrate #Bristol650. theunicornfest.co.uk

WELCOME TO STAPLETON ROAD A world of creativity, flavour, and unity on one of Bristol’s most diverse, exciting, and welcoming high streets. eastsi ecommunit trust.org.uk

30 June

SUNDUST We are starlight; we are goldennnn... Wake the Tiger’s third celestial celebration, transporting city-dwellers to a space filled with live music, performance, theatre, and circus as the lost guilds of Meridia come together in celebration of their connection with the sun. wakethetiger.com

25 June, 2 & 9 July

BRISTOL TRANSATLANTIC SLAVERY WALK Ongoing tour providing a history of Bristol as a port, how it came to participate in the slave trade, and Colston’s divisive legacy; bristoltours.co.uk

1 July

WINDMILL HILL MARKET New market showcasing local creatives, food producers and other independent businesses, located in the heart of Bedminster. win millhillcit farm.org.uk

7 July

ST NICK’S NIGHT MARKET Musicians and performers bring Old City to life by night, with street food, local tipples, dancing and that wonderful Night Market vibe. Look out too for the St Nick’s Summer Busking Sessions on the last Saturdays in June, July and August. bristol.gov.uk n

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IT’S THE WRONG TROUSERS, GROMIT! Aardman’s classic film short came out 30 years ago – and The Grand Appeal fundraiser of the same name wasn’t very far behind...

Words by Deri Robins

AARDMAN

“Pixar have credited the train sequence with setting the standard for action scenes in full-length animation”

P

icture the scene. It’s Boxing Day, 1993. Across the country, millions are tucking into their cold-cuts and the paltry dregs of the uality Street tin (Bountys, mostly) while settling in for an evening of prime Christmas telly.

Nobody realised that they were about to witness a historic moment; or that a little film short created by Bristol’s Aardman Animations was destined to become an overnight sensation, beloved by viewers worldwide and regarded by industry leaders as the benchmark for stop-motion animation.

The Wrong Trousers was ick Park’s sequel to his first Wallace Gromit short, A Grand Day Out – you know, the one with the Wensleydale, and the oon, and that little robot dude. The film introduced us to an odd couple who have taken their place among the greatest comedy teams of all time eccentric inventor Wallace and his beagle Gromit arguably the most expressive non-speaking animated character of all time (it’s all in the eyes).

In A Grand Day Out, Wallace’s retro rocket miraculously makes it to the Moon. In The Wrong Trousers, his big idea is for a pair of ex- A A trousers, which while being fantastic for walkies, very quickly go . . . wrong. The problem begins with the subletting of a bedroom to Feathers McGraw, a kleptomaniac penguin disguised as a chicken. A foiled attempted diamond heist sees our dynamic duo held at gunpoint in a cupboard, culminating in the famous model train getaway scene.

As this year marks the 30th anniversary of The Wrong Trousers, it seemed a cracking opportunity to delve into the film’s legacy. ick Park had joined Aardman in 1985, the company founded by childhood friends Peter Lord and David Sproxton, where he instantly became a key part of the team. He’d already made waves with his film school project, A Grand Day Out – yes, the claymation wunderkind began that film while at school. ick moved to Bristol to finish making A Grand Day

Out at Aardman; it took seven years to complete. During this time, he was also working on commercials and the Creature Comforts series, which won him his first Academy Award. The Wrong Trousers would be his second; to date, he has been nominated for six and won four.

To say The Wrong Trousers had a massive influence on filmmakers would be an understatement. It changed the world of animation, winning over 4 international film awards, including the Oscar and a BAFTA. Rated at number 18 on the BFI’s TV 100 list, it’s one of the most successful animated films ever made.

The film has inspired film studios and students globally; it’s adored both critically and culturally, thanks not only to its technical brilliance and invention, but the warmth and gentleness of its humour, its cheerfully unapologetic puns, and its nostalgic evocation of a more innocent England. The makers of Toy Story have said that the moving van chase scene at the end of their film was inspired by the high-speed model train chase scene; indeed, Pixar have credited the sequence with setting the standard for action scenes in full-length animation.

BEHIND THE SCENES

• Foley Artists created Feathers’ walking sound by banging his hands on different surfaces and wearing rubber gloves • Julian Nott’s music in this film was inspired by the music of Bernard Herrmann, who composed the music for many Hitchcock movies, most notably Psycho (1960) • Each shot on The Wrong Trousers was acted out and timed on a stopwatch • The studio where it was filmed was once an old banana-ripening shed. It’s still part of Aardman’s HQ on Gas Ferry Road, but as it’s upstairs, and the floor bounces, it’s now used as an office • The Wrong Trousers was shot in 13 months, on a budget of £600,000

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AARDMAN Hell, there’s even a reference to The Wrong Trousers in James Bond.

Bristol, needless to say, could not be prouder of Aardman and its feats of clay. Its legacy can be seen and felt across the city, from public art trails and statues to street art paying homage to Wallace & Gromit.

But perhaps the film’s most meaningful relationship with the city can be found in its relationship to The Grand Appeal, and the positive impact those crazy trousers have had on the lives of the sick babies and children that have been treated at the Bristol Children’s Hospital over the last 26 years.

Which neatly takes us to this . . .

LICENCE TO HEAL

Aardman, and especially Wallace and Gromit, are inextricably linked with the Bristol Children’s Hospital’s dedicated charity, The Grand Appeal. The hospital cares for 100,000 babies, children and teenagers each year from across the South West and South Wales, covering the largest geographical area of any other children’s hospital in England.

Through the charity’s various fundraising programmes and appeals to improve, transform and save the lives of sick children, you’ll find Wallace and Gromit front and centre; when the Appeal was founded in 1995, Nick, Pete and Dave gave the charity full licence to use their creations to spearhead fundraising to build the Bristol Children’s Hospital as we know it today. The rest is heartwarming history.

One of The Grand Appeal’s most popular and successful fundraising campaigns is Wrong Trousers Day. Inspired by the film itself, and launched at Bristol oo, the event first started 2 years ago, since when it’s inspired not just Bristolians but fundraisers across the country to don their wrong-est trousers in the name of this incredible cause.

Over the years we have witnessed some ludicrous displays of legwear. Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Ainsley Harriott and Michaela Strachan have all donned a pair of rather ba ing britches, while Bristol homeboy

The ‘thumb marks’ remaining in the modelling clay have always been intentional, giving Aardman’s films a deliberate handmade quality

Stephen Merchant pulled out a rather impressive pair of blue-and-yellow cheese-themed trews back in 2017.

To date, this weird, wonderful and joyfully wacky day has raised millions and helped to fund state-ofthe-art equipment, world-leading research, family accommodation and much more.

It’s estimated that over two million people have taken part since its inception. Funds raised have allowed The Grand Appeal to continue supporting not just children admitted to the hospital but also their families, from the delivery of specialist music and play therapy on the wards to free accommodation to parents far from home.

During this milestone year, as the 30th anniversary of the film is celebrated, we’re once again encouraged to get together with family, friends, pupils and colleagues to partake in this unique dress-down day. And hey, if you can channel your inner Wallace and build your own cracking mechanical trousers, we want a front-row seat to see them walk across the Suspension Bridge.

So, come Friday 30 June, make sure that you’re wearing the most preposterous pair of pantaloons that you can find and get ’gramming, Facebooking, Tweeting and Linkedin-ing, using the hashtag #WrongTrousersDay. n Find more details on how to take part in Wrong Trousers Day on page 90; www.grandappeal.org.uk

“Over the years there have been some ludicrous displays of legwear” 20 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

So wrong, it’s right: Stephen Merchant sporting a pair of cheesy trousers at Bristol Hippodrome

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GET OUT!

Stuck for places to go this year?

Here are some of our favourite local days out...

THE CLIMBING ACADEMY

CHARLTON STREET, BRISTOL, BS5 0FD TEL: 01179 072 956 WWW.THECLIMBINGACADEMY.COM/SUMMER23 Climb into an unforgettable summer with action-packed holiday sessions at The Climbing Academy. Throughout the summer, you can book fun climbing sessions for 8-15s, led by skilled instructors at The Mothership in Barton Hill, Bristol and The Arc in Chippenham. Adventure awaits as kids conquer challenges, meet new friends and cultivate rock-solid confidence through climbing! No experience is required.

AEROSPACE BRISTOL

HAYES WAY, PATCHWAY, BRISTOL, BS34 5BZ TEL: 0117 931 5315 WWW.AEROSPACEBRISTOL.ORG Aerospace Bristol offers a supersonic family day out that includes the chance to step aboard the last Concorde to ever fly, and experience exciting manoeuvres in the fantastic new Red Arrows flight simulator. As you explore the museum’s three hangars, you’ll be taken on a journey through more than a century of aviation history, discovering aeroplanes, helicopters, space technology and more. Plus, get hands-on with fun interactives and activities. This summer is all about the Art of Flight, so don’t miss your chance to make, draw, and explore your creative side! Tickets include unlimited free return visits for 12 months.

22 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Looking for a new family activity? You can try bouldering any time without booking (no course required). Just pop along and we’ll talk you through the rest. Or you can book taster sessions and beginners’ courses at our roped centres.

SPONSORED CONTENT

BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN

GREAT WESTERN DOCKYARD, GAS FERRY ROAD, BRISTOL, BS1 6TY TEL: 0117 926 0680 WWW.SSGREATBRITAIN.ORG Do you have what it takes to Go Aloft!? Step into the shoes of a Victorian sailor as you climb the rigging of the SS Great Britain. Ascend to over 25 metres above ground level and have your bravery rewarded with breathtaking views of Bristol.

Once you’re safely back on the weather deck, spend the rest of your day exploring two interactive museums and the ship herself. Don’t forget about the Dry Dock beneath the glass sea, where you can get up close to the original hull and learn about conservation efforts to preserve the ship.

WAKE THE TIGER

127 ALBERT RD, BRISTOL, BS2 0YA WWW.WAKETHETIGER.COM The world’s first Amazement Park, Wake The Tiger invites you to step through a portal into the parallel world of Meridia.

From here you enter an old abandoned factory once inhabited by a mysterious community of adventurers staging wild experiments! With 27 unique spaces, this art walk-through experience encourages you to explore, discover and connect.

Afterwards, explore The Curiosity Shop followed by The Guildhall Café Bar, serving fresh hot and cold food and drink, plus a fully-licenced bar. Even better, it’s for all ages, whether it be a family day out or a group of mates or team-building.

IMAGINATION FASCINATION

72 HIGH STREET, WESTON-SUPER-MARE, BS23 1HS TEL: 01934 707490 WWW.IMAGINATIONFASCINATIONWSM.COM It’s time to let your children’s imagination’s run wild! Built for children, Imagination Fascination is a truly immersive play experience that supports the Early Years Foundation Stage. We offer an amazing play space that allows children to have a great time learning through their play in a variety of different real-life occupations and experiences. We have also extended to our 2nd floor and created a Galactic Nerf Space Zone for older children to engage in. We offer birthday party packages and also exclusive hire options. With an interactive floor projection and spinning ball machine - there’s so much fun to be had and memories to be created here at Imagination Fascination!

RWA

QUEEN’S ROAD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 1PX TEL: 0117 973 5129 WWW.RWA.ORG.UK The RWA is an art gallery in the heart of Bristol that has something for everyone. The Grade II* listed building has been described as, “One of the most beautiful galleries in Britain,” and recently underwent a £4.6m renovation which has transformed the space and made the building accessible to all. As well as world class art exhibitions, many of which are free, visitors can enjoy a family room packed full of fun things to do with little ones, a Spicer+Cole café, and art classes. In the summer, take advantage of the sunny balcony, which offers wonderful views across Clifton.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

THE NEXT STAGE

Nancy Medina is in the house. The native New Yorker has become the latest artistic director of Bristol Old Vic: not just one of the most important and prestigious roles in Bristol theatre, but in the whole of the UK. There’s a lot to talk about, then…

Words by Ngaio Anyia

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ancy Medina walks into the room, and I instantly know this is going to be an authentic conversation.

Despite being in backto-back development meetings at Bristol Old Vic all day, energy radiates from her as I ask what brought her here.

“I think that all the time; I can’t believe I’m here, in this moment, in this country, in this life. I grew up in New York City, in Brooklyn. I don’t come from a theatrical family, but we were really good storytellers.

“Growing up, we had a High Five programme where every high school student could see any Broadway show, any musical concert, anything for five dollars. Exposure to the arts was there, and it was accessible, because it was cheap. Through youth theatre I realised I had a voice; a funny voice and a political voice, and it was OK to use theatre to express it.

When discovering a new theatrical landscape in the UK, 15 years ago, Nancy applied to the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School to take an MA in directing. A fresh context for her skillset resulted in receiving the Tobacco Factory’s Emerging Director Award.

From there she became the joint artistic director of boomsatsuma’s Bristol School of Acting. Directing Yellowman at the Young Vic followed, as part of her Genesis Future Directors Award. Since then, she has directed Trouble in Mind at the National Theatre, Strange Fruit at the Bush, and August Wilson’s Two Trains Running at the Royal and Derngate in Northampton, in a co-production with English Touring Theatre.

Today has been devoted to laying out her new season of programming at Bristol Old Vic to the wider team.

Discussing the messages behind the stories, the voices to be elevated, the importance of the themes and managing discomfort. As a mixed-race woman who has often

“The very efinition of culture is that we make it up as a society” 26 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

found herself in ma ority white spaces, having complex conversations about identity and race to a room that otherwise wouldn’t have to have it, I know how draining that can be. I ask why she took it on.

“It’s the way that every decision has been made on my wiggly path. It felt like the right thing to do. The space is there, the opportunity is there, I have something of a perspective and I can do it. For the last ten years the majority of my work has been telling black and brown stories that speak to my lived experience. Inherently, I owe my ancestors something. I owe my dad, I owe my mum, I owe all the people I didn’t meet, something. To put them into the world so they’re not forgotten. That is exactly what the movement is about, it’s that we matter.

Talking about taking on her new role o the back of a pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement, Nancy doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of the situation. Financially, it’s not good. People aren’t going to the theatre as much, whether because of health concerns, or the cost-of-living crisis; times are tough. What made this job something she wanted to do?

“The work I’ve been doing, the stories I chose, the ‘little a’ activism, has all led me to this. Mentoring, working in the community and education, a ecting the curriculum, all these things have been preparing me to be a leader of an organisation. To ask, what does it mean for a cultural organisation to think seriously about its civic duty Throughout the interview I’m consistently (and happily) surprised by how open and honest Nancy is.

What shines through is her passion for people. The focus is not just on the audience in the theatre, but on the external communities it could impact.

“I’m from the Dominican Republic, where we say ‘Todos somos cultura’ ’– ‘We are all culture’. Often I think how arrogant it is that so many institutions can

THE BIG INTERVIEW say ‘Come through our doors, I’m going to o er you culture’, because the very definition of culture is that we make it up as a society. Bristol is so multicultural; lots of accents, lots of migrants, lots of di erent people, lots of rebellious people, lots of protesters. But that voice I never see it on the stage, any stage. How do we get closer to what’s outside the doors How do we create a presence in this building that is welcoming, and creates a sense of belonging onger term, how do we create that same presence outside of the building It’s this authenticity, this community-focused and clear vision that excites me about her first season of programming. o what can we expect All I could think of was, what do we want this introduction of a new era to feel like If I’m inviting you to come in and meet us, I want you to have a good time. I want you to laugh. We all need a laugh right now Each play talks about really relevant things that we’re all concerned about, but it’s doing it with really beautiful, intelligent, sophisticated humour. All the themes surround individualism vs collectivism, collective storytelling and belonging and the need for oy and music as resilience. We’ve called it y Joyous eason.

The programme, set to go live in September, thinks beyond the moment of people in their seats. ancy is concentrating on the conversations that will come afterwards, giving multidimensional depth to characters who have often been painted with a stereotypical brush.

We discuss Choir Boy, written by Tarell Alvin cCraney (of Moonlight fame whom ancy has known for years.

“It’s a slight love letter to the actual theatre, because acoustically this theatre is really gorgeous. Wherever you sit there is an intimacy that allows a level of vulnerability to be played out on that stage. Choir Boy was the play I wanted to direct when I got this ob.

A third of it is a choir singing spirituals and gospel music. It starts with a derogatory slur and then takes us on a ride of how these boys figure out how they become men. Black and brown boys never get to be seen as boys. They are made to become adults early either by circumstance or need or media or society. It doesn’t allow them a childhood, and I wanted to explore their 3D-ness. Their vulnerability, their love and the capacity of love they have for each other. Their concerns, their worries, their oy. I want to see full people on that stage singing beautiful a capella choir gospel songs. This is an introduction into the stories that mean a lot to me, that we don’t often see.

ABOVE: With executive director Charlotte Geeves

BELOW: The new season includes (from top) Choir Boy and Metamorphosis

ancy is a cackler, and reflects on how her students always knew where she was by her laugh it’s present throughout our conversation. That capacity for laughter and oy is never far away, even when discussing complex sub ects. he is meticulous, laser-focused, on not ust the now, but the what could be. We end on a note which sums up her and the new role she’s accepted beautifully.

When you see the challenges, it’s important to ask, where are the opportunities A collaborative director and leader who isn’t looking for easy answers, ancy is driven by hard questions, nuanced conversations and long-lasting change. The way her eyes sparkle talking about her upcoming season, matched with the depth of thought around the audience experience and the stories yet to be told, makes me incredibly excited for this new chapter for Bristol Old Vic. n

NANCY’S FIRST SEASON: A FEW HIGHLIGHTS, IN BRIEF CHOIR BOY 13–30 September, main theatre Tarell Alvin’s Tony-nominated hit play follows Pharus, a young queer black student, leading the legendary gospel choir at his elite all-boys prep school in America: a tender coming-ofage story threaded throughout with a cappella gospel hymns and spirituals.

CHEEKY LITTLE BROWN 21 Sep–14 Oct, Weston Studio

By Nkenna Akunna. The story of a failed night out, a musical, a show about heartbreak and the shifting realities of the city its characters call home.

ARABIAN NIGHTS 23 Nov–6 Jan, main theatre The big Christmas spectacular; a modern reimagining of the tales by Sonali Bhattacharyya.

STARTER FOR TEN 29 Feb-30 March, main theatre A new musical adapted from the novel by David Nicholls and the 2006 movie, set at Bristol University in the mid-1980s.

Add to this visiting productions of BACON (12–16 Sep), an unflinching, humorous look at masculinity, sexuality and power through the

dizzying lens of youth; PROJECT DICTATOR (30 Oct–4 Nov) from Rhum + Clay, a beautiful and bonkers clown show about totalitarianism, informed and inspired by conversations with international artists living under authoritarian regimes; METAMORPHOSIS (1-20 January), Frantic Assembly’s take on Kafka’s shocking tale of cruelty and kindness; MACBETH (25 Jan-10 Feb), a visceral and contemporary new production by ETT; BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE (12-17 Feb), inspired by the life of Nina Simone.

For the full programme, see www.bristololdvic.org.uk

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THE LAIDBACK ISLAND ATMOSPHERE OF CURAÇAO

Longing for sun, sea and sand?

Then book a flight to Curaçao for an unforgettable holiday and discover this easy-going island in the Caribbean. Meet the friendly locals, go snorkelling among hundreds of colourful fish and dine on the beach at sunset. Curaçao will capture your heart!

Pearly-white beaches The Curaçao beaches, the popular Mambo Beach being one of the best known, are undeniably alluring with their pearly-white sand, swaying palm trees and bright blue sea. Explore the underwater world, where you’ll find it’s almost as colourful as life itself on the island. You can go snorkelling or diving from nearly every beach. Curaçao is an ideal destination for a wonderful beach holiday or romantic honeymoon.

Amsterdam of the Caribbean Willemstad, the island’s capital, is often called the Amsterdam of the Caribbean.

The city owes its nickname to the colourful canalside mansions that are strongly reminiscent of the Dutch capital. In Willemstad’s easy-going atmosphere, you’ll enjoy the good food in one of its many restaurants even more. If you’d like to learn more about Curaçao’s colonial history, drop by the Kura Hulanda museum.

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THE WORLD IS CLOSER TO HOME THAN YOU THINK It’s never been easier to fly abroad from your local airport thanks to the enhanced network of flights offered from Bristol Airport by KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES

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hanks to Dutch airline KLM, travellers can travel right from their doorstep with KLM’s services from Bristol airport. In a post-pandemic world where travelling abroad is more meaningful than ever, KLM are working hard to make it easier to travel.

Flying from where you live means less time and cost commuting to airports further afield, so you’ll have more time to relax (or work!) on your well-earned holiday, family visit or business

trip. With convenient flight schedules from Bristol airport, and connections to the world via Amsterdam, KLM is making international travel as seamless as possible.

With KLM you can explore exotic and farflung beach destinations like the island nation Curaçao deep in the Caribbean Sea, Cape Town, Zanzibar or Oman’s historic city Muscat, right from your local airport via Amsterdam.

Transfers at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

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ENJOYING THE BEACHES AND CULTURE OF ZANZIBAR

If a trip to a paradise island in the Indian Ocean ranks high on your wish list, book a flight to Zanzibar and discover this laid-back island off the coast of Tanzania. Lying close to the equator, Zanzibar and sunny days go hand in hand! are easy due to its single terminal design with a wide array of shops, restaurants, quirky attractions to keep you and the kids entertained and rest areas to make your transfer even more enjoyable. KLM have recently increased the frequency of their flights from Bristol to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. From Amsterdam you can fly to over 160 worldwide destinations.

If you are travelling primarily for business, KLM’s range of flights allow you to comfortably fit a business trip into a busy schedule. You can build international relationships and networks that will directly benefit trade and your company as well as helping the local economy prosper.

What’s more, KLM offer a range of cabins to suit your budget and needs, including Economy, Premium Comfort and World Business Class.

With complimentary snacks and drinks on the short connecting flights, as well as meals, bar services and WiFi* plus a chance to charge your phone on long-haul flights.

You can travel in the newly introduced Premium Comfort cabin, offered to select long-haul destinations. When flying KLM in Premium Comfort you can elevate your comfort to enjoy a separate cabin with more space, a wide selection of meals and drinks, and a large inflight entertainment screen.

Or travel in style and take to the skies in KLM’s luxurious World Business Class with full-flat seats on intercontinental flights. You’ll have extra privacy, comfort, high-quality food and drinks, and full attention from KLM’s experienced cabin crew.

KLM make it possible to take off closer to home, see and experience the big, beautiful world and return with memories and opportunities when you fly back home. n *You can purchase WiFi during check-in or once you’ve boarded your flight. Information correct at time of print.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To find out more about KLM’s network of regional flights or the exciting range of destinations, visit KLM.co.uk

Discover African treasures in Stone Town With its pearly-white sand beaches, palm trees and mysterious Arabian flair, exotic Zanzibar captures the imagination. Explore the maze of streets in Stone Town and pay a visit to the fairytale-like Sultan’s Palace.

Shop for handmade articles, clothing and oriental spices in Darajani Market. And don’t miss out on a boat trip. Get on a ‘dhow’ (a traditional boat) and watch how fishermen haul in the catch. Looking for next-level dining? Have dinner at The Rock, situated on a rock in the middle of the sea. Zanzibar is the ideal destination for a relaxed beach holiday after a tour of Tanzania.

The heavenly beaches of Nungwi On the immaculate beaches near the charming village of Nungwi, you’ll get a taste of paradise with a fresh fruit cocktail in your hand and your toes in the sand.

Enjoy the leisurely atmosphere and amble down the beach to the lighthouse. In the evenings, Nungwi harbour is the stage for a beautiful spectacle. Dozens of fishing boats with lowered white sails head towards the setting sun. What a magnificent sight!

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HARBOUR CITY Cranes and boats and trains: roll up, roll up for the most Bristol festival of them all Words and pics by Colin Moody

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an we talk about the most amazing festival for a minute, please? The Harbour Festival.

The people who run the ferry boats call the harbour the lungs of the city, a place to breathe. But if that’s OK, and I can mess with the metaphor, can I dare suggest that the harbour festival is the heart of the city?

One weekend which reclaims the space back from its joggers’ paradise, and brings music, steam, grease and gorgeousness.

The traders who work here bring their shiny wares out on the water; Jammy walks around selling flavoured crushed ice that tastes sublime; and just as the sun glints at you round the yard arm, and that unique aroma of burgers, sun tan oil and coal dust fills the air, you get a feeling. That this can only be the harbour city reaffirming itself, to itself. o it’s tradition and celebration, history and now, and it’s amazing. aybe you want to come and salute the officers on board the navy vessel, or hear the latest bands. There is a gritty real vibe of, let’s have this, blended with heritage and opportunity, and it’s joyous.

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It has always been my great pleasure to walk through the Underfall ard. They have recently lost that iconic working building to fire, and there are many people trying to raise funds and support the rebuild.

Do help if you can. This was taken years ago, when they finally got the go-ahead to restore all the buildings on site. There were many finds made by the engineers and builders, including this amazing model of the whole yard and area, which really looks good in the builders’ canteen, does it not?

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I wanted to show this photo. A builder looking at the camera while taking a break from fixing the roof of what is now the visitors’ centre and café. Behind in the morning mist, the shed now lost to fire.

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BRISTOL HEROES

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Here is Doreen Doreen, who headlined last year, and this image shows they get the harbour vibe, they are that vibe.

Love this city; feel it’s heart beating.

Come to the harbour festival.

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The sea can be cruel. There’s poetry written about it.

I’m always interested to see how the navy and other services appear at the harbour from time to time. Back in the day, captured German U-boats have rocked up here, and there have to be a thousand stories that we can learn from some of these crews. I have no idea what this man’s story is, but that is a hook, and this is Bristol. It’s real. We walk side by side at this harbour wall. Let’s tell tales and raise a glass to it all.

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I live in Hotwells, and the first time I heard the steam train pooppoop that horn I simply came out of the house and walked in along the wall to see what was going on.

It must be amazing for the kids to ride this train, see the driver, ’cos that’s up there, isn’t it, at that age, with astronaut, princess and pop star as the best job in the world, ever ever?

We had mile upon mile of train tracks all over the harbour area at one time; the tracks are short runs comparatively nowadays but it gives you a flavour of the engineering powerhouse that this place was. Or as the historian I met once at the ss Great Britain once told me, “You think

“You think the ship is impressive? Just imagine the size of the machines they had to build here working tirelessly to build the future” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 33

BRISTOL HEROES

“See water jets rise higher than a Georgian town house, and then this dude will turn the world upside down.

Even gravity is a malleable plaything at the festival” this ship is impressive? Just imagine the size of the machines they had to build here working tirelessly to build the future.”

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Come on down to the water, see water jets rise higher than a Georgian town house, and then this dude will turn the world upside down.

Even gravity is a malleable plaything at the festival.

Gonna be a special one this year.

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A day out for the whole family.

That’s what the Harbour Festival is so good at. Side stages full of dance, music and magic.

And Bristol 650 is happening.

Bristol 650 is a year-long celebration of all-things Bristol: who we are, where we come from, what we’ve done and where we’re going.

It’s a chance to tell untold histories, mark anniversaries across the city and welcome new arrivals. It is a project of the city, by the city.

And there is no greater event that can showcase all that emotion and potential than the harbour festival itself.

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So that’s it.

See you at the water’s edge.

And when it’s all over, that helpful citizen will, with grace, send your docking ropes back onto the deck…. And away… until next year.

Colin Moody; content creation, online images Twitter @moodycolin; Instagram @ colinmoodyphotography colinmoodyphotography.wordpress.com

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THE HEART OF THE HOME A modern kitchen case study by GARDINER HASKINS INTERIORS

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he kitchen is the heart of any home and ensuring it works for your family set up and what is important to you is crucial. When Gina and Roy found their kitchen no longer made entertaining a pleasure, they reached out to the experts at Gardiner Haskins Interiors to work on the kitchen of their dreams.

The brief: a modern, minimal and super-efficient kitchen, with light-boosting reflective finishes and a kitchen that makes entertaining a real occasion.

When they moved into a ground first floor maisonette in Bath, Gina and Roy inherited a long kitchen-dining room with glass doors opening to the garden at one end. The kitchen was at the farthest point from the natural light source, and the couple soon found the original cream cabinets and black granite work surfaces seemed to soak up the limited daylight that reached it. Clearly, maximising light

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would be high on the agenda for their new kitchen.

Gina and Roy had several other ‘musthaves’. Gina loves minimal, modern style, crisp lines and clutter-free surfaces, while Roy wanted a well-appointed bar area to produce a ‘wow’ moment for guests. They approached Gardiner Haskins, noticing the company offers Stoneham Kitchens, which they recognised as a quality brand.

For comparison, they looked at another kitchen showroom too, but meeting designer Alec, they quickly felt relaxed, and impressed by both his expertise and his creativity, The couple say, “The other supplier was quite pushy, and unwilling to personalise things for us. Alec really knows his product, listened closely to what we wanted, and came up with ideas we wouldn’t have thought of. His knowledge is encyclopaedic, and that really enables him to find solutions. We think he enjoyed the challenge too.”

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“NEW APPLIANCES INCLUDE A SLEEK, NEFF INDUCTION HOB AND TWO ELECTRIC NEFF OVENS, SO THEY HAVE STEAM AND MICROWAVE FUNCTIONS ALONGSIDE CONVENTIONAL COOKING” Aiming for a clean, minimal vibe and aware of the need to boost light, Gina had simple, handless cupboards in mind, and she liked the idea of mixing different finishes to create interest. She was eager to buy a British-made product too, and Alec suggested Crown Imperial’s understated white furniture, which was ideal for the base cabinets. As a contrast, the wall cabinets are in taupe oak, a pale wood-effect, and the white quartz work-surfaces have a subtle marble-type pattern. Keeping the work surfaces clear is effortless, thanks to deep, soft-close storage drawers, roomy cupboards and nifty swing-out carousel trays that don’t let an inch of corner space to go to waste.

A small light-well above the sink draws some daylight from the upper floor, but extra ceiling spots have been added, as well as remote-controlled lighting above and below the wall units, and beneath the work surfaces. The stylish glow can be adjusted for a warmer or cooler effect, giving practical task lighting, or a softer mood for evening entertaining. Seamless, easy-clean white glass splashbacks bounce the light around too.

When it came to the separate bar unit, a substantial, double-door drinks cabinet on display in the showroom caught Roy’s eye. To his delight, Alec set about designing a similar four-door piece for him, using the same white Crown Imperial cabinets. The well-organised interior features natural wood fittings, elegant mirrored panelling, lighting and an undercounter drinks fridge.

To accommodate the fridge, the lefthand doors are 60cm wide, while the right-hand ones are just 40cm. Open or closed, the bar looks beautiful, thanks to a combination of Alec’s design flair, and the joinery skills of Paul, the installer who brought the kitchen to life.

“I’m really pleased with the way it turned out,” says Roy, “Whenever we have friends over, I open up the bar, the lights come on and everyone just loves it.”

Gina and Roy’s new appliances include a sleek, Neff induction hob and two electric Neff ovens, so they have steam and microwave functions alongside conventional cooking. Aesthetically, they went for low-key, black finishes, with stainless steel trims. Alec also suggested a matching warming drawer, something Gina had not considered, but now wouldn’t be without, “I use it such a lot,” she says. “It helps me with timing, keeping food warm until everything’s ready, and it’s so easy for heating plates too.”

Gina knew she did not want a large extractor hood that might dominate the space, so Alec found a brilliant solution, concealing the extractor in a wall-cabinet above the hob. Tucked beneath, the touch-activated, flip-down, glass control panel is super-neat. The Quooker boiling water tap is another favourite gadget.

Gina admits she was a little nervous of it at first, but now absolutely loves its speed, convenience and the bonus of a kettlefree surface.

Fitting a new kitchen can be disruptive, so Gina and Roy were very appreciative of their installation team, who left the site clean and tidy every night. The couple both praised electrician Mark, who spent hours re-routing cables in the ceiling to get the extra lighting they wanted over the sink. They say, “We felt everyone went the extra mile to achieve what we’d asked for, and any small snagging issues were quickly dealt with.

“We’re so pleased with the results, and it’s been a very enjoyable experience.” n

Looking to modernise your kitchen? Make it happen with Gardiner Haskins. Their inspirational showroom features the latest trends in Fitted Kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms.

Find them at: 1 Straight Street, Bristol or alternatively visit their website www.gardinerhaskins.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 37

VALLEY FEST We are stardust; we are golden; and we've got to get ourselves back to the garden . . .

Words by Deri Robins Photos by Louis Smith; studiowhisk.co.uk

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hese days, most self-respecting music festivals sell decent grub, while only the dullest of food fests lack the pizazz of live music. However, very few events give both elements equal billing, as they do at Valley Fest, where the vibe is laidback, big-name bands are chosen for their crowdpleasing credentials rather than their edginess factor, and the food is equal to anything you’d find in a Bristol restaurant. We’re not ust talking vendors of superior street food, though there are plenty of those too; we’re talking demos from top chefs, local produce stalls, and hands-on farming experiences.

And at the very top of the foodie bill are the Feasts; full-on fine-dining lunches and suppers, cooked by the very best in the West, served in a stupidly instagrammable yurt called The Tuck Inn. Yes; Valley Fest is fond of puns, and is unafraid to use them; see if you can guess the kissme-quick name it gave to its Dolly Parton-themed pub last year. Clue: the sign showed a buxom blonde holding up two pint glasses overflowing with beer in front of her . . . oh, maybe we shouldn't go there.

The festival is held every August on the Chew Valley land belonging to Luke Hasell. Luke’s name is a local byword for organic farming, and he’s a massive festival fan – like everyone growing up in Somerset, Glastonbury was practically a birthright – so combining his two life passions in a single great-tasting music event seemed an obvious move.

And Luke had two big trump cards to play. First, he owned the site itself, which slopes idyllically down to Chew Valley Lake. As a bonus, some celestial hand has intervened to ensure that the sun sets directly behind the Mendip hills each night, bathing the site in a golden glow that makes every photo look as if it was taken at Woodstock.

Secondly, his close connections with local chefs, particularly neighbour and long-time pal Josh Eggleton, meant that he had a readymade line-up of all-star foodie pals to draw on. In fact, Luke and Josh had already honed the guest chefs cooking in tents’ concept at their Eat Drink Bristol festivals, held in the city a while back.

And so the first Valley Fest was launched in 2 14, with fun, accessible bands to help you dance o the calories, a strong family-friendly vibe, and the opportunity, though never an obligation, to pause and think about where your food comes from.

“Farming should be a conversation with nature,” says Luke. “Having a festival on a working farm means that people can come and get a better understanding of farming. They can run their hands through the soil.

They can go foraging, meet the animals, pick veg and oin talks and workshops on everything from fermenting to cider-making.”

You can do all those things; but you don’t have to. There’s nothing remotely preachy about Valley Fest. Nobody is going to force you to thrust your freshly sequinned festival nails into the earth. Just pick and mix from what’s on o er, and do your own thing.

Luke and his crew have had nine years to develop the festival, skipping only the dreaded 2 2 , and last year the food o ering reached its

RESTAURANT apogee. We dithered pleasurably between the options, before settling on an all-stars Feast curated by Josh Eggleton, featuring guest chefs from The Pony, The Kensington Arms, Root and Casamia.

August had been hot, the Chew Valley grass was parched to yellow, and the drinks stalls were doing a roaring trade. As usual the Feasts had sold out way in advance, and by 4pm every seat was occupied in the Tuck Inn, looking thoroughly en f te with flower garlands and poles entwined with fairy lights. Tables are always long and communal; as a couple, we squeeze in, initially self-consciously, between boisterous larger groups, with whom we are soon on first-name terms.

The order of the menu di ers from the one on the website, with the second course – The Kenny’s raw, crunchy, wonky-looking veg served with creamy whipped smoked cod’s roe being served first.

Panic sweeps the table. Had we somehow missed the arancini But no, here it comes, and it’s a smoked haddock special from Rob Howell of Root crisp, crumbly and parmesan-flecked on the outside, sticky and indulgent within, zinged up to next-level deliciousness by a puddle of burnt lemon. I contemplate licking my plate, wondering if my new friend to my right would mind holding my hair.

A silky trout carpaccio with cool cucumber and subtle smoky notes, from Hugo Harvey of The Pony, slips down a treat, leaving us primed for the main course from The Boss. obody does meat like Josh Eggleton.

A generous helping of Yeo Valley lamb is served, rosy and succulent, on a dollop of strained yoghurt, with monk’s beard – a grassy, slightly bitter green that seems to be much loved by chefs at the moment; it’s the samphire of 2 22. Even more excitingly, there are sweet, pickled cockles, a world away from the sharp, vinegary little things I remember eating out of paper cones at the seaside. We’re shocked to see that some of our neighbours have left their sweet, delicious lamb fat; it’s all we can do to stop ourselves from leaning over and spearing it with a fork. But although we’ve become friends, we’re not that close.

After polishing o a very good tiramisu by Casamia chef Jim Day, and draining the last glass of a glorious Aldwick rosé, we lumber out of the tent and throw ourselves onto the grass, su used in a pleasing glow, to wait patiently for Travis.

It may seem a little odd to be writing about a pop-up meal from 2 22 that has duly popped back down again – it’s a little like running a travel review of Brigadoon but while the menus may di er, the vibe and quality will assuredly be the same again this year. Josh will be teaming up with Pete Sanchez of Casamia, there’s a new Regen Sunday Roast with Ali Pumfrey from Yeo Valley and Rob Howell, and a collab between Pegs uinn from onny tores and Danny Bohan of River Café.

Book now if you want the slightest chance of Tucking Inn. n

DINING DETAILS The 2022 Valley Fest Feast, £55 pp, was a collaboration between The Pony Chew Valley, The Pony, Root, The Kensington Arms and Casamia. To book for 2023 Feasts, go to www.valleyfest.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 39

LET’S GET OUT OF IT Not in the Turbo Island sense of the phrase, obviously; this is a family magazine. We refer, of course, to the joys of eating and dining al fresco – and we know exactly where you should go….

Words by Deri Robins

F

AL FRESCO

or some reason we can’t quite put our finger on, though we’re sure some science boffin at WE could explain it to us, food and drink tastes that little bit better outdoors.

With this in mind, we’ve compiled an A-Z* of some of our favourite al fresco spots in the city, from ABOE to ero Degrees. * Admittedly with quite a lot of letters and alternative places missing in between.

ABOE, Whiteladies Road

ecretive hidden garden behind popular restaurant in the heart of the city.

What’s the vibe?: eafy, secluded and aromatic with chef Seb’s herbs.

Tempt us with some dishes off the menu:

The French Dip (smoked sourdough, rare roast beef, horseradish, French onion soup and nori is one of the standouts, with eb’s famous crack butter.

Our tip: Head over for the unday essions, complete with DJs, drinks o ers and the ABOEB (yep, that’s an ABOE barbeque .

Fun fact: ABOE is an acronym of A Bit Of Everything www.aboebristol.com

AQUA; Welshback, and Portishead

This renowned local family group has three branches; a visit always feels special, thanks to the talent of the chefs and the charismatic sta .

What’s the outdoor deal?: The Welshback and Portishead Aqua terraces have water views; terraces are heated and covered, in case the unthinkable happens and it rains.

What’s the vibe?: A very editerranean feel to proceedings; laidback, but with highly professional service.

What shall we eat?: Try the seafood dishes: seafood linguine, calamari and moules marinière.

Did you know?: The group was founded in Bristol in 1 , and remains a family business. www.aqua-restaurant.com

ARNOLFINI CAFÉ BAR, Narrow Quay

Arnolfini Café Bar –the grown-up alternative to tinnies #outsidefini; INSET: ABOE

This corner of Harbourside is so iconic that it even has its own hashtag outsidefini. If you prefer something a bit more upscale than dangling your legs over the harbour wall with a tinnie in hand, head to the Arnolfini Café Bar, run by Bristol Beer Factory; What’s the vibe?: Summer in the city with bells on; the covered tented area is linked to a sun terrace for soaking up the rays.

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AL FRESCO Tempt us with the menu: The extensive all-day brunch menu ranges from Turkish eggs to the full English.

Fun fact: The Arnolfini was nearly called The Unicorn Gallery, but the founders thought better of it and named it after a Dutch masterpiece instead. www.arnolfini.org.uk/cafe-bar

AVON GORGE BY HOTEL DU VIN, Sion Hill

Historic Bristol hotel whose terrace is a strong contender for the best in Bristol. Reinvented with typical élan by the Hotel du Vin group, but to be honest, with that view, we’d go even if it was a Harvester. Probably.

What’s so cool about that terrace, then?:

It’s vast. It practically hangs over the Avon Gorge. It has the Suspension Bridge for background interest.

Tell us about the food: The Goram & Vincent restaurant has gone over to the smokehouse side, with an open kitchen providing fire and theatre.

Our tip: Book a table as close to the edge as possible. But you’ve probably thought of that already.

Fun fact: RAF officers used to toast newly qualified pilots from the terrace as they flew under the Bridge. Don’t try this, kids. www.theavongorgehotel.com

AZTEC HOTEL, Almondsbury

We were wowed by the excellence of the Curious Kitchen at Aztec when we paid a visit.

What’s the outdoor space?: The Lakeside Terrace – a lovely spot over summer.

What’s the vibe?: Casual and relaxed.

Tempt us with a taste of the current menu: The tapas-style dishes cooked on the

“Bambalan: a little slice of Ibiza in the heart of Bristol” Big Green Egg go down a treat with a chilled glass of Hambledon rosé; or try a more sophisticated fruits de mer, or 70-day-aged côte de boeuf. www.aztechotelbristol.co.uk

BAMBALAN, Beacon Tower

Relaxed all-day dining in the colourful restaurant on the first floor of Beacon Tower, where the menu’s as vibrant as the décor.

There may not be a party going on every day at Bambalan, but it feels as if there is.

What’s the outdoor deal?: One of the biggest and funkiest rooftop terraces in

town. Views down to the harbour, DJs at the weekends and plenty of tempting food and drink deals.

What’s the vibe?: A little slice of Ibiza in the heart of Bristol. Perfect for a sundowner; or come on down and boogie at one of Bam’s Summer Sessions day parties, featuring some massive acts from across all genres.

Tempt us with dishes from the menu:

Bam’s new Greek-inspired Gyros wraps are a current fave. Choose from lemon and oregano chicken, slow-roast lamb shoulder or falafel.

Fun fact: Bambalan means ‘lazy bum’ in Puerto Rican. www.bambalan.co.uk

BOCABAR, Finzels Reach

One of two Bocabars in the city. The Finzels Reach branch, in the old industrial heart of the city, has a spacious, sunny terrace with enormous heated jumbrellas and stretch tents.

What’s the vibe?: A glam piazza with a laidback boho vibe.

What’s the foodie deal?: Apart from the amazing 14-inch pizzas (25+ flavours to choose from) there are seasonally led small plates to share with local beers or cocktails.

Tempt us with a dish or two off the current menu: Tempura gherkins are a crispy delight

with a massive crunch, and fab to share with a cool pint of beer; or try the salt and pepper

We’ve whited out the photo to fit in the words, so you’ll just have to take it from us that the Avon Gorge terrace has a fabulous view of the Suspension Bridge

THIS PAGE: Harbour House looking charmingly floral; all Good Boys welcome

crispy squid with caper and lemon aioli.

Fun fact: Bocabar has a cool, festival vibe – unsurprisingly, given that co-owner Mel is a niece of the great Michael Eavis. www.bristol.bocabar.co.uk

are walk-in only. There’s also indoor bar seating at the open bifold windows.

What’s the foodie offering?: Some of the most imaginative Spanish tapas in Bristol.

For example?: Botifarra served with white

BOX-E, Cargo 1

Tiny Modern British restaurant – a favourite both with its devoted regulars and fellow chefs.

Just one of six in the city that currently hold a Michelin Bib Gourmand What’s the outdoor deal?:

A secluded terrace up in the canopy of the Wapping Wharf trees, shaded by a canvas stretch tent; its elevated corner position o ers perfect harbour views.

And the vibe?: Good times! Sit back and let Elliott and Tess take care of all your needs, from icy drinks to seasonal summery dishes.

Tempt us with a dish off the current menu:

Charred sprouting broccoli, goat’s curd, toasted hazelnuts, followed by rum baba, Cheddar strawberries and Chantilly.

Go for: Elliott’s seriously great cooking and Tess’s friendly welcome. www.boxebristol.com

BRAVAS, Cotham Hill

The original Spanish tapas bar from Season + Taste, as authentic as they come this side of Andalucia, and a pioneer of its kind in the city.

What’s the outdoor space?: Now that Cotham Hill has been pedestrianised, the area has a café society vibe during the summer months. The restaurant is tiny inside and out, and madly popular, and the pavement tables

beans and salsa verde, washed down with basil and cucumber Gingria made using homeinfused gin, cava and lemona.

Our top tip: Go. You can’t say you’ve ‘done’ the Bristol food scene until you’ve been here. www.bravas.co.uk

CARGO CANTINA, Cargo 2

One of two restaurants run by the excellent Season + Taste group at Cargo, the other

being Gambas.

What’s the vibe?: Casual outdoor tables on

the Wapping Wharf terrace, a great place to grab a quick margarita; or sit down for a feast of nachos and tacos. Plenty of heaters and blankets if it turns parky.

What’s the foodie deal?: Mexican (authentic, not Tex- ex ; think cauliflower ceviche tostadas washed down with a hibiscus michelada. In the spirit of street taco stalls, dishes will be sent out as they are ready, and served in the centre of the table.

We’ll be having: Cheers for asking – the aforementioned michelada,– a salt-rimmed pint glass filled with ice-cold lager, topped with hibiscus syrup.

Fun fact: The restaurant is inspired by the authentic cantinas of Mexico, traditionally forbidden to women, children, and men in police or military uniform, where hombres used to drink around the bar and have some botanas (bar snacks). In Bristol, though, even female officers are warmly welcomed. www.cargocantina.co.uk

COAL KITCHEN, Cabot Circus

Is there be anything more summery than all-day brunching?

What’s the al fresco deal?: A terrace surrounded by fresh herbs, seasonal flowers, and lush trees in the heart of Cabot Circus.

What’s the foodie deal?: You can sip on unlimited cocktails, wine, beers, and nonalcoholic drinks for 90 minutes while tucking into two courses, all for just £35.

Give us a taster: Sourdough pizzettes with

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AL FRESCO

tru e and paprika, steak frites with garlic butter and crispy skin-on fries, a classic full-English breakfast with freshly baked sourdough bread Top tip: It’s not ust about the food and knocking back as much booze as you can in your given slot. The mixologists are set to impress, with cocktails to elevate your brunch experience to the next level.

Another top tip: Good Boys get their own doggie bowls.

Fun fact: Coal Kitchen is Cabot Circus’s only independent restaurant. www.coalkitchen.co.uk

with a mixed crowd of families, locals and afterwork gatherings.

Try these: The warm smoked Cornish hake salad; or pizzas made in the traditional handbuilt pizza oven, served all summer long.

Top tip: This summer they’ll have a revolving selection of cocktail specials, including a range of aperitivos. www.theeastfiel ub.co.uk

DE VERE TORTWORTH COURT, Wotton-under-Edge

The hotel’s new tipi can fit to guests; it’s open on weekends through the summer.

What’s the vibe?: haring, tapas-style menu.

Give us a taster: Honey-and-thyme-glazed goat’s cheese, pan-fried chilli garlic prawns, tossed with parsley, ham hock bonbons with tarragon cr me fra che.

Top tip(i)s: ewly launched for 2 2 , the tipi has a relaxed al fresco feel in contrast to the more formal 1 5 restaurant. For the cooler evenings, fire pits are lit and blankets o ered. www.devere.co.uk/tortworth-court

THE EASTFIELD, Henleaze Road

A beer garden to get lost in, with a skittles alley and a fresh seasonal menu, from this Henleaze branch of the azu group.

What’s the outdoor deal? A huge familyfriendly garden, with a kids’ play area and climbing frame as well as a beautiful pond and secluded shady spots.

What’s the vibe?: Very relaxed and friendly,

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

it’s chilly and an electric ad ustable awning. At the back, the garden has lots of benches and parasols, with festoon lighting for after dark.

Tempt us with a dish or two off the current menu: The mo o chicken skewers

served on abunoor pitta bread with tomato, onion and cucumber salad, pickled red cabbage, tzatziki, pomegranate, olive oil and ko mans fries are a particular crowd-pleaser, as are the smashed avo, roast tomato and poached eggs on toasted sourdough with hazelnut and rose petal dukkha for brunch.

Please admire: The ‘living’ wall of foliage, which supports its own ecosystem, and the glass floor dining room that looks down onto a gin distillery. We’re also fans of the rooftop beehives that supply honey to the kitchen. www.theforges.co.uk

GAMBAS, Cargo 2

THE FORGE AND FERN, Broad Street, Staple Hill

A double winner at this year’s Bristol Life Awards, this laidback café, bar and restaurant has been a huge gastro-boon to the taple Hill community. Probably best to buy that first home in B 1 soon.

What’s the outdoor space?: arge bifold doors at each end lead out to an alfresco terrace at the front; there are heaters for when

Another Cargo favourite, and a ichelin Plate-holder; combine the authentic panish tapas with an outdoor spot on a sunny day, and you could be in Andalucia (although the lovely wait sta here are a bit more can-do .

What’s the al fresco deal?: The perfect al fresco dining spot; the partially covered tables catch the sun, and the site has one of Cargo’s best views over Harbourside.

Tempt us with the current menu: Isle of Wight tomato salad topped with pickled ewe’s cheese; to drink, Flor de Jeréz dead man’s fingers white rum, amontillado sherry, lemon uice, apricot purée and honey syrup.

Our top tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of the concerts at loyd’s, and you’ll get a free (audio if not visual gig with your meal.

Fun fact: Tapa means ‘top’, and harks back to when snacks such as tortita de camarones,

OPPOSITE: Gambas has one of the best views in Cargo; book

during Bristol Sounds and get a free gig with your meal

BELOW: Tobacco Factory Café + Bar, where humans are

also welcome

“Head down to Tobacco Factory af Bar on the first ri a of the month for oo ruck ri a s”

“You can travel to Grain Barge by boat, or SUP, or any other oating vehicle ust moor u outsi e an ho on boar ” bread, jamon or cheese were placed over your drink to stop the flies getting in. We admire the implied priorities here. www.gambasbristol.co.uk

GRAIN BARGE, Hotwell Road

Boat with a large open-air deck.

What’s the vibe?: What’s better than dining al fresco on the waterfront Dining on the deck of an actual boat, obviously. Every table in Grain Barge comes with an incredible view, but the top deck has the best; here, you can gaze over to the ss GB and lazily watch all the boating activity and the little flotillas of P boarders as the sun goes down.

What’s the foodie deal?: The menu of sustainable seafood and greens includes small plates, Five Acre Farm pies, fish or vegetarian mains and plates of the day; leave room for the sticky milkstout pudding.

Fun fact: ou can travel to Grain Barge by boat, or paddleboard, or any other floating vehicle; ust moor up outside and hop on up. www.grainbarge.com

HARBOUR HOUSE, The Grove

ince Harbour House took over this site, you’ll find high-quality tucker to complement the excellent location.

What’s the outdoor space?: An -cover sun-drenched outdoor balcony right on Bristol’s floating harbour. ( ub ect to terms and conditions, ie the weather.

What’s the foodie deal?: A crowd-pleaser of a menu, with plenty of pub classics, but also

a big fish and seafood focus using catches of the day delivered from Cornwall.

Tempt us with a dish: tart with charred Wye Valley asparagus with gribiche, followed by pan-fried Boscastle trout, Jersey royals, green beans and caper cr me fra che.

Top tip: Order the Mr Brunel cocktail, if only because it comes garnished with a little top hat.

Fun fact: The beautiful Grade-II boathouse was built by IK Brunel, while he was building a certain nearby bridge. Oh, and Banksy held his first hometown exhibition here in 2 . www.hhbristol.com

KASK, North Street

The dreamy suntrap garden is ideal for whiling away a weekend afternoon with some bloody good wine and tasty dishes.

What’s the outdoor deal?: et’s holiday in B . Terazzo tables, greenery and even a tiny white dog, a world away from the Bemmie bustle. There’s also a canopy in case, god forbid, we see any rain.

Tempt us with a dish off the current menu:

For summer, KA K is enhancing its usual cheese and charcuterie menu with specials, such as strawberries and cream with Homewood Farm goats curd; courgette, confit shallot and ricotta on sourdough, and a ‘pimped up caprese salad’. www.kaskwine.co.uk

LIDO, Oakfield Place

The only place in Bristol where you can dine next to a Grade-II Victorian outdoor pool

What’s the outdoor space?: Huge doors in the glass-sided restaurant slide away to amplify the happy splashings beyond, and tables spill out to line the poolside What’s the foodie deal?: The strong Mediterranean feel of the menu adds to the holiday atmosphere; the open kitchen, blazing Italian clay oven and bespoke charcoal grill all contribute to the drama. Come for brekkie, lunch, dinner or ust drinks and a snack.

Fun fact: ou can, of course, book for a preprandial swim, but we’re reliably informed that merely watching the swimmers burns calories, so you can always have pudding. www.lidobristol.com

THE NEWT IN SOMERSET, Castle Cary

After hours, The Newt opens its famed estate for al fresco cocktail hour ‘Garden ates’.

What’s the outdoor deal?: The team will be rolling blankets out across the lawns every Thursday evening in June and July for an intimate picnic experience. The ewt’s cocktail van will also be on hand to order a sundowner.

Tempt us with the menu: omerset lamb, chargrilled courgette, Ducketts Caerphilly cheese served with cyder fruit chutney and summer fruit fool with lemon verbena curd.

Top tip: Keen grow-your-own-ers should check out the kitchen garden, showcasing some of the 5 varieties of fruit, vegetable and herbs. www.thenewtinsomerset.com

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

AL FRESCO THE PONY CHEW MAGNA, Moorledge Road

One of the major openings, or at least reimaginings, of the year, our favourite rural pub and restaurant now has a beautiful new terrace that’s a cinch for summer dining.

What’s the al fresco deal?: We just told you.

But we haven’t mentioned the fact that the terrace overlooks not just the Pony’s kitchen gardens but also Chew Magna views for days.

What’s on the menu?: The menu changes daily, but you can bet on it being as seasonal and local as it’s possible to get.

Our tip: Build in a little time to mosey around the kitchen garden before or after your meal. www.theponychewvalley.co.uk

Fun fact: Head down on the first Friday of the

month for Food Truck Fridays: street food, DJs and brewery spotlights running all summer. www.tobaccofactory.com/cafe-bar

BELOW: BS3 doing what BS3 does best: the

Tobacco Factory Café + Bar

reclaimed from Weston-super-Mare pier, a vintage horsebox used as an ice-cream van and a loo in a TARDIS. www.warmleywaitingroom.co.uk

WHATLEY MANOR, Malmesbury

Gorgeous, boutiquey, honey-hued hotel with seriously great cooking.

What’s the outdoor deal?: You can eat out on the hotel terrace, dine in the Kitchen Garden and have lunch in the Courtyard.

What’s the vibe?: Laid back luxury with heaps of country manor house warmth; acres of English gardens.

Tempt us with a dish off the current menu:

TOBACCO FACTORY CAFÉ + BAR, Raleigh Road

Could it be any more BS3?

What’s the vibe?: Beloved Bemmie hub.

Loads of sunny outdoor space, with a marquee covering part of the garden. It’s famously family- and dog-friendly, with great veggie and vegan food made from local, seasonal produce, much of it from their Five Acre Farm in Backwell. Things slow down on Sundays with a new brunch menu, market and the ard Bar serving vegan donuts and co ee.

What’s the foodie deal?: Breakfast classics run alongside fun alternatives such as BBQ buns with miso mushrooms, charred chilli mayo and scrambled chickpeas; mains range from wholesome small-batch pies to za’atarroast cauliflower.

ices; bread and teacakes from Kingswood.

Fun fact: There are eight lampposts

Pork belly with spiced grain, black pudding and courgette; date frangipane tart, ice cream and almond crumb. www.whatleymanor.com

ZERODEGREES, Colston Street WARMLEY WAITING ROOM, Bristol & Bath Railway Path

A disused railway station repurposed as a café on the Bristol to Bath cycle path. An utter gem. Put this mag down and go there at once.

What’s the space like?: Chairs and tables on the old platform, or just sit and dangle your legs over the edge.

What’s the foodie deal?: Locally sourced breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea; cakes made specifically for the café; co ee and speciality teas by Carwardines; arshfield

Fresh craft beer served straight from the tank, with pizza and seafood, served on a choice of three di erent terraces.

What’s the vibe?: The conversion of the historic tramshed at the top of Colston Street won an Architectural Design Award; the suntrap terraces have lovely city views.

What’s the foodie deal?: Handmade pizzas, Italian plates and fresh seasonal salads are served to mop up all that lovely beer.

Fun fact: Zerodegrees got its name from its first site in Blackheath in ondon, where the site sits on the meridian line. www.zerodegrees.co.uk

INSET: sunshine cooking at Bambalan

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Summer Alfresco dining at Whatley Manor It’s time to embrace the joy of Al Fresco dining, long leisurely lunches under a shade, cocktails and supper as the sun sets.

Lunch served Thursday through Sunday Two-courses £29.50 and Three-courses £36.50 Sunday lunch £43.50. Jazz Sunday lunch £49.50 check dates.

Grey’s Dinner served from Wednesday through Sunday.

Afternoon Tea £37.50 served Wednesday through Sunday.

View menus and book online, email reservations@whatleymanor.com or call 01666 822 888

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com

CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Court favourite This caff may be in the middle of a golf course, but Stan’s here for the coffee, not the tees . . .

A

h, the soft sweetness of a gentle summer’s day. Can’t be beat.

The sun shines, the gods smile, and all is well with the big, bad world out there.

On such a day, even the soft caress of a cool breeze can feel like a loving peck on the cheek from some planetary hippy on high. A marvellous miracle of wonders made solid by sunshine, if you will. igh. Could go on

“You’ve got to grab those golden hours by the short and curlies while you can”

like this for several paragraphs, but expect you get the picture.

On such a day, it would be an absolute disgrace to stay indoors, stuck in computer screen elly, letting slip those precious moments when you should be out and about. iving a full and glorious life with no cares for such dull fare as deadlines, news and day-to-day drudgery. o, days such as these should only ever be filled with fun, frolics and, bien s r, carefree co ees.

All of the above is exactly why the Office Boy and I recently called for the Office Dog, locked up the co ee drawer, crossed the Clifton uspension Bridge and went in search of adventures.

After all, you never know how many fine days we are going to get before summer slips back into long trousers and toddles o to foreign shores. Got to grab those golden hours by the short and curlies whilst you can.

Together, we strolled through Ashton Court, heading toward the upper reaches, the green and leafy bits up by the golf course.

We soon found what we were looking for. The fields were full of flowers, the air was full of skylarks singing their little hearts out, our canine companion was soon racing around in doggy heaven.

Only thing missing from our

afternoons adventure was a short, sharp shot of ca einated oy. That elixir which gladdens the heart and lights up the soul. In short, dear reader, we were gasping. We needed co ee. And fast.

Which is when this week’s co ee shop of choice swung into view. Ashton Court Café, right in the middle of the golf course, next to the car park. Don’t know about you, but I still have fond memories of the old café up there.

A bit poky, true, a bit work-a-day, but ust what you needed when you’d been out for a stroll. uckily, the new one is even better. All curvy lines and woody notes. Their co ee is excellent, too. We had taken our own picnic with us, eaten it on the hoof, so didn’t really need anything apart from co ees, but who can resist the lure of snacks ot me. or can the Office Boy. Or the Office Dog. o we treated ourselves to a brace of nibbles and sat down outside at a sunny bench, to bask in the glow of a delightful afternoon well spent. o if you are looking for a spot of summer sipping, where the skylarks sing and the sun shines bright, you know where to go. n Former Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer @stancullimore on instagram

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SPONSORED CONTENT

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT James Scrimshaw of CURA CLINICAL explains how new technologies are providing effective answers to people’s pain and suffering

M

BST stands for Molecular Biophysical Stimulation. It uses exactly the same technology as MRI scanning, just without the detectorcoils and imaging software.

MBST was discovered by a German doctor who noticed that some of his MRI patients had reduced symptoms following their MRI scans.

He then assembled a team of biologists and physicists to research these positive effects at a cellular level.

Cells that had not functioned properly due to damage, were stimulated in such a way by the energy transfer that they could again fulfil their original tasks. It does this at cell level in a number of ways: • Optimising cell oxygen levels • Improving cell energy production • Optimising intercellular signalling pathways • Reducing inflammatory mediators • Readjusting the Circadian clock of targeted cells, leading to less cell death and stimulating cell reproduction.

To you and I, this translates to a healing process in the tissue which the energy is applied to. This leads to a reduction in pain and an increase in the natural mobility and lifestyle of the patient without any need of invasive therapy. Obviously there are limitations of the effects relating to a number of factors such as severity and complexity of a patient’s case, however the technology is constantly being improved and we’re getting better at selecting the right patients and conditions in order to get higher success rates and better overall results. n Construction of MRI and MBST devices

Pictured left: Mike, and right: Kevin with James

CASE STUDIES Mike and Kevin both came to me with knee and hip arthritic issues respectively. Mike’s knee arthritis was moderate to severe, whilst Kevin’s hip was gradually degrading over time causing persistent hip pain.

They had both tried other forms of therapy to no avail, and life’s simple freedoms were gradually becoming more challenging. These are both ideal cases for the regenerative effect MBST triggers within damaged joint cells, so we applied the treatment last year to excellent effect.

Mike’s knee now has no pain at all and hasn’t for months so I discharged him recently and Kevin’s hip symptoms are all but gone - a fraction of what they were and still improving. A strong swing in the right direction for both issue’s with no risk or invasion. Most importantly, their lives are opening out again without the pain and mental stresses that chronic pain brings.

Great results chaps!

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

SUNNIES AFTERNOONS When it’s hot, and even when it’s not, you’ll look as cool as a cool thing this summer with a pair of sunnies from Messy Weekend.

They’re coming to Bristol courtesy of Cooshti on Park Street, the city’s OG independent street fashion and lifestyle store. It’s celebrating the epic milestone of its 30th anniversary this year with a series of special events kicking o with an exclusive collaboration with Messy Weekend, a forward-thinking Copenhagen eyewear brand whose products highlight Scandinavian

minimalism, backed by a commitment to design and quality.

Sustainable? For every pair of eyewear or goggles sold, MessyWeekend promises to clear 100 plastic straws out of our oceans.

We love the name, love the brand, love the superior quality – and you’ll love the website, which shows you most of the styles in multiple video angles, allowing you to waste many a happy hour deciding which one(s) to choose… www.messyweekend.com; www.cooshti.com

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ED’S CHOICE MR. BOHO DALSTON 'FANCY' SUNGLASSES, £70 The perfect sunnies, with retro circular lenses and a touch of glamour from the gold and tortoiseshell detail From Maze, 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk

BREAK EVEN

It doesn’t have to be a fortnight in the Maldives, or even a mini-break to Margate; with the help of the kit on these pages you can channel the holiday vibes without leaving town…

MISSOMA GOOD VIBES BEADED BRACELET, £80 Hippie-chic, but make it elegant; Gold-plated brass bracelet with mother-of-pearl, honey onyx, amazonite, tiger’s eye and red quartz beads From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com

ILSE JACOBSEN FLIP-FLOPS, £35 The popping pink, glitter detail and comfy embossed sole add up to a deeply superior pair of flip-flops From Grace & Mabel, 32 The Mall www.graceandmabel.co.uk

HOPE KIMONO, £89 Channel Daisy Jones with this cream cover-up; throw it over your bikini or short-shorts, and grab a straw bag for a beach-to-bar look From Mint Velvet 44 Regent Street www.mintvelvet.co.uk

NALI SHOP EARRINGS, £29 Add a simple summer dress or tee for instant summer vibes From Fox + Feather 41 Gloucester Road www.foxandfeather.co.uk

MENORCA COOLER BAG, £29.95 Even without cold packs, drinks and snacks stay cool and fresh for up to six hours From The Pod Company 24 The Mall www.thepodcompany.co.uk

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

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BAT AND BALL SET, £29.95 What else are you going to do on the beach all day, just lie there?

From The Pod Company 24 The Mall www.thepodcompany.co.uk REMEMBER PORTOFINO BEACH TOWEL, £50 Extra-large beach towel with handy pockets on the corners to weigh down your towel; made from lightweight cotton, so it’ll easily fit into your beach bag From Fig 1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps www.fig .co.uk

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MAYBE WE’RE AMAZED

The Bristol Life Awardwinners on launching Wake the Tiger– ‘The world’s first amazement park’

STAGE RIGHT

Meet the EO of the Englishspeaking world’s longest continuously operating theatre

BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS Don’t delay compiling that nomination...

NEWS AND VIEWS

Top business stories from around the city

COME DINE WITH US

Pics from our sponsors’ dinner at The Ivy Clifton Brasserie

TIGER ECONOMY

PHOTO @JONCRAIG_PHOTOS OK, Boomtown: Greg puts the questions to Lucy and Graham

HEAR THEM ROAR

Wake the Tiger – the extraordinary St Philip’s attraction created by the team behind Boomtown – won not only the Leisure and Tourism gong at this year’s Bristol Life Awards, but the overall, best-in-show, crème-de-lacrème, Platinum. We’d visited, of course – we were first through the doors, and had been duly amazed – but at our recent Business Club we got the full story…

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

SO, WHAT IS an Amazement Park, when it’s at home That’s the first question put by MediaClash chief executive Greg Ingham to Wake the Tiger’s co-founder Graham McVoy, and sales and marketing manager Lucy Jarjoura.

“OK,” says Graham. Deep breath. o, this is a definition that we’ve been working on: it’s a transformative and empowering space, that uses art as an invitation to connect and inspire positive change.”

That’s cleared that up, then.

Next: what was it like to create (and promote, and attract investment in) something that had never existed before, that was even quite difficult conceptually to explain, and to turn it into a viable business? And what was the initial vision?

“We wanted to bring the creative spirit of Boomtown into a permanent location that was accessible for all,”

PHOTO @JONCRAIG_PHOTOS

NETWORK

One photo shows the Business Club in full flow, the other is a room at Wake the Tiger. You’ll probably be able to work out which is which

says Graham. “We’d been doodling backwards and forwards for years about ideas of what we could do.”

The idea gained momentum during Covid when the events industry – including Boomtown – was severely impacted. As well as a huge amount of experience, the Boomtown crew held another ace in their hand: they already had the ideal building.

“Boomtown owned a warehouse.

They’d opened the biggest nightclub in the South West, and had only done four nights before Covid hit. So we had this opportunity, in this space, to build something new.”

Lucy came on board after a career in corporate business; she’d been a senior global marketing manager at Dyson. “But having moved to the South West, I was super passionate about Bristol,” she says.

“Bristol gives you that spirit that maybe you didn’t have previously.

I am actually quite a risk-averse person, but moving to Bristol, and experiencing this sort of freedom from the cultural perspective that’s just resounding in this city, I think that gave me the confidence.

Graham, less surprisingly, came from a festival and event background, having been involved in some of the top festivals in the country before being headhunted by Boomtown.

“When I moved to the incredibly creative Bristol-based workspace, I found my tribe, and that’s where everything really started to come from,” he says.

The launch of Wake the Tiger exceeded expectations, with sales of £1.45 million and over 100,000 tickets sold within six months, fully

justifying investors’ faith in what must have seemed a fairly vague idea.

“Everything gets called ‘immersive’ these days,” says Graham, “and we were trying to pitch a concept that didn’t exist. We couldn’t use photography, it was all sketches and images. So ultimately, we were pitching on people’s confidence in us, their knowledge of us, and the background of us running Boomtown.

“We didn’t over-promise, and I was always really honest and open and quite informal on the pitches, so that I could have more of a conversation with people; it maybe didn’t suit everyone, but it suited the sort of people I wanted to invest.”

Lucy, too, in her role managing all the comms, had the challenge of explaining the concept to the wider world.

“Something like this, in the UK for sure, didn’t exist. So how do you bring it to life? At one point, there were conversations such as, are we going to let people bring phones in, should we ban people from taking photos? Thank goodness that didn’t happen, because in the end the consumer actually ended up telling a lot of the story for us. So that was a really big challenge that was sort of taken away from me.”

At the get-go, sustainability was high on the agenda.

“We genuinely want to have a business that we can be proud of,” says Lucy, “that doesn’t harm the environment, to have as little impact as possible. We want everyone to know that we’re completely authentic with how we’re trying to position

ourselves; people will call bullshit ultimately if you’re not careful.”

Fast-forward to their first anniversary, and Wake the Tiger’s impact on Bristol continues to be significant. ocal caterers supply the café, the work of local creatives is sold in the gift shop, and the venue attracts visitors from around the world.

“We’ve just signed up with Great West Way, who look along the M4 between London and Bristol and beyond, bringing both domestic and international travellers to Bristol,” says Lucy. “That’s really important for the leisure and tourism industry in the South West. And I think that we’ve got something that someone who might be Googling for things to do, not only in Bristol, but in the South West, would want to see, and I hope that it benefits local food and drink and hoteliers and so on.

“There are visitors from over 60 countries now; people from six continents have booked with Wake the Tiger. I’d say 80-90 per cent of the people who have visited are in Bristol and the South West, but we’ve had over 160,000 people through the doors since opening, and there’s a huge number coming from outside

WINNER WINNER

To quote the judges at the 2023 Bristol Life Awards: “Simply put, Wake the Tiger is a once-in-ageneration artistic masterpiece with flair, imagination, ambition and reach, just stunning; sustainable, disruptive and daring beyond the impossible. Very Bristol.”

“BRISTOL GIVES YOU THAT SPIRIT THAT YOU MAYBE DIDN’T HAVE PREVIOUSLY” LUCY JARJOURA Wake The Tiger

of Bristol – and we’ve barely touched the marketing services for broadening out yet.”

Sustainability, as we’ve heard, is a big priority for Wake the Tiger; many of the materials used in its immersive world are a mishmash of objects that have been scavenged, reclaimed, and repurposed. The team has also invested in energy-efficient systems and serve vegetarian-only meals in the café.

As Lucy points out, Wake the Tiger takes visitors on an immersive journey, where – without appearing remotely pedagogical, you can take or leave the subtext – sustainability is intrinsic to the core narrative.

“You enter a portal into the world of Meridia – which for anyone who hasn’t been yet, it’s a view of the world as it could potentially be. And in that the world, the Meridians, as we call them, are trying to explore solutions to the world’s problems.

“And when we get Google reviews that people leave, if they are someone that we like to call a deep diver, and want to get more into that narrative, that narrative is there, and we really want people to take a look at what they’re doing, and what they can do di erently.

For more: www.wakethetiger.com

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© NEIL PHILLIPS

NETWORK L-R, Danny Gallagher, Aardman, Eleanor and Martin Thatcher, Will Studd from Aardman and Myrtle the dog – photo: Neil Phillips; INSET: That’s Martin! You know you’ve made it when Aardman turn you into a model

ISN’T IT ICONIC? In the most satisfying local business hook-up of the year, Thatchers Cider has collaborated with Aardman on a new TV commercial.

Brace yourself for the word ‘iconic’ to feature heavily in this write-up.

Launched on 25 May, the advert uses Aardman’s trademark stop-motion animation to take the viewer through the gates of Thatchers’ Myrtle Farm to show how the company crafts its cider.

Some familiar faces make an appearance, including fourth-generation cider maker Martin Thatcher. Bristolians will also recognise the Thatchers hot-air balloon made by Cameron Balloons (another local icon, check) sailing overhead.

“Partnering with Aardman, a truly iconic brand, with such amazing

creative genius, and situated in the West Country as we are, allows us to introduce consumers to a new, light-hearted story about our ciders,” said Martin. “It’s been a real privilege to see how Aardman shares the same total commitment to painstaking perfection every step of the way, as we do at Thatchers.

This is a film that allows people to step into the world of Thatchers. Aardman’s animators have recreated life at Myrtle Farm in the most minute and exacting detail, from our iconic barn doors to our hot-air balloon, whose basket was handwoven out of real straw. Fabric from our own workwear has even been used to create some of the costumes.”

“Thatchers and Aardman is a pairing made in heaven,” said Lydia Gough, sales

and marketing manager at Aardman.

Two loved brands with a passion for their craft, both proudly independent and sharing roots in the South West. We are very excited for everyone to see the new commercial.”

A team of 40 creatives at Aardman were involved in the film, with the animators alone needing over 480 hours to shoot the 40-second commercial.

Following a multi-media launch, the commercial will continue to screen between now and August, including linear TV, broadcast video on demand, cinema and YouTube enhanced with a consumer focussed social media campaign. Warning: it’s likely to leave you feeling thirsty.

For more: www.thatcherscider.co.uk www.aardman.com

“OUR PASSION FOR CREATING THE MOST PERFECT CIDER IS REFLECTED IN THE GENIUS OF AARDMAN” MARTIN THATCHER Thatchers

SAY YUUP Yuup, the pioneering Bristol online marketplace linking buyers with a huge range of independent events, workshops and group activities, has secured a further £200,000 to support its expansion, both in Bristol and Birmingham.

The original investment came courtesy of Bristol & Bath Regional Capital in September 2021, when an initial £250,000 of investment into Yuup from City Funds was approved as equity.

Since then, Yuup has grown its service to 60,000 sold experiences per annum in Bristol, with a particular focus on including over 400 hosts from the city’s under-represented communities.

“Since launching Yuup in 2021 we’ve had phenomenal success, supporting over 400 small businesses and entrepreneurs, and bringing new experiences to tens of thousands of people,” said Dominic Mills, Yuup’s chief executive.

“We have ambitious growth plans for the platform, and are excited that Bristol & Bath Regional Capital has decided to re-invest in Yuup, further supporting us on the next stage of our journey as we continue to scale both the business and our impact.”

“Yuup is a real impact success story, directing entertainment spending into Birmingham and Bristol’s local communities and addressing economic inequalities, all backed by an incredible management team,” said Ryan Munn, investment business development manager at Bristol and Bath Regional Capital.

“A growing customer base and exciting new experiences prove that Yuup is hitting the mark. We’re excited that this further investment will boost the platform to the next level.”

For more: www.yuup.co

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NETWORK

THEY HAVE TAKE OFF Bristol Airport will continue with its multi-million pound expansion after the latest opposing legal challenge was overturned.

The Secretary of State for Levelling Up ruled there was “no compelling reason” to uphold the appeal by Bristol Airport Action Network.

The airport’s proposals, aimed at creating the capacity to handle 12m passengers a year, include the expansion of the terminal building and increase in car parking. The airport says the expansion will create 800 jobs at the airport, and up to a further 5,000 regionally, adding an estimated £430m to the South West’s economy.

For more: www.bristolairport.co.uk

LET THE FORCE BE WITH THEM

IN BRIEF Sustainable network and consultancy Future Leap has announced plans to expand outside Bristol after securing new funding. The business, one of the UK’s largest green networks with a net zero commitment, is to open a site in the Bath area with the help of £250,000 from regional alternative finance lender WIG Finance. www.futureleap.co.uk The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) and Bristol Beacon have announced a new partnership. As well as holding UWE’s graduation ceremonies and other largescale university events at the Beacon, the partnership will o er WE students more opportunities to access creative and cultural experiences outside of their course disciplines, including welcome-week events, exhibitions, gigs, academic programmes and, through UWE, Bristol’s Centre for Music. www.bristolbeacon.org YTL Developments has submitted a planning application to build over 200 retirement homes at Brabazon. The new design, from architects at the renowned Feilden Clegg Bradley tudios, follows the existing style of The Hangar District and draws inspiration from historic ‘mansion houses’ that foster community growth around shared facilities. www.brabazon. co.uk

Marvin Rees, left, with Chris Hill, CEO of Hargreaves Lansdown

pearheaded by financial firm Hargreaves ansdown, 18 businesses have joined forces to create the Bristol Financial Resilience Action Group, aimed at supporting sta facing the cost-of-living crisis and making Bristol the most financially resilient city in the K. The founding members represent 25,180 employees, including the North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol City Council and Avon Fire and Rescue. ayor arvin Rees says the initiative will add to Bristol’s continued response to the national cost of living crisis – “and to our wider work building a better Bristol where nobody is left behind, and everybody has the chance to share in our city’s success.” or more: www.hl.co.uk/bristol-financial-resilience

SHINE ON

INSET: Vicky Lee; BELOW:

After lighting up Bristol with a multi-million pound spend in city centre businesses this year, Bristol ight Festival has announced that the 2024 fest will return between 2-11 February.

During this year’s festival, city centre businesses saw a 250,000-footfall boom and an incredible £3.3 million increase in spend.

The ight Festival is presented by Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID supported by Redcli e Temple BID and Broadmead BID, supported by Cabot Circus, Bristol’s City Centre High treets Recovery and Renewal programme, funded by Bristol City Council and the West of England’s Combined Authority’s Love our High Streets project.

As a BID, one of our core ob ectives is to encourage visitors to the city centre throughout the year, bringing additional revenue to businesses, which is particularly important in the current economic uncertainty,” said Vicky Lee, head of Bristol City Centre BID. Bristol ight Festival has delivered positive financial impact year on year, and continues to receive overwhelmingly positive public feedback. As a free event, it not only attracts visitors, but also means that any disposable income can be spent in the many restaurants, bars and shops in the city.”

For more: www.bristollightfestival.org

Let Us Shine by Morag Myerscough at this year’s fest

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“IT TAKES A LIFETIME TO BUILD A REPUTATION, BUT YOU CAN LOSE IT IN A MINUTE”

EXPERT TIPS

ANDREA BRISTOL Andrea Bristol of ADMIRE PR knows that public relations is all about creating positive reputations . . .

A

ANDREA BRISTOL Admire PR

right reasons. We source appropriate awards for clients, check out the categories that will suit them best, and then create the award entries for them and submit them on their behalf. We take the headache away and give them a better chance at getting shortlisted.

Isn’t PR just for crisis management?

Crisis and serious issues do happen, and as PRs it really is part of our world – BUT we prefer to forwardplan and avoid crises where we can.

Putting plans in place will mean a crisis is less likely and proactive PR planning for consistent media coverage is the key to great long-term results.

dmire PR is a public relations company based in Bristol and Gloucestershire.

Andrea and her team ensure that companies receive the attention they deserve through reputation management.

proven that companies with a positive reputation are more profitable and are able to attract and retain talented sta . Press coverage and award entries will work as part of a marketing strategy to bring in new leads, and these will be leads of the right sort for each company.

How do you describe PR? It is all about positive reputations – the art of getting your business known for all the right reasons.

What are the first steps you take when onboarding a new client?

We take a deep dive into their business plans for the next year and the following three years, and look into their marketing strategy. From this work we can work out which PR activities will suit them the best, and how to get the outcome they need.

How do you manage your clients’ PR? Completely individually. Most clients have a quarterly planning session with monthly reviews and weekly check-ins to keep everything on track. We check for opportunities daily and react to national and global news as well as implementing our proactive forward plans.

Awards are a huge PR opportunity. How can you assist clients with this?

We love awards! Regional and industry awards are a great opportunity for companies to showcase their expertise and get noticed by the right people for the

What communication streams does PR include?

When I started 18 years ago it was mainly print media, TV and radio.

What is great nowadays is we have many more opportunities to get out clients in front of their audience. We have so many digital opportunities

What kind of clients do you have?

B2B, tech and sports clients that vary from Es with -5 sta to global companies with hundreds of sta in several countries. We also work with charities by special arrangement.

How can having a PR service benefit companies?

Reputation is everything. As the famous line by Will Rogers goes, “It takes a lifetime to build a reputation, but you can lose it in a minute”. It’s

in the media, newsletters, social media, awards, events and speaking opportunities, sponsorship and partnerships, blogs, podcasts – there is so much variety now.

How do you remain authentic in a busy media space?

Always be honest, tell the truth and live by your values 24/7. Make sure partnerships are genuine links to your company.

How can we get in touch?

Contact us on 07887 997922 or using andrea@admire-pr.com.

For more: admirepr.com

Describe your typical day (or week)…

I think the reason I love PR the most is there is no typical day! Generally my day starts early before my kids get up – checking messages and emails and the news headlines. I love the early mornings for strategy, writing and planning. Sometimes we have an alert that we need to sort something out for a client quickly.

Each day we will have various staff working on writing and pitching, and I have two clients for whom I tend to do the majority of the work and press outreach due to the NDA we have with them. Most of my time is spent speaking to clients and speaking to potential new clients. I also love networking and am a member of BNI in Bristol.

When we have a big week, such as a national charity campaign, I use time on the weekend to check through staff project-planning and to make sure we have extra capacity available in case of a serious issue. It always pays to be organised and plan for every eventuality.

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Bristol Life team 01225 475800

NETWORK

HOW IT STARTED . . . AND HOW IT’S GOING

CHARLOTTE GEEVES

The executive officer and joint CEO of Bristol Old Vic talks us through the joys and challenges involved in running a regional theatre

C

harlotte’s responsibilities are myriad. “My focus is spent overseeing the finances, fundraising, HR, our trading company, our film company, working with the Board of Trustees on all areas of governance, and working with the artistic director and producing team on the shape of the financial deals that link to the productions on our stages, and if they transfer either to a tour or into the West End,” she says.

I started out as a stage manager for theatre in education work in the East End of London, moved into company stage management for a period of eight years and then started to tour-manage. It was there I got itchy feet and wanted to understand how producing worked, wanting to work on shows from conception, and I was fortunate enough to land a job as a programming co-ordinator at Sadlers Wells. I learnt so much during the four years I was there. I was also CEO of Henley Festival.

I’d wanted to work at BOV for a really long time. I love Bristol as a city, I am passionate about ensuring people outside of London can have choice in terms of the productions they see and I love being part of the team that creates so many new and incredible shows. I joined in 2019, after both refurbishments had been completed. The only thing to finish was making sure the front-of-house lift worked …

Covid was pretty awful.

We had to make 40% of the permanent sta redundant, we put all of our casuals on furlough, we couldn’t make any theatre so we couldn’t pay any freelancers, which make up 70 per cent of the workforce. And the theatre was closed for long periods of time.

The positives were that we released a load of shows, that we had done quite basic recordings of, for free.

We were successful in applying for the government’s Culture Recovery Fund, and used almost all of the money to pay freelance artists.

We were one of the first theatres to re-open because we have such a huge bar in which we could put small-scale shows. We built some huts outside so people could come and drink in their groups of six.

We saw how valuable theatre and all culture was to the general public to keep everyone going at such times.

The recovery continues to be tough. We made a loss last year and we are forecasting a loss for this year due to huge rises in energy bills, material costs and staffing costs. The incredible support from our members and donors gave us the impetus to develop a new membership scheme which we launched last autumn.

We decided to continue filming our productions at a much higher quality. We are still live-streaming shows, and have been successful in selling them to UK broadcasters such as BBC4 and Sky Arts.

The largest portion of our income comes from ticket sales for shows, followed by a grant from Arts

“IF YOU ASK ANYONE WHO RUNS A REGIONAL THEATRE AT THE MOMENT THE HONEST ANSWER WOULD BE IT’S IN CRISIS” CHARLOTTE GEEVES Bristol Old Vic

Council England. We then have a large variety of income streams from our trading company (which is made up of food and beverage sales, event sales and our set-building workshop sales , our film company, fundraising, the government’s theatre tax relief which enables us to claim every time we make a new show, plus income from our young company and adult company.

If you ask anyone who runs a regional theatre at the moment the honest answer would be that it’s in crisis. As an example, our fuel bill has gone from £47k a quarter to £32k a month. That is an incredible increase, and if the energy bills continue to remain this high we have to look at how we can do things di erently to enable us to cover such high costs.

Not really much, if I am honest. The Arts Council want us to make highquality work that is accessible, and we continue to work hard to deliver this.

I have a real concern about the lack of arts education in state secondary schools. I do hope that there is a way to collaborate more with the Department of Education in future to ensure that all children have access to a broad education which also includes a range of arts subjects.

For more: www.bristololdvic.org.uk

Offices in: Henleaze, Whiteladies Road Clifton Village, Shirehampton 0117 962 1205 www.amdsolicitors.com

PRIVATE CLIENT - FAMILY - PROPERTY - COMMERCIAL

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The Good Business Club

DATES FOR THE DIARY – JUNE + JULY 25 June: Good Business Meet-up Hosted by members of The Good Business Club, the meetup events make it easy to discover and build relationships with other good business owners and teams. At Watershed on 18 May and The Square Club on 8 June; www.thegoodbusinessclub.com 26 June: Powered-up Business Networking For a wide range of business people, from start-ups to those with decades of experience, across a wide range of industries; at Lost & Found, www.eventbrite.co.uk 27 June: NZC Time Capsule Event & Panel Discussion: Letters to the Designers of Tomorrow Hosted by CIBSE South West & CIBSE South West YEN, bringing together professionals from across the built environment sector to discuss progress made in recent years and that to come; allevents.in 12 July: Bristol Women’s Business Club Build your intentional community and strategic support system over a meal; an inspiring business talk and quality networking; Bristol & Bath Science Park; www.eventbrite.co.uk

CELEBRATING THE CITY

Y

The Bristol Life Awards 2023 was an exuberant, joyful smash hit – hey, let’s do it all over again!

ou may think you have plenty of time to work on your nomination for the Bristol Life Awards, taking place at Ashton Gate Stadium on 28 March 2024, and it’s true that we haven’t even announced the cut-o date yet, but why leave it until the last moment? Far better to make an early start, so that you can hone your entry, ensuring it catches the attention of our judges.

Anyone can win one of the hugely prestigious accolades – as we’ve always said, the Awards are for everyone, from the smallest, coolest indie business to the largest corporates. The Awards celebrate the whole of the city – all sectors, all types, from commercial to charity and civic; from new companies to longestablished local treasures.

The Awards are undoubtedly the business highlight of the year, as the best of Bristol assemble in their finery, hellbent on having a great night while celebrating their peers; some will even take home one (maybe two!) of the coveted golden awards.

The Awards matter. They o er public recognition for you and your team, whether finalists or winners.

After all, it’s pretty rare when people other than your sta and customers recognise the quality of what you do.

“IMAGINE GAINING THE VALIDATION OF YOUR PEERS” Bristol Life Awards, 28 March 2024

HOW TO ENTER THE AWARDS It’s free to enter: keep an eye on these pages to find out when nominations open for 2024, choose the categories that fit your business, and fill out the Q&A asking you all about your organisation.

SPONSOR THE AWARDS With high interest in being closely associated with the most prestigious event in the Bristol business calendar, sponsorship opportunities are going fast. To find out more, please contact neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk.

GET TICKETS Nothing beats being there. With the company of over 500 people, the networking and collaboration opportunities are on another level.

Dates for 2024 ticket release will be announced later this year.

For more: www.bristollifeawards.co.uk

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

Headline sponsor:

NOMINATIONS OPEN 20 JULY Find out how you can benefit from the Awards:

Talk with us about sponsorship:

Winner of Winners sponsor:

Category sponsors:

• Connect with leading Bristol property businesses, across all sectors • Benefit from a multiple channel marketing campaign, reaching thousands • Stand out amongst your peers at this prestigious, unique event For details: bristollifecommercial@mediaclash.co.uk

BRISTOL PROPERTY AWARDS | 24 NOVEMBER 2023 | ASHTON GATE STADIUM | @BRISPROPERTYAWD

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James Mulrooney and Shahin Eslami

THANK YOU...

We couldn’t do what we do without you! MediaClash, owners of Bristol Life, held a dinner for sponsors in the elegant surroundings of The Ivy Clifton Brasserie Photos by @JonCraig_Photos

Robert Nye, Harriette Dixon, Mark George and Kirsty Eamer

Mingling underway

Graham Wheatley, Natalie Atkinson, Nick Collins and Matt Slade

n

Steph Dodd, Jo Campbell and Julian Cook Neil Snow and Philip McTeer

Julian Cook and Mark George

Kirsty Eamer

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SPONSORED CONTENT

BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS WINNERS 2023 Meet Wake the Tiger, winners of the Platinum Award and Leisure & Tourism category at this year’s Awards What does it mean to win a Bristol Life Award?

As a new organisation in such a creative city as Bristol, to be nominated was enough for us. However to scoop such an accolade as the Platinum Award was truly special. It’s validation for the amazing makers and creators who have been on this journey with us, and we couldn’t be more proud or grateful.

WINNER

What have been your achievements in the past year?

Firstly opening! We were really up against it timewise. Secondly the overwhelmingly positive feedback and reviews we receive on a daily basis make all of this worthwhile. The thousands of positive reviews that have flooded in since we opened continue to put a smile on our faces day in, day out.

How was the Awards entry process?

Very simple. It was quite a cathartic experience to take the time to reflect on everything we’d achieved and get it down on paper. It allowed us to realise what an incredible journey we have been on so far, and this is only the beginning as we’re still not even a year old!

Talk us through the ceremony…

It was such an incredible evening. The energy in the room was palpable. Taking home the first award of the night in the Leisure & Tourism category was a real moment, and truly not expected! Being able to admire and celebrate so many other Bristol organisations was fantastic, and we are truly thankful to be part of such a forward-thinking and successful city.

Where do you keep your awards?

Pride of place, in full display in our staff room! So that everyone who works so hard to bring this place to life every day, knows the part they play, and how important it is.

What are your winning qualities?

Our core values are to be creative, inclusive and nurturing first and foremost, and then blend all of this thinking with really radical ideas. This combination ensures we always push ourselves, but in the right way and for the right reasons.

Was there a moment when you realised your business was heading in the right direction?

We’re still such a young business, so we never rest on our laurels, however having attracted 30,000 more people than we expected within our first six months of opening certainly made everyone feel like we were on to something special.

What’s the best part about the city’s business community?

As a new organisation, operating in such a creative city, and with so much competition, everyone is still here to support each other, offering advice, insight and guidance. We’re stronger together and there’s a real sense of creative community togetherness in Bristol. We can’t imagine being anywhere else!

makes sense? We work super hard to problem-solve and lean into the brilliant local networks.

What is the best piece of business advice you have been given?

To lean into the rich, diverse, local Bristol network, whether it be for recruitment, artists, tech, mentoring or business advice, because there is always an individual, group, charity or organisation that can support you or challenge your thinking in order to improve.

What is next for your business?

We have an exciting programme of events and interactions over the summer leading into winter, over and above the experience itself. But also watch this space for a VERY exciting expansion to Wake The Tiger to be announced later this year.

What do you love about life in your business?

It’s always the people. There is such an eclectic mix of minds that come together, guaranteeing that no one day is ever the same.

Are there any frustrations?

Time is always a challenge. We’re moving so fast, if there are any frustrations, we don’t standstill long enough to actually get frustrated by them…if that

127 Albert Rd, Bristol, BS2 0YA www.wakethetiger.com 

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 79

SPONSORED CONTENT

PROTECT YOUR HOME Rachel Dickinson of AMD SOLICITORS discusses how to protect your home from property fraud...

O

ne of the issues which is currently in the media is the risk of property fraud, whereby individuals use various means to obtain money or property using properties at risk. This is often to benefit other criminal activity.

What properties are at high risk?

• Empty properties • Tenanted properties • Properties which could become empty • Properties not subject to a mortgage • Unregistered properties • Properties which are not occupied all the time How can you protect your home?

• Register your unregistered property • Add a Restriction to your property, which sets out certain requirements which need to be met before registration of a transaction takes place • Keeping your contact details up to date with the Land Registry (free service – complete and send COG1 form to the Land Registry) • Use the New Property Alert Service to notify you of any applications that have been made against your property. (Free service – www.gov.uk/property-alert)

There are benefits associated with all these alternatives, but there are also some pitfalls. If you would like advice on which option fits your circumstances, or assistance with completing the necessary forms, please contact us.

Property Alert Using the Property Alert service is very simple.

• Go to the website address above • Complete your details, including email address and a safe password, and register • Add the property(ies) you wish to monitor (maximum 10) • Monitor your emails • Keep your details up to date The service notifies you if anyone makes an application to register something against the title. It relies on you to check that the transaction is legitimate. If it is not, you can then contact the Land Registry fraud line on 0300 006 7030 or at reportafraud@ landregistry.gov.uk. It does not prevent transactions being registered, but it enables you to be warned and take action. If you find you are notified and do not know what to do next, first contact the Land Registry.

The writer, Rachel Dickinson, is a Solicitor at AMD Solicitors, having recently joined our Shirehampton office as a Conveyancer.

Rachel assists clients in their property transactions, including buying, selling and transferring between individuals, and has been conveyancing for over 20 years, bringing a varied insight into the intricacies of property transactions. n

Sorting out your property affairs could cost less than you think, and can give you peace of mind. If you need any assistance relating to the ownership of your property, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel or our conveyancing team for a quote on 0117 923 5562, or email info@amdsolicitors.com 100 Henleaze Road, Henleaze BS9 4JZ 15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS 139 Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL 2 Station Road, Shirehampton BS11 9TT

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

PROPERTY

CANYNGE SQUARE A home with an almost unfair quota of charm and elegance sits serenely on one of Clifton’s loveliest squares Words by Ursula Cole

D

oes anything say ‘English summer idyll’ more eloquently than a mature wisteria trained over 18th-century Georgian sandstone? Instagram could have been invented specifically to record its e ulgence.

And while we’re at it, is there an address in Bristol to rival Canynge Square – famously not a square at all, of course, it’s definitely an isosceles triangle – but who can hold that against it when it’s full of such timelessly pretty town houses, arranged around a beautifully maintained public garden? And do we really need to emphasise the overall convenience of the place, with the Downs a pleasant walk in one direction, Clifton Village in the other?

That established, let’s look more closely at number . The house has been owned by the same family for 33 years, and occupies a spot on the north-west side of the square, meaning that it has a lovely south-west view over its lovely walled garden.

The interior has an elegance that fully matches its pretty facade; it’s spacious, too, with four immaculately

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 83

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

preserved storeys to spread across, along with a vaulted basement for your wine collection – presuming you’re one of those superior souls who can be trusted with more than one bottle in the house at any given time.

Original features? Number 37 is awash with them.

We’re talking archways, ceiling cornices, panelled doors, architraves, shutters, marble fireplaces and period grates, and a fine ornate cast-iron painted staircase rising from the hallway to the first floor.

The drawing room and dining room have those shuttered floor-to-ceiling sash windows that the Georgians did so well, which let in so much light and add so much elegance, that it’s hard to fathom why subsequent architects ever messed with the mojo.

“Is there an address in Bristol to rival Canynge Square – not a square at all, of course, it’s more of a triangle – but who can hold that against it?”

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

A well-fitted kitchen breakfast room with an Aga opens to the garden, as does the drawing room. There’s a long conservatory, and a clatter of ‘useful’ rooms – a pantry, a boot room, a huge utility room, extra cloakrooms– less glamorous than the ‘hero’ rooms, perhaps, but just try living without them once you’ve become used to their convenience.

With so much space to play with, the owners have had no problem at all finding room for a superb cinema room at lower-ground level. It’s open-plan to a sitting room bar area, which also opens to the garden. pstairs, one of the first-floor bedrooms has the charming addition of a balcony; however, we’d be tempted to bag the top floor room, where one of the house’s two bathrooms is e ectively en-suite.

The south-west facing walled garden is suitably delightful and well-planned, with a level lawn, flagstone terrace areas and deep borders planted with ornamental shrubs and a magnolia. In one corner stands a Breeze summer house, with seats and heating; there’s also a pergola-style outside kitchen with a flagstone floor and removable covering, fitted with two fridges, BB area, sink and wine cooler.

In front of the house lies one of Bristol’s best-kept secrets (no longer!): the beautifully maintained public garden, with its lawn and mature borders, regularly used by the fortunate denizens of Canynge quare all year round.

HOUSE NUMBERS Where Clifton

Canynge Square,

What? Georgian town house Guide price

£3.25m

Receptions conservatory

4, plus

Bedrooms

5

Bathrooms

2

Outside Delightful private rear garden with summerhouse and BBQ area; public garden in front Knight Frank, 1 The Mall, Clifton; 0117 911 6813 www.knightfrank.co.uk

COMING SOON...

Discover exceptional Grade A office space in the city centre • 3 Portwall Lane is a design led refurbishment and extension of a characterful Victorian warehouse located in the vibrant St Mary Redcliffe Quarter.

• A short 5 minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads Station, Queen Square and Bristol's Harbourside.

• Completion targeted for Autumn 2023.

• Choose to lease the entire 9,500 sq ft building, or individual floors from 1,620 sq ft upwards, with the top two floors benefitting from a stunning new roof terrace.

• Designed with sustainability and occupant wellbeing in mind and targeting BREEAM excellent and EPC A. The building benefits from hybrid air conditioning, openable windows, solar panels, bike storage, active travel lockers and passenger lift.

Further information please visit our website:

www.3portwalllane.co.uk

(0117) 934 9977

BRISTOL LIVES

“We’ve raised over £10 million from the sculpture trails, and sold nearly one million figurines” to be £22m, and The Grand Appeal committed to raise £11m towards the building, which would be the first purpose-built and state-of-the-art children’s hospital in the UK. With the fundraising

ANNA SHEPHERD The deputy director of The Grand Appeal wants us all to don a pair of Wrong Trousers this month . . .

A

nna’s job includes overseeing the millions of pounds of funding The Grand Appeal invests in Bristol Children’s Hospital and t ichael’s eonatal Intensive Care Unit every year. She must like it there; she’s worked for them for over 28 years . . .

During my time at The Grand Appeal I’ve seen the hospital on Upper Maudlin Street built brick-by-brick with the investment from The Grand Appeal, and the charity grow into what it is today. I’ve also survived three Gromit Unleashed sculpture trails . . .

I was the second employee

of The Grand Appeal when it started. In the beginning, my main role was to research and help set up the charity’s governance and supporting the numerous volunteers that

were helping to establish it. My role then moved to fundraising, finance, HR, operations put it this way, I’ve done every ob at some point.

Bristol Children’s Hospital

was established at the top of St Michael’s Hill in Bristol in 1855, and by the mid-1990s had outgrown its site. It became a centre of excellence, treating patients for a wide range of specialities, and the specialist children’s emergency department for the region. The hospital needed a new building on a new site to cope with its growth.

In partnership with Bristol

Children’s Hospital and Aardman Animations, The Grand Appeal was created in 1995 to raise half the cost of the new children’s hospital on Upper Maudlin Street adjacent to the Bristol Royal Infirmary.

The cost was then estimated

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

spearheaded by Wallace & Gromit, courtesy of Aardman, and hosting the first Wrong Trousers Day in 1997, The Grand Appeal went on to raise £12 million by the time the hospital opened in April 2001.

2025 will see us celebrating our

30th anniversary as the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, and we’ll be planning some special celebrations with sta , patients and families at the hospital as well as our partners at Aardman.

As well as raising£12m towards

the new children’s hospital, we’ve created nearly 30 rooms of accommodation for parents while their child is being treated.

We’ve raised over £10 million from our three sculpture trails in partnership with Aardman, and sold nearly one million figurines. My personal favourites are the Lodekka Gromit, based on Bristol’s Lodekka bus, and Gnome Sweet Gnome Wallace.

We launched the Wrong Trousers Day in 1997, and

people from all over South West have truly embraced the event. It’s amazing to see what people have tucked away in their wardrobes!

Many celebs have taken part – Stephen Merchant, Richard

and Judy, Ainsley Harriott, the cast of Casualty and, of course, our patrons, Nick Park, Peter Lord and David Sproxton, from Aardman.

It couldn’t be simpler to take part. Just pay £1 to ditch

the dress code and step out in something sillier. Anyone can join, and you can dress up in whatever you like, from sports kit and sparkly sequins to funky flares, fake furs or a tutu. If you sign up via the website you’ll receive lots of free fundraising materials for extra fun.

However much you raise, your support will mean the world to sick children at Bristol Children’s Hospital. And you can hold your Wrong Trousers Day anywhere and anytime. It doesn’t have to be on 30 June – celebrate at a time convenient for you!

I’m a born and bred Bristolian,

originally from Brislington. The fact that I have never had a desire to leave the city speaks volumes.

It’s vibrant, charismatic, and I love how many non-Bristolians, including my husband, choose to make Bristol their home.

At The Grand Appeal we love our neighbours, Penfolds Kitchen, who provided fantastic support to both The Grand Appeal and Bristol Children’s Hospital, even throughout the pandemic. We can’t get enough of their giant cinnamon buns . . .

Do you have any secret skills?

I can drive a double-decker bus. www.grandappeal.org.uk www.wrongtrousersday.org

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