Brand-new BBC Sounds podcast showcases Bristol’s 120-year-old football league, where “every game is at home”

A brand-new BBC Sounds podcast explores the people, officials, and teams behind a 120-year-old football league in Bristol – where 'every game is played at home'.

Always at Home: Bristol’s Beautiful Game, produced by BBC Radio Bristol, showcases the unique Bristol Downs League, its special history in the city, and the many famous faces that have laced up their boots to play.

These include – former England cricket captain and Gloucestershire batsman, Wally Hammond; former England football captain and Arsenal player, Eddie Hapgood; the first person of African-American descent to ever play UK professional football, Steve Stacey; and current Labour councillor Kye Dudd.

All four of the league’s divisions play on the same set of pitches every Saturday at 2pm on the Clifton Downs – meaning each match is played 'at home' – with over 41 teams, more than 1,500 players, and over 400 matches a season.

Click here to listen now

HAVE YOU READ OUR NOVEMBER ISSUE?

The latest edition of The Bristol Magazine has embraced some of the city's rebellious spirit...

Bristolians are known to some as rebels with big hearts who choose to speak up, act out and aren't afraid to live a little differently. And we've fully embraced this approach to life in our November issue, including an exclusive chat with Carol Vorderman about her new book on politics, and a visit to Rockaway Park where a community of artists, punks and those seeking an alternative way of life are hard at work trying to improve the world for other people too. 

But even rebels need a safe place to unwind, and we've got just the thing in our interiors feature, which shows you how to create the cosiest nooks at home in which to see out the winter months. Plus all our regular, luxurious lifestyle features and plenty more!

15,000 copies are delivered door to door, and you can pick up a copy at many places around town – including our stands at Waitrose, John Lewis and Harvey Nichols.

Read the digital version of our current issue here!

And if you would like to have a copy sent in the post every month, then we offer a postal subscription for just £33 for 12 issues, £18 for six issues or buy a copy for just £4.95. UK mainland prices. For Euro and World zone subscription prices – click here to subscribe on our website. 

Jerk Chicken Curry

Recipe by Melissa Blease

Shake up your cosy curry repertoire with this simple take on a classic Caribbean dish, laden with earthy spices and dynamic flavours.

Jerk paste - a tantalising combination of spices including chillies, cumin, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, clove and allspice - is readily available in all big supermarkets and Caribbean grocery stores. If you have any paste left over after making this dish, store it in the fridge and use it to spice up soups, casseroles and stews… or roll your spuds in it to put a unique twist on classic roast potatoes.

Ingredients (serves 4)
1kg chicken skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
3 tbsp Jamaican Jerk paste
1 onion, peeled and chopped
1 red pepper, deseeded and diced
1 heaped tsp medium strength curry powder
1 heaped tsp dried thyme
400g can chopped tomatoes
400ml can coconut milk

To serve: steamed rice; a large handful of fresh coriander, chopped

Method

1. Lightly score the chicken thigh skin, tip into a large bowl and smother with 2 tbsp of the Jerk paste. Using clean hands, squidge the paste into all the nooks and crannies, cover with cling film and leave to marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 1 hour (or up to 6 hours). 

2. Heat a little vegetable oil in a large frying pan and fry the chicken and onion over a medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is brown on both sides and the onion is starting to caramelise. Add the red pepper, curry powder, remaining Jerk paste and thyme and continue to cook for a further 2 minutes.

3. Add the tomatoes and coconut milk to the pan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid from the pan and continue to simmer for a further 15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is thoroughly cooked throughout.

4. Serve in warmed bowls accompanied by steamed rice and sprinkled with plenty of freshly-chopped coriander.

French white wine at The Great Wine Co.

There is not, and will never be, anywhere quite like France: eccentric, idiosyncratic and unswervingly confident as it is in the ability of 'terroir' and tradition to continue to produce the world's best wine in the face of ever-increasing competition. The French are immensely proud of their heritage and with a winemaking history stretching back over 2000 years this is hardly a surprise.

Vin de France Blanc, Anciens Temps | £9.95
Kate Sauvignon Blanc, IGP Oc, Aubert & Mathieu | £12.95
Picpoul de Pinet, Réserve Roquemolière| £12.95
Bourgogne Côte d'Or Chardonnay, Nuiton-Beaunoy | £19.95

Click here to see these and much more at The Great Wine Co.

The Tudor Heritage Ranger

Celebrating the British North Greenland expedition of 1952, Tudor’s Heritage Ranger is a special model that embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure. Based on the original Oyster Prince watches used by the 1950 expedition team, the Ranger is a 39mm steel case with baton markers and Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock. Vintage watch enthusiasts will appreciate the beige hour markers painted in luminescent material which contrast perfectly with the grained, matt black dial and match the tone of the TUDOR shield logo and inscriptions. Inside is powered by the Manufacturer Calibre MT5402: "a weekend proof" 70 hour automatic movement. 

This robust, classic looking watch is a great all-rounder; pleasing on the eye and cool on the wrist, it is available with either a steel bracelet at £2,860 or with a black hybrid rubber strap or a green fabric strap at £2,580.

Find out more about the Tudor Heritage Ranger models at Mallory.

Clifton Rocks' stacking rings

Clifton Rocks' signature stacking rings have been crafted in 9ct yellow gold. Set with traceable Canada Mark diamonds, they make a perfect Christmas gift. Also available in silver.

£172-£222

Click here to explore the entire collection
31 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4JG

Des Petits Hauts Severine Sequin Skirt in Antique Gold available at Maze

The Severine skirt from Des Petits Hauts is a stunning maxi-length sequin piece, perfect for the coming holiday season. 

Featuring an elasticated waist for easy wear, it 's versatile enough to dress down with trainers and a jumper or elevate for a night out. 

Maze Clothing | £179

Click here to buy now, or visit the Maze store at 26-28 The Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DS

Penhaligon's Fragrant Fancies

Allow Penhaligons’ worldly olfactory craft to exude your home with festive spirit this year: Introducing their exciting new Christmas candle collections for 2024 – featuring the brand’s most-loved scents, alongside the limited-edition Festive Folly for ultimate luxury fuelled aromas.

Two classic candles served with a special side of festive folly – featuring much-loved favourites in 65g. Comoros Pearl, notes of tuberose and heady white flowers, Maduro Leaf, woody aromas with Cuban smoke, and of course, Festive Folly, prepared with vanilla and tobacco and season with spice.

Penhaligon's | £75
Click here to buy now

Curated by Daniel McCabe

The latest issue of German typography magazine Slanted (no. 44) explores the intersection of fonts and fashion. It turns out to be quite a hot spot indeed, a cutting edge zone for the former and a dynamic canvas for expression for the latter that embraces the unconventional, the provocative, the political and the conceptual to challenge the status quo in both industries. I think this is one of the most interesting releases from Slanted, and you won’t really need a strong interest in either fashion or type to be dazzled. | £25

magalleria.co.uk

Altered State: tales of inner strength
19 November, 7.30pm

Hear extraordinary tales from ostensibly ordinary people; the panel will talk about risk taking, bravery, determination and coping mechanisms. They will share the lessons learnt in the hope that this can inspire us all to be the best version of ourselves.

The Panelists:
Douglas Robertson, survivor of being stuck on a raft for 38 days in the Pacific Ocean.
Dr. Rachael Craven, War and disaster zone surgeon and Uk President of Doctors Without Borders.
Dan Beaumont, endurance athlete and mental health advocate.

The event is hosted by Polly Morland, award winning author and documentary maker.

Hen & Chicken, 210 North St, BS3 1JF
Click here to book your tickets now.

Harry Potter at Clifton College Chapel
Friday 13 December & Saturday 14 December

Join Bristol Film Festival this Christmas season in one of Bristol’s most beautiful venues, which feels like Bristol’s very own Hogwarts. Step through Memorial Arch on College Road and make your way into this magnificent space to enjoy these family favourites back on the big screen.

On Friday 13 December, join Harry as he embarks on his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, with Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone. As Harry navigates this exciting new world alongside his new friends, it soon transpires that there are hidden dangers lurking within Hogwarts’ walls.

On Saturday 14 December, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets sees Harry return for a second year of Hogwarts, with his best friends Ron and Hermione. However, something evil has awoken in Hogwarts - and is targeting the students...

Friday showings: 4pm & 8pm
Saturday showings: 4pm & 7.45pm

Click here to book now.
Clifton College Chapel, Clifton College, 31 College Road, Clifton, Bristol

Connections Through Wood exhibition

This November, join Connections Through Wood for a wonderful exhibition of all things wooden, showcasing the beauty of native timbers, creativity and traditional skills by eight award-winning artisan designer/makers. 

Chair makers, woodcarving, green woodworkers, basket makers, woodturners and fine furniture makers are all featured in this unique show. There will be live demonstrations and an opportunity to speak to the makers.

All welcome:
Friday 22 6pm – 9pm preview evening
Saturday 23–27 November 10am – 6pm daily

Free admission
Instagram: @connectionsthroughwood

Click here to learn more.
Centrespace Gallery, Leonard lane, Bristol BS1 1EA

Christmas on the SS Great Britain, Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 December

The SS Great Britain was launched in 1843, the same year Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol, but there won’t be a Scrooge in sight on the ship’s festive weekend. Instead, young explorers can meet Old Father Christmas, who will be wearing the traditional green robes of the Victorian era. 

Visitors can expect a choral extravaganza, with singing groups from around the South West set to bring seasonal cheer throughout the weekend. The dockyard will be covered in holly, ivy, and mistletoe, and hand-made Victorian decorations will deck the halls of the ship. Guests can also join in with craft sessions, where they can make their own sailor’s charm tree decoration or Christmas card.

On select dates throughout December, the SS Great Britain will also be offering festive lunches on board the ship. Diners can enjoy a carefully curated two-course meal featuring the best of seasonal flavours in the opulence of the First Class Dining Saloon.

Click here to book your tickets now.

SS Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol BS1 6TY

Family Christmas Magic and Song at 1904Arts
Saturday 7 December, 6pm

The Great Baldini, Magician Extraordinaire and the Women's Choir Vocalia have come together to present a magical Family Christmas Show of old favourites and glorious involving music for all the family and mysterious, uproarious befuddling, amazing conjuring from the "incredible" (BBC Arts) Emperor of Illusion. Join in and sing and be amazed!

Click here to get your tickets now.

1904 Arts, Red Lodge, Park Row, BS1 5LJ

4 bedroom house in Axbridge, BS26

Offered for sale by Peter Greatorex estate agents.

A stylish and individually designed contemporary home, completed in 2021, Kattegat is the first of three luxury oak framed houses to come to the market within this exclusive development. With 3/4 bedrooms, the house maximizes its connection to the surrounding landscape with garden-facing windows and doors, making the most of the natural light. The open-plan living area is located on the first floor, taking advantage of the southerly aspect over the garden, neighbouring field and views towards the Cheddar reservoir.

The front door opens to a bright and spacious double-height hallway with an oak and steel staircase, the stairwell of which is enhanced with Indian and Cambodian back lit carved wooden screens.The ground floor has three uniquely designed double bedrooms with wooden shuttered French doors leading to the veranda and garden and two impeccably styled bathrooms, adding an imaginative touch of colour and luxury through-out.

To see more images and review the details click here to visit the property on the Peter Greatorex website