My Wiltshire Life - Simone Brightstein (From Wiltshire Times)

My Wiltshire Life - Simone Brightstein

12:30pm Thursday 22nd February 2007

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SIMONE Brightstein, 70, is the author of two books, Hosts of Ghosts, published in 2005, and Oshun's Gold, published on Valentine's Day this year.

It centres on an African goddess of love, Oshun, mixed with an amusing peek into the beauty industry and the world of high fashion and luxury. Mrs Brightstein was born in Birmingham but moved to Canada when she was 11 where she married and had children. She moved back to the UK to live in Bradford on Avon six years ago when she separated from her husband. She has a daughter, who lives in Toronto with her husband and two children, and a son who lives in Ottawa. Oshun's Gold is available to buy from Ex Libris bookshop in Bradford on Avon and can be ordered from most major bookshops nationwide.

What do you like most about living in Wiltshire?

It is so beautiful and I never get tired of looking at it. The people are amazingly friendly. There is something about Bradford on Avon, the people have been just so warm and welcoming - I felt at home almost immediately.

Where would you recommend for a good evening out and why?

My best evenings are spent at home or at friends, but for dinner I like The Pear Tree, it's absolutely wonderful. For an evening out I enjoy the Wiltshire Music Centre, I have never been disappointed there.

Who would be your ideal dining partner and why?

Terry Pratchett. He is one of the writers I admire the most, I have a passion for comedy writers and he lives in Wiltshire so he wouldn't have far to travel.

Which local landmark or attraction would you recommend?

The Tithe Barn in Bradford on Avon. Avebury Stone Circle - I had a big disappointment when I brought my children over to see Stonehenge and we couldn't get near the stones so Avebury is very special now.

What is your favourite book and why?

It's got to be almost anything by PG Wodehouse especially Jeeves and Wooster. He was a master of the English language and humour.

What is your favourite music and why?

I love music - probably contemporary African music because I think all music originally comes from Africa.

How do you relax?

I listen to music, read and cook. Also I meditate - I took a course back in Canada and another in vegetarian cooking and meditation in Devon a few years ago.

What keeps you awake at night?

Very little, I sleep quite well.

If you were stranded on a desert island what three things would you take?

A CD player, my library of books and music and lots of sunscreen.

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