The Plymouth Magazine issue 100

plymouth magazine the

Issue 100 October 2012

Published since May 2004 and now DELIVERED FREE

to over 40,000 homes in Plymouth www.plymouthliving.co.uk

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Little did we think when we launched the plymouth magazine in May 2004 that we would still be here more than eight years later.

We celebrated our 50th edition just over four years ago by featuring Tom Daley and Tonia Couch on the front cover as they headed off to Beijing to represent Great Britain in the 2008 Olympics – and here they are again having returned to the city to a tumultous welcome from the people of Plymouth after the 2012 London Olympics.

We congratulate them on their success and hope you will forgive us for a little selfindulgence for blowing our own trumpet in celebrating our 100th edition.

In these tough economic times when so much of the mainstream media is struggling to survive, it is particularly pleasing to reflect on the success of this magazine, which has undoubtedly made its mark in the community we serve here in Plymouth.

We have always tried to make the magazine informative, entertaining and hopefully inspirational and, above all, positive about this wonderful city in which we live and work. It is a formula which seems to have worked and proves the point that people do like to read good news, despite what the doom and gloom merchants would have us believe.

Thank you to you, our loyal readers, who pick up the magazine month in and month out and respond to the stories, event information and advertisements which it contains.

Thank you to the local businesses and organisations who have supported us down the years by promoting their goods and services in the magazine.

Thank you to all my colleagues in the hard-working team at Cornerstone who work tirelessly to produce a magazine which people look forward to receiving.

And last, but by no means least, a huge thank you to our brilliant team of distributors who brave the elements month in and month out to ensure that 40,000 copies of the publication land on doormats in the city – without fail.

Here’s to the next 100!

Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Designers: Lawrence Bird and Sven Lauch Photography: Roy Perring Contributors: Anthony Goord; Jonathan Morcom; Bev Saunders; Kerry Cole; Mark Mears; Jonathan Petch; Fiona Newton and Derek Anderson.

Listings: Matthew Girdler Advertising sales: Naomi Shearer, Sarah Simpson, Lisette Hicklin Stefanie Clifton-Sprigg and Shakira Floyd Distribution: John Kowalski Finance: Kim Craig Contacts: Editorial Tel: 01752 268635 e-mail: chris@cornerstonevision.com Advertising Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: ian@cornerstonevision.com The views expressed in the plymouth magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this magazine. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the magazine. the plymouth magazine is distributed free to 40,000 homes across Plymouth each month, with a further 5,000 copies strategically placed in leisure and retail outlets in Plymouth, Saltash and Tavistock.

Published by Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY Tel 01752 225623 Fax 01752 673441 e-mail info@cornerstonevision.com web: www.plymouthliving.co.uk the plymouth magazine

3

‘New insoles

Advertorial

saved me from surgery

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For more than 40 years Marguerite Sperring from Plymouth suffered with increasingly severe pain in her feet.

up with the pain,” she said.

The problem was caused by a combination of raised arches and bunions – a bony protusion of the big toe joint – often forcing Marguerite to walk in bare feet.

“I was in Plymouth city centre the very next day and I saw Foot Solutions and realised they offered exactly what had been described in the Dragon’s Den programme.”

“I couldn’t find shoes that were comfortable and I was always in pain with my feet,” said Marguerite.

Marguerite walked into the Royal Parade store – and acknowledges that it was the most important step in her life.

“I needed a wide fitting because of the bunions, but this inevitably meant that the shoes were sloppy on my feet and led to more problems.”

The experienced team at Foot Solutions carried out a series of tests and analysis and identified the full extent of Marguerite’s challenge.

The former HR specialist from Devonport sought help from her GP on a number of occasions, but was advised that the problem could only be solved with surgery.

Foot Solutions supplied insoles to provide arch support which are suitable to wear with high heels, slippers and other types of her shoes.

“I was also told that until the pain became unbearable it would not warrant surgery. I couldn’t afford to go privately so I just had to put

“I can’t believe what a difference the special insoles have made. I didn’t realise how severe the pain had become - until it had gone!

By chance she saw a repeat of the TV programme Dragon’s Den which featured an item about a shoe business which promised relief for people with problems similar to Marguerite.

I can now walk tall and enjoy my life without pain and discomfort,” said Marguerite.

singing. Now I can sing without having to take so many breaths,” said Marguerite.

Marguerite – who sings in the choir at Plymouth Cathedral – has also received an unexpected bonus because of Foot Solutions. “My posture was poor due to my fallen arches which restricted my lung capacity and in turn affected my

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october 2012 edition

6

sarah’s in a jam

8

feel good factor

10

talented artist simon

21

what’s on in plymouth

14

bev’s fashion tips

54

groomed for stardom

Plymouth entrepreneur Sarah Greep has developed an award-winning food product which everyone is talking about – Janner Jam. We talk to Sarah about her success.

Kerry Cole meets Simon Bennett, an inspirational and incredibly talented Plymouth artist who overcame adversity to achieve remarkable success.

Bev Saunders of Bee Bee Gowns in Plymouth comes up with some brilliant tips on how to make the most of a classic evening dress – and some accessories.

Duke of Cornwall Hotel Jon Morcom, chair of Conference Plymouth, is feeling upbeat about the city’s prospects after a year of high-profile events and developments.

The sensational ever-popular musical ‘Chicago’ is at the Theatre Royal in November. Our big What’s On section has details of this and other exciting events in coming weeks.

A recently-launched mobile dog grooming business in Plymouth is enjoying big success – and getting tails wagging acros the city.

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women at work

sweet taste of success for sarah

Plymouth mother of two Sarah Greep is enjoying the sweet taste of business success – thanks to her award-winning Janner Jam. She only launched the home-made product in December last year, but demand for Janner Jam is growing rapidly as word spreads about its terrific taste.

Sarah said that she came up with the idea of Janner Jam in a ‘flash of inspiration’ last year. “I knew in an instant what I would call it, how I would make it and where I wanted to sell it,” she said.

Janner Jam contains at least 50 per cent strawberries – grown locally wherever possible – with the only other ingredients being sugar, pectin and lemon juice.

Sarah’s idea was based on producing a souvenir gift named after the locals based on the culture and Sarah Greep – history of the traditional strawberry jam used in Devonshire cream teas.

Initially she held down a full time job while making jam in the evenings and weekends, but with sales increasingly rapidly she decided to give up her job and dedicate all her time to Janner Jam. It is already on sale in several outlets in the Plymouth area as well as being used for cream teas by cafés such as The Boat House and Dutton’s on the Barbican.

The product can also be purchased online and Sarah is busy finding new outlets and business opportunities for Janner Jam. Production is increasing all the time and she may soon have to call on the assistance of a commercial kitchen to help make the jam.

She recently endeared herself to hundreds of football fans when she gave away

the brains behind awardwinning Janner Jam

complimentary mini jars of the jam at the legendary Plymouth Argyle Fans Fest, which precedes most matches at Home Park.

“I was invited by the Green Taverners who organise the Fans Fest,” said Sarah, “mainly because they always sing the Janner Song at the end of each event.”

She also has friends in high places. Lord Janner of Braunstone – former MP Greville Janner – is a fan of the product. “I sent him a complimentary jar and he loved it,” said Sarah. “He has since placed a big order and invited me to the House of Lords.”

Sarah’s Janner Jam also won Best Local Food Product in the Plymouth Food Awards 2012, run by Food Plymouth. The award was sponsored by the University of Plymouth and, in line with the Plymouth Food Charter, had to contain an element of ‘enterprise and innovation’ where the public voted, said Sarah. She was presented with the award at the Flavour Fest in August.

Sarah is no stranger to sweet things. Her grandfather ran a confectionery business in the city for many years and Sarah worked on a sweet stall in the Pannier Market in her youth.

“We made our own chocolate confectionary, including vast quantities of chocolate apples,” she said.

She mainly worked in retail and admin positions while raising a family and went on to study further in horticulture and organic food production. She took a degree in environmental science as a mature student and went on to teach in lifelong learning.

“I spent time volunteering and working in the field of sustainable food production and am passionate about local food and community spirit,” said Sarah. She also runs a small voluntary organisation called ‘Pulp’ which encourages communities to use and share the fruit grown on trees in their gardens. “So much fruit just falls on the ground and goes to waste in gardens across the city,” she said.

Sarah has plenty of fresh ideas for the future – including the introduction of more flavours of home-made jam and other locally produced food products.

She has also come up with the idea of a Janner Jam jam: “an event for musicians to jam which will be held in the Green Taverners marquee at Home Park in May next year, alongside a family fun day,” she said.

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the plymouth magazine

For more information including where to buy Janner Jam visit the website at www.jannerjam.com

the plymouth magazine

7

plymouth matters

the feel-good factor is Government minister Lord Green summed it up when he visited the city in September: ‘Plymouth has too many well-kept secrets.’

Speaking at the Chamber of Commerce Business Expo as part of the Marine City Festival Lord Green said: “Plymouth has so much to offer - world-leading marine technology, a vibrant creative business environment, a lot of entrepreneurial talent and a great quality of life.”

But the Minister for Trade and Investment told representatives from the business community: “Unfortunately too much of this is a well-kept secret.”

He urged representatives from the public and private sector to pull together and make the most of the city’s many assets.

Lord Green’s speech comes at a time when I believe there is real and positive evidence of new-found co-operation and determination to put Plymouth on the map, not just nationally but also internationally.

As chairman of Conference Plymouth I feel a sense of growing optimism about the city’s future – certainly as far as the leisure and hospitality sector is concerned.

We’ve had a tremendous few months of events in the city - the Olympic Torch celebration, National Armed Forces Day, British Fireworks Championships, Flavour Fest and most recently the first-ever Marine City Festival.

Although in its infancy the Festival has had a big impact in areas such as culture, education, science, business and leisure.

The Seafood Festival which brought the whole event to a close was a perfect showcase for the culinary talent which we enjoy here in Plymouth.

The Marine City Festival certainly celebrated our maritime heritage and was made possible thanks to the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and the BID (Business

by Jonathan Morcom

Co-owner of the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Chair of Conference Plymouth, a board member of the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and Chair of the Steering Group for the Centre of Vocational Excellence at City College Plymouth Improvement District) funding which was secured earlier this year.

Another of the important benefits of the BID funding is the creation of Destination Plymouth, the new visitor marketing and inward investment body for the city.

Recruitment of a high calibre chief executive for the new organisation is under way, underlining the importance role of Destination Plymouth.

The Visit Plymouth website created by Destination Plymouth provides comprehensive information for visitors and includes a dedicated Conferences section which highlights Plymouth’s credentials as an ideal location for major events and gatherings.

Conference Plymouth has received a huge boost thanks to the BID funding.

For the first time ever we had our own dedicated stand at the Group Leisure and Travel Trade Show at the NEC in Birmingham in September, and our presence at this important event has brought Plymouth to the attention of literally thousands of tour operators and conference organisers. The Plymouth stand was manned by James Deacon, the newly-appointed conference and events manager at Plymouth Pavilions.

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the plymouth magazine

extra help a helping hand

TM

Big crowds headed to the Barbican for the first-ever Seafood Festival which featured special demonstrations by the city’s top chefs including the Tanner Brothers pictured here

returning!

His primary focus is securing national and international business for the Pavilions Arena.

The impending £70 million redevelopment of the Pavilions will provide greatly enhanced conference facilities - which will in turn help attract major events and bring much needed revenue into the local economy.

The giant GMB union will be holding their conference in Plymouth next year and hopefully in future years. There are a number of other exciting prospects in the pipeline.

The introduction of a comprehensive familiarisation programme for potential conference organisers is another major step forward for Plymouth, as is the fact that we have recently agreed a deal with First Great Western to provide conference delegates with specially-discounted rail fares to the city.

When we host a national conference in the city it is essential that we not only have good transport links from London and other major cities into Plymouth, but that we can offer the transport at an attractive price.

Extras like disc ounted rail travel can often clinch the deal from our competitor cities, so we are delighted to have First Great Western onboard.

All of this activity is helping to create a real feel-good factor in the city as a whole and particularly in the Millbay area and west end of Plymouth.

We’re planning a whole series of exciting events and promotions and hope to attract many of the city’s residents to the hotel during the year. A lot more details will follow in my next article in December.

We’ve had an excellent year here at the Duke of Cornwall and we’re now finalising plans to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the opening of the hotel in 2013.

The Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Millbay Road, Plymouth Tel 01752 275850 www.dukeofcornwall.co.uk

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art matters

talented artist simon is such an inspiration In this month’s Art Matters feature I have the pleasure of bringing special attention to the work of a very talented Plymothian.

Simon Bennett is a figurative painter based on the Barbican. I went to visit him in his studio on White Lane, off Southside Street.

On entering I was immediately impacted with a fine array of portraits on a variety of different sized canvases displayed around the room. Stylistically, Simon very much appreciates the work of the late Robert Lenkiewicz and has been told by some that his work bears a resemblance.

Born in 1974, Simon grew up in Estover and attended the local comprehensive school. He enjoyed his art lessons and thrived under the tuition and encouragement of some very good art teachers.

Artistic gifting ran in his family and his father, who was a painter and illustrator, made lots of models and picture books.

Another big relational influence in Simon’s life was his grandmother. She encouraged his growing interest in theatre with her love of musical stage productions, pantomime and opera.

by

Kerry Cole

Phantom of the Opera and Starlight Express made a big impression on Simon and he used the latter in comic form as the basis for his GCSE art work.

He received an ‘A’ for his efforts and launched into a life of frequently visiting the London theatre scene. Here he sketched and painted in great detail many pieces of art based on the shows he was attending.

The calibre of his illustrations caught the eye of the artistic director at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth and Simon was invited to sketch from local live performances.

During this period he also spent time building his own model replicas of stage sets complete with lighting!

Through a season of personal tragedy Simon laid down his paintbrush for several years. At the same time he had an accident which caused nerve damage in one of his arms. Back to back viruses left him weak and very sick.

This effect on his health caused such a debilitation that he lost his ability to concentrate on the fine detailed drawings that he used to be able to produce with ease.

Despite this setback, he found employment

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the plymouth magazine

Simon paints Kerry as she interviews him

Plymouth’s Simon Bennett who overcame adversity to create a new career as an outstanding figurative artist

within retail and ended up managing a store and later he became the box office manager at the Theatre Royal. Throughout this time he still carried a passion for his creative gift, but chronic fatigue robbed him of expressing it.

Wise advice from a brilliant neurophysiologist at Derriford Hospital guided him into developing a rota of resetting daily routines.

He found that sticking closely to a pattern of regular activity gradually increased his ability to get going again. A tremor in his hand meant that he found it impossible to go back to the style of intricate drawing that he had previously known.

His capacity for the fine detail had diminished in the lack of co-ordination in his hand.

Up until this time Simon had never taken up art in a professional capacity. It had always been more of a hobby. Having enjoyed painting people in a compact style using photographic reference, Simon started to paint completely differently.

He was delighted to discover that people loved what he was producing. He explained: “In July 2010 I started painting again and accepting my limitations I developed a new style where I abandoned drawing One of Simon’s Phantom of the Opera and instead painted paintings much more broadly, literally seeing shapes of colour, measuring by eye and developing work quickly and by instinct rather than design.

“Things improved and by January of this year I settled into my new studio in White Lane. This publicly accessible, new space has allowed me to really stretch my wings and take the time to better develop my technique.”

You can contact Simon in several ways. His website conveys the style and quality of his work and I encourage you to visit him in his studio.

He can be also be contacted on his mobile: 07982 698456 or by email at simonbennett@blueyonder.co.uk. Why not visit his website at www.skbennett.com where you can also see examples of his stunning work.

Simon’s work is also on display at The Kaya Gallery, 53 Southside Street, The Barbican, Tel 01752 267474 web www.kayagallery.co.uk Kaya Gallery will be following up their hugely successful one-day summer sale with a similar event at The Treasury, Plymouth on Saturday November 17. The work of a number of talented West Country artists will be featured.

For more information contact Norman Holmes on 01752 267474.

Kerry Cole is author of an arts style book called The Purple Veil. For more information visit www.thepurpleveil.com the plymouth magazine

11

100 reasons publishing A local publishing milestone is reached this month with the production of the 100th edition of the Plymouth Magazine.

The popular monthly, full-colour magazine has been published by Peverell-based Cornerstone Vision since May 2004.

While other sectors of the mainstream media have had to cope with falling revenues and circulation, the Plymouth Magazine has gone from strengthto-strength.

Publisher Chris Girdler, one of the partners at Cornerstone Vision, said: “Our first edition of the magazine consisted of 32 pages and was delivered to 30,000 homes in the city. Our most recent edition had 64 pages and was delivered to 40,000 homes across Plymouth.

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“We now also distribute a further 5,000 copies through hotels, restaurants and other outlets across the city, as well as making copies available at supermarkets in Saltash and Tavistock.”

He said that the number of people living outside the distribution area who now subscribe to the magazine was increasing all the time, underlining the popularity and success of the publication.

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“We have seen our advertising revenues increase year on year and this has enabled us to steadily increase the editorial content and extend distribution to more and more homes in the city.”

Chris said that the publication is designed as a ‘kitchen table’ rather than a ‘coffee table’ magazine. “It’s aimed at families in general – and busy mums in particular – who want to find out what’s going on in the city in an easy-to-read format.

“Our editorial ethos is to provide a free magazine that is informative, entertaining and hopefully inspiring. There are so many success stories in Plymouth to report – from individuals who achieve personal success in their lives, to local businesses which are thriving despite the economic situation.

“As a relatively small independent business ourselves, we recognise the important contribution of small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to the local economy, both in terms of trade and employment.

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the plymouth magazine

WHAT OUR ADVERTISERS SAY Since advertising with Plymouth Magazine we have had a truly impressive response to our advertisements.

The professional approach of all the team backed by their genuine interest in our success means I would not hesitate in recommending the Plymouth Magazine as marketing money well spent.

ANDREW SCOWCROFT, FOOT SOLUTIONS

publishing matters

to celebrate a success “We continue to champion the cause of independent businesses, highlighting the incredible range of services and goods they deliver. We hope that by doing this we can help to underpin the independent sector of the local business community.

“We also want to encourage people to shop in Plymouth and will continue to promote the enormous range of special events and activities taking place in the city.

This year alone we have given major prominence to events such as the Barbican International Jazz and Blues Festival, Flavour Fest and most recently the inaugural Marine City Festival and Plymouth International the Book Festival.

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“Plymouth is such a vibrant city and we want to play our part to encourage our readers to participate and enjoy as many of the facilities and activities as possible.”

Chris said that the continuing support of advertisers – many of whom have been customers of Cornerstone Vision since its launch – had made it possible to increase distribution of the magazine.

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He said that another important factor in the success of the magazine was due to Cornerstone Vision’s team of more than 50 hard-working distributors who ensure that copies are delivered to tens of thousands of homes in the city - whatever the weather.

“We work very hard to ensure that our distribution is as effective as it can be. The fact that so much of our advertising is repeat business underlines the success of that commitment.

“We receive extremely positive feedback from advertisers who receive a positive response from readers, helping to boost sales of the products and services which they offer.

Cornerstone Vision also publishes the Shopper series of community newspapers which are delivered to 62,000 homes in Plymouth each month. The company also offers a cost-effective leaflet distribution service, established more than 25 years ago, which currently handles more than four million items a year.

For more information contact Chris Girdler or Ian Pilkington on 01752 225623 or visit www.plymouthliving.co.uk WHAT OUR ADVERTISERS SAY Over the years, the Plymouth Magazine has become the most effective advertising medium that Peter Goord Travel uses in the Plymouth area. It gives us good responses in the form of customers who book with us repeatedly, and it has definitely increased awareness of our company.

ANTHONY GOORD, PETER GOORD TRAVEL the plymouth magazine

13

fashion matters

By Bev Saunders of Bee Bee Gowns

Buying a classic designer evening dress can be one of the best investments you make.

The evening dress featured here, modelled by my trainee manager Jaz Lockwood, cost less than £200 and we have demonstrated how a huge number of different looks can be achieved with some imagination and the use of lots of different accessories.

The most important thing is to choose a quality dress in the first place. The beautiful full-length evening dress shown here is boned, lined, netted and cupped so it is ideal as the foundation for a whole range of looks.

Dresses purchased in High Street stores simply can’t achieve the same effect.

We have used a range of accessories including cap sleeves, wraps, shrugs necklaces, brooches, gloves, handbags, fascinators and belts to demonstrate how easy it is to achieve dozens of different styles.

Everything is possible – from the classic evening gown look for a soft womanly feel right through to girly and sassy.

A range of accessories costing less than £100 can give you the things you need to create different looks for every occasion.

Our pictures show how these accessories can be used to transform a classic evening dress into a whole range of styles.

We love to show our customers how to use these accessories and they are invariably amazed at what can be achieved.

There’s an old saying – you get what you pay for – and that is certainly true with this dress.

Some people are tempted to buy

14

Classic evening dress (right) and the sort of accessories (above) which can create different looks the plymouth magazine

one classic dress - dozens of different looks dresses on the internet - but my advice is don’t do it! You might save a few pounds but you may end up with something that doesn’t fit that well and you can’t send it back.

On the other hand you can spend just a little more and get the dress of your dreams which, as the pictures below show, can be adapted to create so many looks - from bridesmaid to Moulin Rouge and a great deal more in between.

Pop in and see us at West Park - we’ll love to show you what we can do for you.

Bee Bee Gowns 434 Crownhill Road, West Park Plymouth Tel 01752 350305 www.bee-beegowns. co.uk

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food matters

heaven is a celebrating this Plymouth’s popular Heaven restaurant and bar is preparing for a busy few months with the addition of its new pub menu, the introduction of regular cuisine themed evenings and the launch of a comprehensive ‘Christmas in Heaven’ promotion.

Restaurateur Mehdi Taheri said the Exeter Street eatery was hoping to attract many new customers between now and the end of the year.

“For those who haven’t visited Heaven before, it’s located at the site of the former First and Last pub and since taking over the premises in 2009 we have turned it into a chic and modern venue with a variety of dining areas,” said Mehdi.

“Our private dining room can offer comfortable seating for 40 covers, while the main restaurant can accommodate 70 diners. We also have our heated marquee which is extremely popular for weddings, anniversaries and other celebrations.

“We are always looking for ways to give customers more choice and more variety,” added Mehdi. “Our Sunday carvery is already one of the most popular around and we hope our new pub menu will prove equally successful with a range of traditional main courses, all priced at just £7.

“The pub menu is available Tuesdays to Friday from 12 noon until 3pm and from 6pm Heaven’s Mehdi Taheri with a fresh to 9pm, as well as Sunday Welsh lamb ready to be prepared for the from 12 noon to 6pm. The restaurant’s popular Sunday carvery menu features popular choices such as fish and chips, braised belly pork, sausage and mash and confit of duck leg.

“We also plan to launch special evenings on a regular basis when we will focus on authentic cuisine from around the world. This will include a West Indian night, Persian evening and other similar events.

vegboxes, meat & more to your door

boxes from £10.35 with free delivery

call us on 01752 790703 or visit www.riverford.co.uk 16

the plymouth magazine

“We recognise that people may not be able to dine out as often as they once did because of the current financial difficulties, so we want to offer something special and memorable at affordable prices on a regular basis,” he added.

The recent introduction of draught beers and lagers at Heaven has also proved popular with customers.

The restaurant’s two and three course menu is available lunchtime and evenings from Tuesday to Saturday and offers excellent value at £15.95 for two courses or £18.95 for three courses.

Mehdi said that the restaurant’s plans for the festive season include a Christmas Day menu at £39.95, with under 12s half price and under threes eating for free.

The restaurant’s Christmas menu will be launched in November with an extensive three course option at £15 for lunch (Sunday to Thursday) and £18.95 (Friday and Saturday). The menu is also available in the evenings priced at £18.95 (Sunday to

great place for christmas Thursday) and £25.95 on Friday and Saturday.

“This year at Heaven we want to make Christmas one to remember, so every Friday and Saturday throughout December we will be having a disco in our heated marquee from 7pm until midnight. It will be a great place for parties and festive celebrations, and we will be serving drinks until 2am so there will be no need for people to rush away.”

He said that as part of their work in the community they will be taking food to homeless people at Bretonside on Heaven Restaurant and Bar in Christmas Day. “Christmas can be Exeter St and (below) the heated a very lonely time and this will be the marquee at the venue third year running that we have tried to spread a little cheer among those who live on the streets,” said Mehdi.

Heaven is one of two restaurants opened by Mehdi and his team. His first venture – B.E.D. in Bretonside – celebrated its 10th anniversary earlier this year and their outside catering company The Flying B.E.D. continues to go from strength to strength.

“Flying B.E.D. was created because of the success of the restaurant and we cater for events of all levels and sizes, from an intimate dinner to weddings and charity balls,” said Mehdi. “We have provided catering for weddings at some of the most prestigious locations in the South West, including Oldway Mansion in Torbay, Pentillie Castle and Port Eliot in Cornwall and many others.”

Heaven’s front of house manager Becky Murphy pulling a pint for a customer

For more information contact Medhi at Heaven, 162 Exeter Street, Plymouth Tel 01752 223232 or visit www.iloveheaven.co.uk the plymouth magazine

17

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food matters

recipe of the month sponsored by riverford organic

For more information please call 01209 891888 Or visit www.sharedlivessw.org.uk

roast carrot salad with lentils and goat’s cheese Serves 4-6 New season carrots taste very good when roasted This delicious dish

by Jane Baxter, the and don’t need to be cooked for too long. This original chef from salad will be just as successful with some new Everyday and beetroot, roasted in its skin then peeled, added to Sunday Recipes or instead of the carrots. To cook the Puy lentils, from Riverford Farm put them in a large pan with enough water to cover by 2cm, add some peeled cloves of garlic, bring to a boil and simmer until tender (about 20 minutes). Drain the lentils and dress with some oil and seasoning while still warm. ½ red onion, finely chopped; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tsp brown sugar 1 bunch new carrots, washed, trimmed and halved lengthways 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp honey; sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 tbsp cooked Puy lentils; 1 garlic clove, crushed; 2 pitta breads, or other flatbreads 100g salad leaves, or 1 bunch watercress; 100g hard goat’s cheese Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas Mark 4. First of all, soak the red onion in the vinegar and sugar. Toss the carrots in 1 tbsp oil and the honey. Season and roast on a baking tray in the oven for about 30 minutes until tender. Toss the carrots with the cooked lentils, garlic, soaked red onion and remaining olive oil. Rip the bread into small pieces and toast in the oven for 5 minutes or until crisp. In a large bowl, gently mix together the bread, carrot and lentil mixture and the salad leaves. Check the seasoning. Transfer to a serving dish and crumble the goat’s cheese over or drizzle with the dressing.

for more information and recipes visit www.riverford.co.uk

call ian + emma on 01752 790703 18

the plymouth magazine

Sally & David enjoying their new kitchen. Read about other customers experiences on our feedback page at www.kfkitchens.co.uk

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the plymouth magazine

what’s on?

theatres & shows Theatre Royal

Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com

Oct 3 to Oct 6 Beautiful Burnout

This thrilling piece of highly physical theatre immerses the audience in the explosive world of boxing. This award winning collaboration between Frantic Assembly and National Theatre of Scotland will assault your senses and challenge your preconceptions about the most controversial sport of our time.

The ever-popular rock and roll show That’ll Be the Day is at the Theatre Royal on Nov 11

The winner of the funniest joke at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, master of one-liners and star of Mock The Week, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and Live At The Apollo embarks on a new tour with an hilarious new show!

Oct 9 to 10 Birmingham Royal Ballet: Autumn Celebration

Autumn Celebration is a trio of short ballets in one evening which gives a taste of Shakespeare, Noel Coward and Olympic Dreams.

Nov 23 and 24 Batsheva Ensemble

Israel’s outstanding Batsheva Dance

Oct 11 to 13 Birmingham Royal Ballet: Swan Lake

A timeless story of good, evil and the all conquering power of love, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake is without doubt the most famous of all classical ballets.

Oct 15 to 20 The Mousetrap

The Mousetrap is the world’s longest running stage production, and is celebrating its 60th year in 2012. To celebrate, it will begin its first ever UK tour including a week at the Theatre Royal Plymouth.

Oct 22 The Vagina Monologues

Based on author Eve Ensler’s Vagina Interviews this hilariously witty and moving collection of tales give voice to a chorus of lusty, outrageous, poignant, brave and thoroughly human stories.

Oct 24 to 26 Rambert Dance Company: Labyrinth of Love

Rambert Dance Company, the national company for contemporary dance, presents the powerful, heart-breaking, and humourous Labyrinth of Love.

Oct 27 Seth Lakeman

Folk-inspired, multi-award winning singer/songwriter, Seth Lakeman has announced a 16 date UK tour in

Nov 18 Stewart Francis – Outstanding in his Field

Company is showcasing their new talent, Batsheva Ensemble, in the UK for the first time this autumn. Talented young dancers aged between 18 and 24 from across the world have been selected by choreographer Ohad Naharin and will be the future of contemporary dance. Deca Dance is a collection of Naharin’s most memorable and favourite segments of his creations over the last 20 years, with music ranging from The Beach Boys to Vivaldi.

5 Star All Inclusive

Stewart Francis

October with his band at venues and theatres around the UK including a date at the Theatre Royal.

Nov 5 to 10 Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty

Winter Sunshine ★★★★★

From Just- £437 per person

Matthew Bourne’s haunting new production is a Gothic Romance for all ages; a supernatural love story that even the passage of time cannot hinder.

Nov 11 That’ll be the Day

This hugely entertaining rock ‘n’ roll spectacular features an all new line up of knock-out hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, mixed with loads of new zany comedy routines to produce a show with a real feel good party atmosphere.

Nov 13 to Nov 17 Glyndebourne

Glyndebourne brings world-class opera on its 25th visit to the Theatre Royal this November with Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro) and Rusalka, Dvorak’s take on Hans Christian Anderson’s The Little Mermaid. the plymouth magazine

21

what’s on?

Chicago is at the Theatre Royal from Nov 26 to Dec 1

theatres & shows

Nov 26 to Dec 1 Chicago

Playbox Tots Two Sessions available 8.50am to 2.50pm

Morning, afternoon and lunch club sessions available, term time only. £3.60 an hour.

Two year olds funding may be available to families who receive child tax credits at a rate higher than the family element.

There are many other local criteria you may qualify for, please call free phone 0800 783 4259 to enquire.

To book your child a place in Playbox Tots Two please telephone 01752 709286 or look us up on

www.playboxpreschool.co.uk and email a message Pennycross Church Pridham Lane, Peverell, Plymouth PL2 3PZ CHARITY NO 1037810

22

the plymouth magazine

A nightclub singer, a double-murderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin - this Broadway and West End classic comes to Plymouth with Ali Bastian (Hollyoaks, The Bill) as Roxie Hart, Stefan Booth (EastEnders, Dancing On Ice) as Billy Flynn and Bernie Nolan as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton.

With a score including All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle, it would be a crime to miss it.

Drum Theatre Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222

Until Oct 6 The Astronaut’s Chair

Directed by Theatre Royal artistic director Simon Stokes and written by Rona Munro, The Astronaut’s Chair is specially commissioned by the Drum Theatre.

Oct 16 to Oct 20 The Mysterious Vanishment of Pobby and Dingan

Based on Ben Rice’s acclaimed debut novel about how one boy’s mission to save his family unites an Australian outback opal-mining community, this is a funny and heartbreaking story about love, loyalty and the enduring power of the imagination.

Oct 23 to 27 Total Football

As sports world bigwigs prepared to descend on London for this year’s games and bureaucratic busybodies tried to figure out how best to exploit the national fervour, Ridiculusmus comes to Plymouth with its very own satirical take on it all.

Oct 30 to Nov 3 1 Beach Road

1 Beach Road is the new play from the award winning RedCape Theatre. It is a tale of friendship, defiance, a shrinking island, synchronized swimming and trying to turn back the tide.

Nov 6 to Nov 17 All That Is Wrong

Returning to the Drum direct from the Edinburgh Festival, Belgian company Ontroerend Goed bring their latest show back to Plymouth, following A History of Everything, Audience, Teenage Riot and Under The Influence. Everything is wrong. The big stuff, the little stuff and everything in between. How must this look through the eyes of a teenager?

Especially when the adults seem to have no idea how to fix things.

Nov 20 to 24 Stories from an Invisible Town

When Hugh Hughes returned to his childhood home in Llangefni to help his mum pack and move house, a tapestry of memories from his past, his family and the town he once called home began to unfold… Now we have the chance to join Hugh, his brother and his sister, as family skeletons leave their closets in this unpredictable and hilarious evening of family stories.

Nov 27 to Dec 1 Thirsty

Based on our nation’s love affair with alcohol, Thirsty weaves together real stories, memories and booze-based confessions collected from a ‘drunken hotline’ and an online questionnaire.

Combining live music, verbatim text and physical theatre, it looks at the stories and social repercussions of lost memories, bruised knees, uncontrollable laughter and sore heads.

Thirsty

show full of hearty laughs How do you fight back when your own heart tries to kill you?

For his 30th birthday Richard Tyrone Jones, the healthy, gym-going ‘Ringmaster of Spoken Word’ at Edinburgh’s Free Fringe got an unexpected present – heart failure.

Richard brings his long-awaited, but understandably delayed Big Heart debut solo show to the B-Bar in Plymouth as he relives his perilous journey to the operating table and back again. His performance includes a healthy prescription of cardiomyopoetry, animation and anecdosage, not just for spoken word B-Bar at the Barbican Theatre Castle Street, Plymouth 01752 242021 www.b-bar.co.uk

Oct 2 Carrie Elkin and Danny Schmidt

Danny Schmidt is best known for his riveting poetic lyrics, while gypsy spirit Carrie Elkin is best known for her incredibly soulful and dynamic vocals.

Oct 3 and Nov 7 Comedy Night

Some light relief with the best stand-ups on the UK circuit.

fans but for anyone who has a heart.

Or failure...

Directed by RSA fellow Anthony Shrubsall with interactive animations from five-star animators www. patternfightperformance.com and, on tour, surgical support from the UK’s finest local spoken word artists.

This show gained four star reviews at Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Big Heart is being performed at the B-Bar’s regular spoken word night Forked, at 8pm on Thursday October 25, with support from the South West’s hero of spoken word and stand up poetry Matt Harvey, Bristol’s rising

star Harry Baker and Forked’s hostess and resident performance poet Mama Tokus.

The show has support from the British Heart Foundation and Cardiomyopathy Association, for whom Richard has raised £700+ at gigs, and has performed extracts across the UK. A www.crowdfunder.co.uk drive for Big Heart smashed its £2100 target with over 50 supporters.

Admission £5 in advance or £7 on the door. Contact the B-bar on 01752 242021 for information or to make a booking. Or buy tickets online at www.b-bar.co.uk this harp-playing, hard blues singing solo performer.

Oct 6 Chris Ramsey

Following two consecutive sell-out Edinburgh shows and a sell-out UK tour, Foster’s Comedy Award nominee Chris Ramsey returns to the Fringe with his new stand-up show.

Oct 25 Forked – Performance Poetry

Oct 10, Oct 24, Nov 14, Nov 28 Café Acoustica

Fortnightly showcase of unplugged talent, hosted by singer-songwriter Jessie Mullen.

Oct 18 and Nov 29 Thomas Ford

Electrifying blues talent in the form of

Chris Ramsey

Forked presents premium performance poetry and spoken word entertainment, courtesy of Apples & Snakes, England’s leading organisation for performance poetry. Guest performance this month is Richard Tyrone Jones’ Big Heart (see panel above) who brings his hilarious hilarious one-man show to Plymouth, plus support from the South West’s hero of spoken word and stand up poetry

the plymouth magazine

23

what’s on?

theatres & shows

Nov 23 Hamer & Isaacs

Five-piece gypsy jazz band with vocals, violin, two guitars and double bass.

Plymouth Pavilions Matt Harvey and Bristol’s legendary rising star Harry Baker.

Oct 26 and Nov 30 Soulful Gospel Blues

Mama Tokus hosts a night of soul and blues.

Nov 15 Jeff Horsey

Jeff always loved blowing his brains out on the blues harp and playing his amplified slide guitars, so he wraps that up with foot-stomping floor percussion all at the same time, like an old-time one-man-band. He does ‘downbeat blues and desperado ballads’, all the way from garageland, keeping the good stuff live and kickin’.

Nov 16 Sianed Jones

Join violinist-vocalist Sianed for a night of unforgettable songs, irresistible melodies and captivating vocals.

Millbay Road, Plymouth Box Office: 0845 146 1460.

Oct 6 Jake and Elwood & The Black Rhino Band

Singing all the timeless classics associated with The Blues Brothers, Jake and Elwood will transport you to Chicago with all the moves, and all the attitude!

Oct 20 Kevin Bloody Wilson

Kev returns to the UK for his Cop-U-Later tour in 2012, making a welcome return to Plymouth Pavilions!

Hailed by Billy Connelly as the world’s funniest Australian, with humour as tough and dry as his outback heritage, his songs shoot down society’s sacred cows with pin point accuracy, while successfully leapfrogging political correctness.

stand up star ava vidal gigs at barbican theatre Top TV stand up comic Ava Vidal will be appearing in Plymouth in November, courtesy of the B-Bar. The B-Bar is home to the longest-running comedy night in the South West and hosts packed stand-up sessions on the first Wednesday of every month.

Now they have lined up hit TV comic Ava Vidal for a stand-out, stand-up session.

Because of demand, the show will be be moved up to the Barbican Theatre.

Ava will perform her show Ava Vidal Goes Dutch on Saturday November 17.

Following a sell-out West End run earlier in the year, Ava returns with a brand new show that questions the ideas of community and responsibility.

Tickets are on sale at £10 from the B-Bar’s box office on 01752 242021, over the counter at The B-Bar or online at www.b-bar.co.uk Oct 21 Deacon Blue

2012 marks the 25th anniversary of the release of Deacon Blue’s debut album ‘Raintown.’ To celebrate, the band are reuniting to record a new studio album and head out on a full UK tour in October.

Oct 26 Vampires Rock

Steve Steinman plays the supremely evil Baron Von Rockula in this Classic Rock Spectacular. Owner of the Live and Let Die club, and in search of a new bride, the Baron must convince the unsuspecting Pandora who auditions for the new singing position, to cross over to the dark side and live forever in Rock N Roll Hell.

Nov 4 David Essex

Legendary singer, actor and composer David Essex is back on the road in an eagerly awaited concert tour; The Rock Tour.

Nov 7 Jason Byrne

The biggest selling comedian at the Edinburgh Comedy Festival, Jason Byrne’s inspired, original brand of highenergy intelligent lunacy ensures that there is no other comedian like him.

Nov 9 Festival of Remembrance

Remembrance 2012 is back with a supporting cast of HM Royal Marines Band and the Military Wives Choir.

Nov 20 Squeeze

Following their incredibly popular 2010

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the plymouth magazine

‘Spot The Difference’ tour, British legends Squeeze return with an extensive tour of the UK this November and December.

Nov 24 Jimmy Carr - Gagging Order

Gagging Order promises to be an hilarious night out! The show will be packed with one-liners, stories and jokes. Some clever, some rude and a few totally unacceptable.

Nov 27 Ross Noble

Famed for his fiery and fluid freewheeling style, Ross Noble creates comedy gold from tiny particles of random nonsense. This is your chance to see one of the world’s most critically acclaimed stand ups in a hysterical night with the Mindblender!

Dec 4 Madness

The legendary Madness will embark on their biggest UK arena tour to date this autumn, taking in thirteen cities including Plymouth.

Dec 8 Royal Marine Band Christmas Spectacular

During this annual event, the Royal Marines Band – which is based at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint – will perform Christmas music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers – to name but a few. In addition, their world-renowned Corps of Drums will demonstrate the precision, accuracy and musical skills for which they are famous across the globe.

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the plymouth magazine

25

what’s on?

theatres & shows Dec 14 Jools Holland

Boogie-woogie piano master Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra bring their famous ‘big-band’ sound and the ultimate party experience to Plymouth Pavilions , with a very special guest to accompany him – folk-pop sensation KT Tunstall. Also featuring the astounding vocals of Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and acclaimed trombonist Rico Rodriguez to provide audiences with a foot-stomping show-stopping performance that never ever fails to leave the audience wanting more.

sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time, this show will rock you!

Dec 20 The Overtones

The Overtones have dazzled audiences on their current tour with their flawless performances, winning charm and impeccable style. The five singers, who have learned their craft through the years of performing together, stage a pitch perfect show that is, arguably on of the most entertaining and enjoyable concerts around.

Dec 15 One Night of Queen

Performed by Gary Mullen (right) and The Works, One Night of Queen is an unmissable live concert for fans of Queen, classic rock, live music or just a great night out! Recreating the look,

Gary Mullen

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01752 229697 www.jobelltd.co.uk 26

the plymouth magazine

x factor winners little mix will perform at the pavilions next february

The hottest new girl band in the country Little Mix are making a debut appearance at Plymouth Pavilions on Monday February 11 next year.

Little Mix have wasted no time in wowing live arenas and huge crowds on The X Factor Tour, at T4 On The Beach and as special guests on JLS’s 2012 summer tour, including a recent appearance at Powderham Castle, Exeter.

Their debut headline tour follows the triumphant No.1 single ‘Wings,’ which entered the top of the charts in August, and their debut album, due for release in November.

Perrie, Jesy, Leigh-Anne and Jade said of the tour: “It’s so exciting that we’re about to go out on our first tour! We’ve spent most of the year recording our album and we can’t wait to see our fans again.”

Little Mix originally auditioned for the X Factor as solo performers, but under the tutelage of judge and mentor Tulisa Contostavlos they joined forces to become Little Mix, X Factor’s first ever victorious group.

Having captured the hearts and minds of the nation with their winning chemistry, musical sensibility and breath-taking vocal prowess, the girls shot straight to No.1 with their debut single ‘Cannonball.’

They returned with the acclaimed single ‘Wings,’ released through Syco/Sony Music which soared to No1 into the charts.

Built on a strident soul and r ‘n’ b-flavoured rhythm and featuring an astonishing vocal turn from each member, ‘Wings’ marks Little Mix out as a truly captivating new act.

The four girls - Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall - have taken their time working on music for their debut album and the first offering from it is a distinctive, attention-grabbing pop smash.

With the UK’s music scene in need of a fresh-faced, exciting girl band, Little Mix are blessed with the tunes and the personalities to stake their claim as the most thrilling prospect in chart music today. Don’t miss seeing Little Mix live next year.

For tickets or further information contact the Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or visit www.plymouthpavilions.com

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27

what’s on?

theatres & shows Oct 6 HMS Pinafore

St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Plymouth Gilbert and Sullivan Fellowship present a concert performance of HMS Pinafore in aid of the RNLI. Tickets £9 from 01752 829176 or online at www.plymouthgilbertandsullivan.com Oct 7 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Mark Nightingale with the Craig Milverton Trio. Contact 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Oct 11 International Concert Series

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Thursday 25th October 2012 12 noon to 7pm Westcountry Landlords Association P.O. Box 454 Plymouth PL3 4WL Telephone: 01752 242980 Website: www.wlainfo.co.uk

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the plymouth magazine

Steve Graham’s New Orleans Band For details or tickets call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Oct 27 150 with Plymouth University CD launch and Concert

Roland Levinsky Building, Plymouth University.

The musical finale of the 150th anniversary is celebrated at this special event that sees the release of a commemorative CD and live concert performed Ten Tors Orchestra conducted by Simon Ible with Will McNicol, Mike and Kate Westbrook, John Matthias, Andrew Prior and Adrian Corker plus music by Eduardo Reck Miranda, Nick Ryan and Alexis Kirke.

The evening will begin with a prestige lecture by BAFTA award winning composer Nick Ryan who will introduce his work So above, as below.

Box Office 01752 58 50 50.

Nov 2 Cullin Sound

City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University Featuring Julian Lloyd Webber - cello, Traditional Scottish melodies in new John Lenehan - piano and Peter evocative settings Cigleris - clarinet.

Box Office 01752 58 Works to include Julian Lloyd Webber 50 50.

John Ireland’s Cello Nov 4 Sonata and Fantasy Plymouth Sonata and Brahms Jazz Club Trio for Clarinet, Royal British Legion Cello, and Piano, Op. Club, Crownhill 114. Starts 7.30pm.

Louise Parker with the Tickets £25 to Craig Milverton Trio include wine or soft For details or tickets drink, from Museum call 01752 721179 or Shop (Tues - Sat) visit www.plymouthand at the door. jazz-club.org.uk Supported by the Nov 10 John Ireland Trust.

Oct 13 Masquerade Ball

The Guildhall, Plymouth Celebrating 30 years of St. Luke’s Hospice Care. With AJ’s Big Band and Tango Sonoro - Latin and tango music.

For tickets call 01752 345552 Oct 20 Beethoven Concert

St. Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Featuring Peninsula Doctors Orchestra and Choir, conductor Simon Ible with soprano Hye-Youn Lee, mezzo-soprano Juliette Pochin, tenor James Edwards and baritone Simon Thorpe performing Beethoven’s Symphony no 9 ‘Choral’.

Box Office 01752 58 50 50.

Oct 21 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill

Ten Tors Orchestra

St. Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Conducted by Simon Ible with prize winning pianist Florian Mitrea. Box office 01752 58 50 50.

Nov 13 Illustrated Talk

Emmanuel Church, Mannamead Organist Dr Peter Marr presents an Illustrated talk entitled ‘John Alcock the 18th-century Plymouth organist and a big time fall out.’ Arranged by Plymouth and District Organists’ Association.

Entrance free.

Nov 15 Fournier Piano Trio

Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Tickets available at the museum shop or on the door. (See special feature on page 31).

The celebrated and internationally renowned Wiham String Quartet will be performing at Plymouth University’s Sherwell Centre on November 17

Nov 17 Wihan String Quartet

Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University In 2008 the acclaimed Wihan Quartet completed the first ever cycle of Beethoven Quartets in Prague. This landmark series of Beethoven concerts was recorded and is available on Nimbus Alliance label. Featuring violinists Leos Cepicky and Jan Schulmeister with Jiri Zigmund, viola and Ales Kasprik, cello. Tickets from 01752 585050 or visit the website at www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Nov 17 Plymouth Area Police Choir

Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth Tickets available on the door.

Nov 18 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Dave Martin’s Jabbo Five For details or tickets call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Nov 24 West Devon Chorale

Church of St. Mary and St. Boniface, Plymouth. For tickets call 01752 776479.

Nov 28 The Big Squeeze

Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University Strictly Come Dancing band accordionist, Karen Street, is holding a national series of concerts to boost funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Free event.

Nov 28 Plymouth Symphony Orchestra

Plymouth Guildhall Conducted by Anne Kimber For information call 01752 603563 Dec 1 Christmas Music Box

Saltash Guildhall Clive Jenkins - piano and Mark Boocock - baritone present opular and classical Christmas music with audience participation. Tickets £7 from Saltash Guildhall or phone Sylvia Bedbrook 01752 8445149.

Dec 2 Plymouth Philharmonic Choir

The Guildhall, Royal Parade Featuring soloists: Catherine Hamilton - soprano and Alison Kettlewell mezzo-soprano. Elgar’s Music Makers, Poulenc’s Gloria and Parry’s Blest Pair of Sirens. For tickets and further information contact 01364 72429.

Nov 18 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Karen Sharp with the Craig Milverton trio. For details or tickets call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazzclub.org.uk Dec 6 Christmas Music Box

Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery Clive Jenkins - piano and Mark Boocock - baritone present opular and classical the plymouth magazine

29

what’s on?

theatres & shows Christmas music with audience participation. Tickets £6.50 from Museum Shop (Tues - Sat) and at the door, from Jeanie Moore, 01752 770345 or from www.wegottickets.com Dec 6 Plymouth University Orchestra

Davy Main Hall, Plymouth University Conductor Rupert Bond with Sibelius: Sections from Symphony no. 2 and Schubert: Overture in C ‘In the Italian Style.’ Plus works for string, brass and wind ensembles. Free admission, parting donation invited towards concert costs.

Dec 8 Christmas Concert

St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Presented by University of Plymouth Choral Society. Musical director Simon

t: (01752) 707018 e: help@sos-tiling.co.uk www.sostiling.co.uk

Ible, with Ruth Jenkins - soprano, Martha Jones - mezzo-soprano, Rupert Charlesworth - tenor and Adrian Powter - baritone. Plus traditional carols for audience participation. Tickets £12 (£5 students and children) from Peninsula Arts, Plymouth University. For further information call 01752 585050 or visit www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Dec 9 Tamar Valley Choir

Tesco, Lee Mill Christmas music to entertain the Sunday shoppers.

Dec 11 Plymouth Clarion Choir

Ford Park Chapel Carol concert for the Friends of Ford Park Cemetery, with audience participation. Contact Ruth Self 01752 787128.

Dec 11 Carols by Candlelight

St Matthias Church, North Hill University of Plymouth Choral Society Simon Ible, director of music. Admission free.

celebration concert

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The award-winning Plymouth Gilbert and Sullivan Fellowship have celebrated the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee by presenting performances of HMS Pinafore at various venues during the year.

As part of the Fellowship’s touring concert season they are presenting a semistaged production of HMS Pinafore, Gilbert & Sullivan’s famous operetta at St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth on October 6. The concert will be in aid of the RNLI.

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The semi-staged production will feature the principal cast members in costume, with narration holding the drama to the finale. The Plymouth Fellowship is the UK’s oldest performing company dedicated to the works of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan.

Tickets at £9 are available from a number of sources: from the Box Office on 01752 829176 or online at www.plymouthgilbertandsullivan.com or at the RNLI shop, 18 Southside Street, Plymouth PL1 2LB Pictured on board the Plymouth lifeboat are cast members Gill Regan, Ray Gilley, Kim Willcocks and Stuart Whitehead.

talented young musicians star in plymouth concert The remarkable and distinguished Fournier Piano Trio are performing in the 20th International Concert Series at the Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth on November 15 at 1 pm.

Taiwanese-British pianist Chiao-Ying Chang, Korean violinist Sulki Yu and Australian cellist Pei-Jee Ng formed the Fournier Piano Trio in 2009.

Since their formation they have rapidly emerged as one of the leading young piano trios.

The audience will be treated to the very best chamber music, performed by this brilliant piano trio.

They will be playing the following programme: Arensky’s Piano Trio no. 1 op.

32 and Ravel’s Piano Trio.

Tickets are £8.50 and available from the Plymouth City Museum Shop, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ Tel: 01752 304774. Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm They are also available for immediate download from the online box office www.wegottickets.com/event/155224

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31

A unique gallery, now open 6 years, selling jewellery, glass, ceramics and other gift items; all hand made in the UK; all exclusive to Plymouth and now available to buy online at www.nicolahurst.co.uk Nicola makes jewellery on the premises.

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Regular exhibitions showcasing new jewellers - visit Nicola's shop today!

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g in ak es M s r y as l l e p Cl e fors e w o it il J e k s h ebsdeta W e w r Ne Wo Seemor

what’s on?

Special Offer: Portrait sitting & 10”x 8” Mounted Photo only £30. Vouchers Available

spectacular cinderella on ice show at the pavilions The world renowned Russian Ice Stars bring their acclaimed production of Cinderella on Ice to Plymouth Pavilions Arena for Christmas 2012, running from Wednesday December 26 until Saturday January 5.

A real ice rink will be built on the stage of the Pavilions arena enabling some of the world’s finest skaters to glide and swirl their way through this best loved of all fairytales.

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Mount Edgcumbe...

With superb sets and colourful costumes, the traditional tale unfolds in a two hour spectacle that will entrance all ages. The show is a must see for lovers of good music, ice dance, ballet and spectacular feats.

Heart stopping and jaw dropping, beautiful and exciting – just some of the adjectives used to describe Cinderella on Ice. A magical treat for the whole family.

To book tickets contact the Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or visit www.plymouthpavilions.com with ‘print at home’ ticketing

...where dreams come true With three licensed rooms and an outdoor summer house for civil ceremonies plus two stunning reception venues, the choice is yours Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park Tel: 01752 822236 email: mt.edgcumbe@plymouth.gov.uk www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk the plymouth magazine

33

what’s on?

major events League 2 Football

Oct 6 Argyle v Wimbledon Oct 9 Argyle v Aldershot (JPT) Oct 20 Argyle v Rochdale Nov 6 Argyle v Burton Albion Nov 10 Argyle v Gillingham Nov 24 Argyle v Chesterfield Dec 8 Argyle v York Championship Rugby

Oct 13 Oct 27 Nov 9 Nov 24 Dec 14

Albion v Munster (Cup) Albion v Nottingham Albion v London Scottish Albion v Bristol Albion v Aberavon (Cup)

roll up for

Oct 4 and Nov 4 Plymouth Bike Night

Plymouth Hoe All types of motorcycles, trikes and quad bikes can be seen along with various trade stands, fast food outlets and a live band playing on the big stage. Everyone is welcome. All public donations raised during the evening will support Help for Heroes and Afghan Heroes charities as the city of Plymouth has such strong historical, local and family connections with HM services.

Oct 7 Good Food Market

The market showcases some of the best local food and drink in the South West. The market takes place between 10am and 3pm on The Green, Royal William Yard, Plymouth and is on the first Sunday of the month.

British Basketball League

Sep 29 Vintage Fair

Oct 7 Oct 13 Oct 19 Oct 28 Nov 17 Nov 18 Dec 2

Plymouth Guildhall Over 60 Vintage inspired stalls including clothes, home wares, furniture and lots more. Live music by ‘Just Misbehavin’. Spectacular Vintage catwalk, demos, tearoom and lots more.

Charity raffle in aid of Help the Heroes.

Call 01803 213837 for more details.

Raiders v Manchester Raiders v East London Raiders v Cheshire Raiders v Guildford Raiders v Glasgow Raiders v Milton Keynes Raiders v Worcester Wolves

Top roller derby girls from across the South West will be heading for Plymouth in October to take part in the first-ever roller derby in the city.

Plymouth City Roller Girls are presenting an afternoon of live all action roller derby called A Fistful of Blockers on October 27 at the Plymouth Life Centre.

The first roller derby bout in the South West Showdown series sees the hosts Oct 14 St Luke’s Tour de Moor

Coypool Park & Ride St Luke’s Hospice fund-raiser with a cycling course to suit all abilities from a gentle seven-mile route through Plym Valley Nature Reserve to a 35 mile off road mountain biking challenge. Visit www.stlukesevents.org.uk/tdm Oct 28 WOW Sailing

Plymouth Sound The inaugural offshore race for women sailors leaves Plymouth heading for Falmouth, Antigua. Eight boats have so far signed up for the challenge.

For details visit www.wowsailing2012. com Nov 5 Bonfire Night

Plymouth Hoe Head to the Hoe for a spectacular

evening of music, lighting and fireworks display. Smeaton’s Tower, the Citadel and the War Memorial will again be ‘colourwashed’ with coloured floodlighting to complement the glow of the bonfire.

Nov 22 Christmas Lights Switch On

City Centre Get in the festive spirit. Guaranteed to be a fun filled family evening launching the start of an exciting festive season for shoppers and visitors in Plymouth City Centre.

Nov 25 Reindeer Rally

Central Park, Plymouth This sponsored festive fun run is a great event to enter as a team with friends and family to remember a loved one or simply to set yourself a challenge.

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the plymouth magazine

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the city’s first roller derby from Plymouth take on Wiltshire Roller Derby, and SWAT take on Dorset Roller Girls, with the officials provided by Kernow Roller Derby.

The series is a first for roller derby teams across the South West of the UK and each team taking part will host a double header, culminating in an all action final where roller girls will fight for the title of the South West’s top derby team!

Provisional timetable for the event is doors open at 12 noon followed by SWAT v Dorset Roller Girls at 1pm followed by Plymouth City Roller Girls v Wiltshire Roller Derby at 3pm.

Roller derby is played on a flat track known as the ‘Bout’ and the game lasts for one hour, split into two minute sections called ‘jams’. There are five girls in each team including one Jammer - she scores all the points - and four Blockers who try and stop her scoring the points by ‘body blocking’ her using hips, shoulders and other appropriate parts of the body!

Kathleen Hamma of Plymouth City Roller Girls said: “We set up the team to add a special something to the lives of our roller girls, referees and volunteers - and the people who come to watch us.

“We want to celebrate the strength, power and diversity of the women who walk through our doors as newcomers to the sport of roller derby and watch them roll out as confident ladies ready to kick butts and take names, both in life and on the track.”

According to Kathleen it’s an intense and fast game and provides exciting entertainment for spectators. Tickets for the event cost £7 in advance or £9 on the door and can be purchased at www.plymouthcityrollergirls.co.uk

Action from a recent roller derby event

The day’s action is followed by an after party at 6.30pm called Skullapalooza. It takes place at Henry J’s in Plymouth with a full evening of six live bands. The

party will be a fund-raiser for the league and local hospice charity, Amy’s House.

Everyone is invited to party with the roller girls fresh from the on-track action.

Tickets for the party cost £10 with details available at www.facebook.com/events/341239022622131/?ref=ts

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what’s on?

bring out your creative talents. Draw specimens from our natural history collections or create your own to help us make a giant aquarium, and more!

Admission free - no need to book.

family stuff

Make and Take

Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus Wild About Plymouth

Oct 30: Wild Gardens 10am to 12 noon at Cookworthy Green, North Prospect Join the ‘Wild About Plymouth’ team for a ramble through the wild gardens of North Prospect – an area of Plymouth that is currently undergoing massive redevelopment. Discover what plants, mammals and insects you can find as you wander through some of the city’s wildest gardens! Booking is essential.

Please contact the Museum and Art Gallery for a booking form which must be returned with payment by 23 October £2 per adult, £1 per child, under 5s go free.

Nov 24: Sea Birds and Bugs 11am to 2pm at Dawlish Warren, Dawlish, Devon

Join the ‘Wild About Plymouth’ team for a day in Devon and discover the birds and bugs living along the coast. The team will be joined by experts from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter. Come along and hunt in the sand dunes for some coastal beetles and spiders, or sit and watch the birds.

Please make sure you wear warm clothes and bring a picnic! It is approximately a 20 minute walk from the train station where we will meet.

Admission free - advance booking essential . To book call 01752 304774.

Dec 19: Dino-Snores 6pm to 9pm Join us for a dinosaur-themed pyjama party! Bring in a pillow or cushion and a blanket and remember to wear your favourite nightclothes. Enjoy some

games and craft activities, see fossils from the natural history collections and then listen to some dinosaur stories before heading home for bed. On-street parking is available on Tavistock Place and Regent Street to the rear of the Museum. Public car parks can be found on Regent Street and in the Drake Circus shopping Mall. Admission free - advance booking essential Holiday Activities

Family fun sessions for the holidays.

Aimed at children aged 4 to 11, but wrigglers and siblings are welcome.

Admission is free and there is no need to book. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Drop in for as little or as long as you like. These sessions can get busy. All sessions are from 10.30am to 1pm unless stated.

Camera Obscura Tues October 30 -10.30am, 11am, 11.30am. Admission free. When is a camera a room? When our Learning Centre is magically transformed into a ‘Camera Obscura’!

Why not come along to one of our sessions and experience one of the inventions that led to photography for yourself? The results of your work will vary depending on the light levels and weather conditions but will be fascinating.

Batty Books Wed October 31 - 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). Admission free - no need to book. Create a bat-shaped booklet inspired by the natural history collection and Halloween.

Portraits in Landscapes Thurs November 1 -10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). Admission free - no need to book. Take inspiration from the City Museum and Art Gallery’s ‘Women in Art’ and ‘In Pursuit of Art: Charles Eastlake’s Journey from Plymouth to the National Gallery’ exhibitions, and use oil pastels, pencils and collage to create your very own portrait in a landscape.

Family Events

The Big Draw 2012: Seashore Art Sat Oct 6 - 12 noon to 4pm. Oh we do like to be beside the seaside...Enjoy a range of fun seashore-themed activities as we celebrate the annual Big Draw.

Our guest artist will be on hand to help

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Make something then take it home with our seasonal creative sessions aimed at children aged five to 11 (all of whom must be accompanied by a responsible adult). Sessions run from 11am to 12 noon and 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Admission is free. Advance booking is essential on 01752 304774. Call on the day to see if any last-minute places are available although there is no cannot guarantee any will remain.

Happy Halloween Oct 27 Spiders, cats, ghosts and bats…come in and enjoy a range of Halloween-themed crafts before the witching hour begins!

Viking Victorious Nov 17 The Norsemen are coming! Make your own paper Viking, shield and helmet in our fun sessions which last for up to 60 minutes.

Christmas Cheer Dec 15 Get into the Christmas spirit with some festive creative activities at the City Museum and Art Gallery. 11am to 12noon and 1.30pm to 2.30pm Various dates Contemporary Craft Workshops

Develop your creative skills with these sessions, which are suitable for all abilities and run from 10.30am to 3.30pm. All materials are supplied unless otherwise stated, but please bring your own lunch and an apron if you have one. Booking and payment in advance essential. Call 01752 304774.

Oct 13: Fabulous Felted Fibres Discover the magical art of making felt. In this workshop you will have the opportunity to experiment with a colourful array of natural fleece to produce 2D felt pieces perfect for using as wall hangings. Learn how to make pre-felt cut outs, to add image and text to your design, and work with natural fibres to create texture. £18 per person Nov 13: Alternative Eco Wrapping Originating from Japanese culture where it promotes caring for the environment and reducing waste; Furoshiki is the eco-friendly wrapping cloth. Combine simple textile printing and dyeing techniques to decorate the fabric and finish with sashiko hand stitching to create a unique furoshiko perfect for wrapping even the most awkwardly shaped present! £18 per person.

the plymouth magazine

37

what’s on?

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Oct 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 The Big Draw

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Part of the Campaign for Real Drawing. Get out and about and take your wellies for a wander and be inspired by the beautiful surroundings.

Get creative with themed suggestions for your artwork to take away, or add to the display.

Oct 13 Fungi Foray

Go along and hunt for mushrooms and toadstools. Join Paul Lunt, University of Plymouth ecologist, on an excursion into the fascinating world of mycology on the Saltram Estate.

Oct 13 Boys’ Toys: Vintage Vehicles

Discover a range of vintage machines and accessories in the park with Ivybridge Vintage Club.

Oct 27 to 31 Halloween Trail

Follow the spooky trail around the garden to earn a special Halloween treat. Creepy craft workshops for youngsters on the same dates.

Nov 24 and 25 Yuletide Craft and Food Fair

Local arts, crafts and delicious seasonal food for sale. Admission includes entry to the garden and Chapel Gallery.

Dec 8 Carols in the Courtyard

Join us in the historic stables Courtyard, for a good old-fashioned festive sing along.

Dec 15 and 16 Christmas at Saltram

Find out about Christmas through the ages at Saltram House. A free fun event for the whole family.

Buckland Abbey Yelverton 01822 853607

Oct 27 to Nov 4 Walking Festival

Join the team at Buckland Abbery during half term for guided walks, trails and expeditions planned to get you on your feet and outside!

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Oct 28 and Nov 3 Family Walk

The whole family can enjoy a walk through the woodlands learning about the wildlife and history of the estate.

Oct 30 Costume Day

Do you know what you might look like in Tudor costume? The whole family can try on some today with the help of Buckland volunteers who made them.

Oct 31 Once Upon a Time

Discover the hidden stories of Buckland Abbey and Estate. Join storyteller Steve Manning as he weaves his magical tales around the Abbey and estate.

Nov 17 and 18 Christmas Craft and Food Fair

Sample great produce from local suppliers and find inspiration for unusual gifts at this annual festive fair!

Cotehele Saltash 01579 351346

Oct 6 Nature’s Autumn Larder

Explore the woodlands and hedgerows at Cotehele to identify and collect edible plants.

Oct 27 Spooky Night

Go and get spooked in Cotehele House. Tour the House in the dark and listen to scary stories.

Oct 29 to Nov 2 Spooky Family Fun

Spooky fun this half term. with monster making on Monday, pumpkin carving on Tuesday and Friday, potion making on Wednesday and broom making on Thursday. Go and get spooked in Cotehele House.

Nov 9 to Nov 23 Making the Famous Garland

Go and join the gardening team whilst they make this famous 60 foot garland running the length of the Hall in Cotehele House.

Nov 10 to Dec 31 The Christmas Gallery

Masses of unique gifts of art for all pockets.

PLEASE CHECK

We do our best to carry accurate information but please check with organisers to avoid disappointment.

National Trust events can be found at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

beary christmas!

The popular Cornwall Christmas Bear Fair takes place this year on Sunday November 18 at the Lostwithiel Community Centre and promises to be even better than last year.

This will be the third Cornwall Bear Fair jointly organised by Teddies of Trenode and Urchins Bear Shop of Boscastle and the seventeenth coordinated by Teddies of Trenode.

The Fair will once again feature over 45 stands with hundreds of teddy bears - old and antique, new artist and designer - handcrafted by top national, international and local bear artists, with many from Devon and Cornwall.

Dr Cassy of Tamar Valley Teddy Hospital will be providing restoration advice and, if necessary, ‘hospitalisation’ for any old or infirm bears! Tricia of Teddies of Trenode will have a large selection of ‘oldies’ to choose from, as well as giving valuations for any ‘veterans’ brought in.

Bear Basics and Mohair Bear Making Supplies will again be featuring extensive ranges of bear making kits, patterns, materials and accessories, as well as giving practical advice. Urchins Bears and Kingswear Bears will have superb stocks of renowned international trademark bears and friends.

In addition the Fair will feature and endorse two charity stands – Cornwall Hospice Care and Animal Asia’s campaign to rescue bears from captivity and in distress all over Asia.

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There will be competitions for the best Christmas stand and the best Christmas bear, for an own bear creation, of any size.

Both competitions will be open to all with voting by visitors to the Fair. The winners will each receive a bottle of champagne plus an engraved silver cup.

There will also be a free teddy prize draw.

The Fair will have a festive Christmas atmosphere and takes place between 10am and 4pm. Admission is £2.50 for adults, with accompanied children under 14 admitted free.

For further information contact Richard Butler on 01503 230851.

festive fair at millbridge Festive gift ideas and a vast range of stalls will be featured at this year’s Millbridge Christmas Fair.

The event takes place at Stoke Damerel Church and Parish Centre in Paradise Road, Stoke on Friday November 30 and Saturday December 1 between 11am and 4pm.

Stalls will include arts and crafts, gifts and jewellery, home furnishings and accessories, books, toys, cards and ethnic items. There will also be an array of unusual and interesting gift ideas for Christmas.

Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food and refreshments throughout the day. Admission is free and there is parking in Paradise Road on both days in addition to parking at Devonport High School for Boys on Saturday only.

For more information contact Marilyn on 01752 564847.

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the plymouth magazine

39

what’s on?

exhbitions & other events Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus Various dates Art Bite Tours

Fancy spending your lunchtime taking a bite-sized look at the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery’s collections and changing exhibitions? Then why not join members of staff or ‘Young Explainers’ at 1pm on the dates below for a 30-minute tour? Admission is free but places are limited. Collect a ticket from the Museum’s Welcome Desk or contact the museum and they will post or put one aside for you.

Oct 10: Eastlake’s Scholarly and Artistic Achievements Oct 31: Eastlake and Napoleon Nov 7: After Forbes Nov 21: Eastlake and the Gallery Revolution

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Dec 5: Eastlake, Plymouth and his Circle Dec 12: Looking at Landscape Until Oct 6 Endless Summer: The Evolution of Surfing

Surfing and its influences are part of everyday life for many people and the evolution of this extreme sport in our region will be explored in this exhibition produced by the Programmes Team at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery.

A timeline, interactives, paintings by artist Kurt Jackson, boards from private collectors and the Museum of British Surfing plus images and vintage magazine covers from renowned surf photographer, Alex Williams will show how different elements of the sport have evolved since the early 1900s.

Until Dec 15 In Pursuit of Art

Charles Eastlake (1793-1865), painter, scholar and arts administrator, was born in Plymouth and went on to become President of the Royal Academy and the first Director of the National Gallery, London. This exhibition will investigate

his artistic development and his activities as a central figure of the Victorian art world and is being produced in partnership with the National Gallery.

city in turner prize from our collection by artists such as Stanhope Forbes, Henry Scott Tuke and Norman Garstin.

Unti l November 2013 Women in Art

Oct 22 to Jan 12 New Light on Newlyn

This exhibition will explore the art that has been created in and around the Cornish fishing port of Newlyn, both past and present. New artworks produced by selected members of the Newlyn Society of Artists will be displayed alongside historic paintings

See an impressive selection of works from the gallery’s permanent art collections that either portray or were created by women. From Renaissance times to the modern day, from muses and models to portraits and 20th century ceramics, this exhibition is dedicated to the memory of the museum’s late Keeper of Art Maureen Attrill, who sadly passed away in February 2011.

To stay up-to-date with Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery’s exhibition and event programmes visit www.plymouthmuseum.gov.uk or call 01752 304774.

bid to host

PLYMPTON OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC

Plymouth University has made an official bid to host the 2015 Turner Prize – the UK’s most prestigious contemporary art award.

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The University is putting forward its iconic Roland Levinsky Building as the venue for the show and has submitted an innovative plan that would see teaching and learning integrated into the event.

The bid has the backing of Sir Richard Carew Pole, who is a Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall and a Trustee of Tate St Ives, and will be supported by partners across the city including media company TwoFour.

The Turner Prize, which features the work of four shortlisted artists, alternates on a yearly basis from its home at the Tate Gallery in London and a guest venue. In 2013, it is being held in Londonderry, and members of the Plymouth team have already travelled to Ireland to meet the organisers and learn about their successful bid.

Associate Professor, Fine Art Phil Power, who is co-leading the University’s bid, said: “We want Plymouth to be a leading urban space for contemporary art, and there is the potential here to establish the Roland Levinsky Building as a world-renowned venue.

“We have this huge artistic gap in the South West, spanning Bristol to Newlyn and St Ives. Plymouth is a big city, and there is absolutely no reason why we shouldn’t be positioning it as a city of culture for the future.”

The facilities promised by the University’s under-construction £6.7m Performing Arts building form part of the submission, along with the exhibition space and cinema contained within the Roland Levinsky Building, which was opened in 2007 to house the Faculty of Arts.

The bid includes a series of additional events, workshops and activities, which would be delivered across the city by the University’s cultural partners.

Richard Adams, of the Research and Innovation Directorate, said: “We’ve already shown with the British Art Show, the Plymouth International Book Festival, and the America’s Cup, that Plymouth and the University are capable of hosting major international events. The Turner Prize would bring tens of thousands of visitors to the city helping to boost our local and regional economy.

“The Turner Prize would lead to truly global exposure, but we feel we are ready to step into this space.”

Organisers will announce a shortlist of successful bidders this month and the finalists will be required to pitch to a panel in London in November, before the 2015 host is announced in December.

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beacon cook day Beacon Electrical is hosting its third annual Cook Day on Saturday October 13.

The event will involve live cookery demonstrations from Rangemaster trained chefs on the range cookers that Beacon have at their Stuart Road showrooms (just off Pennycomequick roundabout) , including induction hob and multifunction oven cooking.

There will be exclusive special offers on the day for people looking for that extra special deal on Rangemaster range cookers and accessories. There will also be competitions and giveaways for those who attend, and of course there will be all those tasty treats cooked by the chefs to sample.

For more information contact Beacon Electrical at 01752 222003. the plymouth magazine

41

the maldives... sun, sea, sand, snorkelling and the amazing stingrays Summer will be remembered for years to come for the special events that took place in Britain.

In the travel industry, however, it will be remembered for a virtual sell-out situation with package holidays in August.

I have worked in the travel business for over 25 years and I can’t remember a time when there were no last-minute holidays available departing from Exeter and Bristol Airports during the last few weeks of August.

The poor weather played a huge part in this, but it was also due to the significant cuts in capacity by tour operators earlier in the year. We witnessed many holidays being sold for substantially more than brochure prices because of the unprecedented demand.

As a result, we saw many disappointed customers this summer who ended up paying over the odds or failed to escape the dreadful weather at all.

One valuable lesson we can learn from this situation is to book early if you are planning a holiday in the peak summer 2013 period. Capacity has been and continues to be reduced as the tour operators are no longer willing to risk having unsold packages at the last minute and booking patterns are changing as a result.

If you know that you will definitely need to get away during the school summer holidays next year, I would strongly advise booking now – not only to secure the holiday of your choice but to get a better deal!

Alternatively, you could perhaps consider taking your holiday in the quieter shoulder seasons (May, June and October) when better value holidays do exist and you are able to avoid the busy family holiday period.

By Travel Expert Anthony Goord

Please remember that if you are booking a summer 2013 holiday now, you need only pay a deposit to confirm this. The balance is due 12 weeks before departure but you are welcome to call or visit our office to pay weekly or monthly instalments, as many of our clients choose to do. This flexibility offers people the chance to budget not only for the holiday cost but also the spending money.

The period from October to December is when many decide to book their honeymoon or wedding abroad. Most couples like to have all their arrangements confirmed and everything in place before Christmas and the most treasured holiday of a lifetime is of course going to be no exception!

The Caribbean and Indian Ocean are by far the most popular choices of destination for such special occasions and it is therefore quite apt that this month, Kelly Price, one of my senior staff members, reports on a recent familiarisation trip to one of the many islands that make up the Maldives – lucky Kelly!

“My name is Kelly Price and I have worked at Peter Goord Travel for 18 months.

I have recently returned from an interesting and enjoyable Kuoni educational trip to The Maldives, where I was lucky enough to experience seven nights on seven different islands.

“A ten and a half hour flight from Heathrow to Sri Lanka courtesy of Sri Lankan Airlines took us to Colombo, followed by another flight for the 90 minute hop to Male in The Maldives. After our arrival at Male airport we were met by our Kuoni

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travel matters

Kelly Price from Peter Goord Travel pictured during her trip to the Maldives where she visited several locations including the stunning Kuramathi Resort

representative for the first of many speed boat trips to our first island: Kurumba.

“After a 10 minute trip we arrived at Kurumba, to be met with another delicious fruit juice and a cooling towel – a welcome experienced on arrival at every island.

I stayed in a deluxe bungalow which featured a large bedroom and an open air shower and bathroom. This island is perfect for someone who would love to ` experience the beauty of The Maldives, but would also enjoy an island with plenty of facilities and only a short transfer from the airport.

“The hotel offers superb dining options with a main restaurant and no less than seven speciality restaurants. They also have a fantastic watersports centre offering everything from banana boats and jet skis to snorkelling and diving on the house reef, which is just steps away from the beautiful beach. We were fortunate enough

to have enjoyed a wonderful meal set out on the beach for us during the evening and I can honestly say that the food and the cocktails were amazing.

“After a spectacular 25-minute seaplane flight, our second night was spent at the four-star Diamond Athuruga Beach Resort.

This resort had a lovely atmosphere, which I could feel from the moment I stepped onto the gorgeous white sandy beach. This island is perfect for couples who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is also a relatively small island which can be circumnavigated on foot in less than 15 minutes!

• continued on next page

the plymouth magazine

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travel matters

stunning islands, superb accommodation and fine food in the maldives • continued from previous page “There is one main open air buffet restaurant offering a superb selection of food to suit all tastes. I stayed in a beach bungalow with idyllic views of the sea, I snorkelled around the island during the afternoon which was an amazing experience. The small black tip reef sharks are fascinating to watch along with stingrays and many species of tropical fish.

“We then moved onto a sister hotel for our third night: the 4 Star Diamond Hotel The resort itself was almost identical to Athuruga apart from being slightly larger with more rooms. I spent an afternoon here kayaking around the island and sunbathing on the beautiful sandy beach.

“Our fourth night was spent at the simply beautiful 5 Star Baros Island, staying in a deluxe villa which featured a private garden area leading down to the waterfront.

The food was outstanding at this resort with a wide variety to choose from. This island is perfect for couples in search of a high quality experience in terms of both accommodation and food and drink. The reef at this resort is also stunning and everything can be seen from turtles to reef sharks and parrot fish so snorkelling here is a must!

“After another scenic sea plane transfer, we arrived at Maafushivaru Resort, which is a 5 Star Kuoni exclusive property. This small island combines Maldivian paradise with contemporary indulgences. I stayed in a spacious beach villa with stylish Maldivian touches and spent the afternoon on an official snorkelling excursion, which is essential at this island. We were taken to a reef where we were able to actually swim with turtles and see the amazing underwater world. Couples can also experience a Crusoe-esque style dining experience being whisked away to

an uninhabited island for a lobster dinner or romantic picnic – a perfect idea for honeymooners!

“Following a 25 minute speed boat ride we arrived at the Velassaru Resort another beautiful five star location. This hotel is a member of the small luxury hotels of the world group and features an envious choice of restaurants with Mediterranean, Japanese and an ocean front grill to name just a few of the options. I stayed in a beach villa which was essentially a stunning thatched cottage facing the beach.

After spending some free time simply relaxing on the beautiful white sands, I took a dip in the infinity swimming pool with its wonderful views overlooking the Indian Ocean. Couples would appreciate this resort with its vast choice of dining options and the luxurious rooms on offer.

“Our last night was spent at the 4 Star Kuramathi Resort, which is another Kuoni exclusive property. This island is perfect for either couples or families who are looking for a larger resort with a lot to offer. There are plenty of dining options, fantastic reefs for snorkelling and diving and a great children’s club. Facilities also include a choice of two swimming pools and an abundance of watersports.

“A highlight of staying at this resort takes place every evening in the north of the island when they feed the stingrays. This has to be seen to be believed. Stingrays come right in to the shore to be fed which in turn can attract some fairly large black tip reef sharks at the same time!

“With an impressive six bars on the island, there is plenty of evening entertainment to keep everyone occupied. To access this resort there are two options for transfers: you can either take a 25-minute sea plane transfer or a 90 minute speed boat ride.

I would highly recommend the sea plane option especially if you haven’t got great sea legs.

“The Maldives is a truly fantastic destination to visit and I would recommend it for everyone. Each island is unique and offers something different. The best time of year to visit is around February, although it is a year-round destination with a wetter season from May-July and September-November.

“The food quality across the different resorts is generally superb with a real mixture of produce to suit all tastes. Everything is available ranging from steak to beautiful fresh fish, pasta, salads and so much more.

“Excursions are very easy to book and can be organised locally. Evenings in the Maldives are fairly low key but all of the islands I visited had something happening on six nights out of seven. Entertainment included movies under the stars, cocktail hours and live music at the various resorts. To summarise, this ‘work trip’ gave me a wonderful opportunity to experience the delights of these stunning islands and all the facilities each island-resort had to offer – and I can’t wait to go back!”

Finally, you may or may not have seen the amazing Six Star Silversea cruise liner The Silver Whisper docked in Milbay during September. Silversea Cruises are one of the most prestigious cruise lines in the world boasting a superb fleet of luxurious ships, which offer excellent standards of comfort and service.

They are also one of the few cruise lines to promote the increasingly popular concept of all-inclusive cruising. To celebrate the arrival of the Silver Whisper in Plymouth, Peter Goord Travel are hosting a special Silversea Cruise evening at our West Park offices on November 13.

We would be delighted if you could join us and take the opportunity to meet a representative from the company and chat with previous Silversea customers.

Please give me a call if you are interested in attending.

Happy Holidays!

Peter Goord Travel Tel 01752 364186 www.petergoordtravel.co.uk 44

the plymouth magazine

the plymouth magazine

45

sport matters

Paralympic glory...Britain’s Jonnie Peacock wins the 100 metres in sensational style leaving Richard Browne of the USA, who took the silver medal and Peacock’s hero South African Oscar Pistorious, trailing in his wake. Peacock finished in 10.9 seconds.

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the plymouth magazine

what will be the legacy of the olympics and paralympics?

By

Mark Mears

Advanced Sports Therapist and Director of

We have all been enthralled by this summer of sport: first the Olympics, then the Paralympics and then Andy Murray wins the US Open Tennis!

Mark Mears Associates

Most of us will have watched from our living rooms and some of us, who were lucky enough in the lottery, will have actually been to the venues and seen these remarkable athletes, coaches, support staff and games makers up close. But what will the legacy of this summer be?

The Paralympians have firstly overcome their different abilities and then have become world-class athletes.

How many of us can run 10.90 for the 100 metres? Jonnie Peacock can with one leg!

The Games were full of fantastic moments and the attitude of the general public to those athletes of different abilities certainly changed while they were in the Games, but will it last?

I certainly hope that it will, and I hope that the legacy of the games is that more people will be encouraged by all the athletes to participate in sport. We can’t all be Olympic or Paralympic champions, but we can still strive to be the best we can.

My first introduction to an athlete of different ability was at school at the age of 12 or 13, when we had a student teacher who came to teach us gymnastics.

Unbeknown to us at the time of the class, he had had his left leg amputated through his hip at the age of eight. We were all taken aback when he removed his leg and began to demonstrate vaulting.

I remember that all of us in the class were amazed at what he could do – he played football and volleyball with us, and his name was Tony Willis, a truly inspirational teacher. Tony went on to represent Great Britain at the Paralympics in 1980, 1984, 1988 and 1996, he was Team Captain in 1988. He won a gold and the world record in pentathlon, and silver in the high jump in 1980, and a bronze in both high jump and long jump in 1984.

He also played standing volleyball in all four Paralympics that he attended. In 1992 he became ‘Teacher of the Year’.

Tony was an inspirational athlete and like him athletes of all abilities need to pay attention to their preparation, whatever the event, whether they are running 100 metres for a world record or running a 5k fun run.

This includes nutrition, psychology and listening to their bodies. Most professional athletes (Olympians and Paralympians) have several people in their support team, and the Games this summer really kept the team of sports therapists and massage therapists on their toes!

Some athletes needed massages at 2 o’clock in the morning!!

All athletes of all abilities can benefit from regular sports therapy and sports massage – but not just athletes! We can all benefit from a regular massage to keep our muscles and joints supple and freely moving.

Relaxation is also important for athletes and all of us. One type of relaxation is Sophrology, which can help with stress and sleep disorders, and Mark Mears Associates is the only place in the South West where you can benefit from this form of therapy.

I hope that the legacy of the Games is one of inclusion for everyone and that sport can help facilitate this.

I hope that we can all appreciate each other for our different abilities: I am never going to be Tom Daley and perform those amazing dives, but I can keep him diving and help to repair any injuries!

For more informartion contact Mark Mears Associates on 01752 512735 or 07711 519390 website www.markmears.org.uk the plymouth magazine

47

Jules Hart has launched her new business to help homeowners maximise the value of their property

Plymouth

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Tellus Group Ltd Swarthmore Centre, Mutley Plain, Plymouth, PL4 6LF Email: info@tellusgroup.co.uk

The old saying that there’s only one chance to make a first impression could be worth thousands of pounds to homeowners in Plymouth.

That’s the advice from Jules Hart for people wanting to sell their property – and she should know because she has already made £70,000 doing just that and in this tough economic climate too.

Jules said: “I had a difficult time both emotionally and financially 10 years ago and decided to move back to my home town of Plymouth having lived in Bristol for 30 years.

“I took stock of what I needed to achieve to be able to keep the same plans for my retirement and made up my mind to make the most of a bad situation.

“I literally had to start all over again, but at a time in my life when I would and should have been mortgage free. I realised that the first thing I needed to do was to work towards being mortgage free and I gave myself three years in which to achieve this.

“I started putting into practice what would enable me to do this within a limited timeframe. When I was in Bristol I had my retirement all mapped out, but sadly, the saying ‘nothing goes to plan’ is one I will never take lightly again!”

Jules has bought a number of properties in Plymouth in recent years, renovated them - without spending a fortune – and then sold them at a significant profit.

Now she wants to share her experience with homeowners and help them to enhance the value of their property - whether they are staying or moving.

Jules has launched her own business called Home is Where the Hart Is, offering advice and guidance to homeowners on how to make the most out of their property.

Distinctive kitchen design

Her creative flair and flamboyance was present from an early age and enhanced after she studied design at college and then went into the hotel industry in a marketing role.

“People have always remarked on how distinctive my homes are and I have brought my creativity and eye for colour into my work of renovating properties.”

When she returned to Plymouth she bought a family home in Plymstock and added an extension, but then the property market slumped. “The house had already been done up and I purchased it at the top of the market. It meant I had not left myself with the room to add any more value and that was when I decided to sell up quickly.

“I had learnt a very harsh lesson in paying over the odds for a house – all because I thought it would cost the earth to do it to that standard. When I sold up I could only afford to move to a run-down bungalow in Hooe, I renovated that and then bought my next property in Billacombe.

“It was again pretty run down, but I spent around £3,000 on making it presentable and within seven months had sold it for £23,000 more than I paid for it.”

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the plymouth magazine

property matters

getting to the hart of achieving the top price for your home Jules’ next property was a bungalow in Green Park Road. “I put in new carpets throughout, converted one of the bedrooms into a dining room, decorated the whole place and sold it for more than £30,000 more than I paid for it.”

“Again, I put in less than £2,800 for the whole renovation, which is a small price to pay to get the return I did, especially when that was all achieved in less than seven months.

She said that her experience with her first property in Plymouth taught her a valuable lesson in that you make a profit on a property when you buy it - not when you sell it. “It’s all about seeing the potential, buying at the right price and then making it attractive to the next buyer,” she said.

“I’m a great believer when trying to sell your home not to rely simply on the trusted magnolia or neutral colours.

I do like to use bold colours with a positive theme throughout the room which means it is memorable when viewed – which is the ultimate in getting that second viewing.”

Bold colours and patterns make a lasting impression

She said that apart from good quality carpets and ‘the best underlay you can afford’ she rarely buys new products - simply paints items such as picture frames and other accessories to create a colour theme.

“When you only have very limited finances and have to rely solely on yourself it is amazing how you learn to adapt pretty quickly making the same product last for different colour schemes and themes in different homes.

“It’s really surprising what you can get for a property without spending a fortune on it,” she added. “I now want to pass on what I have learned to other homeowners so that they can benefit too.”

Jules offers house dressing for potential vendors and will work within the budget that the homeowner sets. She prepares mood boards and also uses 3D interior design software to produce visuals of how rooms will look when finished. At the end of the day when dressing your home “it just has to work, nothing more, nothing less”.

“Colour, space and presentation are the main factors that create a positive first impression and with my help and expertise I can help homeowners to present their property to achieve maximum profits and move on quickly. To undertake ‘dress to sell’ projects, I look to use existing materials, wherever possible. This achieves cost savings and is also good for the environment and recycling.”

She offers the same service to homeowners who want to give their properties a facelift or new lease of life.

“Lots of people are too busy to take on the task themselves and this is where I can help,” she said. “There is no need to employ an expensive interior designer when the work can be carried out at a fraction of the cost.”

For more information contact Jules Hart on 01752 932 877 or www.homeiswherethehartis.co.uk

the plymouth magazine

49

legal matters

dealing with difficult issues when relationships break down

With the school summer holidays well and truly over, many of us will have been coping with the ‘back-to-work blues’ following an extended break from the workplace.

For many families, this time of year is even more stressful, as the autumn period generally sees a rise in the number of couples seeking a divorce.

Some lawyers report as much as a 20 per cent increase in instructions following the summer, as family holidays can place extra strain on struggling relationships and are often the last straw in an unhappy marriage.

Whatever the circumstances, going through a relationship breakdown, particularly if there are children involved, can be an extremely emotional and stressful time for all concerned.

This can make it much more difficult to resolve any childcare or financial issues that arise as a consequence of separation.

Not only is there the emotional impact to worry about, separating couples also need to count the financial costs.

By Jonathan Petch of Thompson & Jackson Solicitors

Here at Thompson & Jackson Solicitors we pride ourselves on providing a high quality of service to our clients.

While we have departed from public funding as a result of Legal Aid reforms, we focus instead on offering clear and honest advice to help our clients come to a positive outcome, while always bearing in mind the costs of litigation and how they will be met within each client’s personal budget.

We offer a free 30 minute consultation where a specialist family law solicitor will discuss your individual situation and explain the options available and the best way forward.

We are often able to offer fixed fees to help clients to budget for their case. In addition, we can set up standing orders or cost plans to suit each client’s individual financial circumstances.

Crucially, we endeavour to place the needs of our clients first at all times and explore every opportunity to achieve a swift and amicable resolution; this can include referring parties to specialist mediators to achieve a settlement away from the Court - and their lawyers.

Alternatively, we participate in round table meetings with the purpose of achieving a settlement and the benefit of both parties having professional advice at hand, providing the opportunity to resolve all matters - irrespective of complexity - during the course of a day.

There will, regrettably, be times where an agreement cannot be reached and Court action will be required. In such cases, we provide accurate legal advice to our clients to ensure that the client is entirely aware of the legal process and fully in control of their case.

Our solicitors maintain close relationships with leading barristers who specialise in children and divorce law and who are always on hand to assist in achieving the best outcome.

Whatever your situation, the family team at Thompson & Jackson Solicitors will be happy to discuss your case in clear and practical terms, whether it involves the preparation of post-nuptial/cohabitation agreements, separation, Children Act or domestic violence.

To arrange a free 30 minute consultation to discuss your individual circumstances, please contact Thompson & Jackson Solicitors on the number shown below • Established more than 130 years ago, Thompson and Jackson provides a wide range of legal services to clients throughout Devon and Cornwall, including residential and commercial conveyancing, wills and probate, inheritance disputes, business matters, landlord and tenant issues, accident compensation claims, divorce and separation, injunctions and litigation.

For a FREE initial discussion, call Thompson & Jackson on (01752) 665037.

Thompson & Jackson 4-5 St Lawrence Road Plymouth www.thompsonandjackson.co.uk

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the plymouth magazine

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the plymouth magazine

51

property matters

important checklist for homeowners planning to buy new windows Homeowners who are considering replacing doors or windows have been given a helpful checklist by one of the city’s leading and well-established window companies.

How To Beat Energy Price Rises?

Generate Your Own Green Electricity From Sunlight.

With energy bills expected to increase by a further 16% this winter and panels cost coming down by 60% since April 2011, it has never been a better time to invest in solar panels for your home or work.

A typical 4kWp system using high quality European panels will now cost less than £8,000.

Additional Benefits of Solar PV:

• Save on your electricity bill.

From the Energy Saving Trust a typical 2.9kWp PV system could reduce energy bill by £90 - £180 per year • Earn Money – over £570 a year through the Feed In Tariff scheme • All payments are inflation linked and guaranteed for 20 years period, and tax free • Good for the environment

We are MCS and REAL accredited. Peace of mind 5 year insurance backed warranty with QANW. Please Call Dave Isherwood for a Free No Obligation Quote and Advice on 01752 250801 or 07891 909846

Ltd

www.hydeparkelectrical.co.uk 52

the plymouth magazine

Family-run Best Quality Windows have been trading for nearly 25 years in Plymouth and have gained a reputation for top class service at an affordable price.

The business is run by Tony and Teresa Dulling and they have some useful advice for homeowners before they go ahead with an installation: • Contact two or three window companies for a quote. This way you will not be paying over the odds for your windows • Never succumb to high pressure selling.

Reputable companies will leave you to make up your own mind. Don’t fall for big discounts for signing up on the day and remember you have a seven day cooling off period.

• Ask how long the company has been established. Generally the longer the better.

Years of experience is not the same as how long the company has been trading.

• Ask if the company is FENSA registered.

This is a scheme which sets out certain standards that meet the current building regulations.

• Are you guaranteed? Most companies offer a five or ten year guarantee and if they are FENSA registered will also offer an insurance backed guarantee. Also, find Bella – Tony and Teresa’s pet labrador promises a friendly out what the guarantee covers. welcome for customers

• Ask for recommendations of installations.

A good supplier should be able to show you letters from satisfied customers or even arrange for you to visit and talk to the homeowner.

• Ask about energy saving glass. It is now mandatory to fit energy saving glass and technology is changing all the time on all glass products with the warm edge super spacer, argon gas filled units and low iron glass. These units can be as low as 1.2 u-value which is far greater than the Government’s 1.6 u-value requirement.

Tony Dulling of Best Quality Windows with pet Bella

Tony said: “If homeowners follow these steps they will ensure that they get a highquality installation at the right price.

“We have never practiced high-pressure selling, but provide customers with a competitive price with the promise of professional and reliable service. We have literally hundreds of satisfied customers across Plymouth and the surrounding area. We offer a free no obligation quotation and allow customers to make their own decisions in their own time.

“We are members of FENSA as well as being endorsed by the Government’s FairTrades scheme. We offer a ten year guarantee on all our products and an energy efficient range of windows from ‘A’ rated to ‘C’ rated.

Tony added: “All our fitters are mature and experienced and take great pride in their work. We recognise that the fitting service is just as important as the quality of the product. The compliments we receive from our customers about our fitters underlines the importance we place on this aspect of our service.”

Best Quality Windows are located on St Levan Road, Plymouth and visitors are welcome to the showroom there.

The recent removal of the neighbouring gasometer caused some disruption in the area and did cause some concerns for Best Quality Windows. Teresa said: “Some people thought that we had moved because of the removal of the gas works. But we are definitely here to stay and look forward to welcoming customers.

“There is plenty of parking space available - and you’re sure of a warm welcome from Best Quality Bella, our lovely Black Labrador who appears in our advertisements.”

Customer testimonials “The sales and fitting staff were very professional and courteous throughout the whole process. No pressure, just good advice and left alone to make our mind up.”

“We have used this firm at intervals over the past 15 years. The fact that we return to them time and time again speaks for itself, in value and service. We have always been completely satisfied.”

Best Quality Windows, Quality House, St Levan Road, Ford, Plymouth.

Tel 01752 607373 www.bestqualitywindowsltd.net

the plymouth magazine

53

tails are wagging – new state-of-the-art A mobile dog grooming company launched less than six months ago is already getting the tails wagging across Plymouth.

Business partners Ian Bradley and Laura Cottee only set up the The Mobile Grooming Company in April this year and are delighted with the positive response they have received.

brought in from America and are designed to put even the most nervous dog at ease and keep them relaxed during their grooming and bathing.

The salons carry their own water supply and have additional battery capacity to operate the hydro-bath, dryers, lighting and even air conditioning, completely independently.

Ian covers Plymouth and the South Hams while Laura looks after the Torbay and Exeter area.

The vehicles are fitted with a large bath - big enough to take a St Bernard – and even have windows so that the dogs can see where they are.

Ian said that he and Laura previously worked together for a local food retailer where their focus was on customer care and a top quality service. They decided they wanted to run a company together based on similar principles.

Fresh, warm water is used, taken from a 300 litre tank carried on the vehicle. Used water is drained into another tank for safe disposal later.

Every grooming session starts with a free health check for the dog by the qualified groomer, checking eyes, ears, teeth, nails and other sensitive areas.

“We did a lot of research before setting up the company and were determined to set new standards in the quality of the service offered.

“From there we clean inside the ears and clip the nails, before brushing the dog through,” said Ian. “The brush through, before the bath, is very important, as matted hair gets tighter with bathing and drying.

“All our staff are City & Guilds qualified and our highest priority is to put the pet first in terms of its welfare and treatment.

“We also work closely with the pet’s owners to ensure that their dog’s precise requirements are fully met.

“Our mobile service is fast, convenient and ensures that the dog has the best treatment possible. There are no cages – unlike salons – and the vehicle has been specifically modified to ensure safety and convenience.”

The state-of-the-art mobile salons are fitted with equipment

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the plymouth magazine

“We use a variety of shampoos depending upon the dog’s coat and condition. We also use a tearless facial scrub to clean the face, to ensure that no harm comes to the dog’s eyes.

Laura Cottee of the Mobile Grooming Company looks after the Torbay and Exeter area

“From there we dry the pet thoroughly before then clipping the dog to your or the Kennel Club standards or requirements. We

grooming matters

thanks to grooming salon then simply return the dog to the customer, saving time, petrol and sitting in traffic.

“We are experienced in grooming all breeds and offer a variety of different services.”

Ian said that The Mobile Grooming Company’s service is available from 7am to 7pm from Monday to Saturday.

“We want to be as flexible and responsive as possible and recognise that some dog owners prefer evening or weekend appointments.”

Another happy customer...

He said that customers had already expressed their delight with the service and they were receiving many repeat bookings.

“We are also getting a Ian Bradley with the mobile grooming salon – he looks after the Plymouth and lot of personal South Hams area recommendations, which is particularly For further information contact contact The Mobile Grooming Company on 0800 0234565 or pleasing.”

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www.dynastyimprove.co.uk the plymouth magazine

55

legal matters

don’t leave it too protect your and your A Plymouth-based business offering a range of specialist legal services has seen its turnover more than double in the last year.

Richardsons Legal Services, which was launched five years ago this month, specialises in the preparation of wills, home protection trusts and lasting powers of attorney.

Company founder David Richardson said that the company primarily deals with clients who are over 60, offering them a free home call service where the family situation and the requirements of the will or other legal documents can be discussed in a relaxed way ‘over a cup of tea.’

David, who has been in business in Devon for over 20 years, trained as a will writer in 2007 and initially set up his company in Honiton. He is an Associate of the Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners.

“Don’t leave it too The company has also just been accepted by Trading Standards in the Buy With Confidence Approved Traders scheme.

late – make sure that everything is in order while you are healthy and able to make the right decisions” DAVID RICHARDSON

RELIABLE, AFFORDABLE, TARGETED

After trading in East Devon for three years, he re-located the company to Plymouth two years ago as he felt that the city offered much greater business potential.

DISTRIBUTION

It was certainly the right decision as Richardsons Legal Services has gone from strength to strength since 2010. Based at Langage Business Park in Plymstock, Richardsons Legal Services employs two staff in Plymouth along with a field services director in Somerset and two consultants in Befordshire.

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After attending an approved course and studying he is now qualified to judge mental capacity under the 2005 Mental Capacity Act and write lasting powers of attorney.

He said that one of the major growth areas for the business in the last two years had been the preparation of home protection trusts, which are drafted by barristers on behalf of Richardsons Legal Services.

David said: “An estimated 20,000 people in the UK lose their homes each year to pay for long term care. A home protection trust will protect the homeowners’ property from most unexpected eventualities.

“For most people the family home is the main asset to hand down to the family, but it needs protecting. Anyone, young or old, can become suddenly ill and need long term care.

“A home protection trust is possible for most people and will give full protection from this possibility and other eventualities that cannot be foreseen.”

• Competitive Rates • Mature Delivery People • Fully Audited • Comprehensive Management • Extensive Back Checking

“Without a will, the Government decides who inherits the estate of the deceased.

The spouse does not necessarily inherit everything. Other family members might have entitlement under the strict rules of intestacy.

For more information call John on:

“The government decides who looks after any children if there are no parents alive or willing to take on this duty, and an unmarried partner gets nothing.

www.plymouthliving.co.uk

“Without a will, people risk losing their home and surviving relatives could face more stress than they need to. Obtaining probate could be more expensive and take longer.

01752 225623 john@cornerstonevision.com

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He said that two thirds of people in the UK don’t have a will - although the majority of those are under 60. “It is surprising how many people in the over 60s age range still do not have a will,” he said.

the plymouth magazine

“Writing a will overcomes all these issues. Even if someone has a will, it is important

late to home assets that is regularly reviewed and updated to take account of any changes in family circumstances,” he added.

David said that the preparation of lasting powers of attorney was also vital for senior citizens to ensure that decisions regarding their property and financial affairs and health and welfare can be taken by the person or persons appointed as attorney.

“If someone loses their mental capacity – which can happen quite suddenly in the elderly – they need to have someone who is legally empowered to act on their behalf. This is important in a number of areas, particularly health issues such as life sustaining treatment.

“I would encourage people of all ages - but particularly those over 60 – to ensure that they have the right legal protection to cover all eventualities.

“Don’t leave it too late – make sure that everything is in order while you are healthy and able to make the right decisions,” he added.

David Richardson of Richardson Legal Services with his personal assistant Jo Shearn

For more information contact Richardsons Legal Services, Falcon House, Eagle Road, Langage, Plymouth Freephone 0800 014 8031 web www.rls-uk.com

the plymouth magazine

57

mount edgcumbe – an historic the day of your dreams Mount Edgcumbe House is one of the most beautiful wedding venues the South West has to offer.

With over 500 years of history, set in stunning grounds overlooking Plymouth Sound, this venue is the thing that dreams are made of.

Standing in 865 acres of Britain’s most stunning landscape, Mount Edgcumbe boasts seven acres of formal gardens, 10 miles of coastline and many historic buildings and follies as a backdrop for memorable wedding photographs.

Licensed as a wedding venue for 10 years, the House has three licensed rooms for civil ceremonies, accommodating from from two to 120 guests plus the outdoor option of the elegant Summer House overlooking the delightful Earls Garden.

But don’t leave it too long to look around, with 40 ceremonies a year and a similar number of receptions, dates are going fast all the way through to the end of 2014.

Mount Edgcumbe also has two stunning venues on the park for a wedding reception.

Originally built in 1760, the historic Orangery overlooks the Italian Garden. The garden has a focal point of the Mermaid Fountain (c1809) and the stunning backdrop of

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the plymouth magazine

the Belvedere which adds elegance to any photographs.

The Orangery itself can seat up to 120 guests for a sumptuous reception before dancing the night away in this delightful setting with up to 170 guests.

The second option is combining the new with the old; a state of the art marquee nestled in the exclusive Earls Garden gives the wedding party the modern comfort of a reinforced glass structure with the private gardens for guests to enjoy throughout the evening.

Created in the late 18th century the Earls Garden has always been the private garden for the family, however on the special day it’s all yours! With the spectacular views over the sea and the river the garden also boasts a Grade II listed Shell Seat standing guard over the Cedar Lawn.

With the added bonus of an experienced wedding co-ordinator, a wedding day at

wedding matters

location for this very flexible venue will truly be a day to remember. Couples are welcome to go along and see for themselves what the location has to offer.

Special offer Mount Edgcumbe are now offering a special price for the perfect dream wedding – venue hire for up to 120 guests for a civil ceremony and venue hire for up to 150 guests in the luxury marquee for £4,000. Also included in the package - free parking, confetti, transport from the Cremyll Ferry for guests and a bridal dressing room for use on the day.

Just in case all this wasn’t enough to impress friends and family on the special day – here are a few more facts about Mount Edgcumbe Country Park: • Human activity at Mount Edgcumbe stretches back thousands of years – evidenced by Mesolithic and Neolithic flint tools, an Iron Age Fort an Bronze Age barrows.

• The Park contains the largest exposed rhyolite (ancient volcanic lava flow) in the UK • Until 1971 the House belonged to the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe whose family tended the land for almost 500 years • The Park is jointly owned and managed by Plymouth City Council and Cornwall Council.

• Plymouth was alerted to the arrival of the Spanish Armada via signal from St Michaels Chapel on Rame Head in July 1588 • Over 12,000 trees have been planted on the estate since 1986.

For more information contact Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park, Cremyll, Torpoint, Cornwall PL10 1HZ 01752 822 236 www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk

Credits for photographs: Sorcha Holloway Photography; Honors Flowers; Prudence Gowns; Bells Brides (hair and make up); Plymouth Boat Trips

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59

time for christmas So, just as we start with Christmas displays and I head into the fields on Dartmoor to choose Christmas trees ... yes, the suns shines!

Typical, well it did until we arrived at the field and then in true Christmas tree fashion we had heavy bursts of rain! We have had a nice couple of weeks and a break from by the miserable weather, better late than never I Fiona Newton suppose – but what a horrible season.

Hence why we gave up on summer and thought we would cheer ourselves up with getting on with Christmas, bright colours and sparkle, but it hasn’t pleased everyone! Sorry to those who didn’t want to see it but it takes so long to get it all out, priced and displayed that we may as well push on!

and Derek Anderson

of Plymouth Garden Centre

So fingers crossed this nice weather continues, a gentle nip in the air in the mornings followed by sunshine in the day is perfect gardening weather. Derek has lots of ideas to keep you busy and weather permitting you will be able to give the garden the attention it deserves!

Whilst the days are getting shorter, the garden is by no means losing any interest.

October is a spectacular month for colour in the gardens. Leaves are being set ablaze with warm rich tones of reds, yellows and oranges and the late blooming flowers are really giving it one last push before the first frosts arrive. There is plenty to see and enjoy in the garden as well as plenty to do because October is a beautiful month in the garden.

Autumn foliage

There are some plants that can look a bit drab or boring throughout the summer

It’s that time again...choosing the best trees for Christmas – with the company of a Red Admiral

and sometimes get over looked, but October is their time to shine. Acers look particularly stunning now and are turning vivid colours before the leaves drop. I would consider Acers to have some of the best autumn foliage of any plant.

They are available in a range of leaf shapes from large and hand shaped to small and delicate like lace. Acers also come in a wide array of colours from dark green to acid yellow and dark red to pink variegation. The leaves take on a luminous quality in autumn and change to shades of bright red, yellow and orange. They are happily grown in pots or the garden and like it best in dappled shade but can tolerate sun and shade. They like a slightly acidic soil to bring out the best of the colours but are adaptable to most soils. Acers range in height and from 1m-8m (3’- 5’) wide and high, depending on the cultivar and variety.

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis) is a large shrub that is particularly useful in the garden for autumn and winter colour. The leaves in autumn turn from shades of yellow, through orange to red gradually ascending up the leaf giving a rainbow like appearance. It also flowers in late winter with small spider like blooms filling the garden with a delicate sweet, spicy fragrance. They grow to a height of 4-5m (13’-16’) and a spread of 2.5-5m (8’-16’), but can be kept smaller by pruning.

For evergreen foliage Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica) is hard to beat for autumn colouring. The shrub retains its leaves all year, but in autumn it transforms its bright green leaves and turns a vibrant reddish-purple. The brilliant foliage colour often remains throughout the winter.

Nandina also produce clusters of small white flowers that are followed by attractive bunches of red berries in late summer. It’s best grown in full sun to partial shade in moist but well drained soil. It has a height and spread of approximately 1-1.5m (3’-5’).

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gardening matters

preparations Heucheras are invaluable plants for autumn colour; they are available in a wide variety of colours and are extremely versatile. They come in reds, greens, acid yellows, coppers, plum, black, silver, marbled, speckled, veined and much more. Heucheras form neat mounds of leaves and can be used as ground cover, companion planting to add accents or complement colour schemes and flowers.

They can be grown in pots or in the garden. Heucheras will grow in most soil types and can grow in either sun or shade. They give the garden excellent interest all year round, especially in autumn and winter with their evergreen leaves. They will grow to approximately 30cm (12”) in height and 45cm (18”) in spread.

In addition to these, there are a wide range of deciduous shrubs and trees that have spectacular autumn foliage including Ceratostigma, Beech, Corylus, Birch, Prunus, Cornus and many more. Grasses will also be in their full glory this month with Pennisetum, Miscanthus, Pampus (Cortederia), and Phormuims all looking fantastic giving excellent autumn and winter interest.

Autumn flowers

October will be the last chance for many of our late flowering perennials to put on a show. Not only will they provide us with a few more weeks of colour, but they also provide an important and much need source of nectar for bees and butterflies and seeds for birds.

Looking great now will be the Japanese Anemones (Anemone Huphensis).

They are excellent for a difficult shady spot, growing to 60cm-1m (2’-3’) and flower over a long Anenome huphensis period. Asters will still be smothered in small daisy like flowers in shades of white, pink, blue and purple.They are fantastic low growing plants, providing bursts of colour in the garden and are great for wildlife.

Sedums will also be producing the last of its blooms in masses of tiny pink flowers on large flat heads. The ones here at the garden centre have been a magnet for bees and butterflies and each head has had up to 15 butterflies feeding from it at a time.

Chrysanthemums will be coming into full bloom now, providing the garden and pots with balls of non stop colour until the frosts hit. They come in a wide selection of colours now, from white, yellow, orange, pink, red and burgundy to the bi-colours, striped and speckled varieties. There will be one to suit most tastes. They are hardy and make excellent cut flowers that can last for weeks in vases. Easy to look after, they like a sunny aspect in well drained, fertile soil. They can range in height from 15cm to 1.2m (6”-4’), so there is one for every situation.

Autumn and winter bedding is starting to look great now, so its the perfect time to replace tender and finished summer bedding with pansies, violas and cyclamen. These will keep flowering from now, throughout the winter and early spring continually. They may stop flowering during severe frosts, but will start again when temperatures begin to rise. They are available in a wide range of colours and are a cheap but effective way to cheer and brighten up the garden on dull days.

New season roses will be arriving throughout October, particularly the special occasion roses. It is the perfect time to get them in the ground and settled for a wonderful display next year. They are also a touching and personal gift to give to a loved one that they can enjoy for many years to come, with named varieties for every occasion.

Plymouth Garden Centre in Fort Austin Avenue, Crownhill is open from 9am to 5.30pm weekdays and 10.30am to 4.30pm Sundays Tel: 01752 771820. www.plymouthgardencentre. co.uk

Beautiful autumn colours

October jobs to do

It is the last time to get out now and plant autumn flowering Cyclamen, Crocus and Colchicums bulbs. They flower in the autumn just as everything else is finishing, extending the season of colour that little bit longer.

It is peak time to plant spring flowering bulbs. Get your bulbs in the ground as soon as possible to help them settle before the frosts arrive. Planting now will provide a riot of colour in the spring.

Whilst the ground is still warm, it is a great time to start planting fruit trees and fruit bushes. They will establish themselves in the ground before winter hits and will flourish and produce a crop of fruit in the summer. Get your own fruit growing and provide for yourself before supermarket prices sky rocket. Try easy varieties such as currants, gooseberries, blackberries and blueberries if starting from scratch.

For a bumper crop of onions and garlic in the spring, now is the time to get your onion sets, shallots and garlic in the ground. We have winter hardy varieties in stock now.

Keep on top of leaf litter in the garden and lawns. It can block out light and cause yellow patches. On pathways leaves can become a hazard when wet so keep clearing them. Clear and dispose of any diseased or virused leaves to prevent further spreading and contamination. Good husbandry helps reduce diseases and problems.

Apply autumn lawn feed to lawns. This will kill moss in the lawn and it also strengthens the roots of the grass to keep it tough and help it through winter.

Keep feeding the birds, they will start to fatten themselves for winter insulation. The more help we give them, the better their chances of survival.

Check out the discount vouchers to spend in our advert and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Happy gardening – Fiona & Derek!

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61

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Moment in Time was founded in 1992 and has 20 years of experience in a wide range of photography formats. Located in a pretty terrace of shops on the borders of Peverell and Mannamead in Plymouth, the photography studio is a few minutes from the A38 and Plymouth city centre with free car parking outside.

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