Vale Life Summer 2015

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Made In The Shade FASHION, BRIDAL, FOOD, HEALTH & WELLBEING INTERIORS, GIFTS, HAIR & BEAUTY, PROPERTY Restaurant Reviews What’s On, Business, Shopping

plus Art, Music, Style There’s more online www.valelifemag.co.uk Health, Homes and much more

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THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

VALE L IFE Editor Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Creative Director Mark Roberts mark@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Editorial Thomas Goodyear editorial@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Features Lucy Atkinson lucy@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

www.valelifemag.co.uk 0845 180 2345 Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Cardiff CF63 2AW Passionate about the Vale of Glamorgan We are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. Vale Life magazine is written, designed and printed in the Vale of Glamorgan for the people of the Vale of Glamorgan.

Our philosophy We are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty much sums up our thinking: “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

Caveat emptor Advertisers supply their own copy or artwork, and therefore Vale Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in Vale Life or on www.valelifemag.co.uk (or our social media streams) is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions and can offer no compensation should we get it wrong. Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in Vale Life are strictly those of the authors.

Intellectual property © Copyright Vale Life 2015. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse.

Subscriptions To guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £20 (four issues) made payable to Vale Life. Visit www.valelifemag.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Missed the last issue?

We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.

Yes it’s free. Priceless actually!

Vale Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Vale of Glamorgan and beyond and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed on, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did.

Green is good The pulp used in the production of the paper Vale Life is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.

We’re very sociable!

We’re on the web! www.valelifemag.co.uk Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/valelife Follow on Twitter! @ValeLife #ValeLife

W ELCOME I don’t know about you but I love the summer months. Not just because the weather is warmer and we can catch a few rays, but I love the little things like the smell of burgers on a barbecue, the sound of lawnmowers and seeing babies in their prams with their chubby little legs and feet on show! Ah simple pleasures.

I know, it really doesn’t take much to make me happy and as I get older I am appreciating the little things more and more.

Not that I don’t love a good shop, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, glass of wine (or two!) and we’re lucky in the Vale to have such lovely venues to choose from. Hopefully, in the pages of our summer issue, you’ll see lots of places to visit and things to enjoy, for yourself, your loved ones and for your home.

Happy reading and I’ll see you again in the Autumn.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor 07766 106 701 jennifer@valelife.co.uk uk.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhobbsroberts

Our team is expanding and we’d like to welcome on board our new features writer, Lucy Atkinson. We’re lucky to have her!

Well, where do I begin? In the few short months of working with the team at Vale Life, I’ve met some wonderful people in business and on my walkabouts, I can honestly say it’s been a real privilege.

After living in Porthcawl for some years now, I know that area really well so it’s been a joy going further afield and seeing what’s on offer. We’re very lucky to have Coney Beach Funfair on our doorstep. I really enjoyed my time at Barry Island, meeting all of the traders. It’s great to see the fair back up and running.

I look forward to meeting more of you in the months to come and, hopefully, to help you promote your business in Vale Life and our sister publications.

In the meantime, if I can be of assistance, please give me a call on 07860 930 399 and I’ll arrange to pop in and see you.

Alan Lloyd Client Liaison Manager 07860 930 399 alan@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

VALE LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS, OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM VALE LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. VALE LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1723. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.VALELIFEMAG.CO.UK

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The Vale of Glamorgan has so many great little gems and we’ve tried to share as many as we can with you this issue. We only like to feature businesses, places, activities or events that we’ve either experienced ourselves or have been recommended to us. We’d love to hear from you too.

Where do you shop? Where do you walk? What do you love about our gorgeous county?

AROUND THE VALE

COWBRIDGE

Songs to the moon at Cowbridge Music Festival This year’s music festival welcomes two inspiring young female artists, enriching its classical repertoire with jazz, electro-acoustic and folk.

Alice Zawadzki is a jazz singer, composer and violinist based in London. Described as “uncategorisable, beautiful—a real force to be reckoned with” ( Jamie Cullum, BBC Radio 2), her music draws on her early exposure to New Orleans soul and gospel, a classical training and an exploration of world and improvised music, with storytelling always at the heart of her performances.

Alice’s debut album China Lane, released last year, encompasses a rich collection of influences: ancient Sephardic songs about loss, exodus and prejudice; modern fairy tales full of mischief, whimsy, obsession and magic; and folk stories about young love.

Greta Isaac

Currently on tour in Northern Italy, Alice has live dates at The Vortex in London and Manchester Jazz Festival in July before coming to Cowbridge on 24 September. In a candlelit Holy Cross Church, Alice will perform Songs To The Moon, a magical line-up of jazz standards, Greek folk and her own creations.

The festival is also proud to present 20-year-old singer-songwriter Greta Isaac from Cowbridge. Inspired by Bon Iver and Laura Marling, Greta released her first EP Down By The Water last year to wide acclaim. The four-track debut embodies her love of folk and Americana, and ballads of Randy Newman, Billy Joel and Joni Mitchell.

Already making her name on the festival circuit, Greta performed at Green Man in 2012 and 2014, and sang with Welsh band The People The Poet at Latitude last summer. Greta will play an intimate, late-evening acoustic set at The Duke of Wellington in Cowbridge on Wednesday 23 September.

Cowbridge Music Festival runs from 17-25 September, with performances including latin jazz from The Julian Bliss Septet.

Violinist and CMF patron Nicola Benedetti also performs on 12 November.

Tickets available online at www.cowbridgemusicfestival.co.uk and from Xantippe, 39 Cowbridge High St.

Alice Zawadzki

BRINGING WOOL TO WALES

Ammonite Yarns Ruth and Jenny opened Wales’ newest wool shop in May and would love you to come along for a visit.

Yarns stocked include Drops Designs, Bernat, Sugar ‘N’ Cream, West Yorkshire Spinners, Woolyknit, Fyberspates, Wendy and Peter Pan. We have two craft and chat groups that run every Tuesday, from 10am until 12pm and 6:30pm until 8:30pm. So bring your latest project and join our friendly flock.

7 Llantrisant Road, Pontyclun CF72 9DP 01443 520200 www.ammoniteyarns.moonfruit.com Like on Facebook FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

OBI Camping & Leisure OBI has been established for over 45 years in Cowbridge. OBI Camping is now moving and by July will be relocated to new bigger and better premises, with all our displays undercover.

Our staff have experience in using the products we sell, which means you’ll receive expert advice. We specialise in drive-away or freestanding awnings for motor-homes and camper vans, and have a dedicated website with a large choice of awnings and lots of helpful advice.

Unit 70 Vale Business Park, Llandow CF71 7PF 01446 772 498 www.obicampingandleisure.co.uk www.driveway-awnings.co.uk

F O R T H AT P E R S O N A L T O U C H

5* GUEST HOUSE

FO O T O F T H E M O U N TA I N

Sarah Cole Fine Art Portraits

Foam Edge Guesthouse

The Gwaelod Inn

When exploring the seaside town of Porthcawl there is no better place to stay than the Foam Edge Guest House.

Perfectly located, En-suite rooms overlooking the sea that are elegantly furnished and hospitality that is second to none. What more could you ask for?

9 West Drive, Porthcawl, CF36 3LS. 01656 782866 www.foam-edge.co.uk Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

Well positioned on the Taff-Ely Ridgeway Path and perfect for ramblers, cyclists, locals and those looking for an award winning, family run pub to enjoy a nice pint in.

After studying Fine Art in Carmarthen and then going on to do a BA (Hons) in Cardiff, Sarah Cole started doing portrait commissions of people and pets. By simply emailing Sarah your photo, she expertly translates the image onto a canvas size of your choosing.

07967 926165 cole.sarah3@sky.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

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Main Road, Gwaelod-y-Garth, Cardiff CF15 9HH 029 2081 0408 www.gwaelodinn.com Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

S TA R O F S K Y T V ’ S ‘ S T E L L A’

Coast Coffee would also like to take this opportunity to welcome new customers whilst thanking the loyalty and support of our existing patrons, especially during the disruption to service during filming. Come and visit us at:

Coast Coffee Porthcawl It isn’t everyday that you can visit a place you have seen on your favourite television show, let alone have a sit down and enjoy a delicious speciality coffee there too!

2 - 4 Dock Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BL 07443 496464 Like on Facebook Use our free ‘Cloud’ WiFi

Coast Coffee has recently had the pleasure of starring in Series 4 of Sky TV’s comedy ‘Stella’, with customers and staff getting the opportunity to meet the talented stars during the breaks in filming.

As we pass our first anniversary in May it easy to see that Coast Coffee has become more than just a coffee shop and film set.

When it isn’t taking part in the show Coast Coffee serves a great selection of speciality coffees, teas, freshly prepared baguettes and paninis, salads, ice creams and an extensive collection of cakes.

Our steadily growing customers have been joined by a number of large social groups and organisations and we would like to encourage any other local groups of friends that are looking for a meeting place to come along and try us.

YO U R VA L E L I F E

Where do you love?

We’d love to hear about your favourite places in the Vale. Where you go for a walk - perhaps the woods, beach or special place.

We’d also love to see your photographs.

It doesn’t matter whether your a professional, if we like them, we may even feature them in the magazine. Please share with us, email to jennifer@valelife.co.uk 9

LOOK DIVINE FEEL DIVINE

Divine Come and see why Divine was the Winner of Independent Retailer of the year 2013 and why it was also shortlisted for the final 3 in 2014 too.

Divine has a wonderful array of scents and colours filling the shop, making your shopping adventure a truly individual and unique experience.

With a range of Italian clothing, scarves, hats, gloves, candles, bath bombs and a huge range of branded jewellery, it really is easy to ‘Look Divine, Feel Divine!’

“ Winner of the Independent Retailer of the Year award 2013.”

30 John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BA 01656 773300 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter L U X U RY AC C O M M O DAT I O N

The Brentwood Hotel With the Summer finally here it is time to leave your worries behind, sit back, relax and enjoy the sun.

The Brentwood Hotel is located just off Porthcawl’s beautiful coastline and is just minutes walk from everything the seaside town has to offer. With 23 ensuite rooms and a bar that has karaoke, disco and live music nights, in addition to a beer garden, home cooked food and reasonably priced top brand Ales and Lagers, The Brentwood Hotel should be the top of your list when you need to relax and get away from it all.

37 - 41 Mary Street, Porthcawl CF36 3YN 01656 782725 www.brentwoodhotel.net Like on Facebook PA R T O F T H E C O M M U N I T Y

The Lorelei Hotel There are many things within Porthcawl that have become a landmark associated with the seaside town and The Lorelei is one of them.

Owned by the same landlords for almost 20 years The Lorelei has a truly remarkable selection of drinks having had over 2500 different guest ales over the last 15 years.

With a published feature in the Good Beer Guide that has lasted over 15 years, The Lorelei is not just a hotel, it is a Porthcawl Landmark and a part of the community.

36 - 38 Esplanade Avenue, Porthcawl CF36 3YU 01656 788342 Like on Facebook 10

U N R I VA L E D S E RV I C E

Soapy’s Soapy’s is a traditional dry cleaners and laundrette that has been providing specialist dry cleaning services for well over 30 years.

The staff, whose combined experience equal over 100 years in the trade, give an unrivaled level of performance when it comes to looking after your items.

They go the extra mile with each and every item, all being individually inspected with a lot of the cleaning services, such as stain removal, being performed by hand.

The Old Banana Stores Station Hill New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 788319 Follow on Facebook

Romilly Financial

“ They go the extra mile with each and every item.”

Local & trusted financial planning

The Summer is almost here and there is definitely a buzz of optimism around the town...

It is amazing what a shining sun will do. Houses are selling, the media appears to mention Penarth at least once a week and there is a healthy influx of famous people moving in. Our happy little town is well and truly self contained, there is not much you can’t get access to here. We are demanding to be noticed by the world. None more so than the advisers at Romilly Financial who have recently appeared once again in the Sunday Telegraph for their good reviews via the VouchedFor website.

There is no higher praise than a satisfied client and Romilly have their fair share making them amongst the most sought after financial planners in South Wales.

Romilly financial 26 Hickman Road, Penarth, CF64 2AL 02920 415100 www.romillyifa.com @romillyifa romillyifa

PENSIONS - INVESTMENTS - PROTECTION - TAX PLANNING - LENDING - ISA’S - SAVING - WEALTH BUILDING - CORPORATE PLANNING 68

Penarth View

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Based in Cefn Cribwr, near Bridgend, Shed Centre Wales has one of the largest shed/summerhouse display sites in the area. The Morris family now operate the Shed Centre Wales and Mount Pleasant Farm Shop on their site, and are pleased to welcome newcomers Cefn Cwtch Gift Shop. We chatted with Amy Morris about the expansion of their business…

SHEDS HEAVEN

Amy, can you tell us how your business has grown to what it is today?

We’ve been here for over 50 years, we started as an egg farm. When that industry crashed my father directed the farm into a fruit and veg shop where we also sell fresh turkeys at Christmas – they’re very popular.

We still sell fencing and garden furniture, in fact a lot of our garden furniture is handmade in this area, so we’re supporting local independent businesses. We fully believe that local businesses should work together and support each other so that everyone gains by funds and jobs being kept within the community.

Then, with the rise of supermarkets killing off small fruit and veg shops my father transformed the business by selling a range of garden products from fencing, garden furniture and then sheds – this was around 15 years ago.

Our business was called Mount Pleasant Farm Shop for 50 years but with the take-off of our sheds and summerhouses we re-branded as Shed Centre Wales, which is now our main business. 2015 saw our site expand massively and we now have 25 display buildings ranging from sheds, potting sheds, summerhouses and even double glazed log cabins.

Over the past three years I have mainly run the shed site - so the business is still run under the same family, and we love to see it expanding year by year.

What about customers who’d like a shed/summerhouse/log cabin but can’t build it themselves?

We have a great team who work 7 days a week delivering and fitting. In fact around 80% of our customers do have their products built by our team for the very reason you mentioned – life has become very busy. What better than to pick your product, then enjoy it days later after it’s been made up for you!

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“ We have a great team who work 7 days a week delivering and fitting.”

Do you still have your farm shop?

Yes and it’s open 7 days a week, selling a wide range of fresh produce from local markets and we still sell fresh eggs - where it all began.

Our pre-ordered fresh fruit and veg boxes are extremely popular with our customers.

Tell us a bit about the new gift shop, it looks gorgeous.

We have a new gift shop on site called Cefn Cwtch, which sells handmade gifts (again supporting local crafters from the area) which cannot be found anywhere else.

What does the future hold for your business Amy? I’m very passionate about this business, and its success, and this is my priority.

Our social media pages have really taken off, and you can catch up with our latest news via both of our Facebook pages (Mount Pleasant Farm Shop and Shed Centre Wales) and follow on Twitter. Also it’s about the family roots of where we are based and the history does mean a lot to me (and I also enjoy showing men that women can sell sheds).

A possibility for the future (you read it here first) is that a café/tea room may be on the cards for next year, as we get so many requests for this from our customers.

Shed Centre Wales (and the Mount Pleasant Farm Shop) offer friendly, personal service with no hard sell techniques, and they feel this is why they are now leading the market in sheds and summerhouses. Plus, with their team on hand to deliver and fit their products 7 days a week it’s a complete package under one roof.

HANDMADE GIFTS & MORE

Cefyn Cwtch Gift Shop

Shed Centre Wales and Mount Pleasant Farm Shop Mount Pleasant Farm Farm Road, Cefn Cribwr CF32 0HA 01656 720206 www.shedcentrewales.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 13

Snugly placed within Shed Centre Wales, we offer a large range of unique gifts perfect for weddings, birthdays, new homes and for those ‘just because’ moments. Come and see our personalised gifts for every budget.

Shed Centre Wales, Mount Pleasant Farm Farm Road, Cefn Cribwr CF32 0HA 01656 720206 Like on Facebook

CARDIFF AND GLAMORGAN

MEMORIAL PARK AND CREMATORIUM

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING Our Memorial Park is a new concept and opened in October 2011. Its facility innovation and use of local materials makes it a serene, personal and beautiful place. It is set in 20 acres of parkland and offers natural burial, traditional burial and cremation with local memorialisation.

Cardiff and Glamorgan Memorial Park and Crematorium Port Road East, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 9PX T. 01446 724040 F. 01446 724042 Office hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm Life Mag advert 134.5 x 190mm.qxp_Layout 1 18/05/2015 15:01 Page 1

% 01443 404699

www.lidoponty.co.uk

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NOT JUST FOR THE KIDS

Sadie & Frank’s The indoor play area where your little ones can engage in active play within a safe environment.

With a large play area for the older children and an area for toddlers, there is something for every child to enjoy.

We also host a family date night, so bring the kids, bring a bottle and relax. The kids can play or simply watch a DVD while you enjoy some grown-up time.

Units 1-2, Kingswood St, Bridgend CF35 5BP 01656 647173 www.sadieandfranks.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter CARDIFF

Beautiful new Cardiff Boutique Husband and wife team Jayne and Julian Davies welcome you to their beautiful new shop, Boutique 53 on the popular Wellfield Road in Cardiff.

After viewing several shops in many different locations, they felt that the Wellfield Road shop was a perfect size and felt the trading area was the busiest, plus Julian was born just around the corner, so it was like a home coming for him. They both love the area and the great community feeling.

Boutique 53 stocks daywear from Joseph Ribkoff, Tia, Latte, Marble, Capri, Robell Trousers, Lebek, Pomodoro, Tivoli and Anonymous, outerwear from Crush, Junge & Lebek and evening wear from Lyman by Frank Lyman, Milano Formals, Kristen Krog & Mascara Collection, to begin with but they are always looking for new exciting labels.

You’ll find daywear, eveningwear and occasion wear in sizes 8 to 20 and they can order from sizes 4-24 on most ranges. As Jayne and Julian believe good design and style needn’t cost the earth, prices will be affordable for most budgets. You’ll also find a good range of accessories including jewellery, bags, scarves, fascinators and hats. Their jewellery collections are spectacular and very affordable.

What can you expect at Boutique 53? Quality clothing and accessories at the right price, in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

They strive for 100% customer satisfaction and never send a lady away if they felt she didn’t look the best that she could look and are on hand to offer alternative suggestions. They believe women can look good whatever their shape and size.

As an added extra, Jayne is a qualified seamstress, is ultra-picky about how clothes fit and hang and offers an alteration service to customers. They also track every evening gown, prom dress and outfit purchased for special occasions and promise never to sell the same style to a customer going to the same venue. Jayne previously owned and successfully ran Viva Couture in Chepstow and looks forward to welcoming customers old and new to her beautiful new Cardiff Boutique.

Boutique 53 53 Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2049 7988 www.boutique53.com Like on Facebook 15

Mint hairdressing salon continues to go from strength to strength – and as it celebrates its 7th anniversary this year (June 2015), what better time to pop in and catch up with salon owner Michelle Harries in their gorgeous seaside premises…

MINT HAIRDRESSING We’re loving the new look Michelle, tell us what you’ve been up to since we last saw you?

Thank you. Well, as you know I built this business from scratch in 2008, working in our original salon for 5 years until we needed more space.

Our new salon has a city vibe boasting coastal front sea views, high ceilings and everyone loves our elegant ambiance - well deserved for our fabulous clients and team.

I’ve personally been on a roller coaster for the past three years; with lots of changes and a positive move forward to the new salon which has brought with it higher levels and expectations.

My professionally experienced team and I have continued to build the business and we all share the same overall commitment to our lovely clients.

You certainly sound to have been busy since we last saw you; what are you planning for the future?

We currently cater for every aspect of hairdressing, and will arrange call outs for weddings and special events. In the not too distant future we plan to add beauty treatments and several product ranges into the salon and we will be holding fabulous pamper evenings for both adults and young ladies.

This service can also be complemented with a photo shoot of your evening with excellent photography by the very talented Alison Williams of Porthcawl Print Centre.

Michelle Harries

Each member of our team (Director/ Senior Stylist Michelle Harris; Sarah Evans, Darren Hawkins and Jane Anthony) has up to 29 years experience and we welcome new clients as well as our regulars.

Mint are open six and a half days a week and very conveniently have appointments available on two late evenings for the day workers among us.

Mint Hairdressing Unit 1, The Esplanade, Porthcawl CF36 3YE 01656 782 088 16

Katie Sinclair

“Michelle is amazing.

She always makes me look ‘Mint’.”

“I love it here at Mint.

They make me feel very special.”

Mark Williams

“I’ve followed Michelle wherever she’s been as I’ve always been very happy with how she cuts my hair.”

Callum Wootton

“I always come away very pleased with my hair.”

Sally Brown

“I love coming here. It’s so relaxing. My ‘me-time’ I couldn’t do without.”

Leah Park 17

Now that the sun is showing its face, there’s never a better time to visit Coney Beach and its world famous funfair. The funfair has come a long way since its inception back in 1918 and work never stops to keep the rides going and the funfair exciting. We roll up our sleeves with owner Patrick Evans and find out more.

A LL THE FUN OF THE FAIR

Patrick, we understand the funfair will be 100 years old in 2017. Has your family always been involved?

The 1918 miners fortnight was when the Evans family first came to Coney Beach. The family was only going to stay for two weeks but have been here ever since. Following the 1914-18 war, the then Government introduced a ‘working man’s holiday’ of two weeks, now known as the miners fortnight to help combat Tuberculosis or TB as it is commonly known. It was believed the seaside air and sunshine would help.

“ All rides are subject to regular safety checks both internally, and by the Health and Safety Executive, and ride maintenance is carried out over twelve months.”

Tell us about the rides. We understand some of them date back to the 1930s?

Most of the rides currently on-site are from the late 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Each ride is fully restored to its original condition every three years.

We have a workshop here where all the restoration takes place. All rides are subject to regular safety checks both internally, and by the Health and Safety Executive, and ride maintenance is carried out over twelve months - not just during the summer season.

Safety is of paramount importance to us at Coney Beach Funfair.

What are the site’s most popular attractions?

The Beach, the Funfair, donkey rides, the refreshments - in that order.

Also very popular is the £1 a ride after 5pm every Wednesday and Friday.

Everyone loves a bargain!

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A little bird tells us that you support the charity Ty Hafan? Can you tell us about that?

Yes, we raised over £80k at this year’s Ty Hafan Rainbow Run on Coney Beach.

We also held a massive bonfire on Coney Beach on November 5th which was attended by over 30,000 people. All car park proceeds were donated to Ty Hafan and, I’m proud to say, this event was organised in less than one week.

There’s a great community spirit across south Wales. Do you support local businesses?

Absolutely yes! Local business played a major part in the organisation of the Bonfire event - Police, Fire Brigade, Council and a great group of local businesses from Bridgend and Porthcawl provided both manpower and equipment to make it happen.

Local businesses and growers also provided ice cream, milk, coffee, and tea - which all helped make the event the success that it was.

Do you offer the beach and the facilities to other charities for their events?

Absolutely. It’s a great location and what we have to offer is something unique.

We want to work closely with charitable organisations to use our facilities to their best advantage and to help those charities raise much needed funds.

Fund raising should be fun, and fun is what we’re about.

What are your plans for the future?

Too many - time is always against us! We want to keep the family tradition going and continue making Coney Beach a family destination for all generations to have a great day out. Our aim is not to compete with the major theme parks - we’re different. We stand-alone and I think we offer something that’s a little more intimate and special. We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved over the years – it’s our heritage. That being said, we must move with the times so we will be undergoing a facelift over the coming years to smarten up our image in readiness for our 100th Anniversary.

HOT & COLD SNACKS FOR ALL!

Scoops Ice Cream Open 7 days a week, Scoops serves tasty paninis, pastries, sweets, hot and cold drinks and of course their award winning ice cream.

With a comfy patio area that has stunning views of the surrounding beach, Southerndown and the Devon coast, Scoops is the perfect treat.

Coney Beach, Porthcawl CF36 5BY Like on Facebook

Coney Beach Mackworth Road Porthcawl CF36 5BY 01656 788911 Like on Facebook www.coneybeachporthcawl.com 19

When Ben Wells, 34 was looking for a suit some years ago, he found just what he was looking for at Hawkes in Cardiff’s popular Morgan Arcade.

He’s been a loyal customer ever since.

Vale Life chats with Ben to find out why.

Ben Wells

TAILORED TO SUIT Where do you live?

I currently live in Llanishen in Cardiff but I grew up in the Vale of Glamorgan in Ewenny.

What is your occupation?

As of the start of the year I became my own boss so I am now the owner and Managing Director of Stone Wood Property Ltd, a property development company.

How long have you been shopping at Hawkes?

A good few years. I am not sure how many. I remember going in to look for a suit. I had previously been to Hugo Boss and was considering buying one for about £650. Russell then showed me a lovely grey three piece suit, which I tried on and loved. I ended up buying it and Russell tailored it for nearly half the cost of the Boss suit - and it looked superb. Since then I have been a regular and Russell is now a good friend.

What do you generally buy there?

I pretty much buy all my smarter clothes from Russell now whether it be suits, suit jackets, shirts or shoes.

He has the only store that I know of in Cardiff that stock my favourite brand “Circle of Gentleman.” They do some really quirky shirts and jackets and the cut on them always fits me perfectly. He also stocks Eton shirts, which are also fantastic quality and cut and Jeffery West shoes which are superb (both of which I will be wearing for my wedding). As well as the more formal items, Russell does have a nice collection of more casual items and I have stocked up on a lot of his summer collection for our upcoming honeymoon.

Why did you go there recently? Did you have a special event to go to?

After making my fiancé wait seven years, I finally popped the question on a boat in Portugal last year. We are now getting married this July at Rosedew Farm in Llantwit Major. A lot of guys hire suits for their wedding, which can still cost a lot of money, so I decided

to ask my best men and ushers if they would be happy to chip in on their suits and they were more than happy to.

Once I knew I was going to have to buy six suits, there was only one person I was going to call and went straight to Hawkes and spoke to Russell. We chose a lovely blue three piece Remus suit for the best men and the ushers, but I wanted something a little different for myself. We had a look around the shop and nothing was really jumping out at me. After a few more minutes looking around, Russell mentioned his bespoke service, where I could basically design my suit from the ground up. Straight away I thought “oh god this is going to cost me a fortune”, but we talked figures and we both agreed it was well worth the money.

We started off by looking at the material choices; thankfully I knew roughly what I wanted. My inspiration was the famous picture from James Bond’s Goldfinger, when Sean Connery is wearing a grey suit leaning against the Aston Martin DB5. I told Russell that I wanted a modern day version of this.

We eventually picked out a beautiful Prince of Wales check. Russell took all my measurements and then went through a tonne of questions, from how I wanted the buttons to the inner lining. Roughly six weeks later and our creation had arrived. I went in to try it on and I was blown away. The fit was fantastic and it had totally hit the brief being classic modern with a hint of 007!

What do you enjoy about shopping at Hawkes?

I love shopping in Hawkes for many reasons. Firstly the stock Russell has is fantastic and anything you buy in there you can wear it with pride, knowing that there is a very slim chance you will see anyone else wearing the same item.

“My inspiration was the famous picture from James Bond’s Goldfinger.”

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Would you recommend Hawkes to friends, family and colleagues?

I would and I do. I am constantly asked where I bought that shirt or that jacket, and I am more than happy to point them in Russell’s direction, as I know he will look after them and give them the same service I receive.

I have spoken to all my friends and recommended that anyone attending my wedding needing a new suit should go and see Russell.

Are bespoke suits expensive?

Russell explains.

How many suits have you made since you started the business ten years ago?

Getting on for 300 now and it’s been a big learning curve. Every mistake costs money as I will remake if the problems can be solved. If not, customer is refunded his deposit. The first suit is the one that will often need a tweak but there after the suits should be perfect.

Which suit maker do you use?

Having gone through three makers, we have settled on Stuncroft from Goole as they have the most experience. After every order they pick up the phone and go through it thoroughly. Gresham Blake from London uses the same tailors and advised me to do the same.

How much did Ben’s suit cost?

Not sure he’d like me to tell! He picked an expensive cloth which can affect price, but on the whole, a two piece is £200 build, £200 cloth and £200 profit after Vat. So we charge £650 for a two piece and £150 extra for a waistcoat on a six week turnaround. Let’s just say Ben’s was a little more than that!

Hawkes 37-39 Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com Like on Facebook

Suit Cost £650 for the two piece £150 extra for the waistcoat

A recent James Bond themed evening of fund raising in Cardiff’s Morgan Arcade organised by Chris Macnamara of The Brogue Trader was an amazing success. Chris also used the opportunity to announce the launch of his epic 5,000 mile scooter ride through Europe to Croatia to raise £5,000 for the George Thomas Hospice.

LICENCE TO THRILL By the time you have read this, award-winning retailer, Chris Macnamara, Managing Director at The Brogue Trader should be safely home after riding 5,000 miles from his home town of Cardiff to Croatia and back during June to raise much needed funds and awareness for George Thomas Hospice Care.

If you’ve donated and kept up with Chris through his regular video diary on Facebook you will know that Chris more than exceeded his £5,000 target and, as I type this, the fund is fast approaching £6,000.

Chris said, “I am taking on the crazy challenge of riding a Vespa from my home town of Cardiff all the way to Croatia and back - a whopping 5,000 mile round trip in support of George Thomas Hospice Care. Any sponsorship you can assist with however big or small will be much appreciated to help this fantastic charity.”

Prior to the journey, in May, Chris organised a gentlemen’s evening at the Morgan Quarter. “I wanted to raise cash for a great local hospice but also awareness for this local charity, the hospice requires £1.3 million a year to stay open so that is why I’m now riding the scooter across Europe in attempt to raise even more money.”

The event, held on the 19th May in Morgan Arcade was an opportunity for Bond to go Brogue for one night only at an evening entitled License to Thrill, supported by local businesses and in association with and in celebration of the official opening of Watches of Wales, a neighbouring store in the Morgan Arcade, owned and run by local businessman Paul Hornblow.

“It was a fantastic evening,” says Chris, “And it wouldn’t have been the great success without Spiros Fine Dining Caterers who supplied all the waiters and waitresses, the fine canapés and gave superb cooking demonstrations in the Harvey Jones Kitchen store.”

After the event in Morgan Arcade, the hundreds of guests headed for Ten Mill Lane night club who supplied the cocktail bars and then the after show party that went on until the early hours. Bang & Olufsen, the world renowned hi-fi retailer, streamed music throughout the arcade and stayed open to host guests.

Dennis DeMille sang jazz along with James Williams the X-Factor finalist who sang ‘swing’ to entertain the 350 guests who attended. Brian the busker even sang in Bakers Row to get arriving guests in the mood and as they left to continue partying at Ten Mill Lane.

Pictured next to Chris Macnamara is Nicky Piper exCommonwealth boxer and Sponsorship Director for George Thomas Hospice Care, Jake Ball: Scarletts and Welsh international rugby player, Scott Williams: Ospreys and Welsh international rugby player

Wales were both packed out with loyal customers all getting in the buying mood.

Chris would like to extend his heartfelt thanks to the following for making the evening such an overwhelming success: Spiros fine dining caterers, Ben Miller - Heineken UK, Ten Mill Lane, James Williams, Dennis DeMille, Gwil I Am, Stratstone Aston Martin Cardiff, M&P Harley Davidson Swansea, Watches of Wales, Bang & Olufsen, Harvey Jones Kitchens and, finally, the evening’s host, Nicky Piper.

Chris hopes the event will become an annual one - a celebration of quality, fun and, above all, raising valuable funds for worthy causes.

Aston Martin Cardiff attended the event with a fine display of their current models along with an Aston Martin branded hospitality truck so visiting guests could relax from the razz-matazz of the evening and sit or grab a coffee if the free cocktails were getting too much.

Swansea based Harley Davidson came along with a couple of the latest iron horse models for guests to drool over along with some incredibly stylish jackets and helmets to dress their display. The red carpet, gaming tables and the free cocktail and Heineken bars just added to the whole evening as people danced, drank, chatted and purchased plenty of shoes as the Brogue Trader along with Watches of 22

The Brogue Trader 27A Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2037 2036 www.thebroguetrader.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Just giving link for donations www.justgiving.com/moped-mayhem

Watches Of Wales 35 Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2023 3691 www.watchesofwales.co.uk 23

24

DON’T CHOOSE A LEMON

For All Your Vehicle Needs www.avsvehicles.com

029 2076 1919

No seasons, no hype, no pretence: just cleverly designed, hard-wearing, stylish clothing that combines clean British style with Americana influences. And where is this uber cool clothing brand based? That’s right, Llantwit Major.

BOLD AS BRASS

Brass Knucks is a new independent Welsh/British clothing brand, based in the Vale of Glamorgan, producing limited apparel collections for the street and gym.

The brainchild of creative graphic designer James Wildi, the company is starting from humble beginnings but already has a fan base of loyal customers and die-hard fans.

Brass Knucks Apparel Co.

James said, “I started with just T-shirts, but will soon be releasing a range of hoodies, snapbacks and accessories.”

For more information visit Brass Knucks online. Free UK delivery is available so the price you see is the price you pay. www.brassknucksapparel.co.uk

James is proud of the integrity of the brand and is committed to sharing a percentage of the profits with local charities. Also, all Brass Knucks clothing is sourced from ethical suppliers and printed in the UK.

Facebook BrassKnucksApparel Instagram BrassKnucksApparel Twitter @BrassKnucksApCo 26

PYLE

Loulou celebrates its third birthday!

Loulou Boutique is now in its third year and goes from strength to strength, with a steady following of clients who enjoy clothes but are not slaves to it. Run by three fashion-conscious women it has an eclectic mix of smart/casual and occasion wear which will put the zing back in your wardrobe.

Nestled in the grounds of Pyle Garden Centre, the shop is stylish and welcoming with the owners happy to help if you are in doubt, or let you browse if you prefer to be left alone.

It’s the perfect place to stop, just a mile off Junction 37 of the M4 so is easily accessible east or west and customers love the fact that its open seven days a week in line with the Garden Centre opening hours. There is also the Olive Tree Restaurant inside the Garden centre which offers anything from coffee and a cake or a glass wine with lunch which it makes it an ideal place to meet up with friends to shop!

“We like to think that there is something for everyone, rather than everything for someone” says Jayne, Caroline and Debra, the three partners

who insist on shopping together so that there is a varied range of styles and labels. Joseph Ribkoff is more party wear, whilst Masai is a wardrobe staple, which is effortless but perfect to make you stand out in a crowd.” adds Jayne.

Winter will see the return of cashmere, wool, suede from favourite brands such Ochre cashmere, Suzy D, Decollage and Odemai. Loulou also stocks a superb range of jewellery, bags, and scarves from names such as Pranella, Tutti and Co, Tempest and Treaty gracing their shelves.

Make time to call in and see Jayne, Caroline or Debra at Loulou Boutique you won’t be disappointed!

LouLou Boutique Pyle Garden Centre, Pyle CF33 6BJ 01656 749841 Like on Facebook

Made to measure curtains and blinds, furniture, lighting & gifts

Open 7 days a week Located at Pyle Garden centre, just off junction 37 M4 Ample free parking.

Like us on facebook Follow us on twitter

www.leafinteriors.co.uk Tel: 01656 745021. Pyle Garden Centre, Pyle, Bridgend. CF33 6BJ 27

BOUTIQUE FEMME

Bahia Are you tired and fed up of seeing the same old items in every ladies fashion boutique that you visit?

Do you fancy something a little bit different? Then pop in to Bahia on New Road, Porthcawl.

Bahia is a quirky ladies emporium for something that little bit different. You’ll find a great range of individual hand picked items, perfect for any occasion.

Be spoilt for choice with a vast array of shoes, handbags, scarves, jewellery and accessories that you will not see on the high street. So stand out from the crowd, visit Bahia today for something unique.

32 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 856474 Like on Facebook FOR ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL

Felicity Jewellers Felicity Jewellers is packed with beautiful stock that is bound to impress.

Especially with such recognisable names in jewellery as Clogau gold and Citizen Watches, and breathtaking footwear from Heavenly Feet and Marco Tozzi gracing our shelves.

We also have scarves, gloves and leather handbags in addition to offering jewellery and watch repairs in our very own workshop. For all this and more simply pop in or visit our online shop.

34 Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 3BN 01656 658080 www.felicitybridgend.co.uk Like on Facebook

DIS TINCTIVE LADIES FASHIONS

PENCOED JEWELERS

Flair

Welsh Thistle Trading

This little gem of a shop offers a collection of distinctive fashions and accessories at reasonable prices.

Inside you will find beautiful clothes, scarves and jewellery, plus a fine range of continental outerwear. All this combined with friendly and experienced personal service.

9 Lias Road, Porthcawl CF36 3AH 01656 771823 Like on Facebook & Twitter

We are a new business that sells a fine selection of silver and fashion jewellery.

Soon to be expanding into jewellery and trinket boxes as well as an art gallery with a view to hold art and craft classes upstairs twice weekly from September, so keep your eye on us.

44 Penybont Road, Pencoed CF35 5RA 01656 856090 Like on Facebook 30

If you’re a fab little café or boutique or a great gift shop, butcher, baker or candlestick maker, please get in touch – we’d love to meet you in our next issue.

Similarly, if you’re a reader and know a business that you feel could have, or should have been featured, then please let me know. jennifer@valelife.co.uk

@superfastcymru @cyflymucymru

Nid breuddwyd, band llydan uwchgyflym wedi cyrraedd!

It’s not a myth, superfast broadband has arrived!

Nawr ar gael i’r rhan helaeth o gartrefi a busnesau Bro Morgannwg.

Now available to most homes and businesses in The Vale of Glamorgan.

Rhagor o wybodaeth wrth gofrestru yn www.cyflymu-cymru.com For more information please register your interest at www.superfast-cymru.com

CONEY’S FINEST

RESIDENTIAL SALES

P O R T H CAW L

Mansel’s Chippy

Thompsons Estate Agents

Who do you love?

Mansel’s Chippy is a predominant feature of Porthcawl’s Coney Beach.

They are open everyday from 11:30am until 10pm and serve all of your favourites from Fish & Chips, Faggots & Peas and a selection of Curries. They also have a lovely outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your food.

Serving the people of the Porthcawl area and beyond for over 40 years. We are staffed with experienced specialists in residential sales, who offer a professional and friendly service and we are proud of the high reputation that we have gained with our clients.

If you love a fab little café or boutique or a great gift shop, butcher, baker or candlestick maker, please get in touch, we’d love to hear about them.

2 Eastern Prom, Porthcawl CF36 5TS 01656 718091

69 John Street CF36 3AY 01656 784525 www.thompsonsagents.com Like on Facebook

Similarly, if you know a business elsewhere in the Vale that you feel could have or should have been featured please let me know. jennifer@valelife.co.uk

HIDDEN TREASURES

Past and Present Only in Past and Present will you find such an unique and distinctive range of old and new items.

This independent, family run shop stocks everything including electrical items, jewellery, crystal, glassware, furniture and much, much more. With new stock arriving every week, there truly is something for everyone and, if you are looking for something in particular or if they do not have a specific item, then simply ask the friendly staff and they will try their best to assist you in sourcing your perfect find. Also at the Rheola Market every Saturday from 8am until 3pm.

“ With new stock arriving at the shop every week there truly is something for everyone.”

60 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DG 07413 745893 TRADITIONAL & RETRO SWEETS

The Crazy Humbug The cherished memories of being a kid in a sweet shop never leaves us, whether they be of standing in front of a behemoth selection of pick and mix or scanning the rows of jars looking for your favourite cubed confectionery.

So why only reminisce when you can experience that joy right now? At The Crazy Humbug delve in to the treasures of the past and chew, bite, suck, chomp and swallow through their delicious selections of traditional and retro sweets.

Stocking everything you loved as a child as well as an extensive American range with items from across the pond that you won’t find in your local corner shop.

79b John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3AY 01656 781562 Like on Facebook

“ Chew, bite, suck, chomp and swallow through their delicious selections of traditional sweets.”

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RAIL E L A S HES T O L C FOR MMER & SU INSIDE! K STOC

It’s Springtime

BACK TO SCHOOL AS ON SEE TV N

A warm welcome awaits you n Sizes from birth to UK 10 (adults 10) n Width fittings D to H n Expert fitting service

AS ON SEE TV N

n Huge and stunning selection in many colours & styles and super comfortable! n Available Navy, Black & Red T: 01656in788628

Shoe22, 22b Station Hill, E: Liz@shoe22.co.uk New road, Porthcawl www.shoe22.co.uk 22b CF36 New5DN Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN

01656 788628 www.shoe22.co.uk

OPEN: MON - SAT 10AM to 5PM

W E L L E S TA B L I S H E D

Porthcawl Furnishings Porthcawl Furnishings has been a staple of the Porthcawl shopping district, serving the people of the local area for more than 30 years.

This family run furnishing and upholstery company offers a vast range of services for when you fancy making some home improvements.

“Services include flooring, beds and blinds, a wide choice of carpets and upholstery in addition to a full re-upholstery and repair service.”

These services include flooring, beds and blinds, a wide choice of carpets and upholstery in addition to a full re-upholstery and repair service.

51 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DH 01656 771608 www.porthcawlfurnishings.co.uk Like on Facebook FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE

Nottage Stores Found in the heart of the picturesque Nottage Village, Nottage Stores really is the definition of a convenience store.

Carrying everything you need no matter if it is a weekly shop or a quick visit for essentials. Stocking fresh groceries and frozen goods, a range of wines, beers and spirits and, of course, daily newspapers, magazines and national lottery tickets.

Open from 7am until 9pm, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. For your convenience!

Heol Y Capel, Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3ST 01656 784339 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter T R A D I T I O N A L F A M I LY B U T C H E R

C Magness Butchers If you are in the mood for some top quality meat products then come and visit C Magness Butchers, the traditional family butchers of Porthcawl.

Open Monday to Saturday from 8:00am until 5:15pm we offer a wide variety of meats and poultry, all sourced from the finest providers and cut to your preference and specification.

In addition we also offer a delivery service to anywhere in Porthcawl for only £1 with no minimum order.

96 John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3DT 01656 783828 Like on Facebook 34

E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 8 0

Porthcawl Marine Porthcawl Marine is the expert surf shop that has been offering everything a surfer could possibly need for 35 years.

Providing a huge array of surfboards, body boards, wet suits, footwear and clothing from the widest range of well known surf brands.

Open from 10:30am until 5:30pm Monday to Friday, 10am until 5:30am Saturday and from 11am until 4pm on Sundays.

20 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 784785 www.porthcawlmarine.co.uk Like on Facebook GET CRAFTING

Crafty Little Creations This Summer why not make your way to Crafty Little Creations, the fun and funky children’s craft cafe.

Perfect for parents looking for something fun and affordable for the kids to do this holiday. You will come away with a souvenir that the kids will love making. From plates, mugs and egg cups to figures and teapots. Under 5’s can enjoy some messy play whilst the older kids can have a go at something a bit more demanding. With a menu of sandwiches, paninis, soups, cakes and ice cream, there is something for everyone, no matter what age, to enjoy.

Unit 2 The Esplanade, Porthcawl CF36 3YE Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

VA L E O F G L A M O RG A N

Have we missed you out?

Are you a fab little café or boutique or a great gift shop, butcher, baker or candlestick maker, please get in touch, we’d love to hear about you.

You too could be featured in the pages of Vale Life which is distributed across the Vale of Glamorgan and beyond.

Please contact jennifer@valelife.co.uk 35

If you ask most parents why they chose to send their child to a private school, the answer is because they believe their child will A) receive a better standard of education B) have better chances for future careers C) be better disciplined, and D) have smaller pupil-teacher ratios.

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL

All of these reasons are valid.

We chat to the Head of St. Clare’s School, Simon Antwis to find out more.

Who does the school cater for?

We are a non-selective school for both boys and girls aged 2 ½ up to 18. We have many pupils leave our Sixth Form at the end of Year 13 who have been with us since their Nursery days!

How accessible is it?

St. Clare’s stands in beautiful, spacious grounds in the picturesque village of Newton near Porthcawl. The school is near Bridgend, and ideally situated midway between Cardiff and Swansea with easy access to the M4 and A48.

On a clear day the stunning Heritage Coastline can be seen from our classrooms.

What is special about St. Clare’s?

Our school has a strong sense of community and provides a first class education to boys and girls from early years through to sixth form. Small class sizes in each year group ensure that each child’s individual talents and strengths are nurtured by the dedicated team of staff. The strong family ethos of the school is evidenced by the number of siblings, children and even grandchildren who attend St. Clare’s.

St. Clare’s provides a return to traditional old fashioned values and standards in a modern setting. Pupils throughout the school have access to iPads, and an Apple Mac suite is available for pupils in the Senior School. Contemporary GCSE and A Level subjects such as Graphic Design, Computer Science and Psychology are offered alongside more traditional subjects such as History, Music, French and Spanish.

A strong emphasis is placed on extracurricular activities, with all pupils having the opportunity to participate in sporting events, musical ensembles and 36

drama performances, as well as a wide range of clubs such as debating, film club and Welsh in the Senior School and ballet, dance and eco-club in the Prep School. St. Clare’s educates the whole child in preparation for life, higher education and the world of work.

What subjects do you teach?

In the Senior School, contemporary GCSE and A Level subjects such as Graphic Design, Textiles, Computer Science and Psychology are offered alongside more traditional subjects such as History, Music, French and Spanish. Our Art and Design department boasts outstanding results, with 100% of GCSE pupils achieving A*- A grades last summer.

How does it fair with the allimportant Estyn Inspection?

The whole school underwent an inspection earlier this term. The official Inspection Report will be published and available to the public on July 3rd.

You will be able to read the results at www.stclares-school.co.uk/Estyn.

“For any parent your child’s happiness is always top of your agenda and seeing my children enjoying school every day is fantastic.”

An Estyn inspection of the Nursery in June 2014 rated the Nursery as “excellent,” which is the highest grade that can be awarded The official inspection found the standard of teaching and learning in the Nursery to be excellent, and highlighted many strengths of the care provided to children. Describing the focus placed on structured learning in the Nursery, the Inspection Report highlighted the fact that boys and girls in the Nursery at St. Clare’s “achieve high standards for their age that exceeds national expectations.” The Nursery was also praised for the range of electronic equipment on offer for children to use as well as the frequent use of the Welsh language by staff and children.

What about exam success rates?

St. Clare’s School also boasts some outstanding examination results both at A Level and GCSE. In August 2014, staff and students celebrated the best A Level Results in 9 years, with a 100% pass rate. Most notably, the Year 13 students attained an impressive 41% A* and A grades, which is considerably higher than the national average of 23%.

What about access for children living outside the area?

The school runs two safe and reliable minibus services which collect and drop off pupils living in Llantwit Major, Cowbridge, Coity, Port Talbot and Neath as well as various pick up points throughout the Vale of Glamorgan.

“As a parent of two children in the prep school, I am extremely pleased with their educational and social development. I feel that standards are continually maintained to a very high level. The teachers will always go above and beyond what is required to ensure that the pupils are receiving the best education, and any difficulties that are encountered are quickly identified and addressed. There is always the opportunity to discuss progress with the “open door” policy, either with the teaching staff or the management.

The small class sizes make it a wonderful and effective environment for them to learn and the range of extra curriculum activities is a great enhancement of what the school has to offer. For any parent your child’s 37

happiness is always top of your agenda and seeing my children enjoying school every day is fantastic - I would have no hesitation in highly recommending the school to anyone.”

Natalie Crawley, mother of Jessica (Y3) and Lucas (Reception). Both children have been at St Clare’s since nursery.

St. Clare’s School Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NR 01656 789966 www.stclares-school.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

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When we heard that two professional rugby players, Ross Johnston and Rhys Gill, had started a new business together we were thrilled to head to Pontyclun and mingle among the rugby elite at the launch of Stores 4 Floors.

STORES 4 FLOORS Stating the obvious Ross, this is quite a change from playing rugby, why choose this business?

I was forced to retire from rugby in February through a bad ankle and was unsure what career path to choose next. Rhys and I have a few properties together, a result of which has been dealing with flooring companies on many occasions, so we felt that both went hand in hand.

How have you grown your business from an idea to where you are now?

We actually purchased this business on the back of walking into the store (when the previous owner had it) to buy carpet for a house we were renovating. The owner mentioned he was thinking of selling and the rest is history! We’ve moved the store to the main road in Pontyclun, grown a pretty steady client base and have actually become one of the main distributors of artificial grass in the area.

Why should customers choose you?

We’re an independent local business that puts our customers first.

We understand the challenges in choosing the right flooring to suit your needs and budget and we do everything we can to accommodate our customers - and make their shopping experience here a great one.

All of our quotes are done on a free, no-obligation basis and we will measure up at a time that suits you, whether that be first thing in the morning or last thing at night. We also hold most of our stock in samples and are happy for our clients to take samples with them, as lighting at their own home can be very different to that in our shop.

What types of flooring do you supply and fit?

We supply all types of flooring. From carpet, vinyl, wood, laminate, LVT and artificial grass. We are equally comfortable to supply and fit, or supply only. Our fitters/installers have substantial experience in their particular field and their knowledge and expertise sets them apart from anyone else.

What is artificial grass and what are the benefits?

Artificial grass is a fantastic year-round substitute for a boggy lawn. We can transform an unused garden into an area that’s fully useable for 365 days of the year. Check out some of the jobs that we have done recently on our social media sites.

All our grass comes with a nine year manufacturer warranty and, as mentioned previously, we are one of the biggest distributors of artificial grass for a particular manufacturer, the reason being the product quality, service and price.

40

What are your plans for the future?

We will continue to grow the business, and its reputation of a friendly business with quality and prices to match. Rhys and I aim to develop longevity and sustainability, through building an excellent client base in the heart of Pontyclun and beyond.

We are also pursuing industrial contracts, from housing developers to social housing, with no contract too big or small.

Clearly as passionate about flooring as they are about rugby, pop in and see these guys for all of your flooring requirements. In fact they’re so sure of their prices that they offer to beat any like for like quote locally!

“ We do everything we can to accommodate our customers and make their shopping experience here a great one. ”

Stores 4 Floors Pontyclun, 15 Llantrisant Road Pontyclun CF72 9PD 01443 229900 ross@stores4floors.com www.stores4floors.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 41

FOR ALL FLOORING NEEDS

Griffiths Flooring Ltd. Griffiths Flooring LTD are here to help you with all your flooring needs by providing a reliable service that will bring new life into your home and garden.

All types of flooring are supplied and expertly fitted including carpets, vinyls, laminate and wood. They’ve got it all.

They even provide services for outside of the home as well with artificial grass to help make any lawn easier to maintain. So call or visit today to receive your free no obligation quote.

The Square, Pontycymer CF32 8LL 01656 856240 07557 684576 www.griffiths-flooring.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter FOR THE GREENER GRASS

Seasons Home and Garden Outlet Seasons has become renowned in the gardening community as one of the leading garden outlets in South Wales.

Not only do they provide garden furniture, water features and solar lighting, they also stock cane furniture, chimeneas, pots, gifts, Yankee Candles and so much more.

So make Seasons a must visit when tending to your garden this summer.

Unit 9/10, Parc-y-bont, Brynmenyn Ind Estate Bridgend, CF32 9SZ 01656 723399 www.gardenoutletuk.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

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Joinery Expertise Since 1964

01656 745959

www.nottagejoinery.co.uk Village Farm Industrial Estate, Pyle, Bridgend CF33 6BJ

Put aside the idea that interior decorators are only for the rich and famous or those with so much money that they don’t know what to do with it all.

In reality, they save you a great deal of time and money and headache pills.

Whether you have no idea where or how to begin to decorate your home, whether you have an idea but need help tying pieces together, or you simply haven’t the time to make the changes yourself due to your busy day-to-day schedule, then employing an interior designer is money well spent.

BENJAMIN’S INTERIORS It’s like she pulled the images out of my head, she knew exactly what I wanted.

What was it like working with Ruth/ Benjamin’s Interiors?

It became more of a friendship. She was there every step of the way, answering my texts, calls, emails (Jayne Laughs).

She took all the stress out of moving and sourcing furniture, curtains, tiles, wallpaper etc. for my new home.

Were you happy with the outcome?

Over the moon. It’s exactly what I imagined and I would highly recommend her and her team.

What did you most enjoy about the whole experience?

That’s easy – no stress!

What difference have the changes made to you and the way you live?

A huge difference. I can come home from work and can just relax and enjoy my lovely home. I have no worries about decorating or looking for curtains or carpets and so on.

Vale Life recently asked Jayne Wiseman of Church Village why hiring Ruth Benjamin Green of Benjamin’s Interiors on Penarth Road was a wise and sensible choice.

How did you hear about Benjamin’s Interiors?

I was recommend by a few friends and overheard people chatting about how much they loved Benjamin’s at a restaurant.

How long have you been shopping there?

Oh gosh umm over two years now.

It is my favourite place to go to cheer myself up.

How did you know that Benjamin’s offered a free interior design service?

I saw the advertisements in store but was also recommended by a friend.

She only had one room done by Ruth at Benjamin’s but it was done to such a high standard and my friend couldn’t believe how affordable it was. I just love everything at Benjamin’s and there is something for everyone.

Which room/s in your home did Ruth design for you?

The whole house, from start to finish.

As my house is a new build, Ruth advised me on tiles, kitchen units, everything you can think of.

Did you have any ideas of your own or did you leave everything to Ruth?

It was a combination of both really.

Ruth showed me many images and ideas to assess what style I liked and wanted. She put a range of mood boards together so I could get a feel for the decor including fabrics, furniture, colours and even flooring and wall tiles.

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Would you be happy to recommend Ruth/Benjamins Interiors to friends, family and colleagues?

Yes, 110%. The whole experience was so easy, relaxed, stress free and the outcome was exactly what I wanted.

Ruth and her team listened, made suggestions and even saved me money on many items.

“ Ruth took all the stress out of moving and sourcing furniture, curtains, tiles, wallpaper etc. for my new home. �

Unit 2 Freemans Park, Penarth Road Cardiff CF11 8EQ Mon-Sat: 9.30am - 6pm Sun: 11am - 5pm 02920 343 055 www.benjaminsinteriors.com info@benjaminsinteriors.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 45

THE COMPLETE COLLECTION

Collectors Corner Collectors Corner Antiques and Interiors is a highly popular destination for Antique, Vintage and Mid century furniture as well as offering an ever changing range of pictures, cut crystal, mirrors, collectables and other decorative items for the home.

Found on Commercial Road, Taibach, Port Talbot just a few minutes drive from Junction 40 on the M4.

Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9:30am till 4pm.

Wednesday and Saturday 9am till 12pm.

46a Commercial Road, Taibach SA13 1LG 07757 950713 Facebook: Collectors Corner Outlet SPECIALIST INTERIOR DESIGN

A & C Interiors The interior design company, that can be found in the lovely area of Porthcawl, is well known within the seaside town for its flair for colour and style.

They design, make and fit all types of window treatments and soft furnishings including handmade curtains, pelmets, valances, tie backs and cushions. They also offer all types of blinds including Roman, roller, vertical, venetian, panel, pleated and much more.

Visit today for a free measure, design and quote as well as service that is second to none.

30 New Road, Porthcawl, CF36 5DN alisonbowen@hotmail.co.uk 01656 772353 www.a-interiors.uk

THE FLOORING SPECIALISTS

HOMES & INTERIORS

Carpet Care Wales

Who do you love?

Offering a whole array of flooring solutions, including everything from fitted carpets to vinyl, laminate and contract flooring for schools, offices and shops. Our work is of the highest quality and customer care is essential.

If you have a favourite kitchen designer or perhaps a gifts or interiors shop you really love, please share them with us.

6 Well Street, Porthcawl. CF36 3BE 01656 789006 www.carpetcarewales.co.uk Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

Similarly, if you know a business elsewhere in the Vale that you feel could have or should have been featured please let me know. jennifer@valelife.co.uk 46

ONE STOP HOME SHOP

LIGHTING & MIRRORS

GARDEN FURNITURE

FLOORING & LIVING ROOMS

BEDROOMS

BENJAMIN’S INTERIORS DINING ROOMS

Up to 50% off RRP

WALLPAPER & FABRIC

WWW.BENJAMINSINTERIORS.COM | 02920 343 055 UNIT 2 FREEMANS PARK PENARTH ROAD CARDIFF CF11 8EQ

As enthusiastic gardeners, Cath and Gwyn Thomas, wanted an additional room with lots of windows so that they could enjoy the fruits of their labour. They had originally thought they wanted a conservatory, but when MPN Windows suggested an orangery, it opened their eyes to exciting new possibilities.

A DIFFERENT VIEW

Vale Life called in on Cath and Gwyn at their beautiful home in Higher End, St Athan on a sunny summer day to find out more.

How did you hear about MPN Windows?

We saw an advertisement in the local press.

What made you want a conservatory in the first place?

The property sits in just under half an acre and I (Gwyn) love to grow my own vegetables and Cath loves to grow a large variety of flowers. Our two main reception rooms were quite dark and neither allowed us to appreciate our hard work. Cath is particularly fond of dahlias so, now that we have the new orangery, we have relocated these to the rear of the property so that we can admire them.

Did you get other quotations?

Oh yes, from four other reputable companies - some local and national.

What made you choose MPN? We are straight talking people and don’t like to be quoted one price and then find out that there are add-ons. The representative who came to the see us, told us that they offered everything in the price except the two p’s: “We don’t pay and we don’t paint!” We liked his style! They weren’t the cheapest, nor the most expensive, but we liked the fact that everything was included in the price and they didn’t want a deposit or monies up front - only when the job was finished.

We did have to pay for planning and architects fees, which we originally assumed were included, but we still thought that MPN were the best option for us.

“ MPN went above and beyond our expectations, we’d definitely recommend them.”

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How was the process?

The job was project managed by the tradesmen themselves who all seemed to know what they were doing. From start to finish, the boys were lovely, clean and tidy. Cath made endless cups of tea and coffee but she was happy to, as the boys were very polite and considerate.

Did MPN go above and beyond expectations in your opinion?

Definitely. We would happily recommend them.

What do you love about your new orangery?

We have tried out the underfloor heating and it works perfectly. Now that we have been enjoying some warmer weather, we’ve found that we can’t sit in the orangery because it’s too hot, so we’re waiting for our blinds to arrive later in the month – then we’ll be able to enjoy the room to its fullest.

We also really love our New Wave bi-fold doors. They can be opened in individual panels which is really handy.

All of these features were included in the quotation. The roof is self-cleaning which helps with birds doing what birds are wont to do.

MPN Windows 10a Ewenny Road, Bridgend CF31 3HL 0800 8030821 07976 640959 sales@mpnwindows.com www.mpnwindows.com

What difference will your new orangery make to the way you live?

We will be able to enjoy our lovely gardens and all of the hard work that has gone into them. It’s a lovely, light and airy room and we are looking forward to enjoying our gardens in every season of the year.

Cardiff 029 2050 8770 Swansea 01792 359244 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest 49

“This shabby chic antiques shop offers a large selection of furniture, ornaments and curiosities that are perfect for any living room, bedroom, kitchen or garden.”

ANTIQUES SHOP

The Lyons Den Having only opened just over a year ago, The Lyons Den has made a very good name for itself in such a small space of time.

With its unusual name originating from the family name of its owner, this shabby chic antique shop offers a large selection of furniture, ornaments and curiosities that are perfect for any living room, bedroom, kitchen or garden.

With items ranging from classical to the downright quirky you’ll find that you won’t be afraid to enter this Lyons Den. Unit 1B, Village Farm Industrial Estate Pyle, Bridgend CF33 6BT 01656 749471 C H R I S T I A N R YA N P R E S E N T S . . .

The Stained Glass Workshop The techniques used in Christian’s work remain virtually unchanged compared to the masterpieces of the last few centuries.

With both contemporary and period designs, Christian works tirelessly through the labour intensive process to create some incredible artistry that is available to buy or commission.

If you fancy a go yourself you can book a taster day, weekend or evening class and make your own panel to take home.

Pottery Hill, Ewenny, Bridgend CF35 5AP 01656 856155 www.christianryan.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 50

Seasonal

Going

SUMMER TRENDS

coastal

Ahoy there – be inspired by the seaside and freshen up your room with coastal elements. Accessorise in shades of blue, white and grey to complete your nautical look.

Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, Llantrisant. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk

It was by chance that Mr. and Mrs. Fogerty of Talbot Green found their ideal kitchen company to transform their dark and depressing kitchen into what it is today – a bright and airy space that has changed the way in which the whole family lives – even the children are getting involved! We chat to Ian Fogerty to find out more.

SMC K ITCHENS

Why a new kitchen (and utility)?

We decided to change because the old kitchen was looking tired and dated.

It had also become impractical as the fridge was too small. It was also in a dark wood which made the whole kitchen look dark and depressing.

How did you hear about SMC Kitchens?

It was by luck really, we started to look around as we had made the decision to change and had visited a floor tile unit which was a couple of doors away from the SMC showroom. We came out and saw the showroom and decided to take a look – at this time we were trawling around looking for inspiration.

Steve was in the showroom and we had a conversation, just bouncing ideas around really.

“ I would recommend SMC without hesitation.”

What did you think of Steve when you met him?

We wandered into the showroom on a Saturday afternoon and Steve was very helpful and constructive, offering suggestions and generally chatting about kitchen projects and the things to look for, and avoid. I never felt that we were under any time constraint and we felt quite at ease in Steve’s company.

What was your vision?

Our vision was to make use of the kitchen area and create an open plan kitchen which was not cluttered, but be practical for the family to use. To do this we needed to have sufficient cupboard/ storage space, along with a large cooker and fridge.

It was a difficult project as we wanted to incorporate the utility room to house a washing machine and dryer, along with a sink so that we could clean football boots etc.

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What do you particularly love about your kitchen?

The kitchen certainly fulfilled our vision – we really like the pull out food/ tin storage units alongside the fridge.

The cooker is very practical with the six rings ant two ovens. Probably the biggest difference is that the white glass fronted units have made the kitchen bright and airy. I like the fact that we have plenty of space and can walk through the kitchen without having to walk around/over anything.

What difference has the kitchen and utility room made to your family’s lifestyle?

It has made things so much easier, and we can find things a lot quicker. Even the children are making use of it and cooking things for themselves!

Would you recommend SMC to your friends?

Yes, I would recommend SMC without hesitation. When you embark on a large project like this there will always be issues that arise along the way and Steve and his team managed these -and us, so that the entire project went smoothly.

SMC Kitchens Ltd Unit 5b, Hepworth Business Park Coedcae Lane, Pontyclun CF72 9DX

SMC managed the entire project from initial preparation/building/electrical works to the full installation of the new units.

01443 449 759 / 07973 788 375 stevemccormick0@btconnect.com www.smckitchens.co.uk Facebook SMCKitchensPontyclun Twitter @SMCKitchens

“ The kitchen certainly fulfilled our vision.”

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JACK & ROSE

est 1934

ROOSEVELT

BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS We offer bespoke sofas and chairs in any size and design with fabrics to suit you and your lifestyle.

RE-UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS Breathe life back into a treasured piece of furniture so that you can love it all over again.

Banthorpe House, Crosby Yard, Bridgend CF31 1JZ Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm evoke your inner style

MADELINE-ANNE LOVINGLY CREATED BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS

MADE-TO-MEASURE CURTAINS & PELMETS Whether it’s elegant, dramatic or fun, we have hundreds of quality curtain and upholstery fabrics.

evoke your inner style BEAUTIFUL HAND-MADE BEDS Let Jack & Rose design and create the stunning bespoke bed of your dreams.

01656 768844 info@jackandrose.co.uk www.jackandrose.co.uk

When property developers Richard Hayward Properties were looking for a luxury interior designer to help create bespoke soft furnishings and feature furniture for their new hotel at Beach Cliff, on the waterfront esplanade in Penarth, Julie Perkins of Jewels Canley Interiors, Penarth seemed the obvious choice.

Holm House

JEWELS IN THE CROWN

Beach Cliff

Richard Hayward wanted a stylish, unique look for their nine bed hotel - a classic but contemporary look befitting the historic building which is also home to James Sommerin’s restaurant.

Far from the standard one-size-fits-all approach to décor so commonly used in hotels, Julie and her team have created vibrant, luxurious, full height curtains with a bespoke style in each of the bedrooms. The curtains for the rooms at the back of the building, where the Italian Gardens wall rises steeply upwards behind the property, are particularly colourful, while in the rooms at the front, which feature spectacular sea views across the Bristol Channel, the colours are more muted reflecting the water in blues and teals.

All are decorative and luxurious, using Designers Guild fabrics.

“ Elegant, bespoke style and great service.”

Jewels Canley Interiors also supplied the hotel with bespoke chairs and tables. The chair frames are from Italy and were upholstered in Cardiff with fabrics to complement the curtains.

Coffee and bedside tables are covered with leather for a truly sensuous, contemporary feel.

It’s not the first time Julie Perkins, owner of Jewels, has worked with Richard, having worked on the company’s duplex waterfront penthouse apartment at Adventurer’s Quay in Cardiff Bay. Julie’s work is also featured in another popular, boutique hotel in Penarth Holm House. Her work is evident in the bedrooms and includes the headboards and chairs together with furniture in the snug, restaurant and bar area.

Jewels Canley Interiors was established in 1983 as an upholstery business and offers interior design, re-upholstery, curtains and bespoke furniture design.

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Jewels also manufactures for other designers. They also offer commercial interior design for shops, boutiques and salons.

Their client base is strong and diverse.

One day they can be helping a lady who wants a chair recovered (heirlooms, sentimental pieces or antiques), the next it’s for a footballer’s wife who wants an exclusive individual piece like a gold hand painted throne in faux zebra skin.

They work with a number of designer shops in the area as well including Hamptons Home and Garden Design in Penarth, and London stores such as Harrods (they supply some of their seasonal displays).

They also manufacture fitting room curtains for popular high street shop changing rooms and supply unusual items for various department stores, restaurants and top hotels such as St David’s Hotel and The Park Plaza.

Beach Cliff

Holm House

Holm House

Holm House

Beach Cliff

Jewels Canley Interiors 2 Glebe Street, Penarth CF64 1EB 029 2070 7779 Also at 11 Whitchurch Road Cardiff CF14 3JN 029 2069 2255 info@jewelscanley.co.uk www.jewelscanley.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Beach Cliff 57

Cooking and eating in the open air is one of summer’s greatest pleasures. There is nothing better than getting the barbeque out and inviting friends round, or organising an outdoor picnic with the kids.

GET SET FOR SUMMER

Summer is all about getting outside as much as possible while the days are long and light.

There’s nothing more relaxing than eating outdoors on a balmy summer’s day, and Topstak have a great range of fantastic outdoor cooking systems to help you do that. They sell many of these at prices lower than the internet!

The Big Green Egg has proved to be hugely popular. This versatile outdoor cooker creates a myriad of options from roasting a whole chicken or a leg of lamb, to grilling vegetables and fish, cooking pizza, and, of course, creating delicious BBQ food. The great thing about this cooker is that its easy-to-use controls really do regulate the heat, so no more burnt dinners!

The Esse Firestone is exactly what you need to recreate the authentic taste of a wood-fired Italian pizza and more as

it has a glass door that can be closed making it ideal for slow wood fired cooking. It has a handy flue to take the smoke away from your guests. There is the “Build Your Own” Firestone kit version or the freestanding model on a swivel base so that you can position the oven where it suits you.

Of course, you don’t need to confine al fresco cooking to the garden – dinner by a stream or by the sea is hugely appealing and Topstak has many transportable stoves that are ideal for creating a feast for an evening picnic, or a camping trip.

The MiniMax, the Big Green Egg’s little cousin, is ideal for excursions, being neat and compact. The delightful Ozpig is another favourite. This camp oven is the brainchild of an Australian family who love camping and wanted to extend the range of food they could cook outdoors.

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If you are home or away, you can chargrill, wok, deep fry, spit roast and boil on this little cooker. And it keeps you warm as dusk descends.

Another big favourite is the amazing BioLite stove that uses wood to create heat for cooking, but better still, it also generates usable electricity so that you can charge your mobile phone while your dinner is bubbling away.

BBQ smoke is nobody’s favourite aspect of outdoor eating, which is where the Lotus Grill shines. Light, transportable and totally practical, the award-winning Lotus Grill can even be used on a table top as it emits no unpleasant fumes. Yet it cooks using charcoal, so your food still has the irresistible BBQ flavour.

“ It might be summer, but now is the time to install your wood burning stove.”

“There’s nothing more relaxing than eating outdoors on a balmy summer’s day, and Topstak have a great range of fantastic outdoor cooking systems to help you do that.”

Fancy a brew? Then the Kelly Kettle is just the job. It boils water ultra-fast so that you can enjoy a freshly brewed mug of tea or coffee in the great outdoors, guaranteeing a far better flavour than something that has been sitting in a flask. All you need to power it is a little dry grass and a few sticks or pine cones, and you are away. You can also use the fire base of the kettle as a simple camping stove.

In line with the summer eating theme, the popular Gallery Café at Topstak is conjuring up delicious food cooked on the Big Green Egg every Saturday.

There are always good specials and light meals on the café menu which now includes a delicious choice of breakfasts from 9.30-11.30 from Monday to Saturday.

It might be summer, but now is the time to install your wood burning stove so that you are ready for the cooler days of autumn. The dedicated team at Topstak can talk you through the best possible choice for your needs, and install the stove of your dreams with minimum fuss, while you are outside enjoying the summer weather.

The famous homemade Topstak cakes are available all day and cooked on their Esse electric range.

Call in at Topstak to see what’s on offer or call them on 01446 771567 or look them up on www.topstak.co.uk.

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Topstak Unit 42, Vale Business Park, Cowbridge Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7PF 01446 771567 info@topstak.co.uk www.topstak.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Taking time out for ourselves is one of the most important and kindest things we can do for our minds and bodies. We caught up with Teri Bhaskar to find out why she, and members of her family, did just that.

CYFOES HEALTHCARE Did you all enjoy the day?

It was a wonderful day and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Tea, coffee and soft drinks were provided together with fruit and we were given exclusive use of a lounging area. My daughter organised some fabulous cup cakes with red hearts on and I supplied wine and other refreshments.

We are all planning on a return visit together.

How did you feel after your day of pampering?

I felt completely relaxed and, for the first time in a very long time, I had a fantastic night’s sleep, something which has eluded me for about two years.

How did you learn about Cyfoes & The Well Being Centre?

My daughter, Sharon, is friends with Rachel, Louise and Andrea the girls who set up the business and I have regular treatments from Rachel.

What made you want to go there?

Rachel suggested that we do a pamper day in memory of my husband, Dr. Vijay Bhaskar, who passed away on the 1st of April 2014. Part of the package was that 50% of the day’s takings would go to a charity that I and my late husband supported and which I still support, Welsh Hearts.

Who went with you?

I went with my daughter, two granddaughters, my daughter-inlaw and five of my friends and we all thoroughly enjoyed the pampering and some of us made forward bookings.

For the months of May and June if any bookings were made by people who mentioned Welsh Hearts, then the Charity would receive a further 20% of those two months’ takings.

What treatments did you have?

The treatments on offer were massages, reflexology and two types of facials.

One facial was basic and included a hand and arm massage and the other was a Dermabrasion facial. I also had and a neck, shoulder and back massage too.

Who were your therapists?

There were two therapists on the day to look after us and both of them were a joy to be around. They were friendly, pleasant, competent and looked after us all very well.

Nothing was too much trouble.

Andrea gave me a facial and Laura did my massage. Andrea was particularly helpful to my eldest granddaughter, Chloe, who was doing ‘A’ level exams and gave her some good advice and a relaxation massage.

“ I would most definitely go again for further treatments.”

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Did you think it was good value for money?

I thought it was wonderful value for money and because the day was in memory of my late husband, and for the benefit of Welsh Hearts, I believe the girls gave us the treatments at rock bottom prices.

All of us had two treatments at a fantastic cost of only £30 per person.

Would you recommend Cyfoes & The Well Being Centre to others?

I would most definitely go again for further treatments and would have no hesitation in recommending Cyfoes and The Well Being Centre to my friends. Due to their generosity, I received a cheque for £150 for the Welsh Hearts Charity.

Cyfoes Healthcare 35-37 Upper Floor, Talbot Road Talbot Green CF72 8AD 01443 223352 info@cyfoeshealthcare.com www.cyfoeshealthcare.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

For those of you not already familiar with Blu Hair Salon, Penarth, let us introduce you to one of their long-standing clients, Dr. Bernadette Fuge.

Bernadette shares with us why she chooses to go to Blu and why she wouldn’t go anywhere else.

BLU HAIR DESIGN How long have you been going to Blu? I have been a client since the salon opened eight years ago. I was a client of Alexis before she moved to Penarth and had no hesitation in following her to the new salon. I admire her artistic talent and am always confident to accept her advice. She is a true professional and I have never been disappointed with the care I’ve received.

Have you worked with any of the other stylists there?

My main stylist is Alexis, but I have enjoyed many good experiences when looked after by other stylists in the salon.

Why do you enjoy going to Blu? I enjoy my visits to Blu. It is a very friendly salon with stylists and reception staff keen to accommodate clients’ wishes. There is an atmosphere of quiet efficiency, inspired by management and followed up by staff.

What do you have done there?

I have my hair cut, coloured and blow dried. I visit two to three times per month.

Would you recommend Blu Hair Design to friends and colleagues?

I often recommend to friends and colleagues and have received very good feedback on my recommendation.

You recently received an OBE. Why was that?

On the 6th of May I attended Buckingham Palace to receive an OBE from Prince Charles for my services for older people.

It has been a privilege for me to work with as Chair of Age Cymru and trustee of Age UK, and a tribute to staff, partners and volunteers of Age Cymru for their work and commitment to improve the lives of older people in Wales.

Blu Hair Design 1 Washington Chambers, Stanwell Road Penarth CF64 2AF 029 2070 4040 www.bluhairdesign.com @bluhairdesign 61

A C L A S S E S TA B L I S H M E N T

The Barbers Cowbridge Welcome to Cowbridge’s new and exciting Barbers Shop, the place where gentlemen can receive top quality hair care.

Dedicated purely to men who only want the best when it comes to their hair care.

Inside you will experience a relaxed, professional environment and a service that will make you feel at ease from your first visit. With services that cover all aspects of hair including everything from a quick hair cut to a full wet shave and mini facial, all carried out by modern stylists.

“ Now Open! Receive 10% off your next visit by simply mentioning Vale Life Magazine”

16 High Street, Cowbridge CF72 7AG 01446 775300 www.thebarberscowbridge.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter BIGGER AND BETTER

Shades Hair & Beauty In the years since its creation, Shades Hair and Beauty has not stopped expanding thanks to the high demand of their loyal customers.

Having to move premises and hire new staff to deal with their clients Shades makes sure that, even though they are busy, they never skip on quality.

As a REDKEN associated salon the staff within offer a range of services from a simple Cut and Blow Dry to specialised services such as Balmain hair extensions and colour formations.

16 Heol Trelales, Laleston CF32 0HW 01656 648361 www.shades-hairandbeauty.co.uk Like on Facebook 62

“A defibrillator saved my life!”

Saving Lives volunteers who Louise Powell (third) with our chers who saved her life. performed training and the tea

Wife and mother-of-two Louise Powell was the victim of a sudden cardiac arrest.

Thankfully, there was a defibrillator nearby, along with trained members of the public, who were able to save her life.

But there aren’t enough defibrillators or trained people in Wales to give the best chance of survival during the first few crucial minutes. We are the charity at the heart of saving lives in Wales. Can you help us?

Welsh Hearts aim to get a defibrillator next to every fire extinguisher in Wales. We'd like to support your local community to fundraise locally and obtain a defibrillator.

We'll also provide FREE CPR and defibrillator training to the entire community from our Saving Lives team who are all qualified medical professionals working in Wales.

For information, please contact the Welsh Hearts Fundraising Office on

029 2078 6521 fundraising@welshhearts.org Download an application form at

welshhearts.org/daifib

Additional funding and grants available for communities, subject to application.

Welsh Hearts is a registered charity in Wales with charity number 1154109 Registered address at Welsh Hearts, Temple Court, 13a Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9HA © Welsh Hearts 2015 Candid Creative Studio

WelshHearts

SU MME R S PA T IM E AT THE VALE RESORT

With over 19 treatment rooms and six relaxation zones, the Vale Resort offers a 5 bubble spa experience that will not disappoint.

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Sunshine spa and dine £55*pp

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Sunday lunch and spa £69*pp

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Thursday chill and chocolate £59*pp

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Spa day, your way £69*pp

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Wednesday spa and lunch £65*pp

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Summer spa breaks from £79*pp B&B

For our full range of spa days and breaks visit www.vale-hotel.com/spaoffers

01443 665888 | www.vale-hotel.com Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Prices based on two sharing a twin or double room.

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2 Hotel Chocolat Bois Nef Eau de Parfum 50ml Available online at www.hotelchocolat.com £45

Clarins Limited Edition Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base £26*

Crème de la Mer Illuminating Eye Gel £100/15ml*

Clarins Limited Edition Ombre Iridescente £19*

Lush Million Dollar Moisturiser £32.50/45g Available from Lush stores or www.lush.co.uk

B EST BEAUTY

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BUYS 7

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Touche Eclat Blur Perfector £31.50*

BareMinerals Work Weekend Wow RRP £30 Available at BareMinerals boutiques, department stores nationwide and online at www.bareminerals.co.uk

Tom Ford Noir 50ml £62*

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Clarins Limited Edition Aquatic Treasures Summer Bronzing Compact £30*

Hotel Chocolat Bois Nef Body Crème £20/185ml Available online at www.hotelchocolat.com

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Lush Sesame Suntan Lotion £15/250g Available from Lush stores or www.lush.co.uk

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Tom Ford Noir Extreme £70/50ml*

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Ted Baker purse spray fragrances Available from Ted Baker stores, Boots, Superdrug and Debenhams £15/10ml bottles *Available from leading Department Stores

This month sees popular Porthcawl hair salon USTU celebrate their 20th year in business and, if you are lucky enough to be on their client list, you’ll know that owners Paul Barry and Wayne Keene have worked tirelessly to create a stunning environment with a staff skill set that is second to none.

USTU Vale Life popped in to see what changes have been made and what the future holds.

We think the salon is gorgeous, why the updates?

PAUL: When you’re creative, you can never rest on your laurels. Wayne and I are constantly striving to enhance USTU, which we believe is an open, light and relaxing environment. We, our staff and our clients deserve the very best.

What changes have you made to the salon recently?

WAYNE: We are very excited about our new shop front project. We have been working with a company to create a frontage that will complement the interior and we are delighted with the result. Our clients tell us they love it too!

Your clients are very important to you?

PAUL: Absolutely, we’ve built up a very good, loyal clientele over the years who are looking for exceptional cutting, colouring and styling techniques but who can also feel relaxed and comfortable in the knowledge that a high quality service doesn’t mean high prices. We only use the best quality products on the market which include Joico, Kebelo and Fudge. We’re very proud, and delighted, to have been selected as one of the very few GHD and Joico destination salons in the area.

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Your staff are important too?

WAYNE: Most definitely. We have recently introduced our new uniforms, which we feel creates an even better impression. We regularly attend courses to refresh our skills and to learn any new techniques with products and, as committed educators; we send our staff on regular training courses so that they keep ahead of the trends and product innovations. All our staff look up to one another, with the more mature staff teaching the younger ones. We have a very loyal team – many have been with us for ten years or more.

What are your particular specialities?

WAYNE: We are all trained to offer all of the elements of hair dressing, but I particularly enjoy very technical hair cutting techniques and colour correcting. I’ll do whatever it takes to get a colour to where a client wants it to be.

PAUL: My specialities would be formal hair, hair ups and complex, more refined work. I love anything artistic, visual and avant-garde.

USTU are planning a party in the Autumn to celebrate their 20th anniversary. Watch this space!

USTU 94 John Street, Porthcawl 01656 773770 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

smarter skincare “I regularly get asked for the magic solution when it comes to skin. skinade™ incorporates a lovely mix of skin health boosting benefits. It tastes good, it is easy to maintain and you will see the results within a short period of time.”

Dr. Kathryn Taylor-Barnes, The Real You Clinic.

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Shelley’s Salon won ‘Best Team’ at this years Welsh Hair and Beauty Awards; while Shelley herself was announced ‘Women’s Stylist of the Year’.

As a member of the UK Artistic Team for milk_shake Shelley has styled hair for staged events throughout the UK and Europe.

SHELLEY’S SALON

How did you get into hairdressing and how did Shelley’s come about?

I always knew this was what I wanted to do. The Salon was originally my family home, so it’s funny to think that as a little girl I played pretend Shelley’s Salon with my cousins here in the very same building. I live and breathe what I do, I obsess about it constantly and that passion comes across in everything I do. I began putting hair up from a very young age, helping my mother (who wasn’t a hairdresser, but was still very skilled with hair) I started my first job in the industry working Saturdays and after school. My mother’s inspiration has given me the determination to succeed in the industry and live the life I imagined.

What makes your staff a cut above the rest?

Our stylists are committed to staying current with their training and education. This keeps them passionate and inspired, knowledgeable and ontrend, the team at Shelley’s is devoted to providing an exceptional service to our clients.

What products do you use and what do you specialise in?

We are a milk_shake premier salon. milk_shake is an Italian brand for which Shelley is a member of the UK Artistic Team. We also use Davines NaturalTech range and ghd products and stylers.

We specialise in creating perfect Hair Ups as well as creative cutting and colouring. Whether for weddings and special occasions or Saturday nights out, every stylist’s experience is unique so there is someone perfectly suited to every client.

Excellent advice there – and for style tips and much more you can also check out Shelley’s live blog: http://shelleyssalon. co.uk/party-girls-blog/

What’s your recommended hair product that no one should be without?

Our clients love milk_shake conditioning whipped cream, winner of the HAIR awards 2015 product of the year. It’s a leave in mousse treatment that smells so delicious you’d swear it was edible!

What’s your number 1 hair care tip?

If you want to enjoy good hair days between salon visits, I always recommend investing in the right tools and products.

If you fail to prepare, be prepared to fail.

“Every stylist’s experience is unique so there is someone perfectly suited to every client.”

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Shelley’s Salon 17 Bridgend Road Aberkenfig CF32 9BN 01656 722225 www.shelleyssalon.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

At Penarth Natural Health Services, the natural complementary health clinic situated in the centre of Penarth, the team are proud to be celebrating their 13th year in business helping clients improve their health and wellbeing.

NATURAL HEALTH

G O O D H E A LT H I S Y O U R PRICELESS TREASURE

Penarth Natural Health Services This August, Penarth Natural Health Services is celebrating its 13th anniversary of helping people to build their health and even after all these years the clinic is still growing.

We have been committed to providing our very effective health enhancing treatments which complement conventional medicine.

The team of experienced practitioners work to improve people’s health by considering unique needs and requirements. We strive to uncover reasons for ill health.

We do this by examining lifestyles, nutritional, emotional and other relevant individual factors that could be responsible for health problems.

We change and correct old habits and patterns with active understanding and cooperation of the people who seek out our help and advice.

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There are many treatments available at the clinic: Acupuncture Allergy Therapy Counselling Chiropody / Podiatry Gestalt Psychotherapy Chiropractic Crystal Therapy Homeopathy Hypnotherapy Various forms of massage Nutrition Reflexology Reiki The clinic also provides help to stop smoking, lose weight, as well as run Mindfulness courses and Buddhist Meditation sessions.

“Come in & feel Better!” for another 13 years.

We recognise the importance of finding both the therapy and practitioner that is right for you by offering free initial chats and free spine checks.

11 Bradenham Place, Penarth CF64 2AG 029 2070 1370 www.penarthnaturalhealthservices.co.uk info@penarthnaturalhealthservices.co.uk Like on Facebook

Expert Diagnosis - No Need to Wait!

• You don’t need to be in a health insurance scheme to obtain an opinion from our private specialists.

• Self pay care packages are available, with interest free credit, so you don’t have to pay up front all at once.

• You don’t even need to see your GP first before seeing one of our consultants.

• Both our hospital facilities have plentiful free parking.

• Ring for an appointment with the right specialist straightaway 029 2083 6700.

Example prices: • Consultations from £150 • Varicose vein treatment from £900 • Hernia repair from £2300

T: 029 2083 6700

• Joint injection to reduce back pain from £350 • Bunion removal from £1839 • Cataract removal from £2498

W: www.nuffieldcardiffandvale.com

Get the Nuffield Treatment Quality service • High quality clinical results • Consistently low infection rates • Low surgical revision rates • Nuffield Price Match Promise* where we will meet any local comparable price • No limits on our aftercare services* At Nuffield Health, you can see our first class specialists right away in either Cardiff Bay or the Vale Hospital. *The Promise relates to patients paying for themselves and local means up to a 15 mile radius. Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your consultant for as long as you may require it.

Cardiff Bay Hospital Celtic Gateway Dunleavy Drive Cardiff CF11 0SN T: 029 2083 6700 Nuffield Vale Hospital Hensol Castle Park Vale of Glamorgan CF72 8JX T: 029 2083 6700

Hospitals + Health Checks + Physio + Gyms

Back Pain?

Neck Pain?

We can help.

Over 80% of people suffer with back problems at some stage in their lives.

Book a consultation today

T: 02920 003 778 W: southwalesspinalcentre.com

SKINADE BETTER SKIN FROM WITHIN

Skinade increases collagen in the bloodstream by adding 7000mg of hydrolysed marine collagen from each bottle (daily dose), but more importantly triggers the body’s own collagen production by firing up the fibroblasts, our own collagen factories.

With celebrities, including fashionista Millie Mackintosh, Xtra Factor presenter Sarah-Jane Crawford and actress Donna Air, professing to love this product, Skinade is fast becoming a soughtafter beauty favourite.

Skinade is carefully formulated with the optimum ratio of liquid to active ingredients and contains key nutrients that are essential in the healthy production of collagen and the optimisation of skin health.

Increasing collagen in the bloodstream also increases the body’s production of hyaluronic acid, responsible for optimising skin hydration. With no artificial colouring and naturally flavoured with refreshing peach and mangosteen, Skinade is the perfect partner to your daily skincare routine.

Skinade was developed by UK scientists and is manufactured in Britain using only the best ingredients on the market. It is recommended to take Skinade on a daily basis for 90 days to see the optimum benefits.

However, customers have reported great results after only 30-days in the following areas - Increased skin hydration and radiance, reduction in

fine lines and wrinkles, increased skin suppleness and healthier looking hair and nails.

Skinade is sold in professional distribution outlets and is currently available in 550 stockists nationwide as well as on www.skinade.com. Skinade is sold in courses: 30 days (£90), 60 days (£180) and 90 days (£270) and is also available in a 15ml travel sachet that you simply dilute in water. www.skinade.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

SREVIEW: T DAVIDS HOTEL & SPA DR. HAUSCHKA CLASSIC TREATMENT I learned that my therapist Charlotte had worked at the spa for eight years and was a big fan of Dr. Hauschka. She immediately put me at ease and got to work on the treatment. This began with a foot, hand and arm cleanse, which was meant to open up my breathing enabling me to feel relaxed, rejuvenated and well-balanced.

I’m normally not one for pampering.

Being self-employed doesn’t give me a lot of spare time. In fact the only ‘me time’ I allow myself is a cut and colour at the hair salon and that’s because it’s a necessity.

When I was asked to review the Dr. Hauschka Classic Treatment at the St David’s Hotel and Spa, I decided to go for it, not least because it’s a five star hotel so the service should also be 5 star, but because I’d read and heard great things about Dr. Hauschka and their holistic methods and products.

I lost count once we got to product number seven of exactly how many products were used in the treatment, some of which were pressed into my skin using Charlotte’s fingertips and the unique brushes.

My nasal passages were bombarded by a multitude of floral fragrances and at one point; I may have even drifted off, most unlike me.

Bottom line, would I pay £140 and spend an hour and a half of my time on having a treatment like this?

The answer is most definitely yes.

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Havannah Street, Cardiff CF10 5SD 029 2045 4045 www.thestdavidshotel.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

You want to get in shape and start training, but you never get around to it.

On some days, you feel tired, while on others, you just can’t seem to squeeze it into your schedule. You don’t fancy going to the local leisure centre or fancy gym for fear of seeing lots of gorgeous bodies in Lycra. So what’s the solution? Join a smaller, more intimate, fitness studio with trainers whose only goal is to get you to reach your own personal fitness goals.

FITM8 FitM8 in Barry is one such fitness studio that is seeing more and more clients come through their doors from all over south Wales. Vale Life chatted to three of their clients who have made the change and are now reaping the rewards.

SARAH HUGHES AGE 32, BARRY STARTING WEIGHT 15ST 7LBS

I decided that I needed a kick up the bum to help me shift some weight and searched for gyms and trainers in Barry and stumbled across the FitM8 website.

After speaking to Carlmichael on the phone, I went in for a free consultation and haven’t looked back since.

I’ve struggled with my weight since I was a teenager and I’ve lost weight with all sorts of diets and hare-brained schemes over the years but have always lost interest and put it back on. I knew I needed to focus on making a long-term lifestyle change and FitM8 offered the opportunity to do so through exercise and a sensible food plan.

I’ve been lucky enough to train with all of the FitM8 trainers at some point over the past six months. It’s kept things varied, which suits my personality - I get bored very easily!

I’ve enjoyed working with all of the trainers at FitM8 - they each offer something slightly different. All of them have been supportive and encouraging and spur me on to achieve my goals.

They are all careful to make sure I’m working within my capabilities pushing just enough, while making sure I’m feeling comfortable. Some of the workouts can be really tough but there’s nothing like the sense of achievement and elation when you’ve got through them and can think “I did that!”.

Sarah Hughes

All of my sessions have been one-to-one and have varied so much. My favourite sessions are cross-training ones where you do a circuit of core, cardio and weights exercises, and sessions down at Barry Island beach where we run along 74

Sarah Hughes & Carlmichael

“I’d definitely recommend FitM8 to friends and colleagues.

Whatever your goal.” the sand (which takes lots of effort) and use benches and steps for other exercises. I’ve also taken up running on my own and have been really surprised at how quickly my fitness has improved.

I’ve lost two and a half stone and discovered that there are some muscles underneath all the blubber!

I’ve been chuffed to bits with the results! I’ve still got a way to go until I’m classed as a healthy weight but I’m really pleased at how far I’ve come and how good I feel.

It’s made so much difference. I’m lighter, I’ve had to buy smaller clothes, I’ve got so much more energy and just generally feel a lot better about myself.

Me and my boyfriend love to go on long walks at weekends and while before, I would be lagging behind and struggling to get up hills, I can now keep up (and get to the pub a bit earlier!).

I most definitely intend to keep it up. I’d like to lose more weight and I feel like there will always be another fitness goal to achieve. I’ve entered the Amsterdam Half Marathon in October and I know that the trainers at FitM8 will help me cross that finish line.

I’d definitely recommend FitM8 to friends and colleagues. Whatever your goal - whether it’s losing lots of weight like me, training for an event or just toning up and feeling a bit better about yourself, you’ll find the help and support you need at the FitM8 suite.

Follow Sarah’s progress at www.walesonline.co.uk

ALEX LLOYD AGE 32, BARRY

I was finding it hard to motivate myself to go to the gym and train myself. I wanted to reach a good intensity when working out so I decided to give FitM8 a try. Also with it being so close to home it is a lot easier to keep going regularly.

Straight away I felt I got on well with Carlmichael which immediately helped me settle into the training. He asked a lot of questions as to what I was looking to achieve and how I would like to go about doing it. It was a more personal approach which made me feel valued and that my progress was important.

I had a pretty good idea of how I wanted my training to progress. After a consultation meeting, we decided that a 70/30 Weights/Cardio split was how I wanted to train.

My weight has stayed pretty much the same which I’m happy about. However I have noticed I have toned up, put on lean muscle and my overall fitness has increased.

Jenny Niblett

JENNY NIBLETT 34 YEARS, BARRY

Alex Lloyd

So far I have been thrilled with the results and the speed in which I have achieved them. The one-to-one approach has definitely helped keep a high level of intensity when training and I would recommend it to anyone who feels their training needs a kick start or is looking to start from scratch.

It’s made me feel more confident in how I look. My overall fitness has improved and inspired me to attempt more fitness challenges in the next few months and beyond. The biggest difference however is that it has inspired me to become a Personal Trainer with FitM8. I have always been a sporty type of person so being offered the opportunity to help other people work towards their goals is such a great feeling.

How did you hear about FitM8. I live around the corner and noticed the shop frontage as I drove past. I felt the need to work with FitM8. I had just had my second child and wanted to lose a little baby weight but primarily get fitter and tone up. I wanted a couple of hours a week for myself. I have two sessions a week and I’ve been coming here since Christmas.

My trainer is Brad. He always pushes me and makes sure I get the most out of my sessions. No session is the same so you can’t prepare beforehand which is a challenge but a good one.

I definitely feel fitter and more confident. I feel fitter now than before I had the children. I will continue to train with FitM8 as I want to continue to improve and I really enjoy it.

Brad & Jenny Niblett

I have enjoyed personal training as a client and felt excited by the fact that I could move over to become a trainer.

I get such a benefit from training and am looking forward to helping others achieve their goals.

FitM8 Personal Health & Fitness Suite 10 Park Crescent, West End Barry CF62 6HD carlmichael@fitm8.eu www.fitm8.eu Free call 0800 0807 497 or from mobiles Free call 03303 300 231 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Sessions available from 6am to 10pm 7 days a week by appointment

TA K I N G CA R E O F YO U R S P I N E A N D B O DY I S L I K E FA R M I N G

Dailyspine Clinic A lot of people are surprised when they go through an episode of back pain or a health challenge, they say things like “I didn’t do anything” or “I don’t understand where it came from”.

PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND

Scott Wroe Hearing Centre The Hearing Centre is a purposely designed practice that offers state of the art testing, fitting and aftercare services.

The Centre includes a completely

After a consultation what they said is usually correct, the cause is because they didn’t do anything. People don’t get regular spine checks for many reasons such as simply being too busy but just as a farmer is never too busy to tend to his crops, you should always make time for your health. If a farmer doesn’t tend to his field it’ll become overgrown with

weeds and produce no crops. If you do not look after yourself you may soon find yourself in ill health. So this year make some time for yourself and get into some healthy habits.

enclosed sound booth, speech mapping facilities and a fitting room to help demonstrate the latest hearing aid technology. We are an independent practice which enables us to recommend the best hearing aid for our client’s particular needs.

everything from the first test to the aftercare is handled in the highest of standards. So if you need a hearing test, or just advice on the best products for you then get in touch with us.

All of our customers receive a personal yet professional service that ensures

3a Hickman Road, Penarth CF64 2AJ 029 2070 2888 www.dailyspine.com Like on Facebook

1 Station Approach, Penarth CF64 3EE 029 2070 7760 www.scottwroe-hearingcentre.co.uk

A N E W W AY T O V A P E

E-Cig Lifestyle We aim to deliver the best service for new and experienced vapers alike, whether you are looking to stop smoking or develop your hobby.

Stocking starter kits, batteries, liquid tanks and accessories.

Heol Y Capel, Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3ST 0845 073 7144 www.electroniclifestyle.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

P O R T H CAW L C H I RO P R AC T O R

Walker Spinal Health Centre We aim to keep you at your peak, adding years to your life and life to your years. We have a different approach when it comes to your health, starting from a vitalistic standpoint we treat the source of the problem, not 76

only the symptoms. We work to clear blockages in the nervous system to help get you back to full health.

Claim £20 off your first visit with this advert.

14 Lias Road, Porthcawl CF36 3AH 01656 789000 www.walkerspinalhealth.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Miskin Manor Health Club is ideally located just off junction 34 of the M4, surrounded by 25 acres of exquisite grounds and gardens. The family-run business comprises of an innovative and contemporary gym with a vibrant café.

MISKIN MANOR

HEALTH CLUB

With recent investments, the Health Club continues to thrive and evolve, undergoing a generational change through the modernisation of facilities including a new cardio suite with Star Trac fitness equipment, weights gym, spin studio and functional room.

Miskin Manor Health club strives to give its members the best in fitness diversity and quality. With friendly and knowledgeable staff, the Health Club offers over 50 fitness classes a week, including; Bootcamp, Bounce, TRX and Kettlebell, swimming lessons as well as personal training sessions.

The on-site Bistro Café produces delicious, light lunches and refreshments on a daily basis at very reasonable prices with idyllic views from the outside terrace. It’s a very charming place to visit.

Miskin Manor Health Club Pendoylan Road, Groesfaen Pontyclun CF72 8AD 01443 224204

There are a range of membership packages available at affordable monthly fees to suit consumer’s needs. This, as well as the location, quality of service and facilities is the reason why the business continues to succeed.

hcreception@miskin-manor.co.uk www.miskinhealthclub.co.uk Find on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“With friendly and knowledgeable staff, the Health Club offers over 50 fitness classes a week.”

Opening Times Monday to Friday: 6am – 10pm Saturday and Sunday 8am – 8pm Club is open 365 days per year 77

Afternoon tea is usually enjoyed as an occasional indulgence or to celebrate a special event such as a birthday, or a pre-wedding or baby shower party with a group of friends. We’ve picked just a few of the venues in the Vale at which you can enjoy your very own Afternoon Tea ritual. Enjoy!

We have all heard of, and most of us have enjoyed an afternoon tea at some time or another but did you know this ritual originated in Britain in the early 1840s.

It evolved as a mini meal to stem the hunger and anticipation of an evening meal at 8pm. Afternoon tea is a meal composed of sandwiches (usually cut delicately into ‘fingers’), scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet pastries and cakes.

PENARTH

pastries are freshly prepared to order so it’s definitely preferable to book; however, if you don’t have a booking you can still enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with home-made cakes from their cake table in place of the mini pastries.

It was only when Queen Victoria engaged in the afternoon tea ritual that it became a formal occasion on a larger scale, known as ‘tea receptions’.

These receptions could have as many as two hundred guests with an open ‘at home’ invitation to visit between 4pm and 7pm, during which they could come and go as they pleased; this was the genesis of the afternoon tea as we know it and was initially developed as a private social event for ladies who climbed the echelons of society.

Interestingly, scones were not a common feature and were only introduced in the twentieth century.

A FTERNOON TEA

Relax in the tropical surroundings of the Blue Pelican Café Treat yourself to a selection of freshly prepared delicious sandwiches and homemade melt in the mouth scones ready to fill with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

Save room for their dainty and delicious homemade cakes, which may include chocolate éclairs, mini Victoria sponges, coffee & walnut cake and chocolate brownie to name just a few. You can also choose from a wide selection of refreshing teas including Assam, Earl Grey, Darjeeling, Lady Grey and Lapsang Souchong, or for added luxury indulge yourself with a glass of fizz. Hamptons mouth watering selection of mini

Afternoon tea at Hamptons is £11.99 per person and is available from 3pm; six days a week. Booking is recommended and a gluten free option is available (please request this, along with any other dietary requirements when booking). Not only for special occasions, afternoon tea at the Blue Pelican Café in Hamptons is the ideal complement to the perfect afternoon.

Hamptons 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth CF64 1EA 02920 705 391 www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Open 6 days a week (Mon – Sat)

LLANTRISANT

High Tea for Two at The Butchers Arms Gallery & Coffee Shop Perched on top of the hill in Llantrisant, The Butchers Arms Gallery and Coffee Shop is the perfect venue for afternoon tea. Take time to browse in the shop on the first floor before making your way upstairs to the delightful café, which is bedecked with vintage china and paintings.

The staff are so helpful and ready to serve you with delicate cucumber sandwiches, ham sandwichs (or another filling of your choosing) and a selection of delicious mixed homemade cakes.

A selection of teas and filter coffees are also served. All for £12.50 for two people. You can add a bowl of crisps or

coleslaw at 50p each if you’re feeling peckish. Everything is prepared to order so that it is fresh and at its best.

High Tea is available from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30am – 3.30pm and 10.30am – 4pm on Saturday and bookings are advisable although not essential.

Why not give the one you love a voucher for High Tea? It would make the perfect gift.

Butchers Arms Gallery Heol Y Sarn (Common Rd) Old Town, Llantrisant CF72 8DA 01443 229285 www.butchersarmsgallery.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 78

“The Butchers Arms Gallery and Coffee Shop is the perfect venue for afternoon tea.”

T H E G R E AT H O U S E , L A L E S T O N

Gourmet offering in stunning surroundings Afternoon tea on a sunny day in the shade of the beautiful 15th century house is a truly special experience.

Every morsel is prepared to order by Head Chef Tommy Heaney, including a selection of sandwiches with various fillings (traditional cucumber being a favourite), plus macaroons, scones and other tasty treats. Tea is served on bone china crockery with a slate cake stand and looks too good to eat.

Choose from a simple selection for £7.95, the full assortment for £14.25 and, if you want to spoil yourselves even more, why not try the Champagne afternoon tea for only £21.

Tea is served every day from 3pm until 5pm Monday to Saturday and 3pm until 4:30pm on Sunday. Gift vouchers make the perfect gift for someone you love.

The Great House Hotel Laleston, Bridgend CF32 0HP 01656 657644 www.great-house-laleston.co.uk enquiries@great-house-laleston.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter @The_Great_House

I T ’ S A LW AY S T I M E F O R T E A

The Pop Up Tea Room The Pop Up Tea Room offers a mobile and uniquely authentic experience directly to a location of their customer’s choice.

Transforming any venue into a vintage style tea room, they serve delicious homemade cakes, that they bake themselves, and light lunches on traditional china, with a variety of teas and freshly brewed coffee (or prossecco if the occasion calls for it).

Perfect for garden or hen parties. Every Friday they also give their treatment to Laleston’s Blandy Hall for all to enjoy.

The Blandy Hall, Laleston CF32 0HS 07811 922246 / 07799 546838 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 79

COWBRIDGE

Al Fresco Dining At The Bear Hotel With probably the best outdoor seats in Cowbridge, you’ll need to get there early if you’re to get one. When you do, you won’t be disappointed.

Start the day with a coffee and choose from one of their many homemade cakes or pastries or maybe try one of chef’s home cooked breakfasts?

If you like the sound of The ‘Bear’ Beef Burger, oven roasted Piri Piri salmon fillet or, if you’re vegetarian a red Thai curry for lunch or roasted rump of lamb or butternut squash, feta and pesto risotto for dinner, then The Bear is the place for you.

The Bear Hotel 63 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AF 01446 774814 enquiries@bearhotel.com www.bearhotel.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Whatever the occasion, The Bear is the perfect place to eat, whether it’s a business lunch, romantic meal or special family occasion. If all of the seats have gone on the High Street, you can still soak up some rays in the pretty courtyard at the rear of the hotel.

COWBRIDGE

Catch Some Well-Earned Me-Time at Oscars This very popular, contemporary eaterie on Cowbridge’s busy High Street is a must if you want to enjoy an early morning coffee with a complimentary daily newspaper. Why not stay a bit longer and enjoy a spot of lunch?

If the sun is shining then grab one of the outside tables and watch the world go by. An awning provides ample shade for newspaper or Kindle reading. It’s the perfect venue to catch up with your own thoughts or with friends, colleagues or the family. Should all of the tables outside be taken, don’t dismay, there are more inside and a sweet, shaded area to the rear.

Fancy a spot of lunch or dinner? Well the menu is varied and imaginative.

It’s no wonder the nominations are flooding in for the Good Food Guide Readers’ Restaurant of the Year 2016.

The kitchen truly believes that good food tastes better with locally sourced ingredients so expect succulent, healthy dishes and a vibrant menu. Their cocktails are legendary. We dare you to try one!

Oscars 65 High Street Cowbridge CF71 7AF 01446 771984 www.oscarscowbridge.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“The menu is varied and imaginative.”

AWA R D W I N N I N G B R A S S E R I E

La Luna With such a high reputation for superb food, excellent service and stylish decor, no wonder La Luna Brasserie and Lounge Bar is award winning.

La Luna’s most recent addition is their (not so) Secret Garden. A beautiful addition that will allow you to take full advantage of the Summer sun over the next few months.

Turn every quick meal with friends, lunch with a loved one or dinner with the family into an alfresco dining experience like no other.

79 - 81 Talbot Road, Talbot Green CF72 8AE 01443 239600 www.la-lunarestaurant.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 80

The success of any good restaurant lies almost certainly with its Head Chef, and Leicester’s at The Great House, Laleston in Bridgend is no exception.

Allow us to introduce to you Tommy Heaney, Head Chef at Leicester’s.

MEET THE CHEF

What attracted you to Leicester’s at The Great House?

Leicester’s has always been renowned for its good food and has a number of accolades to prove it, but, and I’m sure the owners won’t mind me saying this, it may have had a reputation of being a little stuffy shall we say. Naturally we all wanted to maintain the same high standards but we also shared similar ideas in which direction the restaurant could be taken and I felt it was an exciting opportunity. Food is obviously meant to be enjoyed and my philosophy when it comes to dining is that you have to enjoy the whole dining experience. Yes we have white tablecloths and quality crockery and silverware, but all of this is in a friendly, relaxed environment. We want customers to enjoy the experience, have a good time with their friends and family at a reasonable price and hopefully return.

What is the concept behind your style of cooking?

I always find it difficult to put into words my style of food. It’s not overly complicated (although my chefs might disagree). I like to work with the seasons, use only the freshest of locally sourced ingredients, and always let the main ingredient do the talking.

The idea behind a new dish starts with the produce in season and then we match it with the protein should we decide it needs one as opposed to the other way around. If asparagus is in season then that needs to be the focal point of the dish and it’s also important that every ingredient on the dish is expressed in its purest form. Having quality suppliers and maintaining a good relationship certainly helps to make our job a lot easier.

What is your background?

I have been very fortunate and privileged to work with some of the UKs most respected chefs including David Everitte Mattaius, Richard Corrigan, Richard Davies and more recently Ollie Dabbous. I also have done my fair share of travelling with 3 years working in the US and a year in Australia.

More locally I was Head Chef of a well respected independent company that have successful eateries in Cowbridge, Penarth and soon to be Cardiff.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and am very proud of the accolades we achieved, but I felt it was the right time to move on and am grateful that The Great House have given me the opportunity to express myself with my food.

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I have a fantastic brigade and front of house team who all share the same passion and commitment.

What do you hope to bring to Leicester’s?

A great dining experience in a friendly and comfortable environment. We are so lucky to have such a beautiful setting and want to encourage customers to take full advantage of what we have to offer, with an al fresco lunch or an after work drink in the sun. Most importantly we want to show that it is possible to have a quality dining experience and still receive value for money.

Leicester’s Restaurant The Great House Hotel Laleston, Bridgend CF32 0HP 01656 657644 www.great-house-laleston.co.uk enquiries@great-house-laleston.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter @The_Great_House

In its 125 year history, Cae Court has been many things: a residential home, surgery and home to a doctor and his family, the town register office and a probation office. The latest incarnation for this beautiful Grade II listed building in the heart of Bridgend is something altogether more glamorous.

CAE COURT

By the time you read this, Cae Court will have opened – as a beautiful boutique hotel and restaurant in the heart of Bridgend. The town has some beautiful old buildings and Cae Court, a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture, is certainly one of them. So its transformation into a gorgeous boutique hotel and restaurant, is not only most welcome, it seems the logial progression for this stunning building.

Cae Court became a Grade II listed building in 1986 but sadly was unoccupied during the 1990s and subsequently fell into disrepair. It is heavily gabled with particularly unusual steep pitch cross gables and was built, it is believed, circa 1885. John Prichard was the architect and he also designed and built St Mary’s Church, Nolton. He was also responsible for the renovation of Llandaff Cathedral in the 19th century.

“ Attention to detail is unsurpassed. Guests can luxuriate in the spa-esque bathrooms and envelope themselves in 100% Egyptian cotton bed linen.”

Cae Court’s design evolution is completely contemporary. Its eight beautifully decorated rooms were designed by London interior designers Patrick Jaeger Associates and the attention to detail is unsurpassed.

Guests can luxuriate in the spa-esque bathrooms and envelope themselves in 100% Egyptian cotton bed linen.

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The thought of sinking into a 6ft Robert Langford Monarch mattress under a White Company duvet with a choice of feather or microfibre pillows to top it off sounds extremely inviting.

If that doesn’t guarantee a perfect night’s sleep I’m not sure what would!

The hotel’s two Deluxe rooms boast restful views of St. Mary’s Church, Nolton and all rooms are accessible by passenger lift and offer air conditioning, under-floor heating, Wi-Fi and room service. A disabled-friendly room is also available.

Overlooking the River Ogmore, and towards Newcastle Church, The Eaves Restaurant is a stunning, contemporary, 40 cover contemporary dining space.

The proprietors are clearly proud of the restaurant: “We want people to come and sample our menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon

tea, or simply call in for a cocktail, and enjoy our exquisite surroundings and exemplary service. We’re confident that we will meet even the most discerning expectations. Our head chef joined Cae Court with a background in fine dining and brings to the table an extraordinary talent for fusing flavours and techniques from his travels around the world.”

Cae Court are passionate about working with local suppliers. The hotel sources the finest ingredients and grows many of its own herbs and, we are reliably informed, that Sunday Lunch will be ‘a little bit special’ so that’s something we’re really looking forward to trying with much anticipation.

Adjoining The Eaves Restauruant is the Cae Court Cocktail Lounge. A truly relaxing space for pre or post dinner drinks or cocktails in front of a beautiful Petersen Brick fireplace. It is the pefect place to unwind after a busy day or just relaxing with friends.

The proprietors are confident that Cae Court will become not only popular with locals from Bridgend, The Vale of Glamorgan and South Wales, but also a destination hotel for tourists across the UK and beyond – a stunning base from which to explore and enjoy the rich culture, creativity and breathtaking countryside and coastline this part of Wales has to offer.

“ The hotel sources the finest ingredients and grows many of its own herbs.”

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“ A stunning base from which to explore.”

Cae Court 12 Merthyr Mawr Road Bridgend, Wales CF31 3NH 01656 668866 www.caecourt.com Daily opening times Breakfast 7am - 9.30am Morning coffee 10am - 11.30am Lunch 12pm - 2pm Afternoon Tea 3pm - 4pm Dinner 6.30pm - 9.30pm Images courtesy of www.philliprobertsphotography.com

C A F É B Y D AY, B I S T R O B Y N I G H T

Hilary & Iain by the Sea With a long history in catering, Hilary and Iain offer home prepped, great quality and reasonably priced food.

Pop in for a hearty breakfast, freshly made light bites or something more substantial for lunch, dinner or Sunday lunch. Iain’s generously hand cut steaks are a speciality, as is the Fish of the Day and Hilary’s well renowned home-made cakes. There’s a phone in freshly cooked takeaway service. The views from this establishment are to be seen to be believed. It’s no wonder it’s a favourite haunt for dog walkers, cyclists, families and foodies alike.

87 Main Road, Ogmore CF32 OPW 01656 880661 Like on Facebook SERVING PENARTH SINCE 2002

Foxy’s Deli If you are in the mood for some deliciously prepared and authentic delicatessen food then Foxy’s is the only place you should visit, no matter if it’s for breakfast, lunch or just to watch the world go by with a coffee.

Nominated for several awards and having received a glowing review in Rick Stein’s food heroes Foxy’s in an independent Deli and Cafe that serves mouth watering food in addition to providing a catering service and traditional hampers full of cheese, chutneys, preserves and biscuits.

7 Royal Buildings, Penarth CF64 3ED 029 2025 1666 www.foxysdeli.com Follow on Facebook and Twitter E A T , D R I N K , B E M E R R Y, R E P E A T

The Farmers Arms Whether you are looking for a hearty pie and a pint, a Sunday roast or just a quiet drink with friends, The Farmers Arms is the place for you.

With all meals locally sourced, freshly prepared and served every day; including Pie and a Pint Night Tuesdays and a roast on Sunday, The Farmers Arms is a cask marque pub with heart.

They also have weekly live music every Thursday and Friday to help sweeten their collection of locally brewed ales and wines. Check the website for menus as well as opening and serving times.

Lougher Road, Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3TA 01656 773462 www.the-farmers.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 84

“A Real Celebration of Welsh Produce”

Grate catering ltd are a bespoke outside catering company with a professional & dedicated team that take pride in Providing the food for some of the best events around.

We are the chosen caterer at some very prestigious venues across South Wales & the West and that’s because we really care about every detail. All of our produce is from wales, from our Welsh milled flour to our beautiful Vale reared meat. cooked by our award winning chef you can be sure that you and your guests will remember the food you have at a grate catering event.

WE ALSO DO…

Grate chef’s at Home ( Hire one of our chefs to cook for your dinner party) Corporate Events ( Meet & Eat at your workplace or office party) Canapé parties ( We make the prettiest little canapés to really “wow”)

PROOF IS IN T HE PUDDING!

We also run a welsh fine dining restaurant as a showcase to our food in the beautiful village of Laleston. So why not pop along and try us before you book an event.

Booking is advisable as we are very popular.

CONTACT S…

For events call 07468591743 or email weddings @gratecatering.co.uk Restaurant bookings call (01656 652946) or email thepickledradish@gratecatering.co.uk Or visit our website WWW.GRATECATERING.UK for more details.

“ we chose grate catering to provide the food at our wedding and we could not have asked for more perfect food, it looked like a Michelin star restaurant but for 180 people in a field.”

Mr & Mrs Davies from Monmouthshire.

@grate_catering

HELP US SAVE LIVES IN SCHOOL

HELPWCH NI I ACHUB BYWYDAU MEWN YSGOLION

HELP US GET A Registered charity 1154109

DEFIBRILLATOR

INTO YOUR SCHOOL JOIN IN

♥

DONATE

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SAVE LIVES NOW!

Jack Thomas

School pupils receiving CPR training

Every week in the UK 12 young people die suddenly from an undiagnosed heart condition. On 12th February 2012 15-year-old Jack Thomas became one of those 12 young people.

Welsh Hearts aim to get a defibrillator next to every fire extinguisher in Wales.

We’d like to support your school to fundraise locally and obtain a defibrillator.

We’ll also provide FREE CPR and defibrillator training to pupils and staff from qualified medical professionals who are working in Wales.

For more information, please contact

029 2078 6521 fundraising@welshhearts.org Please visit welshhearts.org

When it comes to food, I love simplicity. When it comes to restaurants, simplicity can be hard to find so imagine how refreshing it is to visit a restaurant that offers just three mains. That’s the ethos of Burger & Lobster. We visit their first restaurant in Wales.

BURGER & LOBSTER This is our second visit to Burger & Lobster on The Hayes in Cardiff.

We always visit an establishment twice before featuring in our pages.

We received a recommendation from a friend who had eaten here and said we must try it.

I’ll admit we struggled a little to find it on our first visit, unwisely not taking the time to check location and directions beforehand. Had our friend intimated that it was on the first floor of what used to be Habitat on The Hayes we would have known instantly.

Once up the stairs, we were quite honestly wowed by the interior. The old columns and many of the original features have been retained and, if great Victorian engineering floats your boat, you’ll be in heaven. I can’t help feeling the designers have been inspired by Drew Pritchard’s Salvage Hunters TV show - it has that lovely tactile feel about it - open but intimate.

Muted, industrial greys and warm wood finishes provide an appropriately stylish feel to the room and the central bar positively glows like a beacon in the evening light while several bar staff mix cocktails and pour drinks. To the right is a feature wall of lobster filled aquaria - very impressive. To the right again, an open kitchen with a brigade bathed in golden light attended by a steady stream of waiters and waitresses. They reminded me of busy bees coming and going from a hive.

As we head to our table, there’s already a great vibe about the place and, as the evening goes on, this only gets better with great music from the resident DJ and Burger & Lobster’s attentative staff attending to our every need. They say people make a great restaurant but you have to have a great ambience to make people want to dine there.

Clearly Burger & Lobster has got this right.

The food offering, as I mentioned earlier, is incredibly simple: you can order a burger, lobster or a lobster roll.

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As there were four of us dining this time, two went for the burger and two for the lobster brioche roll.

Each main is priced at £20 and is excellent value for money.

My sixteen year old son is a connoisseur of all things burger so when he says, and I quote, “That’s the best burger I’ve ever tasted!” I’m astonished, not because I don’t believe him, but because he’s actually talking to me.

The lobster brioche roll is quite simply scrumptious. Juicy and tasty and ever so filling.

I actually posted on Facebook after including a clip of Mr Creosote from Monty Python’s Meaning Of Life.

I couldn’t eat another thing!

Actually, it’s the flight of stairs to the loos that bowls you over. Striking murals adorn the walls and we all agree Burger & Lobster is even cooler than we thought.

Being so full, after fifteen minutes, we decided to share a couple of desserts and opted for the upside down cheesecake and Eton Mess.

Would we return? Absolutely. Burger & Lobster is exactly the kind of restaurant that Cardiff needs.

Both were polished off with gusto and we sat soaking up the atmosphere while one of our party excused himself. “You must check out the loos!” he exclaimed on his return.

It’s not trying to be all things to everyone. It knows what its offering and, having eaten there twice, the offering is consistently an excellent one.

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Burger & Lobster Opening Times Monday – Thursday 11:30-22:30 Friday & Saturday 11:30-23:00 Sunday 11:30-22:00 Reservations taken - Plenty of space for big parties Burger & Lobster First Floor, 9-11 The Hayes Cardiff CF10 1AH 029 2022 4044 cardiff@burgerandlobster.com www.burgerandlobster.com Like on Facebook Follow on Twitter @cardifflobster

The age-old cliché of staff being a hotel’s most important asset is certainly true. At Holm House in Penarth, management try to recruit staff locally and the owners are genuinely passionate about the hotel and the roles the staff play in looking after each and every guest to ensure they have a great stay.

HOLM FROM HOME “Service was professional, courteous and non-intrusive. Everything we asked for we got without question, with a smile and promptly.”

GENERAL MANAGER

FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Henrietta

Lowrie

As General Manager my role is to ensure everything runs smoothly day to day.

I am in charge of the bars and restaurant here at Holm House.

Why have you come to work at Holm House?

Holm House is a fantastic boutique hotel and the location in Penarth is stunning, the opportunity to work with the team here and be involved with this great location is brilliant.

Where do you live?

I live in Carmarthenshire and Penarth.

What do you enjoy about working at Holm House?

I have a passion for hospitality and Holm House is a fantastic hotel. The team are like a family and this creates a lovely atmosphere which makes going to work great every day.

What do you think is special about Holm House?

Everyone always mentions the location because it is so picturesque - set in the middle of Penarth overlooking the Channel the views are wonderful but the building itself is also lovely and full of original features which gives the whole hotel a wonderful feel.

How long have you been working?

Since October 2014.

Where do you live?

Llanbethery in the Vale of Glamorgan.

What do you enjoying about working in Holm House?

I enjoy working with the close-knit team here at Holm House, I love meeting new people every day and ensuring that each customer has a great experience.

Being able to make someone’s day extra special whether it is a break away, a 95th birthday, a wedding or an anniversary is what’s important.

What do you think is special about Holm House?

I think Holm House is something that Penarth has been missing, we are becoming a place for people of the community to come and enjoy and I think that is quite special. Obviously the fantastic views help.

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“Our waitress beams her personality out across the restaurant like a lighthouse to help get people served and it’s this enthusiasm that keeps us coming back to Holm House.”

S PA L E I S U R E M A N AG E R

Jodie I manage the Holm House spa and the team of therapists. We offer guests a range of luxurious spa treatments and I am also a trained sports therapist and personal trainer so our guests have access to a wide range of options when they visit.

How long have you been working at Holm House?

I have been part of the Holm House team since October 2014.

Where do you live?

I live in North Cardiff HEAD CHEF

My role as Head Chef is to oversee everything food related within the hotel. I write all of the menus and source all of the fantastic produce that we use and ensure it is cooked and delivered to customers at a consistently high standard.

Where do you live?

I live in Penarth. It is great being part of the local community that I live and work in. Penarth has got a real “local” feel about it, it is really nice bumping into some of your customers in the street and having the opportunity to ask if they enjoyed their meal, or on my day off popping into see my suppliers to have a chat.

How long have you been working at Holm House?

Officially since the 1st of October last year, however I have been involved the project since late May last year. I first came to have a look around the hotel before any plans were in place for the redesign of the hotel, or any building work had begun. I fell in love with the hotel then and haven’t looked back since.

What do you enjoy about working at Holm House?

Everything. What I enjoy most though is having free reign over the menus and creating some really lovely dishes using amazing seasonal and local produce. My kitchen team are great too, I am so thankful for all their hard work and dedication. I couldn’t do it without them.

James

What do you think is special about Holm House?

In my opinion it is the position of the hotel with its views over the sea.

On a sunny day, when the restaurant doors are open you can’t beat it.

“The staff can’t do enough, they made us feel totally at home and spoilt!”

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What do you enjoy about working at Holm House?

Penarth is such a beautiful place to work, every day I am surrounded by ‘the garden by the sea’. I really enjoy working as part of a team; at Holm House we are a family.

What do you think is special about Holm House?

Holm House spa is a special place that takes you on a personal journey from the moment you walk in until the moment you leave. Our boutique spa offers treatments that are tailored to every individual.

Holm House Hotel Marine Parade, Penarth CF64 3BG Hotel 029 2070 6029 Spa 029 2071 3502 reception@holmhousehotel.co.uk www.holmhousehotel.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

S I Z Z L I N G LY G O O D F O O D

“ Why not try something a bit less traditional but far more tasty and enjoyable for your wedding or any upcoming event.”

The Fountain Hog & Grill The Fountain is a traditional rustic restaurant serving grilled delicacies as well as a three course carvery every Wednesday from 12pm until 8pm and Sunday from 12pm until 4pm, with pick up and delivery options available too.

Fancy something a bit different for your wedding or any upcoming event? Then try Just Hoglicious, The Fountain’s mobile catering service providing incredibly awe inspiring hog roasts.

With Buffets and Paella Parties also available why not try something a bit less traditional but far more enjoyable.

Park Road, Aberkenfig CF32 0EW 01656 856173 www.just-hoglicious.co.uk www.thefountaininnaberkenfig.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter YO U R N E W FAVO U R I T E P L AC E ?

The Pheasantry Now under new management The Pheasantry lost none of its sparkle in the transition... in fact, it gained a whole lot more.

A truly unique decor is found within that helps create a cosmopolitan feel, making it feel more like a modern day speakeasy than just another bar.

The drinks menu is vast, hosting a range of quality spirits, tempting cocktails, beers and even champagnes.

The food on offer is truly delectable and ranges from simple snacks to sharing platters. There is even the odd themed night for you to enjoy too.

8 Royal Buildings, Penarth CF64 3ED 029 2090 7444 Like on Facebook 90

CHERRY MESS

INGREDIENTS

For the Meringues n 4 Egg Whites n 150g Caster Sugar n 1/2 tsp White Wine Vinegar For the Roasted Cherries Cherries - PItted n 2 Tbsp Runny Honey n Zest ½ Orange n 1 Vanilla Pod - Split and seeds remove n 500g

For the Vanilla whipped Cream Double cream n 3 Tbsp Icing Sugar n 1 Tbsp Vanilla Paste n 300ml

n 3

Ginger biscuits blitzed to ground crumbs

METHOD

For the Meringues Preheat the oven to 160°C/Gas Mark 3.

Whisk the egg whites with an electric mixer to stiff peaks. Add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking well between each addition. Fold in the vinegar with a spatula then spoon the meringue mixture on to a baking tray lined with baking parchment. You want it to be 1.5cm thick. Reduce the oven temperature to 150°C/Gas Mark 2 and bake for 45 minutes or until the outside of the meringue is set; lightly golden brown and the inside will be chewy.

Leave to cool on the baking tray. Once cooled, break into pieces.

For the Roasted Cherries Preheat oven to 180oC/Gas Mark 4.

Place all the ingredients into a baking tray and mix well. Roast in the oven for 20mins until the cherries have softened.

Remove from the oven and remove the vanilla pod. Allow to cool to room temp before serving.

For the Vanilla whipped cream Whisk or using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients until soft swirls and set aside until ready to serve.

Smooth, plump and perfectly formed, a fresh bowl of cherries never hangs around for long. Try this delicious recipe created by 2013 Masterchef winner Natalie Coleman.

It looks good enough to eat!

To serve Add the broken meringue pieces to the vanilla whipped cream and then fold through the roasted cherries but don’t mix too well as you want it to be red and white not all pink. Spoon into glasses, sprinkle with the crushed ginger biscuits and serve within 30 minutes so that the meringue keeps its wonderful texture.

Cherry Mess Serves 6 British cherry recipe by Natalie Coleman

If you have ever dined in Giovanni’s Restaurant on The Hayes, Cardiff, then you probably know that it is recognised as the longest established independent Italian restaurant in the City.

Testament to the reputation and success of The Hayes, in 2013 Giovanni launched its sister restaurant, situated on the affluent Park Place. Giovanni’s Park Place has the charm, personality and the authentic Italian menus of The Hayes, but offers a more sophisticated dining experience, making it one of the leading Italian restaurants in Wales.

QUARTER MASTER Introducing, Giovanni Malacrino, well-known as a charismatic restaurant owner and entrepreneur in the city, but perhaps less known for his instrumental role in the transformation of Cardiff’s Café Quarter. Giovanni pioneered and brought to life the UK’s first purpose built Al Fresco dining concept that is Mill Lane which paved the way for the Al Fresco dining revolution that has swept across the country.

Giovanni is a busy man (more of that later) but we managed to sit him down and find out more about the enigmatic entrepreneur and his ‘recipes for success’.

Tell us about the many businesses you have had over the years.

From a young age business was my passion, and was at the heart of family life. My parents owned a fish and chip shop in Grangetown called Malacrino’s, where I often worked as a child after school and by the time I was 18 I was running my first VIP nightclub called Fatsos. I then took the plunge and moved to America to work on luxury cruise liners where I was fortunate to meet a great man, Ron Bird, who was on a cruise with his family. We discussed our ambitions and soon after our restaurant called The Fox and Hounds in Coltsneck, New Jersey opened.

Giovanni’s The Hayes

I am still in contact with Ron who is a great friend and to this day he still inspires me to help others.

Eventually I missed my home city and a few years later returned to Cardiff.

Like many Welsh Italians my first lone business venture was selling ice cream.

I fast became the no.1 ice cream seller in the city. In 1983 I fell in love with a building on The Hayes, that housed a café called Planters and was owned by a man called Brian Fry who I am still grateful for to this day for keeping his word and selling it to me. It was the perfect location as I envisaged that The Hayes would be at the heart of the city centre for years to come and I wanted to open a centrally located restaurant that served authentic, quality Italian food. One that had personality and would be a place that generations of families would come to eat and have fun in. For me Giovanni’s on The Hayes has achieved this and so much more, which holds us in good stead against competition from the chain giants.

Following the success of my first restaurant I was eager to expand and launched The Continental and Latino’s on Mill Lane, followed by the infamous, No.10 Nightclub. All three were a success and became synonymous with good food, entertainment and glamour and were frequented by celebrities and the movers and shakers. The Mill Lane restaurants and night club were unlike anything we had before and were at the forefront of Cardiff culture for many decades.

Situated on the other side of town, in an affluent part of the city centre, I felt this would be the perfect spot for our second restaurant.

“If you believe you can’t or you believe you can then you’re probably right… throw the first pebble, watch the ripple in the pond and make a difference.”

Giovanni with his much loved team having fun in the new cookery school.

(L-R) Francesca James his beloved sister, Pietro Godino, Head Chef at Park Place and Massimo Vian, General Manager of Park Place.

Giovanni’s in Park Place offers a more formal dining experience in comparison to The Hayes and fresh local seafood heavily inspires its menu. The signature Italian dishes and service that Giovanni’s has become renowned for has been carried through to Park Place.

As a result the restaurant attracts people from all over the city and beyond, including New Theatre goers as well as cast members of the theatre shows.

A list of stars often pay a visit too, including Danny from The Script, Barry Manilow and Enrique Iglesias who have all enjoyed our authentic Italian food and entertainment.

Also in 2014 we opened Giovanni’s Cookery School and Training Centre, which was expanded earlier this year to create a larger state-of-the-art kitchen and training rooms. The multipurpose facility can be utilised as a training school or for team building days and is also available for TV production hire.

In addition we offer unique cookery

school experiences where individuals can book to learn the secrets from my highly experienced Italian chefs. In a bid to share my own culinary expertise where possible I personally host these with my sister Francesca.

You have met, worked with and cooked for many famous people over the years. Tell us more.

It’s all about ensuring you’re at the right place at the time and it’s also important to understand that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. It all started through my contacts Rory Madden, and Phil Bowdery, who work for Live Nation, a major Entertainment company. They got in touch to see if I’d be happy to host Dame Shirley Bassey and I was of course thrilled. The first question I ask all celebrities is, ‘Do you want to be seen or not seen?’ This indicates whether I ensure their privacy and discretion or throw them an amazing party. I’ve had the honour of hosting

Situated on the other side of town, in an affluent part of the city centre, I felt this would be the perfect spot for our second restaurant. Giovanni’s in Park Place.

the likes of Dame Shirley, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Tom Jones. I’ve met and fed many stars over the years and recently had the pleasure of meeting Ed Sheeran.

My restaurants are renowned as ‘places to see and be seen’, and hosting such stars when they’re in Cardiff is all in a day’s work for my team. In the past I have fed Jose Carreras and the late, great Luciano Pavarotti. I am now working on another dream that is to cook for Placido Domingo, the third of the 3 Tenors.

Cardiff’s Café Quarter has been an amazing success. How were you involved in this?

When I opened The Continental, Mill Lane was one of the most run down areas in town. It was heavily congested with a three lane road and the area hadn’t been invested in for years.

One afternoon I stood at the end of the street and thought “Why isn’t Al Fresco dining more popular in the UK?” We may not have the all year around sunshine of Italy, but when we do have the good weather, people should be able to take advantage of this and enjoy good food and drink in the sunshine.

One day I saw a flyer promoting plans of the major redevelopment in Cardiff Bay and The City Centre and I was dismayed that this didn’t include Mill Lane. That was when I visualised Mill Lane as you see it today, the first purpose built café quarter in the UK. Having the vision was one thing but throwing the pebble into the pond to bring it to life was a whole other ball game.

To realise the vision I enrolled two other influential business heads in the area. At the time this was the general manager of The Marriott Hotel, Chris Quinn and Developer Michael Eddershaw who owns properties on Mill Lane. They loved the idea and wanted to support my ambitions to transform the street.

I appointed an architect to draw my vision which led Michael to contract a model making company to create a 12ft x 12ft model of ‘our vision’ which I still refer to as ‘a place in the street where people meet to eat’. I then approached leading restaurants and bars operating in other parts of the UK to sell them the concept and bring them on board to support our plans and invest in our dynamic city.

The next step was to approach the council to propose the benefits of urban regeneration of Mill Lane, initially they weren’t interested but I purposely left the 12ft x 12ft model in their offices to ensure we remained in the front of their minds, in the hope that someone’s interest would eventually be piqued and they’d be in touch. Lo and behold I received a phone call from the then visionary City Centre Manager, Nick Hamilton and the wheels were set in motion to realise Mill Lane as we know and love it today. Work started in 1995 with amazing cooperation from Police licensing, the fire authorities and the WDA licencing committee.

Mill Lane became such an attraction and inspired Land Securities, the developers of St David’s Shopping Centre to invest in the area. It’s ironic in some ways because whilst the centre was being built it nearly crippled my business as the area had become a building site. However I persevered as I knew it was the right step for Cardiff.

This year we will be celebrating two decades on Mill Lane yet it seems like only yesterday I stood at the end of the street and visualised what you see today.

You’re known for your charity work, tell us about this.

I am fortunately in a position where I can help others through setting up various avenues such as the Feed a Charity initiative and GIOS charity, as well as supporting existing well-known charities including, Velindre, The British heart foundation, Giving to Pink Breast Cancer Charity and The Safe Foundation. I think it’s so important to give back to the community and support others.

I do not necessarily shout about charity work as I believe this is part of my responsibility as a successful business owner and not a PR stunt. For instance, it is not publicly known that we have been supporting Gary Smith and the Street Pastors for over three years by ensuring that all of their volunteers are fed when working hard nights in town and water is available for late night revellers who need it. I also set up the GIOS charity that stands for ‘Great Individuals Often Succeed’ which funds projects for gifted and disadvantaged children aged between 7-17 and is intended to teach key life skills to set them up for success as adults. One of the ways we fund the GIOS charity is we donate 50p from each sale on over 20 dishes on our menu as well as sell Celebrity memorabilia. This generates thousands of pounds annually. You see “My purpose in life has always been to learn, and help teach others how to live, love, laugh and grow.”

In addition to GIOS we also have our unique ‘Feed A Charity’ initiative which we promise to pledge 10% of the overall bill to the charity of the party organisers choice, meaning a large group can come out for an excellent meal and have the added bonus of a percentage of their bill going to a cause close to their hearts.

So what’s the ultimate recipe to your success and tell us about your family?

People often ask me, ‘What’s the recipe to success?’ I tell them it’s my famous

spaghetti sauce just like mamma used to make. Kidding aside, the answer is never giving up on your dream as well as treating my staff and customers as part of the family.

My son, Gianluca is 23 and has flown the nest to pursue his dream of acting, testament to his drive and ambition (wonder where he gets it from!).

He personally secured an acting scholarship in LA where he now lives.

While I miss him dearly, we catch up on the phone almost daily and I couldn’t be more proud. My daughter Lleana is 20 and is in university studying for a Media Marketing degree.

She is very creative and outgoing so a career in this field will be well suited to her. My children are a credit and I must say this isn’t all down to me but especially their mother Marisa.

My two lovely sisters have had a major impact on my businesses and my life as well. My sister Tina has been a great support over the years and my sister Francesca runs our restaurants, ruling with an iron fist and a heart of gold, she is there nearly every day and night.

My parents, Domenico and Antonia Malacrino are also an inspiration and I thank them for having the courage to leave their homeland in order to give us a better future.

I also couldn’t go without thanking my dear friend Colin Murfit for whom I will be eternally grateful. Also you David, Nigel Roberts, Avnish Goyal, Neil Ballard, Graham Morgan, the Hurley family and especially Martyn Ward.

A special mention must go to Lucy Gregory for her strength and patience.

Also Massimo Fraioli, Vanessa Mendes, Ernesto Rappoccio and my loyal team at The Hayes. Not to mention Massimo Vian, Pietro Godino, and ‘the classy team’, at Park Place, as without you all there would be no Giovanni’s.

You see,“There are many ingredients I use in my life yet the one I use most daily is Gratitude.”

Giovanni’s On the Hayes (38) Cardiff CF10 1AJ 029 2022 0077 onthehayes@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk Giovanni’s in Park Place (8) Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3DP 029 2022 6299 inparkplace@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk/park-place

Giovanni with Tom Jones

Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, TripAdvisor, Google+ and Pinterest

Bryngarw House and Country Park has recently enjoyed a major makeover, and is back with a fabulous new bar, wedding ceremony and reception areas. We took a trip up to the extensive grounds, and beautiful property, to chat to Louise Thomas, Events Planner…

A SENSE OF PLACE

Hi Louise, we’ve heard that quite a few changes have been made to Bryngarw House recently.

Yes, we’ve created an exclusive hire venue that is perfect for weddings, private parties and corporate events.

We’ve completely redecorated the interior which has created a gorgeous, brand new space for our guests.

What makes your wedding venue unforgettable/special?

The events at Bryngarw House are now managed by Five Star Chef; South Wales’ premier catering and event management company.

With Bryngarw Country Park’s spectacular grounds and country house with rooms, combined with an amazing team of dedicated people, every event here is unique.

And now to one of our favourite subjects; tell us a bit about the food here.

We are chefs with venues, so food is just as important as the events we hold.

We have an excellent team of truly talented chefs with over twenty years of experience in the hospitality and restaurant industries who, can create bespoke meals using the very finest, locally sourced ingredients.

We have menus for all seasons and we aim to create the most unique dishes for our events.

What do you think are the most important qualities required for working in the hospitality industry?

Definitely customer service, quality, precision, relationship building and, most importantly, the ability to provide a 5 star service at a reasonable cost.

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What size weddings do you hold here?

We cater for most sizes – from intimate weddings of 40 guests right up to our civil ceremony room that is licensed for up to 100 guests - and evening functions for up to 250 guests.

Are there any distinctive photo opportunities at Bryngarw?

Absolutely, Bryngarw House is situated in 113 acres of breathtaking scenery.

The stunning oriental style garden has an ornamental bridge and teahouse, all of which provide superb photo opportunities.

What makes Bryngarw House a great destination all year around?

Regardless of the weather the house is large enough to host your guests in comfortable surroundings, and the Country Park is designed to look great all year round, creating a beautiful landscape.

What is your favourite part of your job?

The best thing is receiving thank you cards and letters from the brides, knowing that their day went well at Bryngarw House because of the service we provided.

So, whether you’re looking for a venue for your wedding, corporate event or private party, pop up to see the events co-ordinators at Bryngarw House – they’ll be sure to impress.

“Everything was perfect, the rooms, the service, the decor, and the food was all amazing. We had five star service and five star food in a five star setting.”

Ceri E, TripAdvisor

Bryngarw House and Country Park Brynmenyn Bridgend CF32 8UU 01656 729009 www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow Twitter

R O YA L A P P R O V E D

Fascinators by Anastasia Fascinators and hats are the crowning glory of any occasion.

You only have to look at the catwalks to know that they are in vogue. We offer a bespoke bridal service where we can make any fascinator and hair accessory in any colour scheme. Our individually made fascinators can be created to match any outfit, making each item we create unique to you. So if you are going to a wedding, the races or having tea with the queen, we can help. We also sell hats, jewellery, shoes as well as corsages and mini fascinators for shoes and bags to complete any look. Now located in our Barry store.

“ Fascinators and hats are the crowing glory for any occasion.”

73 High Street, Barry CF62 7DW 01446 700071 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter BLOOMING BRILLIANT

The Flower Pot For over 40 years The Flower Pot has served the people of Pontyclun with outstanding floral displays for all occasions.

With deliveries of fresh flowers direct from Holland almost every day, we stock a good variety of flowers and plants alongside a collection of gifts.

Give Linda or Louise a call today to discuss your gift, wedding, funeral, or event flowers.

49 Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun CF72 9EB 01443 223643 Like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Pinterest #FlowerPotPontyclun

AWA R D W I N N I N G

SHARE YOUR MEMORIES

Rob Jones Photography

Digital Wedding Album

This award winning photographer is exceptional at capturing joy, excitement and romance in every image. With shots described as polished and sophisticated, Rob has a sharp eye for detail and captures every perfect moment from your big day.

66 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DG 07955 256371 www.rob-jones.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you had your wedding Day photographs in a digital album that you could share with friends, families and loved ones? Now you can!

Llantwit Major based Cog Creative can turn you wedding day photographs into a beautiful keepsake. For a free quotation: hello@cogcreative.co.uk 98

With so many dog groomers in the Vale, how do you know which one to choose? Merry Mutts Dog Grooming began when Hannah was just 17 years old and straight out of college and has now been trading for 24 years this June. In that time, owner Hannah has seen many groomers come and go, so what is so special about Merry Mutts? We chat to Hannah and a few of her clients to find out more.

MERRY MUTTS

Ollie After

Ollie before and owner Hayley

Hannah please tell us about Merry Mutts?

My salon is based in Talbot Green. It’s a relaxing and welcoming environment, where owners are happy to leave their beloved dog in safe hands. Your dog will always be treated with kindness and patience – I never use cages or cabin dryers which can distress your dog.

So, what types of dog do you work with?

All sorts of dogs are welcome at Merry Mutts, pedigrees and crossbreeds of all shapes and sizes. Sadly, over the years, I have had many dogs pass away - a consequence of grooming for so many years: although many owners fill the empty space and bring their new puppies back to Merry Mutts. I am lucky enough to love my job – I have developed a career from a passion! If I go away on holidays, I can’t wait to get back to work and my dogs.

I can honestly say I have always found Hannah very conscientious, always on time, very polite, and what’s more, very professional. The dogs also got on very well with her and loved seeing her. This year we celebrate twenty four years. A big thank you Hannah.

YVONNE TOMBS, CARDIFF

Hannah has been clipping my dogs for the last 17 years. Firstly my Westie and then secondly my Miniature Schnauser.

The cut she gives them is very true to breed. I would highly recommend her as she is very professional and always punctual. She seriously knows her stuff when it comes to clipping dogs.

MRS JEAN WOOD, PENCOED

I first met Hannah of Merry Mutts approximately 24 years ago and over the time we have become friends, I look forward to her visits along with my dogs. My first Schnauzer Jonny was nervous to travel in the car and I am so glad I found Hannah and her mobile grooming service, I am always extremely happy with the results. Hannah treated Jonny like her own and became very fond of him, we were both so sad when he passed away. I kept in contact with Hannah and now I have another two Shnauzers Sonny and Alfie. Hannah has continued to provide an excellent service, always reliable and guaranteed perfect results. My dogs are comfortable throughout the grooming, Hannah has built a relationship with them both and they are happy to see her as she is to see them. Hannah knows them well and handles them both with great care and much love, the results speak for themselves.

T R A C E Y E VA N S , Y N Y S Y B W L

Merry Mutts Salon or Mobile Service 01443 230355/07967 379122 www.merrymutts.co.uk Like on Facebook

RHOOSE

Posh Pawz Salon & Spa celebrate 3rd Anniversary The increasingly popular Posh Pawz Salon & Spa has enjoyed another successful year of pampering pooches across the Vale.

all breeds are welcome and every client is given the time they deserve and treated like a VIP (Very Important Pooch). Toys, goodies, shampoos and dog care products are available. They even supply a free Posh Pawz Bandana with every groom!

At Posh Pawz Salon and Spa, your dog will get the best attention. Owners Kathryn Phillips and Jo Greenough are both fully trained groomers and offer a full range of grooming services including warm baths, blow drys, clipping and styling.

At every groom they will check and clip nails, pluck and clean ears and empty anal glands if needed.

Posh Pawz Salon and Spa 11 Fontygary Road, Rhoose CF62 3DR 01446 710044 poshpawzsalonandspa@gmail.com www.poshpawzsalonandspa.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

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The salon is fully air conditioned and heated with an open and relaxed feel,

“Each dog is given the time it deserves. All breeds and sizes of dogs are welcome.”

It is a fact that most mass produced mainstream pet foods are often packed with fillers, such as cereals, grains and soya, which dogs are simply not designed to eat, and which can actually lead to long-term health problems such as yeast infections, itchy skin, ear and anal gland issues.

THE BES T FOR YOUR PET S...

N A T U R A L LY

Sig and Viv’s, Dinas Powys (next to dog friendly Cross Keys pub), has set about revolutionising how people feed their dogs and cats.

Find out the truth about what is actually in your dog’s food. Contact us or call in and we will provide you with a breakdown of the nutritional value of the food you are feeding and introduce you to some excellent 5* natural foods we have to offer. After all “You are what you eat” they say and that applies to your pets as well.

They provide quality, natural pet food, made from the best natural ingredients to nourish healthier happier pets.

4 Elm Grove Road, CF64 4AA 029 2051 5141 www.sigandvivs.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Sig and Viv’s Natural Pet Pantry

BARRY

Vale Veterinary Centre A new veterinary practice serving the Vale of Glamorgan providing both routine and emergency veterinary care 24 hours a day. We have all the tools to provide the very best care for your pet including digital X-Ray system, ultrasound scanner and blood analysers. Our clients benefit from both routine and emergency house calls, 24 hours a day.

Being a local, family run business, your pet is guaranteed to see the same vet every time you visit the practice or greet us at your door, 24 hours a day. Providing a unique and bespoke service, which we believe sets us apart from the care your pet may currently receive elsewhere. We provide and endorse locally sourced pet foods and pet related services we trust.

Vale Veterinary Centre 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Estate, Cardiff Rd, Barry CF63 2BE 01446 739739 info@valevetcentre.co.uk www.valevetcentre.co.uk Like on Facebook 101

Feeling lucky, we decided to treat ourselves to a trip to Barry Island for some traditional seaside entertainment. We followed the Gavin and Stacey trail and ended up chatting with Jamie Crole of Amusement World.

CAESARS PALACE & CAROUSEL AMUSEMENTS

A WORLD OF AMUSEMENT

Hi Jamie, how long has Amusement World been a feature of Barry Island?

Amusement World was started up by past generations of our showman family and has been entertaining families here since the 1950’s. Our ancestors are the absolute beginners of the penny arcades; true pioneers from generations ago.

We (myself and my son Lewis) run two of the main amusement arcades on Barry Island; Carousel Amusements and Caesars Palace Amusements – both are open all year round not just the traditional summer months when the day trippers arrive.

What do you offer to your customers?

We recognise our two different markets and so cater for families and adult gamers separately. We have modern arcade machines as well as a selection of retro amusements.

“ We provide an enjoyable quality service for all ages.”

The family entertainment centres of both Caesars and the Carousel takes up around 70% of the floor area and is equipped with all types of arcade machines providing cracking entertainment for all ages. We specialise in ticket payout machines for customers to save their points for prizes, as well as all the latest arcade machines.

The remaining 30% of the amusement area is the over 18’s section, known as the adult gaming centre. We operate the best of the best £100-£500 jackpot machines and all the favourite retro gaming machines with high percentage payouts. Our customers are also invited to take part in free raffle draws for the opportunity to win even more £100’s.

We also provide sandwiches, snacks, coffee and cold drinks free of charge to our customers. We focus on providing an enjoyable and quality service for all ages, this enables us to stay open all year round.

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Fantastic. Looks like we’ll waive our ice cream for the moment, and enjoy the coffee and snacks.

Lots of new arrivals in both Arcades.

Brand new machines for 2015 such as our new Minions pusher machine, and with Carousel Amusements and Caesars Palace Amusements both open all year around we won’t have to wait for Summer to enjoy Barry Island’s very own Las Vegas style fun.

Please Gamble responsibly.

Amusement World Ltd. 3 - 4 Paget Road Barry Island CF62 5TQ 07973 541941 103

PAW S F O R A C O F F E E

K9 Plus 1 Barry Island’s first and only dog themed coffee house that accommodates for both you and your furry little (or large) best friend.

Although not compulsory, we love it when a pooch of any size or breed comes in to visit and you never need to leave your beloved companion at home again. Relax as we offer your pooches cosy beds with their own fresh water bowl and feeding station and their own menu offering homemade doggy treats and snacks. We also offer a delicious menu including K9’s speciality afternoon tea, homemade cakes, a choice of coffees and more.

7 Esplanade Buildings, Friars Road Barry Island CF62 5TJ Like on Facebook AWA R D W I N N I N G I C E C R E A M

John’s Cafe When you visit the beach there is no better way to improve your visit than to treat yourself to a bag of chips or an ice cream.

This makes John’s Cafe the perfect treat as, not only do they prepare some of the best chips on the island, they also serve award winning ice cream made

by Mario’s of Carmarthen. People with special requirements can also partake in a little indulgence as soya milk, dairy free ice creams and gluten free desserts are also available. With plenty of seating, both indoor and out, and a large menu with plenty to choose from, what are you waiting for?

12 Esplanade Buildings, Barry CF62 5TJ 01446 737290 Like on Facebook A M U S T W H E N AT T H E I S L A N D

Finnegans If you have visited Barry Island and have not popped into Finnegans then you are missing out!

Offering two culinary experiences, ‘Finnegans Inn’ and ‘Steak & Sea’, this establishment is the perfect place to sit and watch the world go by.

The Inn offers a thirst quenching selection of draught beers and real ales, in addition to the favourite bottled beers, branded spirits, fruit ciders and fine wines. If you are looking to fill an empty stomach ‘Steak & Sea’ serves the best in steaks, seafood, ribs and more.

5-8 Station Approach Road, Barry CF62 5TH 01446 749355 www.finnegansinn.co.uk 104

T H E O N E A N D O N LY

Marco’s Cafe The iconic centerpiece of the promenade at Barry Island for almost a decade.

After starting from humble beginnings the cafe now handles hundreds of customers on a regular basis, come rain or shine. Happily serving a range of hot and cold drinks, cakes and of course some delicious bacon sandwiches.

Featured prominently in the multi award winning Gavin and Stacey, Marco’s has become so well known that even the Prime Minister has popped in for an ice cream.

The Promenade, Barry Island CF62 5TQ Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter T I M E T O T R E AT YO U R S E L F

Enzo’s Bar and The Rock Shop When spending a sunny day visiting the seaside there is nothing better than taking in the view with a refreshingly cold beer in hand. At Enzo’s Bar you can do just that with his stimulating range of beers and ciders.

Or if you are in the mood for something a little bit sweeter then pop into the Rock Shop. Inside you can find a multitude of good old fashioned seaside candied rock of almost every possible flavour as well as some other favourite seaside treats including lollies and bags of candy floss.

Paget Road, Barry, CF62 5TQ 07811 179048 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter T H AT ’ S W H AT I CA L L A V I E W

Coffee Cove Where else can you get such picturesque views over Whitmore Bay as well as food and service that is almost beyond comparison?

Situated in the heart of Barry Island, Coffee Cove boasts high quality food and drink with a selection of healthy, homemade food on the menu and the finest Piazza D’Oro coffee available.

The venue hosts an assortment of events including a monthly comedy night and mini craft fairs. With outdoor seating to enjoy the sun, Coffee Cove is a must visit destination.

Unit 1, Esplanade Buildings, Barry CF62 5TJ 01446 677071 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 105

AWA R D W I N N I N G

O’Sheas Cafe and Takeaway Can you believe that O’Sheas has been around for almost 60 years? ...Because we can! Serving deliciously Award Winning Fish and Chips every single day of the year, O’Sheas has proven time and time again why it is still as popular as ever.

Aside from their family friendly atmosphere, kids menus, range of ice creams and incredible view, O’Sheas food made with low fat oil and low sodium salt, makes for a mouth watering and healthier take on the British traditional dish that will keep you coming back for more.

“ Serving deliciously Award Winning Fish and Chips every single day of the year, O’Sheas has proven time and time again.”

1 Western Avenue, Paget Road, Barry CF62 5TQ Like on Facebook BARRY’S BEST BURGERS?

Piccolo Bar Barry Island has been a tourist destination for well over a century, yet it is only the last 58 years that truly matter... ... for that is how long the Piccolo Bar has been open and serving some of the best burgers that Barry Island and the surrounding town has to offer.

In addition to serving their famous burgers this family run business, that has been open since 1957, also sell hot dogs, a range of hot and cold drinks and a delicious range of ice creams.

“ Open for the last 58 years, the Piccolo Bar serves some of the best burgers that Barry Island has to offer.”

Friars Building, Paget Road Barry, CF62 5TQ Follow on Twitter @thepiccolobar BEACH SIDE BOUTIQUE

The Beach Hut Found on Barry Island, The Beach Hut is jam packed with quirky, colourful clothes from French brand ‘Coline’ that are just right for holidays, plus lots of seaside gifts based on a beach hut theme.

Much like its sister shop The Gallery Boutique, both offer a range of items that add a little ‘something different’ to your wardrobe, besides clothes there is a selection of shoes, jewellery and a great choice of scarves.

1 Paget Road, Barry CF62 5TQ 4 High Street, Barry CF62 7DZ 07814 311 876 / 01446 732 517 www.thebeachhutbarryisland.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 106

2015

FREE EXCITING FAMILY EVENTS AT BARRY ISLAND 11 JULY

25 & 26 JULY

Carwyn Ellis, Kizzy Crawford, Al Lewis and Kookamunga.

From 11am

All That Jazz, The Bucket Band, The Rock Choir, Wonderbrass and Samba Galez. From 12noon each day

18 & 19 JULY

1 & 2 AUGUST

GŴYL FACH Y FRO STREET MUSIC Welsh music festival WEEKENDER featuring Wonderbrass,

THE ISLE OF FIRE The award winning event returns, transforming Barry Island into a fiery landscape featuring burning beacons and fire breathing flowers From 9pm each night

ISLAND ROCKS

Featuring The Strip Lights, The Underdogs, Outback and more.

From 12noon each day on top of the Eastern Shelter

8 & 9 AUGUST

STREET THEATRE WEEKENDER Street shows from 12noon each day all along the prom plus Taming of the Shrew - Sunday at 6pm on top of the Eastern Shelter

15 & 16 AUGUST

THE ENCHANTED BEACH - NEW

The new Eastern prom will be transformed by huge colourful projections of Barry Island past and present.

From 9pm each night

22 & 23 AUGUST

SPORT, ART AND PLAY WEEKENDER Beach sports, play village and arts workshops. 11am to 4pm each day

29 & 30 AUGUST

CINEMA BY THE SEA WEEKENDER

Saturday – Top Gun Sunday – Frozen From 8.30pm each night

Bring blanket or low backed chair.

Deckchairs available to hire.

All events take place along the prom, Eastern Shelter or Island Gardens.

Please note events may change at short notice.

For more information please call 01446 704737 or go to www.visitthevale.com @visitthevale visitthevale

REDISCOVERING HAMPTONS Is there such a thing as retail therapy? I think there is, and if you find shopping or buying the right gift for a loved one particularly challenging, then Hamptons in Penarth is de-stress heaven.

Hamptons has featured several times in Vale Life over the years. Owners Andy Bradshaw and Peter Knowles are almost evangelistic about good design and the difference it can make to our homes both decoratively and emotionally.

Vale Life steps into retail heaven…

You’d probably be surprised to learn that Hamptons opened ten years ago.

I say surprised because one of the qualities Peter and Andy bring to this beautifully renovated Victorian market and meeting hall is a sense of freshness.

It always feels new, and very much of the now, and has an air of timeless character combined with contemporary confidence that is sometimes hard to find in many retailers.

Peter says, “We’re constantly looking for new products. Whether it’s jewellery, soft furnishings, cards or gifts. Everything has to meet a certain standard not just in quality, but creativity and purpose.”

This ethos shines through over Hamptons’ two floors. You can tell that every greetings card and framed print has been considered carefully. The gifts Hamptons sell are eclectic, sometimes quirky, clever and always quality.

Andy, is equally enthusiastic about what Hamptons delivers as a customer experience: “When customers visit, we want them to feel good, to feel they’ve discovered something special - an experience they won’t find anywhere else.”

“It has an air of timeless character combined with contemporary confidence that is hard to find.”

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Andy and Peter have hit the nail on the head about the Hamptons experience.

Whenever I visit I feel I’m being looked after. The staff are excellent. They treat you like friends - it’s that old fashioned service that so many retailers fail to deliver. Is Hamptons successful because it’s independent? Who knows? What I do know is that they take the stress out of shopping. I always know they’ll have a gift solution when I’m really stuck even if it’s for a gentleman!

“The gifts Hamptons sell are eclectic, sometimes quirky, clever and always quality.”

The other great thing about Hamptons is their legendary music and dinner events.

You really must visit their website and follow on Facebook to ensure you don’t miss them. Being so entertaining, they’re always oversubscribed, so visit often to be in the know.

It’s almost become a ritual, but my reward for sensibly shopping at Hamptons and getting what I need is a visit to the Blue Pelican Café on the first floor. The café offers great homemade food and excellent beverages from 9am to 5pm, and all in a beautifully spacious, light, airy and relaxing environment. Whenever I take my seat, I hear myself say, “And chill…”

Hamptons 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth CF64 1EA 029 2070 5391 Like on Facebook HamptonsPenarth Follow on Twitter www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk 109

With a superb selection of Yankee Candles, gifts and home accessories with a difference, Windsor’s is one of Penarth’s must visit shops - all served with a smile and great service.

WINDSOR’S

Windsors Gift Shop 9 Windsor Road, Penarth Vale of Glamorgan CF64 1JB 029 2070 2460 www.windsorspenarth.co.uk 110

Whether you’re an enthusiastic amateur or a time-served gardening expert, there are always plenty of things to do to get the best from your garden.

Our resident gardening expert Rob Hodge gives us his top Summer tips.

STATE OF THE A RT

Call it a fad, call it fashionable, love them or loathe them, wild flower meadows or borders are becoming more and more common.

They appear around our towns and cities and are often used to offset the cost of mowing verges every four weeks, with the flowering period coinciding with Britain in Bloom. Sometimes it works sometimes it doesn’t. In a small garden its easy providing the preparation is correct.

These meadows/borders are now used as an alternative to traditional lawns and flower borders, they provide a display for several months and introduce all kinds of wildlife into your garden, birds, bees and butterflies to say the least. You can choose to spread the flowering time from mid April right through to September with the minimum of effort. It’s not just a flower border but a natural habitat that your creating and it can be as small as a few square metres or up to the size

“ Buy your seeds from suppliers who specialise in native species, choose a mix of annuals and perennials.” of a football pitch, depending on the amount of work you want to do.

Firstly you need to remove the top few inches of fertile soil, so the new wild flower seed can put their effort into flowering and not growing loads of leaves. Cultivate the soil. Rake it as fine as possible, then sow your desired seed mixture. Lightly roll the surface and let nature do the rest.

Buy your seeds from suppliers who specialise in native species, choose a mix of annuals and perennials, so that the border develops year after year then sit back and admire it as it grows.

You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve, and if you don`t fancy the donkey work then employ a man who does.

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Rob Hodge Horticulture 01633 744075 www.RobHodgeHorticulture.co.uk Find us on Facebook

OYSTER POOLS

Oyster Pools & Leisure is a hugely experienced, multi-award-winning supplier of every type of swimming pool.

Just bring your pool questions and ideas to our show site and you’ll see and hear everything you need to know.

With over 38 years in business, we have gained a premier position in the leisure industry by remembering that no two customers’ requirements and imaginations are the same.

That’s why we take a ‘handmade’ approach to each pool; ensuring the one we build is exactly the one you’ve dreamed of. After all, as a family firm, we know how important it is to keep the whole household happy.

The Oyster Pools show site is officially one of the ‘Best Spa Showroom in Britain’ – and not just because we are No 1 in Wales for Jacuzzi®, and display more of their fabulous hot tubs than any other supplier. As you arrive you’ll see an in-ground pool with an EasyGlide™ telescopic pool enclosure and, as you stroll, you’ll encounter a new view at every corner.

With over 20 Jacuzzi® hot tubs, saunas, luxurious chalet, fully-stocked shop – and friendly, specialist staff on hand whenever you need to chat.

Furthermore, four of our Jacuzzi® hot tubs and the In ground swimming pool complete with a Fastlane, are filled; allowing you to ‘test drive’ before you buy!

Oyster Pools & Leisure Ltd Raglan Garden Centre Old Abergavenny Road Raglan Usk Monmouthshire NP15 2BH 01291 690 614 www.oysterpools.co.uk Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturdays & Sundays: 10-30am to 4-30pm 113

Want to make a statement outside your home? Pugh’s Garden Centre have introduced their stunning new oak range of pergolas and porches to accentuate even the plainest of doorways and garden spaces. We put Nicola Pugh in the frame…

BEAUTIFULLY FRAMED

Nicola, please tell us about the new range…

We’re proud to introduce our new range of beautifully hand crafted Oakcentric porch designs, especially made for Pugh’s Garden Village by Welsh Oak Frame, one of the UK’s leading builders in oak frame homes.

Our frames are built to last. The oak frame porches are made of the finest quality materials using a unique combination of modern technology and time-served skill. We can offer you a truly bespoke variety of three beautifully designed porches; small, medium and large along with a magnificent pergola that will bring a sense of imposing style to any residence. If you have a passion for your outside space, I guarantee an oak pergola or porch will add character and elegance to your home.

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Where are the oak frames manufactured?

Right here in Wales. Our oak frames have been created in the traditional way, by hand, using sustainably sourced green oak. Welsh Oak’s experienced craftsmen instinctively know how to use a particular timber to its best advantage, and it’s this priceless knowledge that makes these frames unique.

Why oak?

Oak is strong, and intrinsically beautiful, so we have made sure that the styling is in perfect balance and that the scale and proportion of each frame has been considered carefully by an experienced eye.

It’s the small elements of detail such as the subtle curving of the beam and chamfered edges which make all the difference to the finished appearance of the frames.

Are they easy to fit or build?

Our porches and pergola can either be supplied in kit form, enabling you to arrange fitting yourself, or we offer a fitting service (subject to survey). The porches can be covered with a variety of tiles to match your home and we have an experienced surveyor who would be happy to advise.

Customers can view the Oakscentric display of porches at Pugh’s in Radyr. Prices start at £1,895 for the smaller porch rising to £4,995 for the large porch. The pergola is priced at £3,000.

“The oak frames are manufactured here in Wales.

They have been created in the traditional way, by hand, using sustainably sourced green oak.”

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Pugh’s Garden Village Radyr Tynant Nurseries, Morganstown, Radyr Cardiff CF15 8LB 029 2084 2017 Also at Pugh’s Garden Village Wenvoe Port Road Wenvoe CF5 6AD 029 2059 8118 info@stylegardens.co.uk www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk

ORANGERIES & GARDEN SPACES

BY SPECIALISED DESIGN ROOMS

Orangeries of today have developed considerably since their beginnings and are one of the most beautiful and exciting additions to any home.

Orangeries are elegant, light and airy home extensions, with large “lantern” roofs and tall windows that are useable all year round. They bring unique and luxurious style to any home. All orangeries are built with a perimeter flat roof and central structurally suspended glass lantern. The size of the Lantern is variable and is down to individual taste-smaller the lantern bigger the internal soffit.

Garden Rooms: Customers as individuals and therefore we don’t believe in ‘off the peg’ solutions.

Instead, all our buildings are available in a range of sizes and configurations so you can create a garden room that fits your available space perfectly.

We can also help you tailor the space with external decking so that it complements your garden landscape.

“ Orangeries are elegant, light and airy home extensions.”

External Rest re

Alternatively, if you’d like to create a completely bespoke building that is perfect in both form and function we can help you realise your plans General Building + Renovations: SDR have a teamed of skilled tradesmen for any renovation project whether it be commercial or domestic. Loft conversions, windows, doors, new roof, facia and guttering etc. At SDR, we cater for all your building needs.

Specialised Design Rooms (SDR) 01446 747151 / 07866 431203 steverees247@gmail.com

Before and after: block paved driveway and timber decking clean

external cleaning specialists

www.external-restore.co.uk info@external-restore.co.uk

Free Phone: 0800 612 8052 Mobile: 07908 042 759 Jet wash

We clean and restore:

• • • • • •

Driveways Pathways Gutters Conservatories Decking Brickwork

Gutter vacuum

FREE survey, consultation and quote

20% OFF Any driveway or patio clean OFFEROFFER SUMMER

SUMMER

20% off

Visit usanyatdriveway theorVale Show patio clean

DOMESTIC

INDUSTRIAL

Paving slabs clean

COMMERCIAL

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info@external-restore.co.uk

Phone: 0800 612 8052

4 Options When Renting Your Property;

Tenantfinder

FullyManaged

Full marketing on the major portals, full referencing, preparation of the tenancy agreement, set up standing order and deposit registration.

Full marketing on the major portals, full referencing, preparation of the tenancy agreement, set up standing order and deposit registration + full inventory and schedule of condition, rent collection, quarterly inspections, 24 hour maintenance, renewal contracts, gas safety/EPC/ HMO compliance monitoring, legal notices served and a dedicated accounts department.

RentonTime

SittingPretty

Full marketing on the major portals, full referencing, preparation of the tenancy agreement, set up standing order and deposit registration + fully managed services plus guaranteed rent on the same day every month even if the tenant doesn’t pay. Full legal insurance with no excess to pay.

All of the above with guaranteed rental payments even if the property is vacant plus we will even maintain the property! Terms and conditions apply.

Let Only Service

Let + Management Service

Rent even when your property is vacant

Guaranteed rental payment

Letting Property throughout Cardiff and the Vale in days.

For more info call us on: 029 2039 7887.

www.jereyross.co.uk

NEW WATERSTONE HOMES DEVELOPMENT We are committed to delivering the necessary living space and buyers can take advantage of a dedicated design service as we recognise that our buyers want to put their own stamp on their homes. By giving them the freedom to choose their own features, they can make their homes as personal as possible.”

ST BRIDES MAJOR A new development comprising six private residential homes has launched in St Brides Major. Developed by Waterstone Homes, The Barns is located around a cul-de-sac on Penylan Road. Designed with families in mind, the layout of the six homes will meet the expectations of modern living.

Set over two floors, the properties will benefit from an external or double integral garage, ground floor open-plan living area and a large master bedroom suite with all bedrooms located on the first floor.

The development is located at the heart of the highly sought-after village of St Brides Major, which captures the views over the countryside for those wanting to live in a rural setting, whilst being within easy commuting distance of the city. The popular catchment area of market-town Cowbridge is also only a few miles away so is easily accessible within 15 minutes.

“St Brides Major is a friendly and attractive village, while nearby Ogmore-by-Sea and Southerndown offer breathtaking coastal views. With an enormous amount of interest already received, prospective buyers are advised to register their interest in readiness for the properties being completed by late Summer.”

To register your interest or for more information please visit www.waterstonehomes.com

Andrea Gardner, Sales Manager at Waterstone Homes, said: “We are delighted to launch The Barns in the Vale of Glamorgan.

DRAW FOR THE HEARTS OF WALES T

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WE’RE LOOKING FOR SOME TALENTED ARTISTS TO ENTER OUR CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION. Draw, paint, photograph or use a computer to design a festive Christmas card for Welsh Hearts for the chance to win a defibrillator and training for your school.

Closing date: 25th September 2015 ENTRIES BY EMAIL OR POST

For more information, email marketing@welshhearts.org WelshHearts or visit welshhearts.org/competition Welsh Hearts is a registered charity in Wales with charity number 1154109. Registered address at Welsh Hearts, Temple Court, 13a Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9HA

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© Welsh Hearts 2015

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Porters are the property professionals who know what it takes to sell and let homes and are proud to be one of the most innovative and client focused estate agents in South Wales. Knowledge and experience are vital, which is why the team are qualified experts in the field.

PORTERS ESTATE AGENTS

We believe the fact that Porters Estate Agents is an independent, family run estate agency is the reason we have been able to help so many local people sell and let their homes for almost two decades.

In this time we have amassed a wealth of in-depth market knowledge, which allows us to exceed our clients expectations and provide one of the most innovative and client focused estate and letting services in South Wales.

Thanks to our independence we have been able to be completely focused on the area within which we work, which means that we can prioritise our efforts and make sure we do the best for our clients. Every home and person is unique, we take this into consideration when creating the plan for your home as in this business what works for one property and client does not work the same for another.

We deliver the results that you are looking for. Through pro-active marketing, excellent presentation and strong negotiation, we have gained a reputation for ensuring we get you the maximum price for your property. We believe knowledge and experience are essential pre-requisites to great service.

That’s why all our team are experts in their field, love what they do and think beyond the obvious.

So whether you are looking for: Interior and exterior house painting, replacing or fitting decking, flat pack furniture assembly, gutter clearing and maintenance, tree and shrub pruning and removal and many more, no job is too small and all work is carried out by trustworthy tradesmen. We promise to turn up on time, every time and carry out all of our work to a high standard.

In addition to our estate agency we also offer a property maintenance service so no matter what maintenance your property may need, we are more than happy to help. By offering competitive pricing and free quotes to all customers we guarantee no hidden surprises after completion.

“ We have gained a reputation for ensuring we get you the maximum price for your property.�

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Porters Estate Agents 73-75 Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 3AE 01656 766 666 www.porters-uk.com bridgend@porters-uk.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

VA L E W I D E

Selling or promoting your property?

If you are an agent, property developer or homeowner and you would like to promote your home in Vale Life magazine, then please contact us. jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

THE INDEPENDENT CENTRE

Lifestyle Mortgage Centre Expertly run by husband and wife team, Iain and Tracey, this family firm has been offering advice on pensions, mortgages and investments for almost 30 years.

This independent mortgage centre prides itself on looking after the individual needs of their clients for the long term. This is why many of their clients are repeat business or come from referrals. So call today and come to the mortgage advisers that care.

97 - 99 Talbot Road CF72 8AE 01443 222299 www.lifestylemortgagecentre.com

Mortgage Centre Independent Mortgage Advice House Purchase

First Time Buyer

Re-Mortgage

95% Mortgages

Buy-To-Let

Help To Buy

01443 22 22 99

www.lifestylemortgagecentre.com Lifestyle House, 97-99 Talbot Road, Talbot Green CF72 8AE Lifestyle Financial Advice and Lifestyle Mortgage Centre are trading styles of Lifestyle (Glamorgan) Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Registered in Wales No. 5696818. Registered Address Lifestyle House, 97-99 Talbot Road, Talbot Green, Pontyclun CF72 8AE

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TALYFAN CLOSE, COWBRIDGE, CF71 7HT £430,000

EASTGATE, COWBRIDGE, CF71 7EL £399,950

An immaculate family home conveniently located for Schools and Cowbridge Town Centre. Featuring a modern contemporary kitchen. Parking, carport, garage and enclosed garden.

A superb property that has been sympathetically renovated and maintains many original features with a hint of understated character. Walking distance to Cowbridge Town Centre. Pretty rear garden and off road parking.

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TOWN Our selection of the best town houses on the market this month

CARDIFF ROAD, COWBRIDGE, CF71 7EP £399,950 An extended family home which must be viewed to be fully appreciated. A tastefully modernised property within walking distance to Cowbridge town centre.

South facing garden, off road parking and garage.

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LLYS DWYNWEN, LLANTWIT MAJOR, CF61 2UH £144,950 Ideal home for first time buyers or as a buy-to-let investment.

This property has the benefit of a useable attic room, parking, garage and enclosed rear garden.

CARDIGAN CRESCENT, BOVERTON, CF61 2GP £239,995 A spacious family home with large master bedroom with en-suite. Off road parking, garage/store and south facing garden. Close proximity to town centre.

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BRIDGEND

COWBRIDGE

T 01656 644 288 E bridgend@wattsandmorgan.wales

T 01446 773 500 E cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.wales

LONDON

PENARTH

T 020 7467 5330 E london@wattsandmorgan.co.uk

T 029 2071 2266 E penarth@wattsandmorgan.wales

@WattsandMorgan

wattsandmorgan

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CROSS COTTAGE, CHURCH ROAD, LLANBLETHIAN, CF71 7JF £950,000 A character coach house in a unique location with surrounding gardens close to one acre enjoying a southerly aspect. Detached garage and parking.

CORNER HOUSE, LLYSWORNEY, CF71 7NQ £585,000 A superb character home thought to date from 17th Century which retains many original features including exposed beams, flagstone floors and Inglenook fireplaces. Parking. Enclosed garden.

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COUNTRY Our selection of the best country houses on the market this month

ORCHARD HOUSE ST DONATS, CF61 1ZB £599,950 A distinctive former farmhouse, enjoying a prominent position within this popular Vale of Glamorgan coastal village. Driveway parking, double Garage and sheltered gardens bordering farmland with views over field beyond.

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PENSARN FARMHOUSE LLANMAES, CF61 2XR £449,950

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A superb character farmhouse which retains its original character and has been further extended. Sizable garden including large lawn, several seating areas and a well maintained vegetable garden and further lawn. Parking and double garage.

EWENNY ISAF, ABBEY ROAD, EWENNY, CF35 5BN £995,000 A rare opportunity to acquire an exquisite family home finished to the highest of standards with generous accommodation including a Clive Christian kitchen. Double garage and parking provision. South facing mature gardens and additional land with stable block.

www.wattsandmorgan.co.uk

CARDIFF

Best Western Plus New House Country Hotel 25th Anniversary Event To help celebrate being in business for 25 years, the Best Western Plus New House Country Hotel welcomed guests to an evening of canapes and drinks at the newly refurbished Wyndham Suite. Guests were entertained by their resident Jazz Trio Afternoon in Paris. www.newhousehotel.com

Welcome to Vale Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around the Vale.

P O R T H CAW L

VALE

Nicky Moss, Founder & Emma Thomas, Trustee

Sponsors board

Cost of Cancer Charity Ball The event was held at the Grove Golf Club in Porthcawl in aid of Cost of Cancer Charity.

The charity is being set up to help people who are struggling financially with costs while undergoing treatment.

Manchester United Football Club was one of the main sponsors of the night. £4,355 was raised.

For more information please contact Nicky Moss at info@costofcancer.org.uk www.costofcancer.org.uk Paul Williams, owner of USTU with his team of stylists

Nicky Moss, Founder & Andrew Thomas, Auctioneer

Bridgend based band Omega Blend

Sian, Janice & Anneke Williams

Keith & Kath Barnard, Fran & Mike Domachowski

SOCIAL LIFE VA L E

Official reopening of Hensol Castle Hensol Castle was officially reopened recently by the Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates, following a multi-million pound refurbishment programme to restore the historic castle to its former glory, including new conference and wedding facilities.

Located within the grounds of the Vale Resort, the first phase of a ÂŁ10 million refurbishment programme of the 17th-century Hensol Castle included a complete upgrade of the castle function rooms and the construction of a new, purpose-built Courtyard Hall.

Courtyard Hall is capable of hosting weddings or conferences, with a capacity of 320 delegates, theatre-style and 200 delegates banquet-style. This is complemented by five smaller meeting rooms in the castle itself, which can host between 10-100 delegates per room theatre-style.

Phase two of the ÂŁ10 million investment will include adding up to 30 bedrooms and a top-end restaurant with 120 covers, and is expected to be open by late 2016. www.vale-hotel.com

Ken Skates & Stephen Leeke unveil the commemorative plaque

Stephen Leeke, Ken Skates & Gerald Leeke

Madeline Rand & Glynis

Alison Donovan & Glenda Owen of Angel Chambers

BRIDGEND

Melanie Lazarus Celebrates 10 year Anniversary Guests were warmly welcomed to the celebratory evening of Melanie Lazarus & Co Solicitors, held at their offices in Bridgend, where they enjoyed canapĂŠs and bubbly.

The firm enjoys its tenth year of trading and members of staff were joined by friends, family, clients and other professionals who have supported the company over the past ten years.

The practice is the leading firm in Wales offering specialist advice in Family Law. Those requiring advice or assistance can contact the company on 01656 750888 or for further information visit the website www.mlsolicitors.com.

The Melanie Lazarus Team

38-40 Nolton Street Bridgend CF31 3BN 01656 750888 www.mlsolicitors.com Like on Facebook and follow on Twitter

Ashley, Amy (Melanie Lazarus) and Julie Herne

Sam & Nia Brennan

Melanie Lazarus

Natalie Davies and Leanne Beniest

Hannah Taylor & Sian Phillips

Melanie Lazarus and Nicola Morris

Ann & Gethin Lewis

Keith Evans and Melanie Lazarus

Amy Britton, Rebecca Raikes, Rhian Pope & Madeline Rand

When we launched Vale Life back in the summer of 2007, we didn’t dare to dream that several years later our small but perfectly formed little publishing business would be employing sales-people, writers and designers across south Wales. Our latest project is Wye Life magazine...

GET MV ORE O UT L T H E VA L E O F G L A M O RG A N

Vale Life magazine The Vogue of The Vale

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Vale Life is distributed right across Wales’ most southerly county including Barry, Cowbridge, Penarth, Porthcawl, Talbot Green, Pontyclun, Llantrisant and many of the Vale’s smaller villages.

Vale Life has a new responsive website www.valelifemag.co.uk

“ We’re a Welsh family-run publisher. At least 95% of our revenue is reinvested in the Welsh economy and we’re passionate about the shop-local ethos.”

VA L E L I F E S TAT I S T I C S E S T I M AT E D R E A D E R S H I P

Over 35,000 FACEBOOK LIKES www.facebook.com/valelife

4,381 T WITTER FOLLOWERS @ValeLife #ValeLife

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SUMMER TREATS

LLANTWIT’S MAJOR INVESTMENT FOR THE FUTURE SPA STRUCK, LIGHT HOUSES AND CURVACEOUS CREATIONS

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . VALELIFE . CO . UK

After creating Superman inspired jewellery and an unbreakable wedding ring for Laurence Fishburne, Cardiff jewellery designer Neil Rayment really is flying high.

STAR STRUCK What better way to commemorate the cinematic release of Man Of Steel than with a stunning jewellery creation inspired by Superman himself? As a fan of the superhero and friend of the film’s star Laurence Fishburne, award-winning goldsmith Neil Rayment wanted to create an out of the ordinary tribute in the shape of Kal-El’s Crystal - an homage to Superman’s birthplace, a timeless classic, expertly crafted in platinum and diamonds.

“I was looking for something spectacular, I’m a huge fan of Superman and the franchise featured heavily in my childhood,” says Neil, owner and artistic director at Advanced Jewel Craft. “What better place to seek inspiration than the birth place of Superman?”

Advanced Jewel Craft attracts clientele as sparkling as its bespoke pieces. The iconic brand has slowly blossomed since its inception in 2004 and is now a firm favourite amongst A-listers from LA to Abu Dhabi. Oscar-nominated actor Laurence Fishburne is one of Neil’s most prestigious clients. The pair met when Neil briefly switched jewellerymaking for acting and appeared alongside him in The Matrix sequels.

Neil was honoured to be tasked with designing and creating Laurence and his wife Gina Torres’ wedding rings.

VA L E L I F E I N TE RV I E W

One of Hollywood’s real diamonds Laurence kindly took time out of his busy schedule to explain more about his experience of working with Neil.

How did your friendship with Neil come about?

We worked on The Matrix sequels together. We became friends on set and then I found out that Neil’s passion was for jewellery design.

Have you kept in touch? Have you been over to Wales to visit him?

Yes we’ve kept up with each other but still have not made it to Wales I’m sorry to say. I’ve heard that it’s a very beautiful country.

W E B S I T E S TAT I S T I C S Unique visitors

10,687 Unique page views

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PLUS A RT , M USIC , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

Neil designed and made your wedding rings. That’s a high pressure assignment - how was he to work with?

He was terrific. The basic design was worked out between Neil and my wife.

We’re delighted with the result.

Can you tell us a little about the inspiration behind the design?

Gina wanted something that would be unbreakable for me. I’m a would-be drummer, so I’m always beating things to hell. The platinum band and three diamonds are all a reflection of my personality and style.

How involved were you in the design process?

I’m very creative but I really felt it was best to trust both Neil and Gina on this one. It was our first custom jewellery experience.

Neil often takes inspiration from films. If you could challenge Neil to design jewellery based on one of your previous films, which would it be?

Probably King Of New York. I think that would be an interesting challenge for Neil but one I’m confident he could rise to.

Created in his Cardiff Bay studio, Advanced Jewel Craft’s pieces are beautiful and exclusive. Neil adopts a personal approach, forging firm relationships with his customers. And while he works with A-list clients, his feet are firmly on the ground. “Jewellery is something that needs personal attention,” Neil says. “You can get entangled in the glamour, the parties, the shows, but the most rewarding thing is to see someone wearing one of my pieces and the pleasure it brings.”

Advanced Jewel Craft 103 Bute Street, Cardiff CF10 5AD 029 2132 8114 www.advancedjc.com

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Vale Life reaches my target audience.

I rarely advertise in any other publication these days.

Russell Scott-Lawson Owner, Hawkes

VA L E O F U S K & W Y E VA L L E Y

Wye Life magazine Our latest creation Wye Life magazine is our new baby.

It’s been on the drawing board for some time and we’re delighted to announce that we will be publishing our launch issue this summer.

W Y E L I F E S TAT I S T I C S S U M M E R 2 01 5

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FACEBOOK LIKES

www.facebook.com/wyelife The Brogue Trader, in Morgan Arcade, stocks a 2,074 footwear from range of fine gifts and gentleman’s eight British manufacturersT W(fiI Tve hold a Royal Wye Life magazine will cover Chepstow, TER FOLLOWERS @WyeLife Newport, Monmouth, Ledbury,Chris Ross-on- Macnamara, Warrant).

Owner, is passionate Wye, Tintern, Abergavenny, Caerleon, 3,048 about gentleman’s more than that, he’s Usk, Hereford, Hay-on-Wye and shoes but, surrounding areas.

To advertise passionate about British made gentleman’s To advertise pleaseshoes. call please contact Chris Howell.

BEST OF BRITISH O F LIFE C L chris@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

Chris on 07837 940639

Manor Born

CHEPSTOW, USK, CAERLEON, LEDBURY, HAY-ON-WYE & GLASBURY PLUS HIDDEN GEMS OF THE USK & WYE

RestauRant Reviews what’s On, Business, shOpping

CARDIFF

City Life magazine Reflecting Cardiff life

theRe’s

MORe Online

www.wyelifemag.co.uk

plus aRt, Music, style health, hOMes and Much MORe

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C A R D I F F ’S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

City Life is the City Of Cardiff’s premier lifestyle magazine.

City Life is distributed right across Wales’ capital city covering Rhiwbina, Whitchurch, Canton, Roath, Llandaff, Radyr, Llanishen, Cyncoed, Pentwyn, Llanederyn, Fairwater, St Mellons, Grangetown, and Cardiff Bay.

“ Good Life Publishing provides businesses with an integrated marketing facility that seamlessly combines social media and tried and trusted print advertising.”

LUSH CHIC

FESTIVE MAKEOVERS, BESPOKE JEWELLERY BUMPER SOCIAL LIFE AND OUR ESSENTIAL WEDDING LIST

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S

MORE ONLINE

CITYLIFECARDIFF . CO . UK

PLUS A RT , M USIC , S TYLE , HEALTH, COMPETITIONS AND MORE

C I T Y L I F E S TAT I S T I C S

The Brogue Trader has been open E S T than I M A TaEyear D R Eand ADE R S H I Pis less already gaining a reputation around the UK for its selection of very best of British gentleman’s footwear. Read F A Ctestimonials E B O O K L I Kon E SThe Brogue the www.facebook.com/citylifecardiff Trader website and the comments from its 2,000 plus fans on Facebook and you’ll soon realise that this is not simply down to the quality T Wthe I T Tshoes, E R F Obut L L Othe W Eexceptional RS of @CityLifeCardiff #CityLifeCardiff service delivered daily by Chris and The Brogue Trader team.

England since 1886. Their shoes are still hand-crafted entirely in their original factory - from the cutting out of the leather, through stitching to final polishing.

Owner, Chris Macnamara, has W E B S I T Echosen S T A T Ieach S T I Cbrand S personally he sells.

Unique visitors “I love shoes!”, exclaims Chris. “It gives me immense pleasure to wear a fine pair of shoes but when a customer Unique The pageBrogue views Trader feeling great leaves about their new pair of shoes, I couldn’t be happier. I can see the difference it makes to their lives.”

Chris says, ”At the Brogue Trader we understand that, for a true Gentlemen, well-fitting, long-lasting shoes makes a real statement. It’s like a mark of refinement and a statement of personal pride in one’s appearance. A handmade pair of quality shoes goes beyond mere apparel, they are the creation of a master craftsman, expressing the social standing of the wearer whilst

Over 35,000 5,058

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Their Classic range includes timeless oxfords and brogue shoes, in both black and beautiful, hand burnished brown.

Their Country and Leisure range includes shoes, loafers and boots with a choice of leather and rubber soles. This is the pinnacle of English craftsmanship.

After considering various local magazines to market the business in I decided to place an ad in both Vale and City Life to promote our wares, the only thing I can say is ‘WOW’. The response I’ve had from both publications has been staggering, literally staggering and now both publications are a permanent marketing expense within our strategy.

If you haven’t tried it, you must!

Chris Macnamara MD The Brogue Trader When it comes to price, versatility and finish, no other material can match it, which might explain why, for windows, doors and conservatories, aluminium is fast becoming the material of choice for the seriously savvy.

The UK may not be the manufacturing powerhouse it used to be but we still make shoes of exceptional quality. And yes, you pay a little more, but shoes of this quality (if you look after them) can last a lifetime. And you can’t say that about a lot of products these days.

THE LIGHT

FANTASTIC Vellacine have been manufacturing aluminium double glazing windows and conservatories in South Wales since 1978. We spoke to Managing Director, Mark Nayler about the resurgence of aluminium for windows and conservatories.

Vellacine has a solid reputation for supplying uPVC products. Why are you promoting aluminium?

Aluminium went out of fashion simply because of problems with heat transfer between glass and frame. However, technological advances over the last ten years have meant that aluminium’s benefits of lightness and strength are making a serious comeback among consumers. We’re definitely noticing more enquiries, with customers asking us to cost a project alongside uPVC.

What are the benefits of aluminium?

A warmer house, lower energy bills and less outside noise are just some of the benefits that our aluminium windows bring to the table. Increased security is important to customers. Our superstrong aluminium windows and superior locks help customers feel safer in their homes.

“The materials that we use are environmentally friendly, robust and durable. Our aluminium windows last for years without maintenance.”

Is aluminium eco-friendly?

The materials that we use are environmentally friendly, robust and durable. Our aluminium windows last for years without maintenance.

What about colour?

Our aluminium products can be custom-made for each property and come in almost any colour or style.

They look great and our designs are highly attractive and certainly improve the look and value of a home. In addition to manufacturing aluminium products of the highest standard, we pride ourselves on the high standard of service we offer. Vellacine customers return to us time after time and most of our work is generated through word of mouth recommendation. We’re extremely proud of that.

Why should customers buy aluminium windows and conservatories from Vellacine?

They’ll be dealing with a financially strong, well established and highly regarded local company. Vellacine has been around a long time and we provide a fully comprehensive ten year guarantee with all our aluminium windows.

As well as a full installation service, Vellacine offer an aluminium window replacement and repair service should any existing aluminium windows be damaged, show misting or just simply need a facelift.

The Brogue Trader 27a Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF

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Vellacine Limited The Window and Conservatory Centre Hadfield Road Leckwith, Cardiff CF11 8AQ 029 2022 8578 enquiries@vellacine.com www.vellacine.com

Welsh Hearts is an exciting new charity set up to save lives in Wales and to raise awareness of heart disease. We got to meet the founder of Welsh Hearts Sharon Owen and find out what inspired her to set up the charity and to share their successes so far.

THE LAST WORD

Sharon Owen, Charity Director with Dai Fib (mascot) and Spiro Borg, Chairman.

Why did you set up Welsh Hearts?

Many people may be surprised to hear that heart disease accounts for a third of all deaths in Wales, where the death rate is higher than the in the majority of countries in Western Europe. This shocked me and it’s a cause close to me on a personal level as I have a heart murmur and whilst it does not affect my day-today life I am very aware of the problems it could cause in the future. I wanted to raise awareness of heart disease and save Welsh lives. I have worked in the charity sector for a number of years so had a great foundation to set up Welsh Hearts in 2013 and I am so proud of what we have achieved in a short space of time.

What has Welsh Hearts achieved since it was launched?

Welsh Hearts is all about managing and preventing heart disease in Wales. There are 8000 sudden cardiac arrests in Wales, with only a 3% survival rate. However when a defibrillator is used, the survival rate increases to 47-50%. We launched the Dai Fib Appeal because our ultimate aim is to place a defibrillator next to every fire extinguisher in Wales. In the last two years

we have distributed 180 defibrillators in communities across Wales and with the help of over 200 medics we have trained over 6,340 people in CPR and how to use the life saving equipment.

We are also very excited to launch a heart-screening program in January 2016 for 14-35 year olds to detect any cardiac abnormalities.

Where does your job take you geographically?

Welsh Hearts takes me all over Wales. My job involves a lot of travelling up and down the country - giving talks, demonstrations and meeting with various people in the medical profession who give up their time for free to further the work of Welsh Hearts.

Do you work alone or do you have a team working with you?

I couldn’t do this job and achieve all of the above without the great team behind me. I am very lucky to have support and commitment from volunteers, those in the medical profession and people throughout Wales who attend our fundraising events and get involved.

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How could the people of Wales get involved in Welsh Hearts?

We are in urgent need of volunteers who can fundraise for us by setting up their own events and helping to spread the word.

We are also always in need of Trustees and volunteers to help with the running of Welsh Hearts so if you have skills in finance, admin, marketing/PR and have a couple of hours to spare we would love to hear from you. We also offer free CPR and defibrillator training so if you are interested in this for your local community please get in touch.

What makes you happy?

I love musicals and am planning on getting back on the stage and doing a musical next year to raise money for the charity. Watch this space.

Welsh Hearts - Calonnau Cymru Temple Court, 13a Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9HA Main Office 029 2078 6521 Fundraising Office 029 2034 1989 Mobile 07730 944 700 sharon@welshhearts.org www.welshhearts.org Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

ALEXANDER JAMES

Beautiful Bespoke Bi-Fold and Sliding Doors

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Part of the AAI Group

FINALLY, A NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITHOUT THAT ANNOYING VOICE .

Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph.

Ref. 3905: “Please make a U-turn if possible.”

The instruments used by sailors in the tradition of Vasco da Gama are less intrusive. One of the legends of navigation is the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph. Its IWC-manufactured movement with flyback function and automatic double -pawl winding guarante e s pre cise landings. And even if you happen to head off

in the wrong direction, no one’s going to start nagging you.

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Mechanical chronograph movement, Self-winding, IWC-manufactured 89361 calibre, 68-hour power reserve, Date display, Stopwatch function with hours, minutes and seconds, Flyback function, Sapphire glass, See-through sapphire-glass back, Water-resistant 6 bar, Diameter 43.5 mm

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THANK YOU Thanks for taking the time to read the summer edition of Vale Life magazine.

Vale Life is the Vale Of Glamorgan’s premier lifestyle magazine.

We print 10,000 copies of each edition and cut no corners on design, production and the quality of our print.

Talking about printing, we source pretty much everything locally, and over 95% of Vale Life’s turnover is reinvested back into the community of South Wales.

If you have a business and are interested in promoting your goods or services to an aspirational audience in the Vale then Vale Life is almost certainly right for you.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@valelife.co.uk

“Follow your heart, not your head.”

Kevin Green, Wealth Coach www.kevingreen.com

P ROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS We value our advertisers. We appreciate the trust they place in us by promoting their businesses in our magazines.

With our local partners, we currently publish a range of high quality quarterly titles across Wales.

You can advertise your business from as little as £35 per season in this magazine.

Pick-up-ability!

Our magazines aren’t like other magazines. They have real pick-up appeal - in fact, they really do go like hot cakes.

Quality comes first... along with the environment.

We’re passionate about quality. The magazines are beautifully written and designed, and printed locally in South Wales on high quality paper (and no nasty varnishes or lamination we’re as green as green can be).

Quality distribution to an affluent, aspirational audience...

We distribute our magazines to over 1,000 carefully selected outlets across South Wales.

We’d love to have your business on board.

If you’d like to promote your business or service in our magazines, please get in touch, we’d love the opportunity to work with you.

OUR TITLES We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

Vale Life (our first magazine).

This covers the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan - the most southerly county in Wales and deemed to be the most affluent. Vale Life was the first magazine we published.

City Life The premier lifestyle magazine for Cardiff, Wales’ capital city.

The magazine is delivered to all areas of Cardiff.

Valleys Life At the heart of the South Wales Valleys. From the Neath Valley in the West to Blaenau Gwent and Pontypool in the East.

West Life Covering Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and coastal Ceredigion, West Life is in touch with the relaxed lifestyle of this very special part of Wales.

In Business Wales’ premier magazine for people in business. This is the kind of publication people in business want to read; interesting, inspirational and aspirational.

WHAT A DVERTISERS SAY We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

“The best advertising we’ve ever done!”

Andy Bradshaw, Partner, Hamptons, Penarth.

“Honestly, the best response I’ve ever had.”

Matt Mullooly, Owner, Northern Star, Penarth.

“At last, advertising that really delivers.”

Ann Bryl, Owner, Bryl’s Boutique, Barry.

“A truly astonishing response.”

Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes, Cardiff.

“The experience I have had with this magazine has restored my faith in advertising. Gauci Organic Candles is a small business with an equally small advertising budget. We have to make every pound count and that’s what we get with Vale Life, City Life and Valleys Life. It’s refreshing to find a magazine that really understands my business. They are never short of ideas. I recommend them whenever I can.”

Spiro Gauci, Owner, Gauci Organic Candles, Cardiff www.gaucicandles.co.uk “These are beautiful publications. We love working with people who are passionate about what they do.”

Spiro Borg, Spiros Caterers, www.spiros.co.uk We’d love the opportunity to show you what a truly effective campaign in our publications can achieve.

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