Cardiff Life - Issue 158

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 158 / AUTUMN 2016 / £3

ISSUE 158 / AUTUMN 2016 / CREATIVE CARDIFF / 24-HOUR CITY / LUCY PORTER

FUNNY GIRL: LUCY PORTER’S BACK IN TOWN

A E R T

THE AUTUMN EDIT

RE C

FELLA FASHION

ARD IF G OT F ’ S TA L ENT

U LT U

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ICV E C

ON!

FLAME GO-TO SPECIAL EFFECTS GUYS REAL SFX ON SHERLOCK, COOL CARDIFF AND BAGGING AN EMMY

+24 HOURS IN THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS

editor’s letter / Issue 158 / AUTUMN 2016

Creative spark Cardiff, as we well know, is buzzing with pioneering and talented creatives of all hues, from innovative film and telly companies to cutting-edge artists, cool architects to theatre companies, and beyond. So, we thought it was about time we shone a spotlight on some of them – see our Q&As with a few of the city’s creative movers and shakers, starting on page 18.

And as you’ll have gleaned from our cover, we also have an interview with – yes! – cooler-than-cool, Emmy-winning special effects company Real SFX, responsible for all those off-the-scale pyrotechnics you see in Sherlock, Doctor Who, Peaky Blinders etc. But will there be any spoilers or reveals? You’ll have to turn to page 14 and find out...

We’ve also been finding out what makes Cardiff tick – literally. Check out our snapshot of 24-hours in the Welsh capital (page 30), truly the city that never sleeps. And we have incisive interviews with stand-up Lucy Porter, and writer/director Adrian Berry, talking about his exciting play From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads, an homage to David Bowie.

Plus all the usual goodies, of course. Enjoy!

Fflach greadigol

14

CREATIVE TYPES From art to architects, special effects to graphic design – we put the spotlight on ‘creative Cardiff’

Fel y gwyddom yn iawn, mae Caerdydd yn ferw o ddoniau creadigol ac arloesol o bob math, o gwmnïau ffilm a theledu dyfeisgar i artistiaid sy’n torri tir newydd, o benseiri ffasiynol i gwmnïau theatr, a mwy. Felly, roeddem yn meddwl ei bod hi’n hen bryd i ni roi rhai ohonynt o dan y chwyddwydr – mae ein sesiwn holi ac ateb gyda rhai o fawrion a phwysigion byd creadigol y ddinas yn dechrau ar dudalen 18.

Ac fel y byddwch wedi deall o’r clawr, mae gennym gyfweliad gyda neb llai na’r cwmni effeithiau arbennig hynod cwl, ˆ Real SFX, sydd wedi ennill gwobr Emmy am ei waith. Dyma’r cwmni sy’n gyfrifol am yr holl effeithiau rhyfeddol a welir yn Sherlock, Doctor Who, Peaky Blinders ac ati. Ond a fyddan nhw’n barod i ddatgelu unrhyw gyfrinachau am y cyfresi hyn? Bydd yn rhaid i chi droi i dudalen 14 i gael gweld...

Rydym hefyd wedi bod yn darganfod sut mae Caerdydd yn gweithio – yn llythrennol. Ar dudalen 30 fe gewch gipolwg ar ddiwrnod cyfan o fywyd yn ein prifddinas; hon yn wir yw’r ddinas sy’n effro ddydd a nos. Mae gennym gyfweliadau treiddgar hefyd gyda’r gomedïwraig Lucy Porter, a’r awdur/cyfarwyddwr Adrian Berry sy’n sôn am ei ddrama gyffrous From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads, sy’n deyrnged i David Bowie. Ac wrth gwrs, fe gewch yr holl bethau difyr arferol. Mwynhewch!

Velimir Ilic Editor vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @CardiffLifeMag

CONTENTS / ISSUE 158 / AUTUMN 2016 M EET T H E T EAM

MAIN FEATURES

Editor Velimir Ilic vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk

14 Real SFX ...talk pyrotechnics, Benedict Cumberbatch, Emmys, and more

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Andrea Callanan, Hugo Ball, Katie Kissoon, Mal Rogers, Rhys Williams, Sophie Rae, Zoe Austin

18 Meet The Creatives The local people and businesses that make Cardiff such a powerhouse of creativity

30 24 Hours In Cardiff

Advertising manager Andy Baker andy.baker@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Ian Fernando ian.fernando@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

A round-the-clock snapshot of our fabulous city

OPINION 11 A Man’s World Rhys Williams on the tricky transition from professional sport to the ‘real world’

THE ARTS 39 Arts Intro Sue Perkins: Bake Off presenter, stand-up queen, national treasure

40 What’s On Stand by your calendars, Cardiff – it’s busy out there

44 From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads Inspired by the music of David Bowie, this new stage production will make you cry

30 DEPARTMENTS

57 Cutting Edge

7 Spotlight

Sophie Rae reviews Sassoon – still a cut above after 25 years

Look away, Christmas refuseniks – the Yuletide countdown has begun

FOOD 60 Restaurant

The loveable Lucy brings her inimitable stand-up to Cardiff

Zoe Austin tries out the Fox & Hounds in Llancarfan

SHOPPING

BUSINESS

52 Editor’s Choice

77 Business Insider

Black is back: the nights are drawing in...

More go-getting biz stories

Finally, the fellas take their turn – it’s the autumn edit

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUT Y

48 Lucy Porter

54 Fashion

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERT Y 84 Property Showcase A real gem in sought-after Sully

67 Snapped!

More shindigs and celebrations – are you in?

90 Cardiff Lives Wales international footballer David Cotterill talks changing room banter and er, Lego

Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrate the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (crumbsmag.com, @ CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

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On the cover Award-winning special effects company head up our ‘creative Cardiff’ special (photo by Owen Mathias)

Ice is nice: Winter Wonderland is back!

C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Ho, ho, ho! Father Christmas will be at Caerphilly Castle

EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT…

CHRISTMAS! Yep, look away now, Christmas refuseniks – the Yuletide countdown has begun...

Yes, we know there’s still a couple of months to go, but there’s no getting away from it – everyone’s started gearing up for Christmas.

Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, is one of the first out of the blocks – visitors to Wales’ various castles and historic sites will be greeted with extra festive cheer this December, as Cadw welcomes Father Christmas to Wales.

Santa will make an appearance at a number of Cadw sites across Wales – including Caerphilly Castle, Castell Coch and Raglan Castle – in his very own enchanted travelling grotto, as part of the organisation’s programme of seasonal events. Young visitors will be able to say hello to Santa and – assuming they’ve behaved themselves this year, of course – let him know what they’d like for Christmas.

In the lead-up to Christmas, Castell Coch will also be hosting wreath-making

workshops, while Caerphilly Castle will once again be holding its hugely popular annual Caerphilly Christmas event in December, with live reindeer, a medieval theme, and festive treats such as a traditional hog roast, mince pies and mulled wine.

Said Economy and Infrastructure Secretary, Ken Skates: “Cadw’s fun and varied programme of seasonal events offers people around Wales a unique chance to experience the magic of Christmas, against the backdrop of some of the country’s most beautiful historic sites.”

And Cardiff’s seasonal attraction Winter Wundercoverland – renamed from its usual Winter Wonderland – is back (10 November – 3 January) to give the city centre its famous festive sparkle. After one of the wettest winters on record last year, skaters will be able to stay dry under a new clear span roof.

Other attractions include fairground rides,

including a big wheel the height of three double-deckers with far-reaching views over the capital, and the authentic Alpine Village with a bierkeller, plenty of glühwein and crowd-pleasing German hot dogs.

Don’t forget Cardiff Council’s ‘Step Into Christmas’ event, too (10 November), marking the start of the festive season with entertainment, late night shopping and Santa’s Grotto on Queen Street.

“We’re aiming to give the people of Cardiff a festive season to remember,” said Cllr Peter Bradbury, Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Community Development, Co-operatives and Social Enterprise. “It’s a magical time for adults and children alike, and one thing is for sure – this Christmas there’s something for everyone in Cardiff city centre.”

For more: gov.wales/cadw, cardiffswinterwonderland.com

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C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Local folk share their photos This issue: Coffee/vinyl venture Outpost instagram.com/outpostcardiff Good morning Cardiff! Bore da Caerdydd!

Espresso machine is on and we are ready to serve!

We did it!! Shop open, come celebrate!

Astronaut Tim Peake with Kai Singh and Megan Warry from Severn Primary School in Cardiff A rare Saturday off – what better way to spend it than coffeehopping around Cardiff?

SCIENCE

THE RACE FOR SPACE Astronaut Tim Peake touches down at Techniquest in Cardiff Bay As part of his post-flight tour of the UK, British European Space Agency astronaut Tim Peake recently visited science discovery centre and educational charity Techniquest, to give schoolchildren from across Wales a first-hand account of life in space.

Over 200 pupils from across the region got to hear direct from Tim about life onboard the International Space Station (ISS) during his six-month Principia mission. And a live link to a SkillsCymru Careers event in the Motorpoint Arena meant that over 1,000 more students heard him talk about the important science experiments he conducted during his mission, including trying to

grow blood vessels and protein crystals, and using a furnace to melt and cool metal alloys as they float in mid-air.

“I’ve been extremely touched by the support of the British public before, during and after my mission to the ISS, and my post-flight tour allows me to thank as many of those people as possible,” said Tim. “It has been great visiting Techniquest, and hearing about how they have helped children from across Wales celebrate the mission through hands-on experiments, rocket demonstrations, space equipment and live videos from the International Space Station.”

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A MAN’S WORLD

THAT RUSH OF ADRENALINE YOU GET AT KICK-OFF IS SOMETHING THAT NORMAL EVERYDAY LIFE CAN’T REPLACE

RHYS WILLIAMS

SOMETHING CHANGED

I

Rhys reflects on the tricky transition from professional sport into the ‘real world’

’m writing these words from the Arms Park offices at Cardiff Blues, following yet another manic week. I recently hosted a charity Q&A with just-retired players Ryan Jones and Ian Gough, and also spoke at a Sport Wales event about my own transition from professional sport into business.

I’m very fortunate to have made the transition from sport to business. I deem myself privileged to have a role back in professional rugby, especially with Cardiff Blues. In my experience, and in my role as president of the Welsh Rugby Players Association, I’ve seen plenty of players struggle with the transition into the ‘real world’.

As a professional rugby player, it’s hard to answer the inevitable question of ‘What do you want to do following rugby?’. The privilege of being a professional player is game day – walking out with your mates onto the field for 80 minutes of confrontational poetry in motion!

That rush of adrenaline you get from being ‘on the edge’ at kick-off is something normal everyday life can’t replace.

And there are are undoubted difficulties in transitioning from professional sport. Examples of issues faced by sportsmen after retirement include depression, relationship problems, financial strain and alcoholism, coupled with the physical strain placed on your body throughout your career. For me, retiring with a knee injury (and after eight major operations) gives me a constant reminder of the restrictions I have from playing rugby.

When you retire, you lose your identity as a player, what you govern your life by. One of the biggest losses is the camaraderie of being in a rugby team with your mates. It’s a relentless atmosphere where you show no weakness, or the banter will be directed at you. I miss that.

Only this month, we have seen Andy Powell, a former team-mate of

mine at Cardiff Blues, and one of the most colourful characters in the game, announce his retirement and talk openly about his struggles.

Powelly is certainly a man’s man, not someone you would expect to reveal a ‘weakness’. As rugby players, we are almost conditioned to hide signs of injury or weakness. But Andy showed tremendous courage to talk about his battles with depression and his new-found focus on the next chapter.

The timing of his announcement, just after Mental Health Awareness Day, made it even more poignant. Andy is not on his own, and the statistics are startling – a recent survey in New Zealand found one in three players will experience depression, anxiety and stress after their retirement from rugby. We definitely need to encourage and support players with the transition process.

Young players today are told what to do, and when, in every almost every part of their life, from training and diet, to recovery, relaxation and sleep. The training schedule becomes your bible – you literally eat, sleep and drink rugby. Don’t get me wrong – rugby gave me so many memories and transferable skills, but when it’s gone, it’s a real shock to the system. I’ve made the transition into business, but have I made the transition out of sport? I don’t think I ever will.

The more I think about it, the more I realise that rugby is a part of me; it’s given me the foundation for how I live my life. I still love to train and push myself. I need to feel the pain following a hard session.

I feel the need to set goals and challenges. I still plan my day around food, as you’ve got to know from my previous columns.

Life moves on and I want to thrive in my business career, so I’ll train and put as much effort into that as I did sport. But I always ask myself, would I do it again? And I think I answer for most retired rugby players out there when I say: “HELL, YES!”

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Blowing up stuff on Doctor Who and Sherlock, having Benedict Cumberbatch as a bestie, winning an Emmy – Cardiff-based special effects company Real SFX has done it all, and more. DANNY HARGREAVES and CARMELA CARRUBBA, the husband and wife team behind it, tell us their story…

By V E L I M I R I L IC

U

nless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, the success of Cardiff-based special effects company Real SFX won’t have passed you by.

Providing pyrotechnics, atmospherics and other such effects on a host of TV and film productions, they’ve won BAFTA Awards, two *ahem* Cardiff Life Awards, and, more recently, an Emmy (more of which later). Their telly portfolio alone includes flagship programmes such as Doctor Who, Sherlock and Peaky Blinders, amongst others. Co-founder Danny Hargreaves, along with his wife, Real SFX director Carmela Carrubba, is living every Whovian’s wildest dream – what could be cooler than a job that involves blowing up Daleks?

As you’d expect, they’re busy people. This year alone, as well as the aforementioned series, Real SFX has provided physical special effects for Ben Wheatley’s latest feature film Free Fire, BBC3’s new Doctor Who spin-off, Class, and BBC action drama SS-GB, to name just a few.

14 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

C R E AT I V E CARDIFF

(Above) Kaboom! (Below right) Real SFX’s Danny Hargreaves and Carmela Carrubba with their shiny new Emmy

I LOVE NOTHING

MORE THAN TAKING A CALL THAT JUST FLIPS YOUR WHOLE WORLD

We’re at their Cardiff HQ, which heaves with a mind-boggling array of kit: snow and smoke machines, winches, artificial glass, even a rusty old Dalek that Danny says has been “repeatedly blown-up”. Poor thing. Never thought I’d end up feeling sorry for one of those evil little buggers.

Danny shows us around, pulling out bits of stuff here and there, like a kid in a sweet shop. “I love what I do,” he smiles, just before firing off a round of fake bullets.

The Real SFX journey thus far has been an exciting one. Having started up in 2009, Danny started doing SFX (the industry term for special effects) on Doctor Who at around the same time that Matt Smith joined the programme. “It’s the keys to the chocolate factory, isn’t it?” he says. “It was the biggest show in the country, and I took the opportunity with both hands.”

Living in London at the time, taking the Who job was a bit of a gamble for the couple. Carmela was pregnant, while Danny, who was commuting between London and Cardiff, ploughed all his money into the company. “I was financing it with money from behind the sofa, begging and borrowing stuff,” he says. “But I loved it, because I had free reign to do things how I wanted.”

Working as an SFX supervisor has always been the Holy Grail. “I’ve had the dream since I was eight years old,” says Danny, “since the first time I went to [special/visual effects company] Jim Henson’s Creature Shop – that was the catalyst.

At the age of 12, the school careers advisor asked what I wanted to do, and I said ‘special effects’.

He didn’t understand what I was talking about, and said I should consider tree surgery.”

Bitten by the bug, Danny persevered, picking up work experience during school holidays, and that bug has stayed with him. From starting

out as just a man in a van, the operation has progressively got bigger and more successful.

As well as Doctor Who, Real SFX got the gig for Sherlock in 2010, and Coronation Street’s highlypublicised 50th anniversary special, with its spectacular train crash. “It was a big moment for us,” Danny recalls. “We got the gig because [Corrie] producer Phil Collinson had previously worked on Doctor Who. He knew I could do it.”

They’ve also just finished working on a film called Final Score with Pierce Brosnan, where they got to blow up Upton Park, the former ground of Premier League team West Ham United, which caused a real stir on social media. “I’m very careful about the productions I pick,” Danny muses. “But I love nothing more than taking a call that just flips your whole world. I took one the other day, for a potential job in Serbia. It didn’t happen in the end, but we were mobilised and ready to go there the next day. We have a reputation for coming in and taking over when other SFX companies can’t fulfil the brief.”

Is there a wish list of stuff he’d love to work on?

“I’m slowly ticking them off!” he laughs. But even though he’s run a promo for Star Wars, another fantasy job come true, his priorities are changing.

“I’m really happy doing cool, top-end dramas and one or two films a year. I don’t need to be doing ‘Bonds’ or ‘Batmans’. They’re a huge commitment – you literally have to live your life in another country, and I’ve got a young family.”

On set, he’s got to know the likes of Benedict Cumberbatch and Peter Capaldi really well. “Ben’s a mate, really,” says Danny, matter-of-factly. “I’ve known Martin Freeman for many years, too. And I’ve always had quite a close relationship with Matt Smith. We bumped into him at Glastonbury this year – he just dropped his bag in the mud and gave me a huge cuddle.

He regales us with plenty of stories, of course: like the one about Star Wars: Episode II – Attack Of The Clones, where he tripped over a camera w

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C R E AT I V E CARDIFF

(Above, left) Rubble trouble!

(Above, right) Danny with man of the moment, Benedict Cumberbatch

WHEN YOU’RE

PUTTING EXPLOSIVES ON AN ACTOR,

IT’S A TRICKY THING – YOU

COULD POTENTIALLY KILL THEM

cable and fell on top of Natalie Portman. “And I’ve worked with Michael Caine, on a gangster film called Shiner,” he says. “Just his delivery of dialogue was incredible, such a great actor. I was putting a blood rig on him, and I said, ‘My name’s Danny, special effects’. He went, ‘Michael, actor’. I’ve also blown myself up in front of Kylie Minogue, on Doctor Who. That was embarrassing, because it was only day one of the shoot.

“When you’re putting explosives on an actor, it’s a tricky thing. You’re putting something on them that could potentially hurt them badly, or even kill them. The right training and qualifications are so important. I check everything over and over again – the boys call it ‘the Danny fiddle’. Zero and hero is a very fine line – stray off the mark even slightly, and things can go wrong.”

Luckily, Danny and his team are dab hands. As SFX guys, he says, their skills base encompasses engineering, model-making, mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics, and more. “There isn’t a rulebook for this stuff,” he says. “We often have to build things that haven’t been done before, and you have to come up with ideas quickly. But I like being backed into a corner. I’ll push my way out of it because I like that challenge.”

With a hard-earned reputation and an everincreasing workload, they’re constantly juggling projects, supported by 12 loyal full-time staff. “We have an amazing team,” says Carmela, “and our success and awards wouldn’t have been possible without their contribution, from office to set.”

The success hasn’t gone to Danny and Carmela’s heads, either; both are great company, and refreshingly down to earth. They work well together, too – while Danny delivers the SFX, Carmela looks after the company’s successful apprenticeship programme. “That side of things is something we’re immensely proud of,” says Danny. “It’s what makes us a great little team. I take care of the job and the clients, while Carmela takes care of the training, paperwork, emails and making sure that I’m where I need to be.”

In the couple’s shared office, talk turns to Wales as a location – a hugely exciting place to be right now. “Lots of top-end American productions

are coming to film in Cardiff and Wales,” Carmela says. “There’s so much diversity here – mountains, beaches and quarries, all within a few miles. That’s why they opened Pinewood Wales.”

For Real SFX, though, the crowning glory is their recent Emmy Award (in the Creative Arts category, for their work on last year’s Sherlock episode The Abominable Bride), which they won alongside Cardiff and London-based visual effects company Milk VFX. So, how did it feel? “We were up against the likes of The Walking Dead, Better Call Saul and Hannibal, so it was a huge honour,” says Danny.

“We were utterly thrilled to win it. You just want it to last forever. Suddenly, everyone wants to talk to you. We took the Emmy everywhere with us, even went clubbing with it in LA. An amazing night.”

I figure this is a good moment to throw in the inevitable question: any Sherlock or Who spoilers you can share? “It’s so hard, because it’s all under wraps,” laughs Danny. “But what I can say is that the Doctor is going to get into trouble. He’s gonna fight aliens. And there’ll be explosions. Sherlock?

There’ll be a spot of bother, but he’ll save the day.

Seriously, series four [of Sherlock] has been the most challenging series I’ve ever done – of any TV show. [Writers] Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat continually encourage me to push boundaries – in terms of quality, it’s really up there. It’s been intense, but very exciting.”

But it’s not all about the big, dramatic explosions and whizzy special effects – the unseen, behind-the-scenes stuff is important, too. “I have conversations with actors when I’m putting pyros on them, because I don’t want them to think about what I’m doing,” says Danny. “I just talk to them about normal stuff. I could do a book on those conversations, because they’re great little things. I had a brilliant chat with Michael Madsen about Reservoir Dogs, and a great rapport with Peter Kay. A producer wouldn’t be that close to someone, stripping them down to their pants and putting wires up their trousers. Those moments I love.”

For more: realsfx.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL

Meet the CREATIVES We meet some of the inspiring people and wide-ranging businesses that make Cardiff such a powerhouse of creativity

C

By H UG O BA L L

ardiff has become a magnet for visionaries and pioneers, and it continues to be a hub of innovation, spurred on by a talented collection of can-do, creative businesses and individuals, united by their forward-thinking, approaches.

From TV and film production companies to graphic designers, architects to artists, creativity takes myriad forms, as demonstrated by this diverse selection – just a handful of the movers and shakers that give Cardiff its essential oomph…

ANDRE STITT

ARTIST As an artist, what makes you stand out?

Risk. Not being afraid to embrace change. Not relying on a signature style. Not being conditioned by a particular genre of art-making.

Main influences/inspirations?

The major influences on my life, creative thinking and by their example would have to be David Bowie and Scott Walker. Then there’s a whole canon of modernist and contemporary artists and writers which is kind of never-ending.

CREATIVE QUARTER

CREATIVE HUB What does the Creative Quarter offer?

Beautiful, contemporary office space, with original features, in an iconic grade II listed building in central Cardiff. The Creative Quarter has been purposefully built for the creative industry, with plenty of communal work space and shared facilties to encourage interaction.

WE GIVE CREATIVES A PLATFORM TO BE SEEN AND HEARD

Surprising fact?

When I visited the Philippines in 2005, the mayor of Manila presented me with the keys to the city for my services to art. andrestitt.com

GALLERY/VENUE/CAFE What sets you apart?

We are passionate about giving creatives a platform to be seen and heard. MADE openly declares its aims to be inclusive to all art forms and practitioners at every stage of their careers.

18 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Zoe Gingell, director; @CardiffMADE

Surprising fact?

The CQ has at least two ghosts – one policeman and one lady. Spooky!

Creatively speaking, what advantages does Cardiff offer you?

The close proximity of everything. I can walk from my studio in Grangetown over to Chapter and across town to g39 in no time – and actually meet and chat to people I know along the way. Being a Professor at Cardiff School of Art & Design also allows me the privilege of being able to encourage, support and take time for emerging artists through teaching.

CARDIFF MADE

Surprising fact?

The property that Cardiff MADE resides in was once an urban dairy – hence the name of the gallery’s former incarnation, Milkwood.

Rory Fleming, centre manager; cardiffcreativequarter.com

DAN TYTE

NOVELIST/PR MAN What do you do?

Tell stories. I’m the MD at PR agency Working Word and a novelist – my debut novel Half Plus Seven came out in 2014 on Parthian Books.

What sets you apart?

Working Word’s purpose is strategic storytelling that changes clients’ worlds for the better.

Any exciting projects in the pipeline?

There’s always a good surprise around the corner. In the past month, we’ve worked with everyone from Nicola Sturgeon to Michael Palin.

Who’s next? We’ll let you know.

Surprising fact?

I joked in an interview that I came second in an audition to be the Milky Bar Kid. This wasn’t true. And I don’t even like Milky Bars. @dantyte, workingword.co.uk

DOWNS MERRIFIELD

ARCHITECTS What sets you apart?

Unusually for a small practice, we have a great mix of experience, from small luxury projects (houses and hotels) to larger commercial projects, both here and abroad. That allows us to give the personal service of a small architectural practice with ‘big practice’ knowledge and skills. w

(Clockwise, from this pic) Rich Daughton, creative director at Golley Slater; a typically leftfield event at Cardiff MADE; Mared Swain and Alun Saunders, cofounders of dynamic theatre company Neontopia; an impromptu meeting at Cardiff’s Creative Quarter; Dan Spain, graphic designer and manager at Rabble Studio

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL As an architectural firm, what advantages does Cardiff offer?

Although relatively small, Cardiff punches above its weight because it is a capital with fantastic cultural and social facilities. We’ve found that word of mouth recommendations enable us to get [more] work, which I don’t think would happen so much in a larger city.

Surprising fact?

We’re keen cyclists, often turning up to client meetings and site visits on our bikes.

FABLAB

CREATIVE SPACE What sets you apart?

FabLab Cardiff is a creative space which enables people to make just about anything. We focus on digital manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing and laser cutting, as well as the ‘internet of things’ which connects everyday objects to the internet. It’s a very hands-on, DIY space, located at Cardiff Met University, and open to the public.

Nic Downs, partner; downsmerrifield.com

EQUINOX

COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY What do you do?

Equinox delivers award-winning campaigns for our clients. We pride ourselves on offering a full service under one roof, including PR, marketing, design, digital and social, training and crisis management.

Creatively speaking, what advantages does Cardiff offer you?

We work in partnership with lots of creative companies to deliver our campaigns, from designers and animators to drone filming companies, CGI experts and student film-makers.

Surprising fact?

Within the team we have a magician, a trombone player in a brass band and the person who does the announcements at Welsh train stations!

Zara Cottle, director; equinox.wales

Surprising fact?

All of our staff have a strong background in design, engineering, arts or making, and are experts in digital manufacturing.

Martijn Gommeren, FabLab manager; fablabcardiff.com

GOLLEY SLATER

FULL SERVICE MARKETING AGENCY What sets you apart?

Golley Slater started in 1957 as a pioneer in the burgeoning TV advertising industry with a philosophy of putting ideas at the heart of everything. Today, it’s more critical than ever to create original, big ideas that fully transcend the media landscape.

THERE’S A HUGE INFLUX OF CREATIVE TALENT IN CARDIFF

Creatively speaking, what advantages does Cardiff offer your company?

The success of the BBC has seen a huge influx of creative talent coming to Cardiff. And importantly, less creative talent leaving Wales. w

Zara Cottle and the Equinox team, with the dragon launched this year as part of their Cadw campaign

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL Surprising fact?

Golley Slater was founded by current chairman Alastair Golley and John Slater – John was an actor who played Sergeant Stone in Z Cars.

We also created the UK’s first live-to-air TV commercial.

Richard Daughton, creative director; golleyslater.com

GORILLA

POST-PRODUCTION COMPANY What do you do?

We specialise in broadcast media and film, providing services for clients across a whole range of genres including sport, drama, factual and entertainment.

What sets you apart?

We know our industry inside-out and take pride in being leaders in the sector in terms of the quality of our work and the technology we use.

We’re very proud of our Welsh identity and promote our culture and economy in everything we do.

Any exciting projects in the pipeline?

We’re about to start work on Channel 4 series One Born Every Minute for Dragonfly Productions.

Surprising fact?

The company was originally called ‘Mwnci’ (Welsh for monkey) but we wanted our name to reflect how we’ve grown, so we rebranded as Gorilla in 2011.

As an architectural firm, what advantages does Cardiff offer?

There is a very tight-knit design community that is a real asset to the city. And for many years we have been fortunate enough to be able to teach at the Welsh School of Architecture, one of the best architecture schools in the country.

Surprising fact?

We have three office dogs keeping us on our toes!

Tim Fry, architect; loyn.co.uk

MILK VFX

VISUAL EFFECTS COMPANY Congrats on your recent Emmy Award for ‘Creative Arts’, for your work on Sherlock – how did it feel to win?

Amazing! We are lucky to be involved in such a brilliant TV series and proud to be recognised as part of the talented Sherlock production team. We’ve had quite a year, with the awards season delivering an Oscar (for Ex-Machina), a BAFTA (for the BBC’s Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell) and an Emmy (for Sherlock) after just three and a half years in business.

Creatively, what advantages does Cardiff offer you?

It’s very exciting being part of Cardiff’s burgeoning creative scene.

GloWorks, the Welsh government’s creative hub – where we have our studio, along with other like-minded creative companies – is like Soho in a building!

Rich Moss, MD; gorillagroup.tv

LOYN & CO

ARCHITECTS What sets you apart?

Our ability to think outside the box and bring originality and creativity to every project.

WE LOVE HELPING OUR CLIENTS TO TELL STORIES

What sets you apart?

We’re passionate about what we do. We love helping our clients to tell their stories and go on their creative journey with them. Being a mediumsized company, our artists have the chance to get more creatively involved with productions than they would perhaps in a bigger VFX studio. w

Impressive facilities at creative/tech workspace Tramshed Tech 22 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL What are you working on at the moment?

BBC3’s Doctor Who spin-off Class, series four of Sherlock, and Doctor Who series 10. We also recently finished production on Ben Wheatley’s new feature, Free Fire.

Surprising fact?

We love karaoke!

Will Cohen, CEO/Exec Producer; milk-vfx.com

NEONTOPIA

THEATRE COMPANY What sets Neontopia apart?

We’re fully dwyieithog/bilingual. We’re about making dynamic theatre with exciting stories and fascinating, complicated characters. If we can do this and incorporate two or more languages, and make people feel as though they own that language, no matter how much or how little they speak, then we’ll be happy.

RABBLE STUDIO

CO-WORKING CREATIVE SPACE What makes Rabble special?

Rabble is a community, not just a place to work. As well as being studio friends, we make decisions as a community and work towards making Rabble the best place possible for everyone here. It’s early days, but there are some cool plans in the pipeline in terms of side projects and collaborations, both with studio members and the local community. The possibilties of what can happen here are exciting.

Surprising fact?

I personally made every desk at Rabble Studio by using open source, digital fabrication files from OpenDesk, an open source furniture company based in London. These were CNC-milled (cut out from plywood) at Cardiff FabLab and then waxed, sanded and put together at the studio.

TRAMSHED IS AT THE CUTTING EDGE OF INNOVATION

What advantages does Cardiff offer?

Both [Neontopia co-founder] Mared [Swain] and I trained at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and have been based here since. We’ve seen Cardiff’s artistic and theatrical landscape change and develop into this amazing place of positivity, collaboration and enablement, with a real buzz and enthusiasm for creation. I feel really lucky to live here.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

The absolute ridiculousness of writing words and giving them to amazing people to do something exciting with!

Any exciting projects in the pipeline?

I’ve just written The Emperor’s New Clothes/Dillad Newydd Yr Ymerawdwr, Sherman Theatre and Theatr Iolo’s co-production for young (and less young) audiences. It tours throughout November then comes back to the Sherman in December.

Surprising fact?

I can say ‘cheers’ (or some sort of greeting) in about 30 languages.

Alun Saunders, co-founder; neontopia.co.uk

Dan Spain, graphic designer/studio manager; rabblestudio.co.uk

TRAMSHED TECH

CREATIVE/TECH WORKSPACE What does Tramshed Tech offer?

A chance for local tech and creative communities to collaborate and nurture their businesses as part of an informal network. We have a large co-working area and lounge areas for those who want a more informal approach to their client meetings or workplaces.

Tenants can make use of all the co-working facilities and have 24/7 access and admin/business support.

Surprising fact?

We’re based at the original Tram Depot, a landmark building in central Cardiff. The Tramshed has been part of the city’s landscape since the early 1900s. Now the trams have gone, Tramshed has been creatively transformed into an arts, music, cultural and digital creative space, at the cutting edge of innovation.

Elizabeth Arnold, Head of Commercial and Membership; tramshedtech.net

CREATIVE CARDIFF

Another integral cog in Cardiff’s creative landscape

Having recently celebrated its first birthday, Creative Cardiff – supported by Cardiff University’s Creative Economy team, Wales Millennium Centre, BBC Cymru Wales and Cardiff Council – connects people in local creative organisations, businesses or jobs.

“We increase quality and momentum between creative economy people in the Cardiff city region,” said Professor Ian Hargreaves, chair of Digital Economy at Cardiff University. “And we’ve continued to build our research network, collaborating with partners like Swn Festival. “[Another] objective is to help Cardiff articulate a compelling vision for its creative ambition. Any one of the tens of thousands of people who gathered for Roald Dahl’s City Of The Unexpected will have sensed the scale of ambition and energy that’s out there. We hope to have new ideas to announce shortly about further steps towards this objective.”

Creative Cardiff host a ‘show and tell’ event at city centre venue Porter’s

For more: creativecardiff.org.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 25

Special Offer

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’DIFF AROUND THE CLOCK Cardiff is a modern 24/7 metropolis – from early morning workouts to late night dining, it’s truly a place that never sleeps. Here, then, is a 24-hour snapshot of some of the stuff that makes it tick – a life in the day of an extraordinary city

By M A L ROGE R S Xxxxxxxx 30 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TICK, TOCK

Things never stand still at Cardiff Airport

AM 00.00 The Met Office receives it first hourly report from St Athan’s automated weather station, giving details of Cardiff’s air pressure, temperature, visibility, humidity, wind speed/ direction and precipitation.

AM 00.30 The first night bus (Cardiff Bus) leaves the city centre.

AM 01.00 Cardiff’s taxis are approaching their busiest time.

AM 01.30 The kit at Pure Gym is checked, ensuring all is in good order — the gym is open 24/7.

AM 02.00 A Brains brewery operator starts the first mash of the day, mixing ground malt with hot water to start the brewing process. It goes to a crust case and then to the mash tun; liquid wort then has hops added to it and is popped through a pasteuriser, before heading for the chiller and fermenter. Don’t try this one at home, folks!

AM 02.30 Dirty Martini, Cardiff’s swanky new cocktail bar on St Mary Street, closes for the day.

AM 03.00 Air Traffic Control at Cardiff Airport is monitoring the skies. Although commercial traffic is light in the early morning, Cardiff has to be prepared for anything. It’s close to RAF St Athan, so that a controller could be handling military jets, a 747 coming in to land at the British

Airways maintenance unit, or providing a service for gliders. It’s a complex operation, even at 3am in the morning.

FROM 04.15

UNTIL ABOUT 06.00, NIGHT SHIFT WORKERS ARE AT THEIR LEAST

ALERT

AM 03.30 The roulette wheels and blackjack tables are pulling the crowds in at the Rainbow Casino, open 24 hours a day.

AM 03.45 Busiest time for 24-hour locksmiths to help forgetful or careless homecomers. Many of these same customers present themselves at Cardiff’s taxi ranks and police stations, trying to locate their mobile phones.

AM 04.00 Cardiff and Vale College’s bakery, one of the best-kept bread secrets in the city, opens and starts baking fresh bread for The Classroom, the college’s restaurant.

AM 04.15 From 04.15 until about 06.00, night shift workers are at their least alert because of high levels of melatonin in the body, promoting sleep. Be careful out there!

AM 04.30 Cardiff Bus begins its morning service.

AM 04.45 Cockpit crews for the first flights to depart Cardiff Airport arrive for pre-flight briefing.

AM 05.00 The team at Good Morning Wales are busy sifting through stories, in preparation for the programme at 6am. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

TICK, TOCK AM 06.25 Over at Brød Danish Bakery, the pastries are almost ready to be brought out of the oven, ready for icing.

AM 05.15 At Brød Danish Bakery in Pontcanna, the dough is mixed and the loaves are shaped.

AM 05.45 SOS Athletic Excellence, under the guidance of Sam O’Sullivan, opens its shutters for another day of trying to get Cardiff’s residents fit and healthy.

AM 05.50 The first stable lads arrive at Tim Vaughan Racing at Pant Wilkin Stables in Aberthin, Cowbridge, to get the tackroom ready and begin mucking out.

AM 06.00 Popular city cocktail bar Ten Mill Lane closes. It will open again at 5pm.

AM 06.00 The SOS Body Transformation group members start mobilising and warming up in preparation for a fat-blitzing group session.

They’re determined that obesity is not going to become, er, widespread.

AM 06.15 Cardiff and Vale College’s Rugby Academy – a platform for young dedicated students who want to perform in elite-level rugby while pursuing academic study – begin training in the state-of-the-art strength and conditioning gym at the £45m city centre campus on Dumballs Road. Unless it’s Wednesday, which is game day!

AM 06.20 The golf buggies are checked at Celtic Manor Resort’s golf course.

A drop of the black stuff to go at Little Man Coffee Co

THE TWO IN-SHORE LIFEBOATS AT

PENARTH LIFEBOAT STATION ARE READY TO SCRAMBLE 24 HOURS

A DAY

AM 06.30 Doors to the Laguna Health & Spa open and dedicated early risers arrive to exercise before work.

AM 06.30 Bakery students arrive to start work at the Cardiff and Vale College’s bakery.

AM 06.55 The shutters roll up at The Little Man Coffee Co on Bridge Street — another day of grinding, tamping, pulling and pouring for the workers and dreamers of Cardiff.

AM 07.00 The two in-shore lifeboats at Penarth Lifeboat Station, which serves all of Cardiff Bay and the Severn Estuary, have their daily check by a volunteer. They are ready to scramble 24 hours a day.

AM 07:01 The first of the day’s flat whites are served, lifting people out of their black mood. It’s the speciality at The Little Man Coffee Co. AM 07.15 Well-satisfied members of SOS leave the gym, having stripped fat and built some lean muscle after another successful Body Transformation group session.

AM 07.30 The blenders are in action at SOS Kitchen, as gym members refuel with a proteinrich smoothie. The most popular is the Banana Split Squat, made from banana, peanut butter, cinnamon, almond milk and protein.

AM 07.45 Interior designer Deborah Drew brings her sleepy house to life – empty the dishwasher, on with the radio, toaster and kettle.

AM 08.00 First tee starter Ray Holtzhausen sends out the first golfers of the day on The Montgomerie Course at Celtic Manor Resort.

AM 08.10 Deborah Drew speaks to tradesmen who have arrived on site at her various projects.

It’s also time to check emails.

AM 08.12 SOS Athletic Excellence directors Sam O’Sullivan, Gavin Attore and Bex Edwards meet to plan the day ahead.

AM 08.30 The pastries at Brød Danish Bakery are prepped.

AM 08:45 Proceedings at Chapter contemporary arts centre and café are already well underway with a packed day of art exhibitions, film screenings, performances, workshops and good food and drink.

AM 09.00 By now, over 100 Cardiffians have been in and out of the SOS gym for their daily morning workouts.

32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TICK, TOCK lemon drizzle arrive on the counter top from the basement under The Little Man Coffee Co. AM 10.30 Deborah Drew has her mid-morning meetings with clients.

AM 10.50 Optimum time for office worker motivation – listen up, Cardiff bosses! Done?

Okay, back to Facebook…

AM 11.00 The first water bus of the day leaves Cardiff Bay Barrage for the Pierhead (weekends only in the winter). All aboard, and hard to starboard!

AM 11.15 The Ryanair flight to Tenerife departs from Cardiff Airport (Mondays and Thursdays only).

AM 11.30 During the winter months, this is just about the last time you’ll be able to set out for a full game of golf at Celtic Manor’s Montgomerie Course. On average, it takes four hours, 40 minutes to get round, if you’re (almost literally) up to scratch.

AM 11.45 Martyn Watkins, chef at Tempus at Tides restaurant at St David’s Hotel, has been in the kitchen since about 8am. Martyn and his team continue their briefing for lunch service.

12.00 Service begins at The Classroom restaurant.

PM 12.30 Lunch is served at Tempus at Tides restaurant at St David’s Hotel.

AM 09.10 Members of male voice choir Only Men Aloud leave their homes, ready for a full day of rehearsals in Cardiff Bay. AM 09.30 Homeware and gift retailer Beti Biggs in Roath opens its doors. The day starts for owner Jan Williams with a boost of caffeine and a big decision about what music to play in the shop.

Ella Fitzgerald often wins the day.

AM 09.45 Fr. Tony Furlong and his fellow priests and parishioners begin prayers at St. Peter’s Roath, leading up to Mass at 10am. The Rosminian priests have been serving the people of Cardiff for over 150 years.

(Above) Sam O’Sullivan at SOS Athletic Excellence puts a client through her paces; (Below) Richard Phillips, general manager at Rainbow Casino, open 24 hours a day – gamble responsibly, now...

PM 13.00 Preparations are being made for plenary debates in the Welsh Assembly, on the days when the house is sitting. All welcome, but make sure you apply for a ticket first. Afterwards, you can have a free tour!

PM 14.00 Boxers arrive at SOS for a strength and conditioning session. The gym has two boxers in its ranks who will have world title fights in the next six months.

PM 14:10 It’s stage rehearsal time for Only Men Aloud, as they learn and perfect a few new routines for their upcoming UK tour.

PM 15.00 SOS Athletic Excellence is reaching one of its busiest times.

AM 10.00 National Museum Cardiff opens its doors (closed Mondays!).

PM 15.30 And it’s the busiest time for afternoon tea at Tempus at Tides restaurant.

AM 10.05: Once gathered from various corners of Cardiff, Only Men Aloud begin their daily rehearsal. They start by warming up, followed by a few arpeggios and diminished minor chords to ease in their vocal cords for the day ahead.

PM 16.00 Castell Coch closes for the day.

Perched high over vertical cliffs, the castle is one of the most filmed in the world, having appeared in everything from The Prisoner Of Zenda to Robin Hood. And just to prove it wasn’t becoming typecast, it also stood in for a German schloss in Doctor Who. w

AM 10.15 Freshly made brownies and slabs of

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

TICK, TOCK

After a full day of rehearsals, male voice choir Only Men Aloud belt out their repertoire

PM 16.30 Preparations continue at The Classroom, which opens for evening service in less than two hours. That honey-glazed duck breast won’t make itself, you know.

PM 16.45 “It’s amazing how often my soul visits the National Museum, and how seldom I go,” as someone once said. But really, you’ve got no excuse not to visit. It’s open at 10am, and the galleries close at 16.45.

PM 16.50 With the business day ending soon, interior designer Deborah Drew takes a last chance to check any prices, stock, lead times etc, while taking a moment to feed Malley, her King Charles spaniel.

PM 17.00 The last Water Bus leaves from the city centre, bound for Mermaid Quay.

PM 18.00 Action! The early evening film at Chapter begins screening. Their programme includes everything from the latest major releases and foreign language flicks to all manner of arthouse movies and the ‘Real to Reel’ documentary seasons.

PM 18.00 Only Men Aloud finish up for the day – a couple of them quickly shoot off to take an Only Boys Aloud rehearsal.

PM 19.00 The busiest time at Cardiff Bus depot begins as buses come in after the rush hour.

They’re refuelled, washed, and sent on their way.

19.30: IT’S THEATRE TIME AT CHAPTER.

QUICK PRE-SHOW PINT, THEN CURTAIN UP AT 8PM

PM 19.30 It’s theatre time at Chapter. Quick pre-show pint, then curtain up at 8pm.

PM 21.00 SOS gym shuts up shop, ready to do it all again from 6am tomorrow.

PM 21:05 The shutters finally roll down at Little Man Coffee.

PM 21.45 Last diners admitted to Tempus at Tides Restaurant at St David’s Hotel.

PM 22.00 Alex and his student team at The Classroom restaurant continue packing down after a hectic day.

PM 23.00 The day’s last scheduled flights heading for Cardiff Airport are approaching Cardiff airspace.

PM 23.15 Last guests leave the Executive Lounge on the seventh floor of the Hilton Hotel.

PM 23.45 The last flights of the day have all landed at Cardiff Airport, but maintenance work continues round the clock. www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 35

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e E D U C AT I O N

Happy Grades

By Dr Andrew Daniel, Headmaster of Monmouth School

S

uccess is not the key to happiness, happiness is the key to success...

This mantra, coined by philosopher Albert Schweitzer, is ingrained in everything we do here at Monmouth School.

From the annual adventure break to stunning Pembrokeshire, designed to help Year 9 bond in September, to celebrating boys’ achievements outside of school, our pupils’ well-being is always a top priority.

We believe our excellent pastoral care is largely to thank for our outstanding academic results – 65% go on to Russell Group Universities, and 18 boys have gone to Oxford and Cambridge in the last two years.

For this reason, Monmouth’s innovative teachers are constantly thinking of new ways to improve provision for pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

Sport plays a huge role in many boys’ school careers, but for those happiest exercising their brains, new clubs are springing up to break down barriers and unite like-minded pupils.

One boy, Sam Sully, used an engineering scholarship to send balloons carrying Raspberry Pi computers, cameras and radios into space to snap Earth from above on three separate occasions. Now, his infectious enthusiasm has been channelled into establishing the Monmouth High Altitude Balloon (HAB) Club in the physics department.

Sam briefed 42 pupils from across Forms I to Sixth Form on the idea. As well as boosting Sam’s confidence, it has sparked great excitement among the teams who will be soldering, programming and testing their payloads with the ultimate aim of launching their own balloons in the Lent term.

This comes after a dedicated Minecraft group collaborated to create a mind-blowing version of Monmouth School in the online game.

Our latest Estyn inspection, Wales’ answer to Ofsted, rated Monmouth as ‘excellent’ in every category, the highest praise possible.

Under ‘Care, support and guidance’, inspectors highlighted the many opportunities for “pupils to reflect on their own values and

beliefs and to engage in a wide range of community-based activities.”

Sam’s 'Pi in the sky' club illustrates this perfectly and I can’t wait to see what it leads to next!

For more information, visit habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710 433 for Monmouth School or 01600 711104 for HMSG

St John’s College, Cardiff

A leading independent day school for boys & girls aged 3–18 Choir School to Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral

The Best A Level Record in Wales over 17 Years

Estyn Inspection - ‘Excellent’ including the seldom awarded ‘Excellent’ for Standards of Teaching (2012)

Nursery & Infants

l

Juniors

l

Seniors

l

Sixth Form

Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit:

02920 778936

www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com

Charity No. 701294

T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 10th November –­ 31st December A changing exhibition of work by more than 50 artists View the exhibition on our website

www.albanygallery.com

74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm

Music/theatre/film/more

SPECS APPEAL

Promising an evening full of sparkling wit, tall tales and “a user’s guide to Mary Berry”, Sue Perkins’ new show, Live! In Spectacles, will no doubt contain oodles of her usual fun, charm and quick quips. As one half of double act Mel and Sue, host of shows such as Insert Name Here and Spelling Bee, and a regular on Have I Got News For You, Just a Minute, QI, The News Quiz and that baking show on the BBC, she’s become a bit of a national treasure. Based on her best-selling memoir, Spectacles, this’ll probably sell out quicker than Paul Hollywood’s hot cakes. No doubt she’ll have a few choice words to say about him, too...

Sue Perkins: Live! In Spectacles is at Wales Millennium Centre on 26 February 2017.

For tickets and more info, see wmc.org.uk

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

28 October – 28 November

The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama presents a tribute to Shirley Bassey; contemporary art showcase Artes Mundi 7; pub landlord Al Murray

Plays/Shows/ Performance

tragedy in rural North Wales.

Featuring the full BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

U N TI L 1 3 N O V E M BE R

MAMMA MIA! Enchanting feelgood tale of family and friendship unfolding on a Greek island paradise, as told through the songs of ABBA. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 1- 5 NO V E M B E R

ALL OR NOTHING Musical celebrating iconic mod band The Small Faces.

New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk 4 NOVEMBER

RHYS & MEINIR World premiere of the debut orchestral piece by Super Furry Animals man Cian Ciaran, telling an ancient story of romance and

1 4 - 1 7 N OV E MBER

NATIONAL DANCE COMPANY WALES Contemporary dance repertoire, featuring work by acclaimed choreographers Caroline Finn, Lee Johnston and Roy Assaf.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 1 5 N OV E MBE R

THE GOLDEN AGE OF DANCE Iconic MGM movie moments made famous by Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Gene Kelly, Judy Garland et al, recreated by West End dancers and singers and the Novello Orchestra.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

40 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

18 NO VEMBER

FROM IBIZA TO THE NORFOLK BROADS Homage to David Bowie. See arts feature, page 44.

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk

5-6 NO VE M B ER

BILLY CONNOLLY Hugely influential, The Big Yin might be frailer these days, but his funny bones are still very much intact.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk

2 5 NO VE MB E R – 3 0 D E C E MB E R

THE BORROWERS Discover the secret world of Pod, Homily and Arrietty, whose lives are turned upside down by a dangerous encounter ‘above the floorboards’.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

Comedy 4 NO VEMBER

STEWART LEE More cleverly crafted routines and anti-populist shtick.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

8 NO VEM B ER

LUCY PORTER See arts feature, page 48.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 19 NO VE M B ER

AL MURRAY The Pub Landlord embarks on a common sense campaign to ‘re-Great’ Britain.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 23 NO VE M B ER

RICH HALL Plain-speaking master of

W H AT ’ S O N

absurdist irony and rapid-fire wit.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk 2 8 NO V E M B E R

NINA CONTI: IN YOUR FACE The mischievous, voice-throwing queen’s new show, in which the audience are the ‘dummies’.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Film UNTI L 3 NO V E MBE R

THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN Rachel (Emily Blunt) spends her daily commute fantasizing about the seemingly perfect couple who live in a house that her train passes every day... until one morning she sees something shocking happen there, and becomes entangled in the mystery that unfolds.

Chapter; chapter.org 1 5 NO V E M B E R

CHOCOLAT From the circus to music hall, from anonymity to glory, the remarkable story of Monsieur Chocolat, the first black artist of the French stage, as he hurtles through a life of fame, easy money, gambling and discrimination.

Chapter; chapter.org

Music UNTI L 6 NO V E MBE R

BRICKSTOCK Inaugural Cardiff music and cultural festival, featuring James Dean Bradfield and Cassetteboy vs DJ Rubbish, plus arts projects, craft workshops, cinema screenings and food and drink stalls. Brickworks, Trade Street; brickstockcardiff.com 3 1 O C TO B E R

1 0 N OV E MBER

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES: DAPHNIS ET CHLOÉ The orchestra and chorus perform Ravel’s sumptuous score for the titular ballet, plus key work by Mozart and Prokofiev.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 6 N OV E MBER

BROADWAY IN CONCERT Featuring popular showstoppers of musical theatre, from the likes of Wicked, Les Misérables and Phantom Of The Opera.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 9 N OV E MBER

A TRIBUTE TO DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY Musical theatre students and Big Band of the RWCMD perform Our Shirl’s legendary hits, in front of the Dame herself.

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 2 0 N OV E MBER

LUDOVICO EINAUDI Haunting neo-classical vibes from the revered Italian pianist and composer.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 2 6 N OV E MBER

THE HUMAN LEAGUE Sheffield’s electro-pop icons hit the road in support of their new career-defining anthology, A Very British Synthesizer Group.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 2 7 N OV E MBER

THE DAMNED Punk’s New Rose pioneers celebrate their 40th anniversary.

Tramshed; tramshedcardiff.com

BASTILLE The London quartet continue their rise with new album Wild World, a rich, daring, bombastic and thrilling tour de force.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk

Exhibitions

4 NOVEMBER

U N TI L 5 N OVEMBER

PAUL SIMON Legendary American troubadour calls in on the back of his excellent recent album, Stranger To Stranger.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk

ARTS

U N TI L 2 N OVEMBER

AUTUMN Exploring Welsh/Chinese culture.

Boundary Art; boundaryart.co DAVID BARNES AND NICK HOLLY New work from the highly collectable artists, depicting traditional Welsh themes in contrasting styles. Albany Gallery; albanygallery.com

(Above) The Borrowers at Sherman Theatre; synth-pop aces The Human League

UNTIL 6 NO VEMBER

UNTIL 1 9 NO V EM B ER

UNTIL 6 NO VEMBER

UNTIL 2 0 NO V EM B ER

DRAWING INSPIRATIONS Looking at approaches to drawing and its meaning to artists.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk EXPERIMENTICA Festival of live/performance art.

Chapter; chapter.org UNTIL 11 NO VEMBER

GERMS & BARDO Group exhibition featuring work from deprivedanxiety and Blind Sky Studios.

The SHO; thesho.co.uk UNTIL 19 NO VEMBER

ANDRÉ STITT: LIVING IN THE MATERIAL WORLD Contemporary oils and acrylics from the Belfast-born artist. gallery/ten; gallery-ten.co.uk

CARDIFF CONTEMPORARY Citywide festival celebrating contemporary visual culture.

Various venues; cardiffcontemporary.co.uk QUENTIN BLAKE: INSIDE STORIES A magical insight into one of the world’s most important illustrators, best known for his work on the books of Roald Dahl.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk UNTIL 2 6 NO V EM B ER

THE LIGHT SHOW Exhibition celebrating the festival of light, featuring new sculptural light works by Cardiff-based artists and designers.

Cardiff MADE; @CardiffMADE w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 41

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Sport Those key sporting fixtures...

SUNDAY 13 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF DEVILS v MANCHESTER STORM Challenge Cup, face-off 6pm. Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com F R IDAY 18 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF BLUES v OSPREYS Anglo-Welsh Cup, 7.15pm kick-off. BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com SATUR DAY 19 NO VEMBER

French/Irish songstress du jour Camille O’Sullivan is coming to St David’s Hall UNTI L 3 D E C E M BE R

DAVID BARNES: IN SOLUTION Photographs capturing some of the peculiarities of South Wales life.

Ffotogallery; ffotogallery.org UNTI L 2 6 F E B RUA RY

ARTES MUNDI 7 International contemporary art showcase.

Various Cardiff venues; artesmundi.org 3 -2 6 NO V E M B E R

JOHN MACFARLANE Featuring work from the collectible contemporary artist.

Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com 4 -3 0 NO V E M B E R

IWAN BALA The renowned Welsh cartography artist presents unseen work.

Penarth Pier Pavilion; penarthpavilion.co.uk

Family ONGOING

DOCTOR WHO EXPERIENCE Experience mind-blowing special effects, and fly the TARDIS through time and space.

Porth Teigr, Cardiff Bay; doctorwhoexperience.com

Llandaff-born storyteller, aimed at all ages from 7 to 107.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Other

THE WONDERCRUMP WORLD OF ROALD DAHL A magical, interactive experience inspired by the extraordinary life and boundless imagination of the

CARDIFF DEVILS v SHEFFIELD STEELERS League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

AUTUMN RUGBY INTERNATIONALS Book these must-see games into your diary 5 N O V EM B ER

WALES V AUSTRALIA Kick-off 2.30pm.

12 NO V EM B ER

WALES V ARGENTINA Kick-off 5.30pm.

19 NO V EM B ER

WALES V JAPAN Kick-off 2.30pm.

SUNDAY 20 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF DEVILS v BRAEHAD CLAN League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

26 NO V EM B ER

WALES V SOUTH AFRICA Kick-off 5.30pm.

Principality Stadium; principalitystadium.wales

5 N OV E MBE R

PPODD Pop-up contemporary market with artisan food, craft beer, jewellery, designer-makers, and more.

Paget Rooms, Penarth; ppoddblog.wordpress.com

WANT MORE?

Book Now

Sign up now for the Cardiff Life newsletter

1 D E CE MBE R

ONE MORE TIME WITH FEELING Remarkable 3D black-and-white documentary, chronicling the creation of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds’ new album Skeleton Tree.

Chapter; chapter.org 2 3 MA RCH 2 017

CAMILLE O’SULLIVAN Welcome return of the awardwinning French/Irish songstress, known for her dramatic reinterpretations of Cave, Brel, Waits, Bowie, Radiohead et al.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 2 A PRI L 2 0 1 7

UNTI L 1 4 JANUARY

CARDIFF CITY v HUDDERSFIELD TOWN Sky Bet Championship, 3pm kick-off. Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

SUN DAY 2 7 NO V EM B ER

RICHARD HERRING The podcasting legend presents his new nationwide tour, The Best, featuring routines from his repertoire of one-man shows. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

42 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

As editor of Cardiff Life, there’s nothing I love more than drawing your attention to this great city’s choicest events, places and people.

To keep readers fully updated and clued-up about what’s happening in Cardiff, we’re launching a new, free, Friday email newsletter packed with news, tips and special offers.

(Please note: no way will we share your data with any third parties. We’re not like that!)

So if you’d like a friendly hello from us in your inbox as the weekend beckons, please sign up today: mediaclash.co.uk/cln

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F E AT U R E

INTERIORS SPECIAL

BOYS KEEP

SWINGING Inspired by the work of David Bowie, new stage production From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads looks to be as resonant and powerful as the great man’s dazzling music

By V E L I M I R I L IC

44 42 II CARDIFF CLIFTON LIFE LIFE II www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

T H E AT R E

A

lmost a year down the line since David Bowie’s untimely passing, it’s still hard to believe that rock’s ultimate chameleon is no longer with us. But as the celebration of Bowie’s legacy steamrollers on, his huge influence is stronger and more resonant than ever. The latest vehicle to channel the Starman’s irrepressible spirit is From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads – its title, of course, taken from the lyrics to his 1971 classic, Life On Mars?.

Written and directed by Adrian Berry, the play tells the tale of Martin, a young Bowie obsessive (played by Alex Walton), with a “head full of sound and vision”, battling an illness no-one understands.

Darkly funny, deeply touching, and with a blistering soundtrack to boot, it promises to be quite a ride, as Martin embarks on a thrilling journey into the music to find out who he really is. Over to Adrian to tell us more…

ARTS

(This pic) Hero worship: From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads is a resonant tale of music obession; (Inset, below) Writer/ director Adrian Berry

From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads is obviously an homage to Bowie – can you tell us a little more about it?

It’s three stories in one – the birth and creation of David Bowie, the tale of a boy with some problems in a small Midlands town and, I guess, an homage to the city I love so much: London. I bring all three together to tell a moving story of escapism and loss. David features heavily, but it’s no biography or jukebox musical. It’s one man playing nine characters. And it’s really good, so I’ve been told!

THERE WILL NEVER BE ANYONE LIKE

BOWIE

AGAIN. HE SOUNDTRACKED OUR LIVES...

PEOPLE GENUINELY

The title of the show is taken from Bowie’s classic 1973 cut Life On Mars – why did you use that particular line?

I can’t really say as it will give too much away, but the lyric is a journey, and the play is a journey, too. It’s a poignant reason, which is peppered with magic realism.

You’re clearly a bit of a Bowie nut – when did he first make an impression on you?

Er... the initial epiphany was the Ashes To Ashes video on Top Of The Pops, then I bought the Let’s Dance 12” from Woolies a couple of years later – but then he lost me for the rest of the 80s.

When I was 19, a girlfriend gave me a tape of Hunky Dory, and I dived back in and never looked back… apart from when he did Tin Machine. But I forgive his midlife crisis.

GRIEVED FOR HIM

Comedian Rob Newman as the voice of Bowie is an interesting choice – why did you decide to cast him in that role?

I’d heard that he did a great and accurate Bowie that was beyond parody – maybe I heard him on Spitting Image. I just phoned his agent and he called me the same day. It’s uncanny to hear it, quite eerie.

Are you happy with how the final production has turned out?

Very. I write conceptually, so I hear everything in my head as I go along. It’s very much my singular vision.

Even Bowie himself backed the play while he was still with us – what were his thoughts on it?

He got behind an early version and helped promote it, and he gave us the rights to the music. But obviously things have changed now, and the play has changed, too. His publisher gave us the rights to some songs, but I can’t say he has backed it. He’s not with us any longer to do that. But I hope he would have liked what we are doing again.

The show has sold out runs in Edinburgh and London, and had audiences and critics in tears – why do you think it has resonated so much?

I said the other day that Bowie was like the alternative Princess Diana, which sounds awful and crass, but what I meant was that his passing tapped into something within us – be it our childhoods, first love, loss, adolescence. He soundtracked our lives: there will never be anyone like him again, and our show taps into that, very much. People genuinely grieved for David.

From Ibiza To The Norfolk Broads is at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in Cardiff on Friday 18 November. For more info, see rwcmd.ac.uk or fromibiza.net

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 45

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WE love LUCY Her new show Consequences earned five-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe; now, LUCY PORTER is bringing her reflections on midlife angst, home-brewing, falconry and quite a bit more to Cardiff

By L I SA E VA NS 48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

COMEDY

I HAD MY BEST EVER

HECKLE AT A GIG IN CARDIFF, BUT IT’S A BIT TOO RUDE TO PRINT IN A FAMILY

PUBLICATION

Y

es, we do, we really do – and not just because she spends quite a lot of time in the city; it’s also because she says such nice things about it.

“My grandad was Welsh, and so I always feel like I’m coming home when I cross the Severn Bridge,” she says.

“I’ve performed in Cardiff many times during my career, and I had my best-ever heckle at a gig in the city. Unfortunately, it’s a bit too rude to print in a family publication – but maybe if people come to my show I will tell the story!”

This month, Lucy – best-known as a regular on popular telly and radio shows such as QI, Mock The Week and The News Quiz – is heading back to Cardiff, to astound us with impeccably punchlined anecdotes in her new show, Consequences, at St David’s Hall.

She reckons it’s her best show yet. “Although, I always think that,” she says. “It’s the only way to keep going, I suppose. Other people have said they think it’s my best work too, so I hope I’m not utterly delusional.”

Lucy took the show to Edinburgh, where it earned five-star praise and comments such as “outstandingly witty,” “natural stage presence,” and “an incredible breath of fresh air.”

Cardiff audiences can expect to hear about some or all of the following: censorship, generational conflict, theological ethics, homebrewing, quizzing, Britpop, falconry and Gary Wilmot. A pretty thorough mix, then.

“It’s kind of a ‘midlife reflection’ show – looking at all the ways life has changed since I started doing stand-up,” says Lucy. “I was going to call it a midlife crisis show but it’s more a celebration of all the boring things I like now – Radio 2, National Trust properties and Countdown all feature heavily.

“I don’t want to say how many years I’ve been going to Edinburgh, as it makes me feel ancient,” she laughs. “I do still love it, though – it’s the highlight of my year. A bit less of a debauched month of drinking and carousing than it was in my 20s and 30s, and a lot more relaxing now.”

She hasn’t got as much time for revelry as she used to, she says, having calmed down when she started a family a few years ago.

After “banging out a couple of kids”, she now balances tour dates with motherhood – a great mingling, as her kids kindle a cornucopia of comedic material.

ARTS

3 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT LUCY She’s a woman of hidden talents…

“I have started doing cross stitch. My latest one is of a dinosaur.”

Her interests may surprise you…

“Pub quizzes – they’re my number one hobby. I’ve done loads of the TV ones – most recently, Fifteen To One and Pointless. My main ambition is to compete on The Chase.”

She doesn’t mind a bit of controversy…

“If I were a queen for a day, I’d abolish the monarchy, just for a laugh – it’s the most radical thing you could do, isn’t it?”

“My children inspire me, of course, although this show is mostly about me – why should they get to hog the limelight? As a stand-up, that’s the whole point of your life. If it will generate anything I can talk about on stage, that’s the most important thing.”

She says that becoming a mother also changed her professional outlook. While she used to suffer from stage fright, that has completely evaporated now, and when it comes to worrying about life in general, well, she no longer has time for that kind of self-indulgence.

“I’ve done something that was more scary [than getting in front of an audience]… childbirth and commitment and all those sort of things,” Lucy says. “So yeah, it’s made a huge difference to my psychological outlook on life and just the sheer pressure of time.

“I’m more ambitious now, I think, because I’ve got two extra mouths to feed,” she adds. “Also, I don’t go away as much, but when I do I really enjoy a night in a hotel. The way I juggle family and work is with continual stress, worry and guilt, just like everyone else.”

Even though she’s “constantly tired”, she still loves the enjoyable chaos of getting on stage in front of a sea of strangers. It was a career she happened to land in after realising that she was one of those accidently funny types who just couldn’t ‘do serious’.

“I used to be asked to read out my stories in English class at school and people laughed even when I was trying to write something meaningful and poignant,” she says. “So I thought I’d stick with trying to get laughs.”

On which note – we obviously couldn’t let Lucy go without getting her to share her favourite joke with us...

“What’s the difference between roast beef and pea soup?

Anyone can roast beef.”

Mic drop.

Lucy Porter brings her Consequences show to St David’s Hall in Cardiff on 8 November. For more info and tickets, see stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 49

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BLACK MAGIC

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A FEW INKY-HUED GOODIES, INSPIRED

BY AUTUMN’S DARK NIGHTS...

5 4

1. THAT’S A WRAP!

2. MAKES SCENTS

3. WARM THE COCKLES

4. FUR GOODNESS’ SAKE

5. OVER YOUR SHOULDER

Mulberry Shimmer wool mix scarf, £245 Time to layer up...

From John Lewis, St David’s Dewi Sant, The Hayes, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

‘This Is Her’ eau de parfum gift set by Zadig & Voltaire, £52 More boho elegance from the cooler-than-cool French fashion house From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

Hygge: The Danish Art Of Happiness, £12.99 How to do ‘hygge’, in a nutshell. A Christmas shoo-in!

From Waterstons, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

Poppy high-tops, £220 Pair with your favourite sweater and denims for a slouchy weekend look From Michael Kors, St David’s Dewi Sant, The Hayes, Cardiff; michaelkors.co.uk

Black Sloan bag, £310 Ultra-chic, modern lines – an after-dark essential From Michael Kors, St David’s Dewi Sant, The Hayes, Cardiff; michaelkors.co.uk

52 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

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6. HANG IN THERE

7. THINGS THAT GO BUMP...

8. FACE TIME

9. MAGIC!

10. ROCK THE LOOK

Riad monochrome wallpaper, £119 Inspired by Moroccan patterns – geometrics are cool!

From Home By Kirsty, 16 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; homebykirsty.com

Stranger Things soundtrack, £9.99 (CD), £28 (vinyl) From the de rigueur sci-fi/ horror series everyone’s talking about From Spillers Records, 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; spillersrecords.co.uk

Nourishing beard grooming oil (30ml), £22 Peak beard just goes on and on...

From Kiehl’s, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; kiehls.co.uk

Merlyn Welsh cream liqueur, £20.05 What could be better than a nip of this on a cold autumn night?

From Wally’s Deli, 38-46 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; wallysdeli.co.uk

Punk rug, £150 Splattered with colour, in true punk style From Taylors Etc, The Design Quarter, 143 Colchester Avenue, Cardiff; taylorsetc.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 53 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

LOOK SHARP! Mornings are crisp, evenings are dark and temperatures are plummeting – winter is coming! Here’s our pick of the perfect pieces from St David’s Cardiff to keep you fellas – about time, eh? – covered up and looking stylish this season

T

he key tip this season is to layer, layer, layer! Rather than wearing one big, bulky overcoat, layers keep you looking cool without letting the cold in. Team the Tommy Hilfiger luxury ‘silver fog’ roll neck (available from John Lewis) with All Saints’ luxurious Fyfe coat, and you’ll be sure to turn heads.

To keep ahead in the style stakes after dark, eveningwear should be sleek and stand out. Retain a sharp silhouette by sticking to a classic cut but add a chic edge with a range of different materials. Vivienne Westwood, of course, is the perfect label for a twist on the traditional. Their new 30s pinstripe shoulder jacket really is the business, a versatile little number whether you’re dressing up or down.

And practical footwear is essential in icy months, but there’s no need to forego your fashion creds. Sensible but elegant footwear is everywhere – whether you go to Vivienne Westwood, Hugo Boss or John Lewis. If we had to choose, we’d recommended Kurt Geiger’s gorgeous, tan, lace-up Judd boots.

Sleek and streamlined, they ooze classic style, but are still plenty sturdy enough to see you through the winter months.

All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest trends, news and offers, see St David’s on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@ StDavidsCardiff), or online at stdavidscardiff.com 54 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Visage slim-fit shirt, £95; Iris printed scarf, £350; Maximus blazer, £275; all available at Reiss

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1. 30s Pinstripe elegant shoulder jacket, £765, Vivienne Westwood 2. Aquascutum Chadwick merino cardigan, £150, John Lewis 3. Fyfe coat, £378, All Saints 4. Novascotia slim indigo denim shirt, £90, Reiss 5. Tommy Hilfiger luxury ‘silver fog’ roll neck, £260, John Lewis 6. Bronson leather fedora hat, £38, All Saints 7. Judd tan lace-up boots, £200, Kurt Geiger 8. Johnstons of Elgin blue tartan scarf, £150, Vivienne Westwood 9. Checked slim fit Rubens shirt, £109, Hugo Boss 10. Nike Lunar Force 1 Duckboots, £130, Size www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 55

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

Our Sophie before...

...and after

CUT to the CHASE

I

SOPHIE RAE pays a visit to Sassoon salon in Cardiff – still a cut above after 25 years t’s a rainy Monday afternoon when I visit the Sassoon salon in Cardiff. Despite the celebratory balloons and banners strewn across the walls, marking their momentous 25-year anniversary, the store is clean and welcoming, its leather and wood furnishings both comforting and chic.

Word-of-mouth dictates that Sassoon stylists are at the top of the hair-cutting and colouring chain, so I know I’m in good hands with salon director Alison Inker. It’s a double celebration for Alison, who is herself celebrating 25 years with the company.

Just think how many trends, good and bad – I’m looking at you, perm! – she’s seen throughout the years.

In order to continually pass on new skills to her team in Cardiff, Alison remains a meticulous student herself, a frequent visitor to Sassoon’s UK headquarters in London.

Here, stylists learn what works best for

NO MATTER HOW MUCH I SHOOK MY HEAD OR RAN MY FINGERS THROUGH IT, MY HAIR FELL EFFORTLESSLY BACK INTO SHAPE

each client. From the shape of someone’s face and skin tone to the angle of their jaw and their sense of style – it all adds up to creating the perfect look.

First, a consultation. As I’m growing my hair in time for my nuptials next year, I ask Alison how we can revitalise my split ends without going for a drastic chop. With a few Sassoon style guides on hand to browse through, she suggests a gentle asymmetric cut to maintain the length.

I then explain to colour director Georgia Jenkins that after a summer of bleaching from the sun, and being scraped back and hastily knotted in my training for the Cardiff 10k, my locks are feeling pretty frazzled.

She suggests the Wella System Professional Luxury in-salon treatment (£25) to nourish my unkept tresses. I’m ushered to the wash basin and reclining chair for a wash (no head massage is offered, surprisingly). The mousse treatment is administered and my head is wrapped in a towel turban, Carmen Miranda-style, for a short while to allow it to absorb. One cupcake and a builder’s brew later, and it’s time to head over to the mirrors.

A good hairdresser should work their scissors with calm confidence, leaving you able to read, chat and even type (I’ve written more features than I can count under the warming glow of a dryer), without worrying that you’ll end up looking like Britney circa 2007. Under Alison’s dexterous digits, I felt safe – I trusted her judgement and advice.

The result was a not-too-drastic change, but one that has left me swishing my locks around my shoulders for days after. At Sassoon, the cut is the style. No matter how I shook my head or ran my fingers through it, my hair fell effortlessly back into shape.

The immutable rule is that “the individual should wear their hair, never the other way round,” says Jessica Davies, Cardiff’s creative director. With that thought in mind, and one final rustle of my revitalised blonde barnet, I left the salon and walked down Queen Street with all the confidence of Gigi Hadid at Fashion Week.

You know that saying ‘Invest in your hair, it’s the crown you never take off’? Make way, Queen Sophie coming through! CL

Prices: Cutting menu from £59, colour menu from £40 (prices vary, based on consultation and level of stylist). Sassoon, Capitol Shopping Centre, Queen Street, Cardiff CF10 2HQ; Tel: 02920 644222, sassoon-salon.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 57

60 I cARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Fox and Hounds Over in Llancarfan, there’s good craft beer, gorgeous, modestly-priced food (pheasant and bacon pie? Mmm...) and spectacular puds to die for – what’s not to like?

F

By ZOE AUST I N

or a number of years The Fox and Hounds in Llancarfan was one of my regular haunts for a glass of wine on a summer’s evening or a Sunday lunch after a breezy walk on the Glamorgan coast. Somehow, it fell off my radar, so I was glad of the opportunity to re-visit, especially now that it’s in the hands of chef James Milward, whose pedigree can’t be faulted – the two Michelin-star Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham, the award-winning Kingham Plough in the Cotswolds, and the popular Felin Fach Griffin, near Brecon.

Getting out of the car on this autumn evening, a full moon illuminated the tower of St Cadoc’s church, and the only sound to be heard was the river rushing by. Yet, despite this ‘deep in the heart of the country’ feel, the Fox and Hounds is only a 20-minute drive from the centre of Cardiff.

Once inside, it was clear that a transformation had taken place. The traditional, ubiquitous pub carpet had gone, replaced by wooden floors and unfussy tables and chairs that give a pared back feel. Despite its new life as a gastropub with rooms, it still strives to maintain its place as a village pub, with a bar where locals drink, and a wood-burning stove pumping out a welcoming warmth.

We had a couple of drinks in the bar before going through to the dining room, a decision that met with approval from my other half, as the pub serves craft beer. He chose a Caradog pale ale from the Grey Trees brewery in Aberdare. And for me, a tonic water minus the gin – no prizes for guessing who drew the short straw in the driving stakes.

The meal opened with complementary home-made soda bread, served with rich, home-cultured butter that sank obligingly into each warm and wholesome slice. The bread vanished at speed, a coastal walk from Nash Point earlier in the day having fired up our appetites. A word of warning though: don’t overdo the bread if it’s going to stop you from eating pudding, more of which later.

An amuse bouche of pickled mackerel with a dash of horseradish, dill and beetroot accompanied the bread, an arrestingly and appealing combo that set the bar high for the rest of the meal.

Smoked eel, a long-standing favourite of mine, followed, partnered with apple puree and fragile slices of wafer thin

THE SPECTACULAR

SOUFFLÉ PROVIDES A ROAD TO DAMASCUS MOMENT

apple. And pigeon breast, too, cosying up to earthy girolles and beetroot, both dishes reflecting seasonal produce.

Other options included a pumpkin velouté with toasted seeds, walnut and Perl Las cheese; oxtail lasagne with celeriac, truffle and girolles; and ham hock with Guinness, pickled onion, pear and pork scratchings.

For mains, I was torn between the haunch of venison with cobnuts, Jerusalem artichoke and potted cabbage, or the pheasant and bacon pie. After an internal wrangle, the pheasant won. With its perfect pastry, sleek, buttery greens and creamy mash, it ticked all the boxes, as did the fragrant sauce that coated the meat. A delve into my opposite number’s main revealed a moist piece of pork loin and caramelised belly, brimming with flavour, nudged along with cider, and sitting comfortably alongside a generous helping of dauphinoise potato, with the ruby gleam of red cabbage providing the accent colour.

Vegetarians could happily tuck into a main course of wild mushroom arancini with pumpkin, cavolo nero and parmesan, and flying the flag for fish was home-salted cod with an exotic smattering of ras-el-hanout.

Having seen the puddings arrive on an adjacent table earlier in the evening, my mind was already made up – it was the spectacular-looking banana soufflé or bust. James brought it to the table, towering above the pudding bowl, a soft, light confection, dusted with icing sugar and begging to be demolished. If you think you are not a pudding person, then the soufflé might provide you with a road to Damascus moment. My other half, generally someone who can take or leave a pudding, dug in repeatedly. He also rated his choice of pannacotta with buttermilk, raspberry and a genius addition of honeycomb.

Had I booked a room, I might have ordered a pudding wine such as the 2013 Sauternes Les Garonelles (Lucien et Fils, France), or a malt whisky. As it was, a caffeine hit provided by a robust double espresso set me up for the drive home, along with gorgeous home-made petits fours.

The food at the Fox and Hounds is doubtlessly a head and shoulders above the average gastropub, and it’s obvious that shortcuts are not in James Milward’s nature. What’s more, the relatively modest pricing really does not reflect the quality of the cooking.

If fabled food critic Jay Rayner has had it with the foodie scene in Cardiff, maybe he should go to The Fox and Hounds for some culinary rehab. And if he chooses not to, there’s nothing stopping you…

DINING DETAILS The Fox and Hounds, Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3AD Tel: 01446 781287, fandhllancarfan.co.uk Opening times Closed Mon & Tues (bar open from 6pm – bar snack menu available); Weds-Sun, 12–2.30pm (Sun until 3pm), 6–9pm (Sun – bar snack menu only) Prices À la carte starters from £6, mains from £13, puds £6.50; winter dining set menu, two courses £14, three courses £17.50; Sunday lunch: two courses £18, three courses £22.50 Rooms Dinner, B&B from £105 Vegetarian choice Thoughtful dishes, properly crafted with veggies in mind; special dietary requirements and food intolerances catered for Drinks list Wine priced to suit a wide range of pockets; craft beers served Service/atmosphere Relaxed, easy-going atmosphere and friendly service

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 61

CARDIFF 029 2022 1721 71 Bridge St, Cardiff CF10 2TS

More adventures in party-going

Robert Pugh

SNAPPED! AC ROS S CA R D I FF, O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

SEEING STARS Honouring excellence in broadcasting and production within film and television in Wales, the 25th British Academy Cymru Awards recently took place at St David’s Hall in Cardiff. The glittering ceremony was hosted once again by BBC Radio 1 presenter, Huw Stephens. Those presenting awards included BAFTA-winning actress Sian Phillips, Michael Palin and actor Robert Pugh.

Eve Myles

Singer Kizzy Crawford

For more: bafta.org/wales

Catrin Stewart

Monty Python legends Michael Palin and Terry Jones

Erin Richards

Spencer Wilding – he’s allegedly playing the ‘new Darth Vader’ in the forthcoming Star Wars movie Rogue One

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 67

SOCIETY

TUNED IN Capital FM South Wales held its ‘end of summer’ party at Soda on Mill Lane in Cardiff. As the drinks flowed, guests enjoyed a night of cool tunes and top-notch BBQ food.

For more: capitalfm.com/southwales

Tim Gordon and Shani Hughes (Cardiff Council)

Sarah Connolly, Mikey Rowe and Jessica Bloom (Capital FM)

Claire Hawkins and Andy Baker (Cardiff Life) Capital FM South Wales presenters Kally Davies and Polly James with Steve Martin (Acute Media)

Matthew Breeze (Arriva Trains), James Robinson and Aaron McMamanon (both Hello Starling)

Sandi Camilleri and Alison Debono (The Media Angel)

16 High Street Arcade Cardiff CF10 1BB 02920 372352 www.3bscafe.com

FEELING PECKISH?

Want a quick fix for rushed lunch time?

Bwyta Bwyd Bombai (3Bs) invites you to come and enjoy a selection of Mumbai street food!

FREE BOMBAI CHAI when quoting code: *CFLCHAI *Minimum food order of £5.00 Code can be used only one time per person/per order Valid until 30 Nov 2016

BUYING A NEW CAR? WE DON’T JUST SELL USED CARS AT THE BEST PRICES, WE BUY CARS AT THE HIGHEST PRICES. WE WILL BUY YOUR PART EXCHANGE IF YOU’RE BUYING A NEW CAR! www.thepenarthmotorco.co.uk Windsor Road, Penarth, CF64 1JG | 029 2070 7090

SOCIETY

ROYALLY GOOD Marking the 60th anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), supporters of DofE Wales were invited to celebrate at a special ‘Dine & Shine’ dinner at Wales Millennium Centre. Special guests included HRH The Earl of Wessex, celebrity supporters Eleri Sion and Tim-Rhys Evans, Wales rugby international Alun Wyn Jones, singer Bronwen Lewis and young male voice choir Only Boys Aloud.

For more: dofe.info

Eleri Sion introduces Only Boys Aloud

Eleri Sion and Tim Rhys-Evans meet HRH The Earl of Wessex

Alun Wyn Jones, Eleri Sion, Bronwen Lewis and Tim Rhys-Evans

Andy Hall, Stephen Clarke, Lynne Sheehy, Robert Rees, Karen Welch and Anne Leys

Alun Wyn Jones and Dr Anwen Jones take part in a surprise singing workshop with Only Boys Aloud

Eleri Sion with the staff team from DofE Wales

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 71

SOCIETY Zara Cottle (Equinox) and Katie Creagh-Barry (Freelance PR)

COMMS TOGETHER

Nick Palit (BBC), Eryl Jones (Equinox) and Angela Palit

Communications agency Equinox celebrated its 20th anniversary with clients, suppliers and members of the media by hosting Equifest, a festivalthemed celebration at The Tramshed in Cardiff, complete with face-painters, a festival line-up and a wheelbarrow full of beers.

For more: equinox.wales

Helen Wild (Equinox), Richard Billingsley, Megan Wyn Evans (Staedtler) and Ed Woolcott (Lloyds) Equinox MD Eryl Jones entertains the guests

Dani Harries (Equinox)

Richard Gurner, Joanne Burgess and Carlos Fraccalvieri

Paul Tapley, Teleri Evans, Katrina Tzannis (Arriva Trains Wales) and Zara Cottle (Equinox)

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 73

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S S ER I O US (This pic) Noel Gallagher and (right) Paolo Nutini rock out

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

YOU WIN AGAIN

“HE WAS WITHOUT DOUBT ONE OF THE FINEST HUMAN BEINGS I’VE EVER MET…”

Cardiff-based Orchard Entertainment scoops a national live music award for the second time

A glowing tribute, but who is it for?

See page 79 for more…

THE BIG STORY

Orchard Entertainment, the music promotion arm of the Cardiff-based Orchard Media and Events Group, is celebrating this week after scooping the Regional Promoter of the Year Award at the National UK Live Music Industry Awards for the second time.

Orchard was the only Welsh company to be shortlisted for the prestigious industry accolade, awarded annually via an online public vote. The team celebrated their win at the awards ceremony at London’s Radisson Blu Portman before a UK-wide music industry audience. It follows Orchard’s win in the same category in 2013.

As Wales’ largest independent music promoter, this year Orchard has staged world-class acts such

as Lionel Richie, Noel Gallagher, Paolo Nutini, Madness, Jools Holland and Ocean Colour Scene, along with hundreds of other shows across Wales and the UK in venues ranging from clubs to theatres, castles to stadiums, and across all genres of music.

Orchard Entertainment director Pablo Janczur said: “This is fantastic recognition for us as a company and for Wales, where live music is strong and growing.

After winning in 2013, we really didn’t expect it again, so it’s gratifying to celebrate the role of the independent music promoter in Wales.”

“This year we’ve staged over 200 shows in all sorts of venues – from castles to stadiums to

clubs – and it’s thanks to our great relationships with Welsh Government, local authorities and venues in Wales. It means that the Welsh public can continue to benefit from access to some of the leading performers in the business in their own back yard. I have a terrific team working with me at Orchard and this award is down to their dedication and hard work.”

Orchard is increasingly branching out beyond Welsh borders, with gigs lined up in the West Country and Sir Elton John in Widnes next summer, and is also investing in new £1m premises in the heart of Cardiff.

For more: orchardentertainment.co.uk

20 THE BIG NUMBER

Which successful Cardiff company is celebrating its 20th year by taking on four new staff?

Turn over to page 79 to find out...

Got a business news story for us? Email vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 77

BUSINESS INSIDER

An aerial shot of how Central Square will look

FORWARD THINKING GET CREATIVE The best way to move forward is to innovate, says team-building guru ANDREA CALLANAN, founder of inspireMe

BUSINESS PROPERTY

GRAND CENTRAL The face of Cardiff is changing. MARK SUTTON from Knight Frank looks at the impact of Central Square – and what’s in store for the heart of the capital

Y

ou only have to look back two years to remember the old Central Station, with its rather unwelcoming arrival for visitors to our city: dated commercial buildings, a crammed taxi rank and a dash through the bus station into the city centre. In 2014, Rightacres put together the Central Square development along with Cardiff Council and a dramatic change to Cardiff’s gateway began.

Anchored by the new BBC Cymru Wales HQ, Central Square is a mixed use development of 800,000 square feet, bringing about a complete redevelopment of the north side of Cardiff Central Station. The development includes the old bus station site, Marland House and the adjacent multistorey car park, St Davids House and the vacant sites on Havelock Street and Park Street. The entire scheme will be developed in five phases, with work on the final buildings proposed to commence during 2018.

One Central Square, the first phase of the development and the city’s newest prime office building designed by Foster & Partners, is already complete and now 97% let. The new occupiers include MotoNovo Finance, Julian Hodge Bank, S3 advertising and Blake Morgan Solicitors.

The commitment from BBC Wales to relocate their new headquarters to the heart of Central Square was fundamental, and the construction of the 150,000 square foot BBC building, along with the next Grade A office building (Two Central Square), forming the second phase, is set for completion in 2018.

Looking forward, three further phases will see 78 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

up to 1,000,000 square feet of offices (home to about 10,000 employees), a hotel, 400 residential units and a new transport interchange, as well as significant investment into the public realm.

The wide Wembley Way-style boulevards through Central Square will link the station to Principality Stadium, St David’s shopping centre and the wider city centre.

In the last ten years, we’ve seen huge development projects in Cardiff and there is more to come, and the Cardiff arrival for visitors in 2020 from the newly electrified London mainline will certainly be one befitting a European capital city.

For more: centralsquarecardiff.co.uk, knightfrank.co.uk Central Square will change the face of Cardiff city centre

It’s in times of change that we really need to think creatively about our businesses.

At inspireMe, this usually means looking at our model, processes and costs. Most small businesses have the luxury of being able to evaluate often and implement change quickly. The downside is that we often have to be incredibly creative with our budgets because they are small.

For me, the best way to get through a challenging time in business is to innovate.

Enthusiasm and a positive mindset are a must when problem-solving. When our backs are against the wall, it’s surprising how creative we can be – there’s nothing like a tight squeeze to help you make a decision quickly.

Maya Angelou said: “You can’t use up creativity; the more you use, the more you have.” I have to agree with her. Creativity is like a muscle – you have to embrace it and keep ‘working out’ with it so that it can serve you when you truly need it. I’ve had so many conversations with people over the years who say “I’m not creative”, and I beg to differ. I believe that we’re all creative in some shape or form – sometimes we just need that catalyst to get us going. inspireMe are a Cardiffbased engagement company that offers UKwide creative team building and training. For more info, see andinspireme.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

1

BREAKING NEWS...

TRIPLE WHAMMY

Glam guests at last year’s Cardiff Life Awards

Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing and important local business stories happening right now…

JUDGEMENT DAY Invitations to judges for the Cardiff Life Awards are being made as momentum builds for next year’s prestigious event. Every year, a panel of independent judges decides the winners, chosen from disparate areas of Cardiff’s business world to reflect the diversity of the Awards.

The judges’ role is to read the finalists’ nominations, consider any supporting material, discuss (at length) with their fellow judges – and then make the all-important decisions.

For 2016, our judges were: Laura Farrow (Broomfield & Alexander Limited), Georgia Fendley (Construct, Hill and Friends), James Robinson (Hello Starling), Owen Morgan (Bar 44), Dale Williams (Yolk Recruitment), Shakira Obaid (Seren7), Richard Karoo (The Cardiff Clinic), Rhys Gould (Watts & Morgan Estate Agents), Elizabeth Davies (Albany Gallery) and Alison Debono (The Media Angel).

“We had a terrific, heavyweight group of judges last year – and our challenge is to find a similarly strong team for 2017,” said event manager Steph Dodd. “We’ll be talking with people who know Cardiff and who know excellence.”

The Awards categories are: Arts, Business Services, Café/Coffee Shop, Charity, Cocktail/ Bar, Creative, Education, Event, Gastropub, Hair & Beauty, Health, Interiors, Legal & Financial, Leisure & Tourism, New Business, Property, Restaurant, Retailer and Sports. And there is a special Platinum Award for the single best category winner.

The 2017 Cardiff Life Awards will be held at City Hall on 16 March. Sponsors so far

WINNING TRIBUTE

include Cardiff Airport (headline sponsor), Martyn Prowel Solicitors, Cardiff Blues, Stills, Parkhouse Jewellers, Capital FM, Chapel 1877, Park Plaza and Vom Fass. Nominations for the 2017 Awards open on 10 November.

Various sponsorships are still available. For sponsorship enquiries, contact Andy Baker (andy.baker@mediaclash.co.uk). Or to be involved on the big night, contact Stephanie Dodd (stephanie.dodd@mediaclash.co.uk).

For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk, @CardiffLifeAwds

New team members at Equinox: Catrin Harries, Dani Harries, Ruth Adams and Sam Levy

Clare Sturges, creative director of Cardiff-based Brightest Films, has bagged a second BAFTA Cymru gong for Short Film, following her 2015 BAFTA Cymru Breakthrough Award win. The award was received in recognition of her short documentary My Brief Eternity: Ar Awyr Le, which follows late artist Osi Rhys Osmond as he creates his last work while living with terminal cancer.

“Osi Rhys Osmond was without doubt one of finest human beings I’ve ever met – a skeptical agnostic, a maker of psycho-geographies, a thinker, a teacher… a skilful raconteur until the very end,” said Clare on accepting the award at the recent BAFTA Cymru Awards ceremony at St David’s Hall in Cardiff. “This award is for you, Osi. Thank you, BAFTA Cymru!”

For more: wearebrightest.com Inspirational artist Osi Rhys Osmond, the subject of Clare Sturges’ awardwinning film

2

3

TAKE IT AS IT COMMS Creative communications agency Equinox has celebrated 20 years in the PR and marketing business by taking on four new members of staff. The new appointments – senior account executive Catrin Harries, account executives Ruth Adams and Dani Harries, and multimedia apprentice Sam Levy, all taken on through Skills Cymru – mean Equinox is officially the biggest it has been in its twodecade history, with 15 staff working across marketing, PR, digital communications and training.

“20 years is a long time in the communications industry in Wales,” said Equinox director Zara Cottle. “Although it hasn’t been short on challenges, it has been an exciting, fun and rewarding experience – we look forward to the next 20 years!”

For more: equinox.wales

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

adverti s in g feature P R O P E R T Y

Make a stress-free move to stylish family living... ...at Crest Nicholson’s stunning Penarth Heights, located right in the heart of Penarth, recently voted by The Sunday Times as one of the best places to live in the UK

F

or young families and professional couples looking for a new home that offers stylish living, the fourbedroom Brigadier homes at Crest Nicholson’s Penarth Heights are a perfect choice.

These stylish three-storey houses are ideally suited for families with a taste for luxury. Located in the heart of Penarth, and built to the highest specification, each of these homes features a large, fully-fitted kitchen along with a separate spacious dining area and a substantial living room set on the first floor. The master bedroom includes an en-suite, and four large bedrooms complete this contemporary townhouse.

On-trend bi-fold doors open onto a private rear garden, perfect for entertaining on summer nights. These detached properties also come with fully fitted bathrooms, garage and parking, and low energy downlights to keep electricity bills down.

Prices for Brigadier homes at Penarth Heights start at just £409,000 – so you could afford more space than you think!

Using the Part Exchange scheme to secure a Brigadier would make Crest Nicholson the cash buyer for your current home, removing complicated chains and taking the stress out of moving house.

Crest Nicholson will make you an offer on your existing home, following valuations from local estate agents in the current market conditions. You will be guided through the buying process at every step of the way, with regular updates and professional guidance throughout, and no agents’ fees to pay along the way.

With Crest Nicholson’s VIP Part Exchange

scheme, your packing and removal can even be organised for you, making moving to a Brigadier at Penarth Heights quick and easy.

The picturesque town of Penarth was recently voted as “one of the best places to live in the UK” by The Sunday Times, with leisure facilities and an array of excellent schools all within close proximity to the development.

The town also boasts charming boutiques, the recently refurbished pier and one of the region’s top country parks, offering something for everyone. And Cardiff’s sporting events, bars, restaurants and shops are right on your doorstep, via water bus – or if you’re an active type, then a short bike ride will get you there!

Penarth Heights itself is a stunning collection of one and two-bedroom apartments and three and four-bedroom

homes in one of the most-sought after towns in Wales. All of the luxury homes at Penarth Heights are built to the highest specification, ensuring that your new home is designed to create the perfect environment for modern living, whilst being surrounded by the beauty and idyllic views of Cardiff Bay.

Prices for a four-bedroom Brigadier start at just £409,000.

For further information, call 02920 020247, email penarthheights@crestnicholson. com or visit www.crestnicholson. com/penarthheights

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

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

SOUTHWINDS

84 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

A beautifully-maintained, spacious family home, located on a gorgeous coastline near sought-after Sully, in the Vale of Glamorgan – what’s not to love?

By K AT I E K I SSOON

www.mediaclash.co.ukI I CLIFTON CARDIFFLIFE LIFE I I 113 85 www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

E

nviably positioned on the fringes of the village of Sully, Southwinds has so much going for it. For starters, it faces the sea, offering the most fantastic views. But it’s only as you walk in that the sheer size of the place becomes apparent. Designed and built to an very high specification, and exceptionally maintained, with maple flooring laid throughout, it’s incredibly spacious.

There are five reception rooms on the ground floor, including two sitting rooms and a huge drawing room, plus a very large family-sized kitchen and breakfast room, providing ample space in which to entertain. And French doors lead out to the front garden and sea view terrace, perfect for when the weather warms up again.

Alongside the kitchen is a dining room, and there are also two offices on this floor. The lower ground floor, meanwhile, includes a full-sized snooker room, with adjacent kitchenette and cloakroom. And a five-car integral garage enables direct access to the property, while the large, immaculately-kept front and rear gardens pretty much speak for themselves.

Located on a no-through road, shared by only a few other properties, Southwinds is peaceful and convenient, but with both the M4 motorway and Cardiff Airport within easy reach. Go see!

86 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Southwinds is spacious and immaculate, with fantastic views

HOUSE NUMBERS Southwinds, near Sully

4

bedrooms

£995K price

5

reception rooms

3

bathrooms

1

large kitchen

For more info, contact Savills, 12 Windsor Place, Cardiff CF14 1DJ; Tel: 02920 368930, savills.co.uk

Cedar House Ystrad Mynach This exquisite, five bedroom detached, versatile property has a real wow factor and is situated within walking distance of the popular, bustling village of Ystrad Mynach. This stunning home is blessed with character, retaining many original features, ensuring the character of the old Vicarage, whilst delicately introducing chic, contemporary touches. An impressive, sweeping gravel driveway and walled boundary, provides private access to this distinctive residence set in mature, well maintained grounds , made up of; paved patio areas, rockery, flower beds and beautiful lawned gardens. The choice of living space is second to none with a spacious family lounge overlooking the rear gardens, a separate dining/additional reception room, generous sized, open plan, modern kitchen/breakfast room leading to a double size utility room and two further separate WCs. The substantial study/home office/library could offer an additional sitting room. The majestic staircase leads up to a galleried landing, from which access is gained to the four double bedrooms (three of which have full en-suite facilities), and one single bedroom plus main family bathroom. This is just a taste of what to expect! Be the first to view and book your internal viewing to fully appreciate all this property has to offer. No onward chain

For sale with PA Black Caerphilly Branch 02920 867611

ÂŁ545,000

The Bulmore Caerleon Occupying an idyllic position, set back with panoramic views across the 5th Green of the highly prestigious, internationally renowned Ryder Cup course at the Celtic Manor Resort. This magnificent Grade Two listed Mansion House fronts a quiet and private select hamlet road, which travels through the manicured grounds of the resort, and backs onto the 18th Green. This is a charming detached stone built Victorian country residence dates back to 1840, for the past three years the present owners have extensively renovated and modernised to a very high specification and commands a truly picturesque position with an in and out gated entrance drive.

Within the grounds is an orchard, a detached stable block with full planning to be converted into a two bedroom cottage and surrounding gardens and paddock, approximately 3.85 acres. A secluded landscaped private sun terrace boasts a pretty garden vista across the surrounding gardens and there is ample space to convert the current wood store into several stables. The property consists of a detached double fronted five bedroom period home with extended living space, and a fully renovated basement cellar comprising four rooms with restored stone walls and original flag stone floors and a ceiling height of (7’3 FT), industrial lighting, a stone staircase and three windows. There are a total of five bedrooms with further attic space available to convert into a sixth bedroom. The master bedroom (23’9 x 13’1) includes a new ensuite shower room and a wrought iron decorative bespoke spiral staircase which leads to an attic dressing room. There is a further guest bedroom with ensuite and a generous re-modelled family bathroom. The bathroom fittings throughout were supplied by Arundel Bathrooms with mandarin stone tiles, including limestone tiling, traditional fittings including crosswater taps and stone shower trays and a cast iron bath from the the Cast iron Bath company.

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920 618552

£1,350,000

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

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ootballer David Cotterill has played for Bristol City, Wigan Athletic, Sheffield United, Swansea City and Birmingham City, his current club, and he was also part of the historymaking Wales squad that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2016 in France. On top of that, he’s also cofounder of Cardiff fast food restaurant New York Diner. We find out what makes him tick…

So – where’s home in Cardiff?

Penarth – Cardiff is where I grew up, so I feel ‘at home when I’m home’, as I’m close to my children, family and friends.

You were part of the Wales squad that reached the semi-finals at Euro 2016, which must have been an amazing experience.

What was your personal highlight?

That we were making history and putting Wales on the map. We exposed our amazing country to a worldwide audience, some of which didn’t even know we existed before.

How did you and the rest of the squad feel, going into that semi-final against Portugal?

We went into the competition completely openminded and just grateful to be there. But after we beat such a strong side, Belgium, in the quarterfinal, we honestly felt like we had a chance. The atmosphere in the squad changed and we were playing to win.

Imagine you’re in the changing room with Wales – who has the best and worst banter?

Ashley Williams and Joe Allen have everyone in stitches. The worst banter definitely has to go to Simon Church!

Who’s the toughest player you’ve played with or against?

I’ve been lucky enough to play against some of the world’s best players. In terms of playing with, it’s Gareth Bale; against, it’s Cristiano Ronaldo.

You’re co-owner (with Shaz Haris) of the recently-opened New York Diner, a fast food restaurant in Cardiff – what made you decide to venture down that path?

Shaz is a friend of mine and successful Cardiff restaurateur. We’d been talking for some time about establishing a place together, as I started to consider a future after football. A restaurant just seemed like a natural progression – hospitality and business have always been my second passion.

What makes NYD special?

We offer a vast range of freshly prepared delicious dishes – think Nando’s with a stylish setting and a more diverse menu. Our head chef hails from South America, home to gaucho-style cooking, and is arguably one of the best flamegrill chefs in Cardiff.

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

DAVID COTTERILL The Wales international footballer and New York Diner co-owner on Euro 2016, changing room banter and his obsession with Lego If you could get up on your soapbox about a particular issue, what would it be?

Racism, homophobia and bullying. We should be accepting of people, regardless of race, sexual preference or anything else in-between!

How do you relax?

Lego! I’m a huge Lego fan. If I have any time to myself, then I’ll get building.

Dream dinner party guests?

Tupac Shakur – I love his music; Michael Jordan, arguably one of the greatest sportsmen of our generation; David Beckham – one of the coolest men in football and fashion; and Margot Robbie, for obvious reasons!

If push came to shove, what would be your final meal of choice?

One of NYD’s classic, homemade, flame-grilled burgers with chef’s special relish sauce, plus sides of homemade mac ’n’ cheese and sweet potato fries.

Most important lesson life has taught you?

Not everyone is your friend – people try to get close to you because of your status. I’m lucky to be surrounded by good friends and family.

Locally, where do you like to eat and drink (apart from NYD)?

I love Pier 64 in Penarth.

Most famous person you follow on Twitter?

Leonardo DiCaprio.

Proudest life moment so far?

The birth of my children, Kingston and Sydney.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Somebody bald… Matt Lucas!

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Lego.

What’s on your bookshelf at the moment?

I don’t read a lot – there’s just no time.

Which piece of music always sends a shiver down your spine?

I love old-school 90s R&B. Karaoke choice?

I don’t sing!

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

To be invisible.

Must-watch television programme?

[American crime drama] Power. I’m obsessed with that show.

Secret or favourite Cardiff spot?

New York Diner, of course [Didn’t see that one coming – Ed].

Best thing about Cardiff?

It’s home to my children and close to the M4!

Finally, surprise us with a little-known fact about yourself…

I love Lego! [Or that one – Ed].

Favourite shop in Cardiff?

Flannels.

For more: @cotterill_david

www.icebodysculpting.co.uk - info@icebodysculpting.co.uk 02921 202 190. 122 Cowbridge Road West, Cardiff, CF5 5BT