Cardiff Life - Issue 196

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 196 / JANUARY 2019 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

@CardiffLifeMag

MOVING ON UP YOUR GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME

WHAT’S UP DOC?

ISSUE 196 / JANUARY 2019 / NEW BEGINNINGS

HEALTH ADVICE FROM MICHAEL MOSLEY

TOIL AND TROUBLE

THE MAKING OF MACBETH

2019 IS LOOKING GOOD

© NUT T Y PEAR PHOTOGR APHY

EDITOR’S LETTER

What better way to start the new year with some R&R at Laguna Spa? See page 52 for health and beauty tips for 2019; BELOW: Lotions and potiosn to revamp your beauty regime on page 44

H

appy new year! That’s Christmas done for another year, then.

Apparently, January blues can be a bit of a thing – or so we’ve heard – but there’s always reasons to be cheerful in Cardiff. (And no, not just because you’re reading our brand new issue – although it is rather a good one packed with plenty of things to make you smile). The thing is, is that Cardiff really is one of the most vibrant, fun cities in the country, heck, maybe even the world right now – and you only need to flick through the pages here as evidence of that fact.

If you haven’t made a new year’s resolution yet then I’ve got a suggestion. Make it your mission to try to do something different in the city every week – whether it’s going to a show or exhibition, trying a new hobby or sport or eating or drinking something you’ve never tried before. You’ll end up wishing there were more weeks in the year.

So here’s to another fantastic year. For you, for yours, and for Cardiff.

B

lwyddyn Newydd Dda! A dyna ni, mae’r Nadolig drosodd am flwyddyn arall.

Mae mis Ionawr yn gallu bod yn fis diflas i rai, yn ôl pob sôn, ond mae yna reswm bob amser i lawenhau yng Nghaerdydd.

Un rheswm yw eich bod yn darllen rhifyn newydd sbon o’n cylchgrawn – mae’n rhifyn da sy’n llawn o bethau i godi gwên – ond mae yna resymau eraill hefyd! Y gwir amdani yw bod Caerdydd yn un o ddinasoedd mwyaf bywiog a difyr y DU, neu hyd yn oed y byd, ar hyn o bryd. Does ond angen i chi bori drwy’r cylchgrawn hwn i weld tystiolaeth o hynny. Os nad ydych wedi cael cyfle eto i wneud adduned blwyddyn newydd, ga’ i awgrymu rhywbeth? Gwnewch adduned i roi cynnig ar wneud rhywbeth gwahanol yn y ddinas bob wythnos – ewch i sioe neu arddangosfa, rhowch gynnig ar hobi neu gamp newydd, a cheisiwch fwyta neu yfed rhywbeth nad ydych wedi’i flasu o’r blaen. Fe welwch chi, maes o law, nad oes digon o wythnosau yn y flwyddyn.

Pob dymuniad da i chi a’ch anwyliaid ac i Gaerdydd am flwyddyn arall.

EMMA DANCE Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 3

Issue 196/January 2019 Cover Coach Robert Davies from Fitness Space Cardiff. Photo by Oli Ford, owner and director of Fitness Space Cardiff

the arts

17 INTRO Welsh National Opera announces its spring

season productions

18 WHAT’S ON That’s the next three weeks sorted 24 RuFuS Norris The National Theatre artistic

director on bringing Macbeth to the city

30 Michael Mosley The TV doctor talks health,

diets and what to expect at his Cardiff show

© Ellie Kurt t z

shopping

44 Editor’s Choice Lotions and potions to have

24

you looking your best

48 FASHION Dressing down is the new dressing up

health and beauty

52 New year, New you Expert insight on the

health and beauty trends for 2019t

food & DRINK

59 FOOD & Drink NEWS Tasty little newsy nuggets 61 RECIPE A banging brunch dish

Business

64 business insider News from the movers,

shakers and innovators of Cardiff

Property

78 BUYING GUIDE Advice from the experts on buying

a new home

86 showcase Luxury, contemporary living in an

iconic period property

Regulars

86

10 sPOTLIGHT News to peruse 35 Wyburn & Wayne Our new column from the

dynamic duo

38 sNAPPED All the parties, all the pictures 90 CARDIFF lives Entertainer and fundraiser Wayne

Courtney shares his secrets

Editor Emma Dance emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors Charlie Rose, Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney, James Rampton Advertising manager Mark George mark. george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Kate Butterfield kate.butterfield@mediaclash.co.uk Advertising executive Louis Grey louis.grey@mediaclash. co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager/production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@ mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk 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.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag). Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash. co.uk

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spotlight The sculpture in situ in 1972

Everybody’s talking about

Save Our Sculpture A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to rescue an iconic sculpture and bring it back to Cardiff Chapter Arts Centre has launched a crowdfunding campaign via Art Happens with Art Fund to raise £18,000 to rescue an iconic sculpture by influential British artist Garth Evans.

In 1972 Garth Evans created a large-scale sculpture that was placed in The Hayes for six months as part of the Peter Stuyvesant City Sculpture project that saw 17 works sited at the heart of eight cities across England and Wales. Garth chose Cardiff as the location for his work as it was the birth place of his grandfather and the city at the heart of his Welsh roots.

Garth says, “I wanted something that I could associate with coal mining and the stories I had heard about that life deep underground.”

These stories were hugely influential in the sculpture’s eventual form – evoking both a hammer-like tool and the image of a mine tunnel “as black as coal.”

The sculpture was one of the first publicly-sited works to be installed in Wales and the morning after its installation, Garth anonymously recorded the comments of passers-by, giving a unique insight in to viewers’ reactions. The project became known as The Cardiff Tapes and the recordings are transcribed in a book of the same name.

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

After the project, the sculpture was relocated to Leicestershire where it has remained hidden, neglected and unseen by the pubic for more than four decades.

Donations to Chapter’s campaign will, firstly, help save the sculpture by carrying out the specialist restoration that is needed to prevent any further and irreversible damage. Secondly, Chapter will then be able to return the work to its original location in Cardiff – roughly 50 years after it was first seen in the city.

Hannah Firth, deputy director of Chapter Arts Centre, says, “The work of Garth Evans is integral to the history of British sculpture and we are so thrilled to be working with him on this unique project which is not only about rescuing and restoring an important work of art, it’s also about understanding the influence that art can have in transforming our civic spaces. We invite everyone to visit the campaign page and donate – any amount will make a difference – and allow us to return the work to its original location where the artist can once again gather the comments of passers-by. We’ll be able to see what a whole new generation – almost 50 years later – has to say about it.”

For more: www.artfund.org/save-our-sculpture

spotlight Film

© BEN TIBBETTS

Mountain climbers

Banff Mountain Film Festival brings cutting edge adventure to Cardiff

Education

Natural selection

Cardiff Metropolitan University has been awarded a grant for teaching students natural plant dyeing skills as part of a project sponsored by Grow Wild, the National Lottery Fund and Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew. Grow Wild Youth Project has awarded £500 to the university for developing a dye plant garden using native wild flowers, fungi, and augmented reality technology (AR). The money will go towards specialist materials, equipment, preparation of the garden and a local field trip.

The University’s Natural Dye Project aims to revitalise endangered natural dyeing skills and techniques in Wales while creating design projects opportunities, enhancing the academic delivery of colour theory, as well as improving the university’s environment and campus eco-system.

Cardiff Met will be the first educational centre in Wales to introduce an AR natural dye-plant facility in conjunction with a university dyeing laboratory and will be a facility for both students and researchers to use.

To secure the funding, students submitted a two-minute film application to the Grow Wild Youth Project to demonstrate how the funding would be used.

For more: www.cardiffmet.ac.uk Using nature’s dye

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is celebrating its 10th year of touring the UK and Ireland, and is coming to Cardiff in February and March.

The Tour features two different collections of brand-new films from the world’s most intrepid film-makers, starring pioneers and explorers tackling extraordinary expeditions in the wildest corners of the planet.

“We’re thrilled to have reached 10 years of bringing the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour to the UK and Ireland – and what better way to celebrate than with the latest dose of cutting-edge adventure films from the world’s most prestigious mountain festival!” says tour director Nell Teasdale.

“We guarantee that the anniversary atmosphere at the shows will be buzzing – and that audiences will go home inspired to have an adventure of their own as well,” she adds.

Films in the World Tour are selected from hundreds entered into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which takes place for every November in Canada’s Rocky Mountains.

The tour will visit St David’s Hall on 12 February and 28 March.

For more: www.banff-uk.com

New facilities at Llanishen Leisure Centre

Leisure

Good sport

Llanishen Leisure Centre has undergone a major refurbishment. The project has included improvements to the fitness and changing areas to update the facility’s look and feel, making a more attractive experience for users. The old gym has been transformed into a new group fitness studio with a sprung floor while the first floor meeting room has become a dedicated spin room complete with air conditioning and a mood lighting grid. Changing areas have also undergone a complete refurbishment and now provide better storage lockers, showers, mirrors and hair dryers. There will also be improved private changing cubicles and family change and baby change facilities.

Work has been done in the reception area on new flooring and lighting to improve customer access. Fast track checking in kiosks have been installed for members to cut back on queuing.

New Technogym equipment includes 24 spin bikes and state of the art toning machines which can be operated by an elec power system rather than muscle power. This makes them ideal for beginners and people managing mobility restrictions and living with health conditions such as MS. For www.better.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 11

the arts s n a p s h o t s o f C AR D I FF ’ S c u lt u r a l l i f e

© Robert Workman

Masks, monarchy and magic Tales of royal revenge, heartbreak, high treason and magic will all be brought to life in the Welsh National Opera’s spring season.

The first of the three operas making up the season is Un ballo in maschera, where love, power and politics collide to create a tale of deception, intrigue and revenge.

This will be followed by a revival of Donizetti’s Roberto Devereux. Sung in Italian, the opera is loosely based on the life of Robert Devereux, the Second Earl of Essex and his close relationship with Queen Elizabeth I. Completing the season is a revival of Mozart’s ever-popular The Magic Flute. The witty story of enchantment and colourful characters alongside Mozart’s music results in a unique piece of opera,

particularly well known for its soaring arias sung by The Queen of The Night.

WNO’s artistic director David Pountney says, “All three of our operas in this season touch on the issue of kingship. The Magic Flute involves the training of an ideal, enlightened ruler and hopefully suggests that the future will be ruled by an equally matched male and female pair. Roberto Devereux celebrates the power and charisma of one of Britain’s greatest monarchs, and Un ballo in maschera shows what happens when the kingdom becomes the playground for the monarch’s theatrical and amorous fantasies. All three pieces capture the thrilling dichotomy between public power and private passion at which opera excels.”

For more: www.wno.org.uk

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What’s on January 4 – February 4

The Jersey Boys will be rocking the harmonies in Cardiff

PLAYS/SHOWS/ PERFORMANCES

and sold 175 million records worldwide.

Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

anniversary of the Grammy Award winning original album.

New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

CIRCUS OF HORRORS The Circus of Horrors is back with a bang and a brand new show, Psycho Asylum which includes an amazing amalgamation of acts, driven by a rock ‘n’ roll sound scape, a show that will have you sat on the edge of your seat when not falling off it with laughter. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

24 – 27 January

31 January

16 – 26 January

AMERICAN IDIOT Following two critically acclaimed West End runs and a sell-out UK Tour, Green Day's explosive rock musical returns to mark the show's 10th anniversary and the 15th

11 January

JERSEY BOYS Jersey Boys tells the true story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own unique sound

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

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Join an unmissable adventure through gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the oozy, squelchy mud in search of a bear. New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

29 January – 2 February

PYSCHIC SALLY World renowned psychic, television and theatre star and the UK’s favourite award winning medium Sally Morgan is back and better than ever with her phenomenal interactive stage show.

St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

COMEDY 23 January

MIKE DOYLE: ROCK WITH LAUGHTER

Join Mike Doyle and his fabulous live band for a sensational evening of his unique brand of comedy and music, guaranteed to delight and entertain in equal measure.

New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

24 January

SANDI TOKSVIG LIVE! NATIONAL TREVOR Sandi realises some people harbour an ambition to be a National Treasure but following a misunderstanding with a friend has decided instead to become a National Trevor – half misprint, half Danish comedian, novelist, actor and broadcaster.

St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

what’s on Music

5 January

BEYOND THE BARRICADE The UK’s longest running musical theatre concert tour features past principal performers from Les Miserables. Delivering over two hours of the best of Broadway and the West End, and of course ending with a stunning finale from Les Mis. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

15 January

above: Who's joining us for a bear hunt? left: The African Children's Choir below: Songstress Daisy Chapman

MARTIN CARTHY AND JOHN KIRKPATRICK: ROOTS UNEARTHED National treasures Martin Carthy and John Kirkpatrick embark on a rare UK duo tour.

St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

17 January

AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR Through their voice and their music, the children of the African Children’s Choir are taking Africa to the rest of the world.

St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

20 January

STEINWAY INTERNATIONAL PIANO SERIES: YULIANNA AVDEEVA Witches, goblins, and chicks dancing in their eggshells: until you’ve heard Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition played in the original piano version, you’ve never really known just how thrilling – and colourful – they can be. Critics have raved about Yulianna Avdeeva’s “fiery temperament and virtuosity” as well as her intense sensitivity: she could have been born to play this programme.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

20 January & 4 February

BOYZONE After six UK #1 singles, five UK #1 albums and 25 years together, the iconic Boyzone will be coming to Cardiff for their 25th anniversary and farewell UK and Ireland arena tour. Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

22 January

ISATA KANNEH-MASON Isata Kanneh-Mason, an undergraduate at The Royal Academy of Music, studying piano with Carole Presland, has been awarded the prestigious Sir Elton

John Scholarship and performed with Elton John in Los Angeles in 2013. Isata begins her Postgraduate studies at The Royal Academy in September 2018. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

27 January

DAISY CHAPMAN Self titled ‘Sinner’ Songwriter and BBC Introducing favourite Daisy Chapman is an incredibly well-travelled pianist and vocalist who draws influences from the antifolk world. Acapela; www.acapela.co.uk

30 January

BEANS ON TOAST Over the course of his huge career Beans has become something of a cult national treasure. What seemed like a throwaway festival act has evolved into something much more important, a voice of truth and honesty, cutting through the bullshit. A consistent and reliable modern-day troubadour, not afraid to speak his mind; always touring, always writing, recording and releasing music. Playing every festival under the sun and always, always, telling it like it is.

Clwb Ifor Bach; www.clwb.net

1 February

THE VACCINES The million record-selling indie rock band come to Cardiff.

The Great Hall; www.cardiffstudents.com

2 February

JEFF BALLARD: FAIRGROUNDS Jeff Ballard ranks among the most inventive drummers of his generation. His latest album Fairgrounds, provides a freedom to express himself with musicians who are close to his heart and mind.

Embracing influences as diverse as jazz, rock, pop, electronica and West African music, Fairgrounds is a unique insight into the distinctive sound world of Jeff Ballard.

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; www.rwcmd.ac.uk

ART, CRAFT, PHOTOGRAPHY & EXHIBITIONS Until 12 January

WINTER EXHIBITION A changing exhibition featuring selected works from over 40 prominent artists including Sir

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

What’s on Kyffin Williams RA, Will Roberts, Mike Jones, Tim Fudge, Peter Kettle FRSA RCA, Martin Llewellyn and David Barnes.

The Albany Gallery; www.albanygallery.com

Until 10 February

TIM PEAKE’S SPACECRAFT See the spacecraft that brought British astronaut Tim Peake back to Earth from the International Space Station. You can also relive the descent from space through a virtual reality experience.

National Museum Cardiff; www.museum.wales

SPORT

Saturday 5 January

CARDIFF DEVILS V MANCHESTER STORM League, Face Off 7pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com above:

Boyzone are back in the ‘Diff Pianist extraordinaire Isata Kanneh-Mason below right: Enter the distinctive sound world of Jeff Ballard

Sunday 6 January

right:

CARDIFF COMETS V SWINDON TOPCATS EIHL Southern Divison One League, Face off 2.15pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffcomets.co.uk

Sunday 13 January

CARDIFF COMETS V SLOUGH SIRENS LADIES EIHL Southern Divison One League, Face Off 2.15pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffcomets.co.uk

Sunday 13 January

CARDIFF DEVILS V NOTTINGHAM PANTHERS League, Face Off 6pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Saturday 12 January CARDIFF CITY V HUDDERSFIELD TOWN Premier League, KO 3pm Cardiff City Stadium; www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk

Saturday 19 January

CARDIFF BLUES V LYON European Rugby Challenge Cup, KO 1pm Cardiff Arms Park; www.cardiffblues.com

Saturday 19 January

CARDIFF DEVILS V BELFAST GIANTS League, Face Off 7pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Sunday 20 January CARDIFF DEVILS V

BELFAST GIANTS League, Face Off 4pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com

Saturday 26 January CARDIFF BLUES V CONNACHT RUGBY Pro 14, KO 5.15pm Cardiff Arms Park; www.cardiffblues.com

Saturday 2 February CARDIFF CITY V BOURNEMOUTH Premier League, KO 3pm Cardiff City Stadium; www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk

Saturday 2 February

CARDIFF COMETS V COVENTRY PHOENIX EIHL Southern Divison One League, Face Off 3.30pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffcomets.co.uk

Sunday 3 February

CARDIFF DEVILS V SHEFFIELD STEELERS League, Face Off 6pm Viola Arena; www.cardiffdevils.com n

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

advertising feature

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W

hat is home to you?

Somewhere to relax, indulge in comforts and spend quality time with family and friends?

At Vale Orangeries, husband and wife team Dean and Leanne Edmonds are committed to helping you get the most out of your home. They specialise in designing and building bespoke extensions that create the space you’ve always longed for.

“An orangery or glazed extension is a great way to extend and create a seriously stylish addition to your home," says Leanne. "There are various design packages available including bi-folding doors, recessed lighting, underfloor heating, home entertainment solutions and an interior design service for those all-important finishing touches."

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

“If you’re not exactly sure what you want, we can help," adds Dean. "We offer a free design consultation service, and have numerous orangery show-homes throughout South Wales for inspiration and ideas.

“Having a living space built to your specification is a dream for many – and a reality for our clients.

"There is no need to concern yourself with architects, planning or building control, as this is all part of the package we provide. The only planning we want you to worry about is where to put your sofa – but we can even help with that, too!”

If you're thinking of an extension, but want something different or need inspiration, call Dean or Leanne on 01446 746353 to discuss how Vale Orangeries can work for the way you live. n

Vale Orangeries founders, Dean and Leanne Edmonds

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

© Brinkhoff and Moegenburg

theatre

The National Theatre’s artistic director Rufus Norris is bringing his production of the Shakespeare classic Macbeth to Cardiff.

Here, he tells us why he sees parallels between the play and the anarchy of the modern world, and why he’s chosen to set his version in the dystopian nearfuture Words by Emma Dance www.mediaclash.co.uk I cardiff LIFE I 25

theatre

I

© Ellie Kurt t z

f you’ve been to school you’ve probably studied Macbeth. Even before the Scottish play made it on to the National Curriculum, it was a favourite of English Lit teachers up and down the country.

And, it seems, it’s just as much loved by the National Theatre’s artistic director Rufus Norris, who is bringing his production of the Shakespeare classic to Wales Millennium Centre in March.

“I think most directors have a bottom drawer of plays that they’d like to have a go at,” he says. “And Macbeth was one of those for me. I remember seeing it when I was about 16, and like most people I studied it in school, and I found the play very immediate and compelling. It’s just one of those incredible masterpieces that just never leaves you.”

So why has Rufus chosen now to bring the show to the stage?

“Whenever I start thinking about a production there are a couple of questions that I try to answer,” he says. “The personal - why me? Why should I direct this show and what’s my connection to it. And ‘why now?’

“There’s various personal ways into it for me,” he continues. “My father was a medieval historian - in terms of his hobby, so I grew up with a love of medieval history.

Rufus thinks that if Shakespeare were here today, he’d be happy And I grew up abroad so my vision of to see the creative interpretations that are keeping his plays alive England was a rose-tinted one I saw through a medieval prism.

“My partner is Scottish, my youngest child has just been studying Macbeth, and it’s a lot about the The relevance to the challenges of today’s society is pressures of leadership and how those pressures bring what lead Rufus to take the decision not to set his version to bear on what is a very strong marriage, and that’s of Macbeth in the past, but in a dystopian near-future. something I can relate to as well.

“I’ve been in conflict areas, in areas where refuse “In a wider context, there’s a sociopolitical resonance. collection and being on the national grid aren’t part of Macbeth is set in the 11th century, and it was a time when the landscape, in places like the Jungle in Calais where the east coast of Scotland was suffering incursions from the refugees were, and poorer areas of Africa, India and the Danes and the Vikings and it would have been a the Middle East. What’s there, is the plastic. Even when period of chaos and civil war and even anarchy. You fields have been burned and people have left, the plastic is don’t have to look very far now – to Syria, the Balkans, still there. It’s what will be there in 1,000 years. large parts of Africa – to see where long civil wars have “If we had a civil war, if the power went down, we created a climate of disruption, anarchy and feudal chaos would be in a state of chaos very quickly, Cardiff would to an extent. I think that’s what Shakespeare was writing be unrecogniseable within a year, and this landscape about and it seems very prescient today, that chaos would start to resemble some of those places. It’s not doesn’t seem to be very far away. And there’s all kinds hard to imagine, because it’s already happened in other of political skulduggery in the play, and with Brexit and places. The ecological consequences of this age are going Trump, you don’t have to look very far to see that going to be severe. That was our thinking, setting it marginally on left, right and centre.” in the future.

“You don’t have to look far now to see disruption, anarchy and feudal chaos”

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

Macbeth will be at Wales Millenium Centre 19 – 23 March.

For more: www.wmc.org

© Brinkhoff and Moegenburg

Rufus hopes this production will resonate with the younger generation

© Richard Hubert Smith

It’s a bold reimagining of the play, and not one that was especially well received by critics when the production was first staged at the Olivier theatre in London. But Rufus is undeterred.

“After the initial ‘ouch’ I realised that the production was not a failure,” he says. “We sold out, and a lot of the letters I received were very positive. It just happened that the 10 most negative were published.

“We have had to reconcile it and now, coming back to it, to take it on tour, has given us the chance to develop certain ideas. It has given us the opportunity to look at what we have made, and make it more accessible and move the journey on. I am intrigued to see how it goes down, and how it translates into the different theatres, and how it plays with all the young people who are studying it.

“Shakespeare has to be alive for now. It’s not academic study, it’s not a museum piece. I think if Shakespeare were here he’d have a lot to say, but he would be delighted to see the creative interpretations to keep his plays alive.

They were written to be performed and watched, not to be read.

“I’m looking forward to bringing the play to Cardiff.

I’ve taken show to the Wales Millennium Centre before, and I’ve also worked with Theatre Clywd and the Sherman Theatre. It’s great to see the city going from strength to strength.”

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One to One TV doctor Michael Mosley will be sharing his wisdom in Cardiff next month

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

Doctor’s orders

Known for his appearance on numerous biology and sciencebased TV shows, including Trust Me, I’m A Doctor, as well as for inventing the popular 5:2 diet Michael Mosley might be the UK’s best known doctor. Now, he’s coming to St David’s Hall in Cardiff next month as part of his forthcoming theatre tour Dr Michael Mosley – Trust Fast Health. James Rampton finds out more about what audiences can expect What inspired you to go on tour for the first time?

For some reason, about a year ago BBC Worldwide asked me to do a tour of Australia to promote a new book, The Clever Guts Diet. I played some really big venues with 2,000 seats.

It was unbelievably scary. I normally only perform to three people in a TV studio, and if that goes wrong, you can do it again and again.

But I had huge nerves on the tour of Australia.

I’d stand there in the wings thinking, “Blimey, that’s a lot of people, and they are all here to see me! Why am I doing this? Why did I ever agree to this?” It gave me a whole new respect for stand-up comedians. It went remarkably well, though. You realise that people have come along to the show because they like you, and they tend to be very warm. The time on stage just flew by. It was really exhilarating.

Now I can’t wait to do my Trust Fast Health tour around the UK. Do you relish the prospect of doing a Q and A with your audience at the show?

Yes. This will be a very interactive show. We don’t want lots of questions about ingrowing toenails, but I’m sure that people will ask very insightful questions. It’ll be great hearing what people find funny and curious.

Are you also looking forward to meeting your fans?

Of course. I’ll be signing books after the show, and people can come and talk to me. I love chatting to people. I really enjoy finding

out what’s going on with them. People often stop me in the street. They love my TV programmes and want to share their experiences. It’s a fantastic feeling when people tell you that you have helped to turn their lives around. I’ve met people who were going to have their leg amputated because of diabetes who have managed to avoid that by following my advice. You don’t need pills or expensive supplements to turn things around. There is great power in taking control of your own life.

“You realise that people have come along because they like you and they tend to be very warm” What will you be discussing in the show?

First I trained as a doctor, but now I’ve been in telly for 34 years, as a science journalist and behind the scenes. In that time, I’ve seen a huge revolution in medicine and personal health. That’s what I’ll be talking about in the show.

What has changed most dramatically in that time?

A number of things have overturned ideas we all previously believed. For instance, a lot of things we were told about diet have turned out not to be true. On my first day at medical school, the Dean said to us, “You’ll study here for six years, but within 10 years most of what you’ve learnt will be out of date.” He was right. The medical world’s understanding of diet and fitness is changing very fast, and that’s what I want to tell people about. I’ll be revealing where it’s all going and what the big surprises will be. It’s unbelievably exciting.

Can you give us an example of a medical revelation you will be making in Trust Fast Health?

One of the big myths is that a fast diet won’t work. But all the evidence now is that rapid weight loss is effective. Your weight loss at two weeks will predict your weight loss at four weeks and six weeks. The only thing that matters is that it’s a good diet. Bad diets will always fail. There are 20,000 different diets out there, and most of them are terrible.

Many are dangerous and written on the back of a cornflakes packet. For example, the most popular new weight-loss diet is juicing, but that’s dangerous. It doesn’t give you any protein. We need adequate amounts of protein. If we don’t get it, within 24 hours our body will start to cannibalise itself. Some of the crazier low-protein diets have actually

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

one to one just took off. It’s been a New York Times bestseller, been published in 42 countries and sold three million copies. It continues to resonate.

It’s become an extraordinary phenomenon.

Will you be talking about the 5:2 Diet in the show?

Yes. I wrote the book six years ago, and it triggered an enormous amount of research.

Knowledge about it has increased 1,000-fold in those six years. I want to share the latest research with the audience. I’ll show them people whose lives have been transformed by 5:2. I’m very happy to talk about the dos and don’ts of the diet.

Why has dieting become such a vast industry?

It’s not surprising. This is the first time in history that people are dying from problems caused by obesity rather than malnutrition.

Do you think Trust Fast Health can help to change people?

When it comes to health and diets, Michael Mosley knows what he’s talking about

led to people dying of heart attacks. People need to know that.

Some of the most popular diets are pushed by charlatans. For example, the blood-type diet – which says that your blood type will predict what kind of food you can eat – is nonsense from beginning to end. Another very popular one is the alkaline diet. The guy pushing that has been sent to jail for three years. An extreme example is the “breath-air-ians”. They say you can exist on air alone. That’s madness – a lot of people have died doing that.

What positive advances do you detect in our nation’s health?

A lot of people are cutting back on the amount of medication they take. Once upon a time, we were just happy to pop pills. Now we are aware that taking all these tablets is not necessarily making us any better. We’re all living longer, but in ill health. Pills aren’t always the answer.

There is also now a much greater awareness that food plays a critical role in whether we’ll develop conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and dementia.

You have had enormous global success with your 5:2 Diet. What inspired you to invent it?

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Six years ago, I discovered I had Type 2 diabetes. My dad died from that. He did a lot of crazy diets, and none of them worked. That led me to find out about intermittent fasting.

Then I made a BBC documentary, Eat, Fast & Live Longer, about my search to reverse diabetes, which led to me finding out about the 5:2 Diet.

That propelled me into the limelight. I then produced another BBC documentary, The Truth About Exercise, and that was very popular, too. It blew away a lot of myths.

“People are confused because there is an awful lot of nonsense out there” Why did the 5:2 Diet become so popular?

People didn’t know you could diet by doing intermittent fasting. But the fact that I managed to lose 20 pounds and reverse diabetes by following the diet was pretty compelling. As soon as the book came out, it

Yes. You start the journey by coming to a show like this. That inspires you to look further and find a supportive community. I’m a big fan of websites – they create a fantastic community.

We’re social animals and can get huge support from people who have been through the same thing. People who have lost a lot of weight want to share their stories and show that it is achievable. They know all the challenges and pitfalls and want to tell others about them.

This show is a starting point.

What do you hope that audiences will take away from Trust Fast Health?

I hope that they’ll have a really good laugh – humour is incredibly important. But most of all, I hope they’ll be inspired and think, “Golly, I really want to find out more about this.” People are very interested in this stuff and know it can alter the trajectory of their life. They want to know more about it. My show will give them more information, loads of interesting insights and lots of surprises.

People are not going to be told the same old nonsense – they’re going to learn stuff that will blow their socks off. At the end of the show, I want people to turn to their neighbours and say, “Blimey, I never knew that!”

Finally, you feel very passionate about exploding health myths in Trust Fast Health, don’t you?

Absolutely. People are confused because there is an awful lot of nonsense out there. I want to cut through all that and show people where the truth really lies behind all those bewildering newspaper headlines. I want to debunk all those myths in Trust Fast Health. I’m 100 per cent evangelical about this. I’m on a mission!

Michael Mosley will be at St David’s Hall on 27 February. For more: www.michaelmosley.co.uk

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Open Mondays and late nights

Wyburn & Wayne Cardiff’s dazzling answer to Ant & Dec, Morecambe & Wise, or more accurately Edina & Patsy, giving you their take on what’s been HOT in and around our city

Hello, hello!

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A DA! *waves jazz hands* Hello Cardiff Life! This is our first column with the magazine and we are so excited to be sharing our madness with you!

We are Nathan Wyburn and Wayne Courtney, two best friends who absolutely and ultimately adore Cardiff. Both originally Valley boys and having lived in Cardiff for more than 10 years, we’ve nurtured a mutual admiration for all things showbiz and razzle dazzle!

Wayne is an award-winning fundraiser and events host and Nathan is a celebrity portrait artist and media personality. Together we’ve pooled our madness and have a weekly radio show on Radio Cardiff every Friday from 11am until 1pm, we host a weekly karaoke Wednesday at The Golden Cross and now we have this amazing platform to write about everything we’ve been up to. We are also very proud patrons

for many charities and host events and fundraisers on a regular basis.

Every issue we’ll be telling you about some of the fun we’ve been up to over the past few weeks, so here goes!

As we are patrons for the incredible charity Welsh Hearts, we had the honour of going to meet FA Wales’ Sir Ryan Giggs and Gareth Bale. We met them ahead of one of their training sessions at the Cardiff City Stadium. Nathan got them to sign two portraits he made with coffee, which were previously auctioned off at a fundraising event we hosted. They are both great, humble guys and we can’t thanks FA Wales enough for their partnership and ongoing support for Welsh Hearts. Staying on that topic, whilst Nathan was a little under the weather this month, Wayne hosted a big charity fashion show at the Lord Mayor’s house, alongside Luxor clothing, again for Welsh Hearts. It was a

Gareth Bale signed his portrait painted with coffee

Double award success for our columnists Wyburn & Wayne

wonderful glamorous evening and a real fun filled event.

Beaujolais Day hit Cardiff (and we use the term hit purposely because we aren’t big red wine drinkers) and we had a great time.

A group of us booked a room in Marco Pierre White’s restaurant and it was exceptional. Then it was over to Soda Bar and Ten Mill Lane, for more fun organised by our good friend Jay Page.

Our friends over at the newly renamed Kinetic School Of Performing Arts had their incredible relaunch event at Mary’s venue recently too. They put on so many heartfelt shows each year and we continue to wish them all the luck in the world going into 2019 – they have some huge shows in the pipeline.

Having our own show on Radio Cardiff has meant we’ve got to meet an incredible team people, many of whom support Radio Platfform based at the Wales Millenium Centre. The programme is aimed at getting young people experience in radio, hosting, music and media. We went along to the relaunch of the new programme and chatted to many of the volunteers and young people involved. It’s inspiring to see so many passionate people in the younger generations getting involved – not to forget the talent!

The live music was vibrant and fresh and their personalities show they have some great careers ahead of them in their chosen

outlets. Just don’t go coming for our radio job! (Joke!)

Speaking of which, we’ve had an eclectic array of guests on our show over the past few weeks, ranging from comedians and drag queens to charities and actors – be sure to give us a listen on Fridays on Radio Cardiff 98.7FM. We have also begun a fortnightly show called The Panel.

For one hour we invite four prominent Cardiff characters, such as performers and bar owners on to discuss the week’s hot topics. Think Loose Women and The Wright Stuff but with a unique Welsh twang. It’s great fun!

Cardiff also held its second annual Fairy Awards at Minksy’s Showbar. The event put together

by The Golden Cross, Mary’s and Wow Bar, is a celebration of the LGBT community. With more than 2,500 online votes cast, it was set to be a spectacular event, and it really was. Looking like a box of Quality Streets we hosted a section of the night and then we were honoured to be announced as winners of both Cardiff’s Favourite Entertainers and a Lifetime Achievement Award.

We’d like to thank all who voted for us, and congratulate everyone involved especially all other winners.

To keep up to date with Wyburn & Wayne follow them on Facebook, Twitter @WyburnWayne and Instagram @wyburnandwayne.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 35

advertising feature

The appliance of science Rolls-Royce boss aims to inspire scientists of tomorrow at Haberdashers' Monmouth Schools

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ne of the country’s top business leaders has returned to his old school to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Warren East CBE, the chief executive officer of Rolls-Royce, was a pupil at Monmouth School for Boys between 1973 and 1980. Mr East became Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce, the leading UK-based engine manufacturer, in July 2015.

A big supporter of the school, Mr East returned with his parents and wife, Amanda, to open The Relithan Science Centre. The three-floor science block, which has areas dedicated to studying biology, chemistry and physics, has been refurbished by The Relithan Charitable Trust.

“I think curiosity is the foundation of science,” says Mr East, who was appointed CBE in the 2014 New Year’s Honours for services to the technology industry.

“Science is important in education today because it will equip our leaders of tomorrow to

help address some big challenges.

“Haberdashers' Monmouth Schools was pivotal in everything I did, and I enjoyed everything about the school.

“I want current and future generations of pupils to have the excellent experience in Monmouth science that I did.

“One of the enablers is to make sure the teachers have great tools and facilities.”

Headmaster at Monmouth School for Boys, Dr Andrew Daniel, says, “Science is very important for Monmouth pupils with many going on to study science subjects or engineering, medicine, computing at university and then many taking up careers in science and related fields after that.”

Dr Daniel adds, “The two-year renovation and refurbishment of our science block has been a huge priority and a huge success.

“We thank Warren and his wife, Amanda, for their tremendous support in making this happen.” n *The schools have an established bus route, starting at Llandaff.

Above: Warren East talks to pupils and staff in The Relithan Science Centre.

For information on our 11+ entry assessment on 2nd February, please go to www.habsmonmouth.org, call 01600 710433 for Monmouth School for Boys or 01600 711104 for Monmouth School for Girls.

SNAPPED AC ROSS C A R D I FF, O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E

Adam Lloyd-Binding and Carmella Searle

Sian Prosser and Medina Bailey

Rhian Richards, Sophie Garrod, Elin Rees and Beca Harries

Sian Hale-Quant, Nathan Wyburn, Sharon Owen and Wayne Courtney Charlotte Ford, David Williams and Alexandra Davies

GREAT RECEPTION

The Cardiff Life winter reception was held on 3 December at the Exchange Hotel.

The great and the good of the city enjoyed prosecco, canapés and the chance to mingle, all in the magnificent surroundings of the Great Hall of the hotel.

Photography by Hannah Timm www.hannahtimmphotography.co.uk

Rhys Perkins, Mark Hobbs, Wendy Hobbs and Philip Payne Bernadette and Trystan Davies

Melissa Williams, Kacie Morgan and Imran Nathoo

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

Richard Bevington and Alistair Hoy

SOCIETY

Clare Martin, Kelly Young and Brian Gamble

Katharine Daniel, Emma-Kate Francis and Anne Morgan

Mingling in the magnificent surroundings

Ann Tudball, Caron Rockey and Tracey Horrigan Jack Kelly, Dilys Price OBE and Sian Gunney

Aimee Richardson, Julie Richardson and Joanna Corbett-Simmons Ian and Catherine Mckeag

Susan Hoy, Christina Blakeman and Penny James

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

Josh Lee, Larna Marsh, Paula Marsh and Antony Obaid

Canapes by Spiros Jason Page and Elisabeth Rilatt

A CUT ABOVE

Josh Lee Hair, the hotly anticipated debut salon of award winning hairdresser, Josh Lee, launched on 1 November.

The salon combines a luxury experience with a neighbourhood vibe.

Guests were treated to canapĂŠs by Spiro, cocktails

by Ten Mill Lane and music by DJ Monique B.

Anne Marie Evans and Trudie Partridge Jason Vassili Efthimiadis, Kim Pedlar, Chiselle Brierton and Lowri Howells

Joshua Lee and Shakira Obaid

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

Rose Sgueglia and Anna Maria Sgueglia

Antony Obaid and Jessica Venn

CIPD Awards presenter, Welsh comedian and broadcaster, Chris Corcoran

Tracey Vivian-Davies and Chris Pugh

Mera Mann and Mair Barron

Anthony Lewis, Karen Lewis, Caryn Cook and Robert Baker

Hayley Roberts, Lauren Cahill, Gareth Bradwell, Rebecca Cooper and Bethan Coyle

TOP TALENT

CIPD Wales, the professional body for HR and people development, has recognised those at the forefront of Wales’ HR industry at the CIPD Wales Awards 2018, on 22 November. The awards acknowledge outstanding individuals and teams as the best in HR, learning, and people management practice in businesses across Wales.

The prestigious National Museum Cardi provided the backdrop for the awards.

Kate Morgan, Dasha Platt and Tristan James Flame-throwing entertainment

Hugh Meatyard, Tracey Woodland and Dan Owen

David Nash and Deborah Hann

Claire Jones-Dodd, Angela Lawrence and Sian Williams www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 41

SOCIETY

Getting the giggles

Breathe’s Sarah Wills loses herself in the moment at laughter yoga with instructor Maria Aguirregomozcorta Gil

Lilith Konig

Laughter yoga instructor Maria Aguirregomozcorta Gil led the session organised by new wellbeing centre, Breathe

LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE

New counselling centre, Breathe, put on a session of the giggly exercise in Roath Rec on 18 October – and invited everyone to have a go.

Laughter yoga instructor and neurologist, Maria Aguirregomozcorta Gil, of Sparkly Laughter, ran the session, which encouraged people to laugh for no reason - and enjoy everything from a ‘laughter shower’ to a 30-second chuckling handshake with a stranger.

Breathe is the new project by Gofal, the pioneering mental health charity, as part of the organisation’s move towards creating unique spaces that encompass many aspects of wellbeing and mental health.

Laughter yoga instructor Maria Aguirregomozcorta Gil with Jules Weston from Breathe

Alex Beresford, Antony Cotton, Rosie Axon, Adam Jukes, Calotta Edwards, Alexander Demetriou, Dan Edwards and Jamie Baulch Corrie star, Antony Cotton

Dancing on Ice professional, Carlotta Edwards helped to launch the new winter attraction at the Celtic Manor Resort, The Great Skate

GETTING THEIR SKATES ON Stars from the hit TV show Dancing on Ice helped launch the new winter attraction at the Celtic Manor Resort – The Great Skate, on 24 November.

Coronation Street favourite Antony Cotton, ITV weatherman Alex Beresford, celebrity chef Dean Edwards and former Olympic athlete Jamie Baulch joined professional skaters Alexander Demetriou, Carlotta Edwards, Adam Jukes and Rosie Axon to break the ice on the special rink which will add festive sparkle to Celtic Manor’s Rooftop Garden until 6 January.

Hosted by Capital South Wales Breakfast’s Polly James, the launch event saw invited guests enjoy a glittering Christmas ice show culminating in the special appearance from the Dancing On Ice stars, before taking to the rink themselves to be among the first to skate on the new attraction.

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

Dancing on Ice stars show off their skills

ENGLISH MINT AND GINGER LIP CARE, £20 Softens, smooths and repairs dryness, while the enlivening notes of mint with the lively brightness of ginger creates an irresistible combination of the fresh and the spicy.

From Jo Malone London, 49 The Hayes; www.jomalone.co.uk

THINGS OF BEAUTY Get 2019 off to a beautiful start with this luxurious selection of elixirs

ISHGA INVIGORATING ORGANIC BODY OIL, £36.50 Packed with sustainably sourced Scottish seaweed this body oil moisturises dry skin whilst stimulating, revitalising and aiding self-repair.

Available from Marine Spa, voco St David’s Hotel, Havannah Street; www.ishga.com

MESMERISING OUD ACCORD AND GOLD BATH AND SHOWER GEL, £24 Bathe in luxury with precious oudh infused with real 24 carat gold flakes.

From Molton Brown, 16 The Hayes; www. moltonbrown.co.uk

LULU & BOO CHOCOLATE ORANGE CLEANSING OIL, £27 An entirely guilt-free sweet treat, that not only smells divine, but will also completly dissolve stubborn dirt and make-up while providing deep hydration.

From Goji, 175 Kings Road, Cardiff; www.gojihair.com

THE ORDINARY CAFFEINE SOLUTION 5% + EGCG, £5.80 This little bottle is jam-packed full of good stuff reputed to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.

From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road; www.escentual.com

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

ED’S CHOICE SPEED OF LIGHT BLOW DRY ACCELERATOR SPRAY, £21 The latest innovation from Aveda cuts blow dry time while at the same time nourishing, detangling and protecting against blow dry heat.

From Soho Hairdressing, 2 Herbert Terrace, Penarth; www.aveda.co.uk

CHARLOTTE TILBURY MAGIC CREAM, £70 This multi-tasking treat and transform moisturiser features a secret blend of patented ingredients to give you plump gorgeous skin every day.

From John Lewis, The Hayes; www.charlottetilbury.com

FUDGE PROFESSIONAL XPANDER GELÉE SHAMPOO AND XPANDER WHIP CONDITIONER, £11.95 EACH Infused with caffeine and ginseng and OptiPlex re-bonding technology, this duo will help boost volume and thickness with the added help of the interesting sounding “Fibre-Dense Technology.”

From Precision, 298 North Road; www.fudgeprofessional.com

TRI-ACTIVE ADVANCED NIGHT BOOSTER, £54 Add a few drops of this potent beauty supplement to your moisturiser to transform it into an intensive, age-defying night product.

From Laguna Health & Spa, Greyfriars Road; www.espaskincare.com

LONE STAG TOPIARY GARDEN BATH SALTS, £16.50 Soak away the aches and pains of the day with these bath salts containing dead sea salt, known for its therapeutic properties for relieving dry skin and aiding muscle tension. Even better, it’s all prepared and packaged in Cowbridge.

From Sloane Home; www.sloanehome.co.uk

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

What's in this year?

2019 is upon us. Decorations are down and the chaos of Christmas is over! The question on every trend setters mind is, what look is in next? And what lighting designs best suits your space? EMA LIGHTING tell us what's in this year...

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ne trend that we’re confident is here to stay is layered lighting.

This relatively new concept in lighting design now makes use of customisable bluetooth technology. The style utilises different colours and lighting temperatures in one design, with selected fittings and areas working in harmony or contrast to others, creating a natural and sophisticated ambience.

The desire to dim, illuminate or change the colour of room at the click of a button, is

rapidly increasing. Customisable lighting offers a simple solution to seasonal changes, speedy transformations of atmospheres and even control of your energy output.

Stand out lighting options aren’t going anywhere. Signature lighting pieces really grab attention within a design. This is the opportunity to express, be experimental, be bold and make a statement. David Hunt is a manufacturer renowned for its bold designs, beautiful sculptures and quality finishes. We proudly work alongside the Cotswolds manufacturer as exclusive brand partners, delivering luxury lamps and fittings to South Wales. Their striking style is popular for home and commercial lighting designs. One quirky lamp can complete the character and theme of a space.

Although there are trends and seasonal spikes, we’re confident technology and lighting are only going to become more closely linked. The perfect lighting design will combine the old and

the new – it will seamlessly create an atmosphere and a talking point. We’re perfectly prepared for 2019, with fresh ideas, new displays and exclusive designers, let us help you find the lighting design that’s perfect for you. ■

EMA Lighting, Ocean Way, CF24 5HH 02920 336 665 | www.emalighting.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Big plans Paula Burns of PAB EVENTS is a wedding and events specialist giving you the gift of time, creativity and hassle free celebrations this year!

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t’s often assumed that being in the wedding and events business is one big party with numerous events to attend with glamour at the core. For an outsider looking in, that is exactly how it should be. No one wants to celebrate in chaos.

Celebrating with our loved ones and friends is the only time we can switch off from everyday life and immerse ourselves in an atmosphere of total joy and excitement.

I love what I do. I entered this amazing world 14 years ago when I left a corporate job to launch my company PAB Events. My days are now filled with planning and venue styling for weddings, special celebrations and corporate events. I mainly work with high achieving individuals who value their time, but want to create a memorable impact. Attending lots of parties and events was never my motivation. It was the opportunity to use my management and creative skills to help people celebrate in their own unique personal way.

Here are some key questions I often get asked: What’s so special about PAB Events?

There are so many wedding and events

companies offering a good time. We all have our place in the industry. PAB Events is all about the personal and unique service with logistics and high energy at its core. I spend a lot of time building relationships with outstanding suppliers and developing solutions that are not ‘off the shelf’. We design our own decor items according to specifications, which includes visuals and mock ups to ensure there are no nasty surprises with the end result.

What is your biggest role in creating an event?

Understanding my client. Everything stems from there. During the free consultation I ask lots of questions and listen very carefully to the answers. Sometimes it’s what isn’t said that can have the biggest impact. The more I understand my client, the easier it is to discard what won’t suit them and seek out the things that will.

How do you keep calm managing events?

Remaining calm can be the most challenging emotion in an events environment. There are so many balls to juggle and if one falls it can affect everything. I remember being given the responsibility to create a very prestigious event very early on in my career and my client approached me on the evening and asked

if everything was alright. I smiled calmly and answered yes. He replied, “If you are confident that things are fine, then so am I.” That’s when I got it. My job was to take care of my client and shield them from any issues before they surfaced. That’s what I do. I prepare and I surround myself with major players in the industry. Then I breathe and glide!

So here’s my question: Can you afford not to have PAB Events involved with your future celebration plans? ■

How to get in touch: Email: info@pabevents.co.uk Office: 01633 763504 Mobile: 07830315367 www.pabevents.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 47

WORK OUT YOUR WARDROBE With a new year comes newly found motivation to hit the gym!

Chic activewear has become a wardrobe staple in 2018 and looks like its set to stay for SS19!

WORK IT OUT Now that the big Christmas feast is out of the way and a New Year detox is on the horizon, there’s no better time to join the gym… and find the perfect outfit for it!

We love this stylish Nike bra (5) available at John Lewis, made with breathable fabric to keep you comfortable.

Pair it with these chic Karen Millen leggings (7), that are leg-lengthening and flattering for all shapes...

Alternatively, opt for these pink and purple leggings from M&S (6), perfect for a relaxing yoga session.

COMFY CASUAL This year’s fashion won’t focus on how well you can dress up, but more about dressing down. This season casual wear isn’t just for the gym but can be incorporated into our everyday wardrobes – hurrah! Try a pair of these Calvin Klein grey bottoms (1), or, opt for these Oliver Bonas side stripe joggers (2) that are just as comfy as they look. Pair with this Vivienne Westwood blue sweatshirt (8), which offers up a unique and fashionable look whilst keeping you super cosy. Throw on this cute bomber jacket from Oliver Bonas (4) to take you from gym to outside world!

ATHLESSORIES Don’t forget that trainers have been the hottest look throughout 2018, so they aren’t just for a workout! We recommend keeping it classy and simple, like these knitted trainers (9) from Karen Millen. Or, why not try these tasteful Kurt Geiger black trainers (10) that you can pair up with the joggers. It’s easy to accessorise, simply add this Reiss tote bag (3), the perfect size for your new Year, new you essentials.

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

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

Lifestyle freedom to move sports bra, £25, leggings £22.50, from M&S

FASHION 1

2

4

3

5

SHOPPING LIST 6

7

8

1. Mid grey heather tracksuit bottoms, £90, Calvin Klein 2. Side stripe jogger, £59.50, Oliver Bonas 3. Walter tote bag, £125, Reiss 4. Genuine bomber jacket, £69.50, Oliver Bonas 5. Swoosh feather curve sports bra, £34.95, Nike at John Lewis 6. Collection pink legging, £28, M&S 7. Sports stripe leggings, £85, Karen Millen 8. Action man blue sweatshirt, £220, Vivienne Westwood 9. Knitted white trainers, £80, Karen Millen 10. Lacey2 black trainers, £69, Kurt Geiger

10 9

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

advertising feature

A smile can change everything We often take smiling for granted, but it’s amazing how much impact a simple smile can make, Pontcanna dental CARE explains...

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here’s a lot more to a smile than you’d expect. When meeting someone for the first time, one in three adults notice a person’s teeth first, while almost half of people think a smile is the most memorable feature. But that’s just the beginning.

The science There is plenty of science behind a smile including the fact that smiling activates tiny molecules that work toward fighting off stress and relaxing your body, as well as lowering your heart rate and blood pressure. A smile aids in the release of serotonin which serves as a mood lifter.

The effect on you We are all aware of how good a smile can make you feel, but did you know it also makes you better looking? Research found that smiling makes you viewed as being more attractive, reliable, relaxed and sincere. It also found that 50 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

adults were more attracted to people who smiled and made eye contact than those who did not.

The effect on others OK we’ve all been in the situation. Someone smiles at you and you can’t help but smile right back. A smile is contagious. The area of your brain responsible for unconscious responses (the cingulate cortex) causes you to copy people’s facial expressions. It can also be a conversation starter – 86 per cent of people said they are more likely to strike up conversations with strangers if they are smiling.

“86% of people said they are more likely to strike up conversations with strangers if they are smiling”

Unfortunately, an unhealthy smile does not have the same impact, so if you’re serious about creating a new you, start with your smile. Once you’ve achieved a healthy mouth and gums, creating a brighter whiter smile can be easy, often with non-invasive treatment that doesn’t cost the earth. n

Take advantage of a ten-minute free consultation with one of our team to discuss your options. Call us on 02920 387683 or email smile@pontcannadental.co.uk Alternatively you can just call into our private practice at 102 Cathedral Road. www.pontcannadental.co.uk

*Sources: www.psychologytoday.com, www.dentistry. co.uk, www.littlethingsmatter.com

Alyn Humphreys BDS (GDC 61029) Charlie Stephanakis BDS (GDC 60470)

Get glowing We’ve asked a team of health and beauty experts for their predictions for what’s going be getting us looking and feeling our best in 2019

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

new year, new you

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here’s few better excuses for a fresh start than the start of a new year. Whether you want to get in shape, try that new hair style, or just give your beauty regime a bit of a revamp, we’ve got all the advice you need.

opposite page: Think pink (or rather Coral) when it comes to colours for your hair this page, clockwise from left: On sleek at Goji Hair; Soft waves at Josh Lee; Coral hues at Guy Christian; Making waves at Mwah

GOOD HAIR DAYS

Toss those tresses with confidence with this top advice…

The balayage trend has been massive this year and I think it will continue to be the “It” look of 2019 but the tones will evolve. I think fresh icier tones will replace caramel hues, adding a bit of a rock star edge to this glamourous look.

There’s a common myth that this style only suits long hair too, but recently I’ve done some fabulous transformation on shorter styles.

In terms of treatments Olaplex is amazing, it was the breakthrough product of the year and its set to grow in popularity as more people discover its benefits. A lot of our clients request big blow dries and the difference Olaplex makes to the finished look is major – the hair is so shiny and bouncy. Olaplex is perfect for that fresh new year feel as it will inject some life into hair that’s been damaged thanks to the festive party season too.

Style wise, soft waves for longer hair and for shorter styles a clean, sharp finish will be popular.

Josh Lee, salon director at Josh Lee Hair Natural texture waves and braids are the go-to look for 2019. Whether it’s full festival glitter braids or a gorgeous accent to a boho-chic up do, there’s a way for everyone to wear these sorts of styles.

The sixties will also make a big come-back inspired by the most-admired styles at the fashion weeks. The big beehives and bobs

being shown in the Moschino AW18 show have been talked about ever since. We predict that a lot more customers will be booking in for these styles.

Alexandra Joseph Hodges, hair stylist at Mwah 2019 will be all about the blow dry! The messier, undone look will be replaced by a sleeker, more glossy finish for straight, wavy or curly hair. Blunter bobs are also in, along with micro braids for weddings and events.

Crimped hair will be back in vogue but, unlike the 90s craze, this time it will be a subtler look.

Crimping at the root is also great for creating volume. Colour-wise, copper is going to be big, as well as multi-coloured tips which will give the popular balayage trend a new dimension.

Grey hair will still be in, but with more ashy shades. All in all, it’s going to be an exciting year for hair!

Greg James, creative director at Goji Hair Lately, we are noticing the desire for low maintenance colours and styles in the salon for the everyday person so I think this will be huge in the new year – think rooty highlights and balayages with multi tones of warm and cool running through the hair. Cuts will have a retro feel to them with effortless styling such as blunt bobs with beachy waves and choppy fringes, or long hair that can be put up in voluminous pony tails. The Pantone colour of 2019 is Living Coral so I think the fashionistas will be loving this hue with a statement micro fringe.

Elin Wilding, receptionist and social media manager at Guy Christian

“The Pantone colour of 2019 is Living Coral so I think fashionistas will be loving this hue” www.mediaclash.co.uk I Cardiff LIFE I 53

NAILING IT

Discover the new hues for the season and keep your fingers looking fine

New year always lends itself to fresh, chic and subtle shades. Expect to see the usual nudes but soft pink translucent colours will be popular too. Our Bio Sculpture gel range offers 50 shades of nude so we’ve got that trend covered!

In stark contrast, dark matte colours will also be the look of 2019, moody blues and taupes will be big which will offer a dramatic effect, especially if applied to long elegant nails. We recommend fibreglass or gel extensions but for those who prefer the natural look Bio-sculpture Gel is one of the healthiest gel polishes the industry has to offer.

Simon Daniel, salon director at Belle Toujours

Mwah is nailing it

It’s good news for anyone tired of searching for their perfect nude shade, the muted tones of peach, coral and caramel are the new neutrals gaining favour in 2019.

Next time your manicurist asks what shape you want your nails, opt for rounded. The super-natural style that makes nails look polished without drawing too much attention, was seen at multiple catwalk shows and is proving that clean, well-groomed nails will never go out of style.

Gina Albu-Alnasairi, spa manager at voco St David’s Navy – yes you heard it here first – is going to be the hot new nail trend this spring. It’s loved for its dark hues. There’s something so chic about a navy polish – dark enough to exude confidence but not quite as heavy as black or grey.

Lee Hatim, make-up artist and beauty specialist at Mwah

BIG INFLUENCERS

Here’s what’s influencing the must-have beauty treatments of 2019

On the strength of existing trends, cutting edge science, mixed with the ever-popular nods towards ‘’skin naturals’’ and the organic beauty industry will make waves this year.

This new trend focuses sharply on the need and demand for increasingly personalised skin care solutions that requires skin advance technology and skin tests/analysing devices.

Technology’s influence in skin care has been two-fold. Firstly, it is influencing innovation through the rise of beauty devices, new ingredients and new technologies. Secondly, customer experience through the use of diagnostic tools is transforming rapidly.

Natural beauty and cosmetics are still big business as consumers buy into harnessing what nature has to offer in terms of products for good skin health. The next year will continue to see skin care and beauty products take a stripped back approach, and key

54 I Cardiff LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Find your inner calm at Laguna Health & Spa

Relax and rejuvenate at voco St David’s Marine Spa

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Age specific exercise classes are on offer at B Fit Personal Training

ingredients are going to be natural oils and organic seaweed extract.

Gina Albu-Alnasairi, spa manager at voco St David’s Marine Spa With increasingly busy lifestyles and the modern professional being ‘on’ at all times, a growing trend within the spa and beauty industry is the influence of inner calm and mindfulness. Our constant connectivity with our mobile phones means we’re struggling to switch off and find our inner peace, hindering the foundations of our beauty. This is a trend we have already adopted here at Laguna Health and Spa with our ESPA products and treatments, and we look to explore it further into 2019.

All of our ESPA treatments mirror the holistic philosophy of ESPA, which cares for the whole wellbeing with natural products to protect our long-term health and beauty.

Our ESPA Inner Calm Massage, a personal favourite of mine, combines guided breathing techniques with a blend of oils to create a relaxing and balancing aromatherapy treatment for mind and body.

Caroline Sims, director of sales and marketing at Laguna Health and Spa

REALLY FIT

If your new year’s resolution was to get in shape then here’s what you need to know...

2018 has already seen a surge in fitness for older adults and I believe this will gain even more momentum as we enter into 2019.

Older adults who were generally outsiders within the fitness industry are rediscovering the importance of physical activity and its role in staying healthier and more active.

“A growing trend within the spa and beauty industry is the influence of inner calm and mindfulness” People are living and working longer so it’s essential that this rapidly growing population stays as fit and mobile as they can as they approach our later years. Expect to see a rise in age-specific group exercise classes that are focused around improving movement, strength and providing a sociable setting for older adults.

Kev Foley, owner and coach at B Fit Personal Training With your everyday professional’s schedule become increasingly more strained, time for leisurely activities like going to the gym is diminishing. We’ve all been that person checking emails whilst pacing at 5mph on the treadmill. As we head into the new year, it seems as though we will witness a rise of express classes to cater for those always on professionals. We’ve already implemented this in our Laguna Health Club, with one of our most popular classes being our Express Cycle.

The 30 minute spin bike class is ideal for those looking to swiftly hop on and off but still take part in an intense workout session.

Caroline Sims, director of sales and marketing at Laguna Health and Spa

Heart rates are rising at Fitness Space

Following on from the boom in high intensity interval training over recent years and the growing access to heart rate monitors, I anticipate the next big trend will marry the two, with heart rate-based interval training.

We currently run a class created out of this concept called Team Beats, which uses heart rate monitors to optimise work and rest periods during the class. This combines intensity, efficiency and fun into a unique group training class that provides the best workout for your cardiovascular system.

Oli Ford, owner of Fitness Space

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new year, new you

Enrol in a make-up masterclass at Mwah

EAT RIGHT

Avocados? Goji berries? Carbs or no carbs? What should we be eating to maximise the effects of our work outs?

We are always on the lookout for foods that are dense in nutrients compared to their calories as well as anything displaying antiinflammatory or anti-oxidant properties. One that we are seeing more and more attention towards is tumeric, this has been proven to be hugely beneficial as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant as well as a range of other benefits to the body. With this in mind we have paired with a company called Bumblezest that provides us with both pre- and post-workout drinks containing tumeric, ginger and collagen which are also both proven to help with muscle recovery and joint support.

Oli Ford, owner of Fitness Space

WHAT’S NEXT

The new treatments and trends coming in 2019

Due to the huge surge in demand for lash extensions we’ve broadened our range and we are now offering volume fan lashes as well as LVL and 3D. What makes us special is our commitment to quality – we only work with leading brands and our therapist has over 20 year’s experience in the industry.

We are excited to start stocking the Elemis new Super Food range too which is formulated with plant-based, nutrient dense super foods.

The biggest change will be the refurbishment of our second floor though, which will now offer make-up services. We’ve partnered with renowned local make-up brand, Bella Beaute who will be transforming some of the space into a make-up studio.

TSimon Daniel, salon director at Belle Toujours With the on-going popularity and need for increased activity in older adults, B Fit is launching a special over 50s fitness program.

The focus of the program is to provide a social and supportive community for likeminded over 50s, where they can slowly ease

56 I Cardiff LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

into exercise, get more active and drop a few pounds, whilst improving their movement, strength and confidence.

This program has been specifically developed to deal with the daily struggles and issues that busy over 50s have to deal with.

You’ll get a personalised program that focuses on exercise, nutrition, and includes lifestyle strategies to ensure you build healthy and sustainable habits.

We’ll empower you to make the right food choices to achieve your goals, whilst still fitting into your lifestyle.

Kev Foley, owner and coach at B Fit Personal Training In keeping with the emphasis on blow dries in 2019, we’re launching the ‘Goji Blow Dry Club’ in January. Simply buy five blow dries and get the 6th one free. The blow dry service includes a relaxing head massage and a complimentary glass of wine as we’re fully licenced and is a great way to end (or start!) the working week.

We also have plans in place to offer a gents’ hair replacement service attached to our barbers.

Greg James, creative director at Goji Hair 2019 is going to be an exciting time here at Mwah. Our new Braid Bar will open – it’s an express service with a menu of styles to choose from with most taking less than 30 minutes. We are also starting a make-up masterclass, perfect for beginners, teaching you all the pro tips and tricks to get that glam glow at home.

We will also be holding a makeup masterclass in early 2019 showcasing how to dial up your assets and dial down your imperfections and as well as offering 1-1 lessons in the salon.

Lee Hatim, make-up artist and beauty specialist at Mwah We have just launched the new System Professionals range from Wella and there are some amazing treatments that we are going to offer in the new year. There’s a fantasic blow dry lotion called Elastic Force – the team used it on my hair and my bob was swishy and shiny for days. Our clients are going to love it!

Elin Wilding, receptionist and social media manager at Guy Christian

The Fitness Space team can offer nutrition advice too

Ishga is the new addition to the Marine Spa. By harnessing the potent powers of the finest Scottish seaweed, ishga products work on every skin type. They really can make a positive difference to the health and appearance of your skin. Seaweed is one of the world’s most naturally abundant sources of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, anti-oxidants and essential fatty acids. Used throughout the ishga skincare range, the seaweed extracts and powders deliver many anti-aging, hydrating and skin renewing properties.

Gina Albu-Alnasairi, spa manager at voco St David’s Marine Spa

DIRECTORY

B Fit Personal Training, St Peters Rugby Club, Minster Road, Cardiff CF23 5AS; www.bfitcardiff.com Belle Toujours, 113 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9PH; www.belletoujours.co.uk Fitness Space, 39 Windsor Place, Cardiff CF10 3BW; www.fitnessspace.com/cardiff Guy Christian, 9 Capitol Shopping Centre, Cardiff; CF10 2HQ; www.guychristian.com Josh Lee Hair, 82 Beechley Drive, Cardiff CF5 3SP; www.facebook.com/JoshLeehair Laguna Health and Spa, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff CF10 3AL; www.lagunahealthandspa.com Mwah, 24 Churchill Way, Cardiff CF10 2DY; www.mwahcardiff.com voco St David’s Marine Spa, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5SD; www.vocohotels.com

food & drink news

Dough boy

The new restaurant gives a flavour of the hotel’s history

A tasty tribute A new restaurant has been launched at the Exchange Hotel, paying tribute to the Welsh philanthropist and entrepreneur Richard Palethorpe Culley.

Born in 1843, Mr R P Culley was the son of an inn keeper, learning the tricks of the trade through an unusual but encouraging upbringing. Culley watched his father play host to an array of travellers over the years, offering catering, beverages and a comfortable night’s sleep to those who needed it. When his father passed away in 1861, Culley set off to pursue his entrepreneurial skills, leaving his home village behind.

His big break came with the opening of the Cardiff Coal Exchange in 1886.

Culley secured a catering contract with the Coal Exchange to work in the lavish Coal Exchange Restaurant. A combination of Culley’s charisma and experience meant he excelled at rubbing shoulders with the establishment and building relationships. Culley wined and dined the Welsh Coal Industry’s self-made millionaires

and most influential guests, elevating his profile and showcasing the best of Cardiff Bay. On 29 November Signature Living and The Exchange Hotel Cardiff, officially launched its brand-new RP Culley & Co restaurant in tribute to Richard Palethorpe Culley and the important role that the former Coal Exchange played on the economic world stage.

Built around a theme of the “Haves” & “Have Nots” the restaurant pays homage to the history of the Welsh coal miners’ story and the history of the Coal Exchange, where the price of the world’s coal was set and where the first £1million cheque was signed. The “Haves” and the “Have Nots” illustrates the great extremes of Welsh coal mining history, the poverty contrasted against the opulence of the Exchange building where coal was traded as black gold.

Curated by renowned Welsh head chef Keith Clash, RP Culley & Co boasts an exciting menu of some of the finest locally sourced Welsh produce and ingredients.

For more: www.exchangehotelcardiff.co.uk

Hot on the heels of winning People’s Favourite Restaurant at the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s Food Made Good awards, Cardiff pizzeria Dusty Knuckle has announced plans for a brand new city-centre restaurant, to open in the spring. The plan is to transform the former warden’s bungalow on the edge of Sophia Gardens into a brand-new 100 cover eatery, complete with open kitchen, fire pits, and an in-house bakery.

Following a complete renovation, the warden’s house will give the Dusty Knuckle team a chance to go beyond their trusted stable of awardwinning pizzas.

As purveyors of the ‘Slow Food’ movement, Dusty Knuckle are keen to encourage people to reconnect with their food and ask how it has made its journey from farm to fork. The concept means the menu will feature well-sourced, seasonal plates and ingredient led dishes, prepared in an open kitchen where customers will be able to watch the chefs prepare food over fire.

Dusty Knuckle founder Phill Lewis says that he is working towards an estimated opening date of March, but highlights the huge task ahead.

He says, “The inside of the warden’s house looks like a time capsule. Nothing has been touched or changed for years, so there is a huge amount of work to be done to turn it into a working restaurant. It’s going to be all-hands on deck for the foreseeable, but we can’t wait to bring our vision for this amazing building to life, and to become part of the growing independent restaurant scene in the city centre.”

For more: www.dustyknuckle.co.uk

Imran’s back

Imran Nathoo could be cooking for you!

2019 sees the return of Masterchef quarter-finalist, Imran Nathoo’s supper clubs. After a busy 2018 showcasing his cooking at the Royal Welsh Show, Borough Market and Abergavenny Food Festival, Imran took a break from the supper club scene to spend more time with his family and their secondborn who also arrived last year. But that’s not all Imran has in store for 2019. He plans to run a series of cookery classes aimed at invigorating family cooking when time is short and bellies are rumbling. Imran says, “The last year has been a crash course in finding out what works best to feed my family tasty and nutritious food in a hurry. I hope to pass on what I’ve learned to people who come to the course and show them my take of fast family food.”

The supper clubs will take place on 27 January and 4 February, and the cooking classes on 13 January and 16 February.

For more: www.kitchenclonc.com

Dusty Knuckle’s having a pizza the action...

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 59

recipe

The spice is right Brunch is hotting up...

Spiced Baked Eggs

By Imran Nathoo Serves 2 – 3 people

This spiced take on the classic works well for brunch or a light lunch and is perfect with a nice cup of tea or an ice cold beer! The secret ingredient here is fresh curry leaves – they really do make all the difference with a punchy zinginess that adds depth and lifts the whole dish. Also really good quality free range eggs are a must! Enjoy mopping up all the sauce with bread from any one of Cardiff’s excellent independent bakeries.

Ingredients 1 – 2 red onions, chopped 1 tbsp ghee 1 tbsp rapeseed oil ½ tsp black mustard seed 3 – 4 fresh curry leaves, bruised 2 green chillies, broken ½ tsp coriander stalk, chopped ½ tsp garlic and ginger paste ½ tsp ground turmeric ½ tsp ground cumin ½ tsp red chilli powder 1 x400g tin of chopped tomatoes 2 pinches of fine sea salt Handful of fresh baby spinach leaves 5-6 free range eggs Coriander leaves, picked (to garnish) Smoked sea salt (to garnish) Method: 1. Put a large pan on a low to medium heat and add the ghee and oil.

2. Fry off the onions, mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chillies and coriander stalks.

3. Add the garlic and ginger paste and cook out for 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the ground spices (red chilli powder, turmeric and cumin) and cook for 2 – 3 minutes.

5. Turn up heat and add the tin of tomatoes and the sea salt.

6. After 10 – 12 minutes, or when further reduced, add spinach and wilt.

7. Crack the eggs into the sauce (create wells in the sauce if you can).

8. Cover, reduce the heat and cook for 10 – 12 minutes or until the egg whites have set.

9. Take lid off and turn off heat.

10. Finish with smoked salt and coriander leaves.

Imran is running supper clubs on 27 January and 24 February and holding cooking classes on 13 January and 16 February.

For more: www.kitchenclonc.com

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

The Whites Dental Centre Assisting your dental needs.

Dr Pamela White BDS GDC 52754 Dr Matthew White BDS GDC 52753 Ian Seddon BDS GDC 64868 (Practice Limited to Dental Implants) The Whites Dental Centre in association with Seddon Dental Implant Practice Ltd. 3 Station Road Radyr, Cardiff CF15 8AA

Tel 02920843658 info@white-smile.net www.white-smile.net

Limited to private practice.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Goal driven

Mike Parsons, Head Personal Trainer of the FITNESS FACTORY explains what sets the gym apart from the competition

I

created The Fitness Factory Cardiff with the simple belief that everyone should receive the same expert care and access to our world-class training systems. This is why we’ve created packages to allow people to experience the benefits of working with a personal trainer.

Each person who walks through our doors has their own story and we love hearing them. This is why we don’t dish out cookie cut programmes that can be easily downloaded off the internet. We tailor and design our programmes individually and specifically to whoever is standing in front of us. We don’t promote quick fixes or fads; we keep things simple, with your individual needs set firmly at the core of our approach. All we ask in return is you are dedicated and consistently commitment to improving your health and fitness long term.

Whether it’s through one-on-one training or small group training, or whether you’re seeking specific niche performance training, weight

“WE DON’T PROMOTE QUICK FIXES OR FADS”

loss and nutrition coaching, general health and fitness conditioning, postpartum support, rehab or posture correction, every team member, each piece of equipment, every single move that you make in our facility will bring you closer to achieving success.

Since opening our doors, we’ve seen professional athletes train shoulder to shoulder with complete beginners keen to learn the ropes under our guidance. We truly serve all needs in a friendly and accessible environment in Cardiff Bay where everyone is welcome. When you walk through our door for your first session, we will provide you with your own personalised training programme. This starts with an FMS (Functional Movement Screen) where we assess your current movement capabilities and build a programme specific to your current condition. We use this to better understand our clients movement requirements, we must first start with the basic movements that will construct the limits and requirements needed to train our clients safely.

Once we get our clients moving correctly, we then release them onto the gym floor with personalised training programme.

We offer a free 20 minute consultation and tour of the facility. Book now and get ready to experience the new benchmark for all gyms. ■

Tel: 07973634818 Email: mike@fitnessfactorycardiff.com www.fitnessfactorycardiff.com b The Fitness Factory Cardiff a @FFCTraining x fitnessfactorycardiff www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

BUSINESSINSIDER CARDIFF GETS SERIOUS

Principal Dr Griffiths and deputy head Mr Laity

Quote of the issue

“IT’S ABOUT DELIVERING A GREAT GUEST EXPERIENCE WITH AN INDEPENDENT SPIRIT” To find out more, see opposite

W

estbourne School in Penarth has been named as one of the National Schools of the Year in the Sunday Times Good School Guide.

The independent, co-educational school which caters for children aged two to 18, was named by the guide as the International Baccalaureate School of the Year 2019, the top performing school in Wales, and number three in the UK for A level (equivalent) results.

Alastair McCall, editor of Parent Power, the Sunday Times School Guide says, “A small school with a big regional draw around its base in Penarth, Westbourne lives up to its school motto of

academic excellence, providing an environment where children can thrive and succeed, while remaining small enough to ensure no child ever feels overlooked. It’s a great combination.”

Dr Gerard Griffiths, principal of Westbourne School says, “The International Baccalaureate lends itself to the idea we like to promote in education in the UK of global citizenship, it encourages students to bring down barriers between different countries and makes them more appreciative of other cultures. I think if we are going to encourage our young children to be global citizens, this is the ideal programme.”

For more: www.westbourneschool.com

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The number of young people supported through a training scheme by Radio Platfform. See opposite for the full story

Chairman of the board of the university’s governors, Ilora Findlay with Sian Summer-Rees, chief officer at City of Sanctuary UK

GET SCHOOLED High praise for Westbourne School

The Big Number

A SAFE SPACE Cardiff Metropolitan University has won a Sanctuary Award for its work to raise awareness of issues faced by asylum seekers and refugees, therefore becoming the first ‘University of Sanctuary’ in Wales

T

he award ceremony was hosted at the University’s Llandaff campus on 28 November, and was part of the City of Sanctuary Wales & South West Regional Gathering 2018.

Sanctuary awards are provided by the network of local groups and City of Sanctuary UK to recognise and celebrate mainstream

organisations’ commitment to providing a welcome and inclusivity to asylum seekers and refugees and enabling them to become active participants in the City of Sanctuary network. It is an opportunity to celebrate and share good practice as well as reflect on how practice can be improved.

For more: www.cardiffmet.ac.uk

For advice on every leading brand and model, from a leading independent family practice.

Scott Wroe and Jonathan Beeks offer appointments and consultations throughout the week so you have peace of mind knowing that if any problems arise we are here to help; we have the time and expertise to ensure you get the very best results from your hearing aid.

If you would like more information or would like to arrange an appointment, please contact us on:

02920 707760 or call into 10 Royal Buildings, Stanwell Road, Penarth, CF64 3ED. www.scottwroe-hearingcentre.co.uk

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INDEPENDENT

HEARING AID CENTRE & EARWAX REMOVAL CLINIC We provide a truly personal service and aftercare, all of which come with a competitive pricing structure and comprehensive aftercare service.

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

business insider

Hurry!

Nominations close 31 January!

Brand new The St David’s Hotel has been rebranded. voco, IHG’s new upscale brand, has made its Europe debut with the voco St David’s Cardiff (previously the Principal St David’s), hot on the heels of the brand’s first opening globally, voco Gold Coast in Australia earlier in November, Just five months after the brand was launched in June.

Russell Durnell, general manager at voco St

On air

David’s Cardiff says. “We are incredibly proud to be the first voco in the UK and the second in the world. voco is about delivering a great guest experience with an independent spirit.

The team is thrilled to be bring this new brand and service culture to life in Cardiff and look forward to welcoming guests, new and old, with our typical Welsh warmth.”

For more: www.vocohotels.com

Supporter of Radio Platfform Bethan Elfyn

Wales Millennium Centre’s youth-led radio station and training programme, Radio Platfform, has opened a second studio in their newly redesigned space, allowing more young people from across Wales to create their own unique sound, use their voice and broadcast live with daily shows.

Since launching in 2016, Radio Platfform has supported 55 young people aged 14 – 25 through an accredited six-week media training scheme in partnership with Promo Cymru.

Teaching them everything they need to know about presenting and producing a radio programme, as well as other important life and career skills, a team of young people are now skilled, confident and ready to manage the station themselves and start delivering daily shows from the second studio – broadcasting via wmc.org.uk/radioplatfform.

BBC Radio Wales Presenter, Bethan Elfyn, who is a supporter of the project and has helped former trainees with a masterclass and tours of the BBC Radio Studios, says, “It’s more than just a six-week workshop learning about presenting and producing a radio show. It’s also

about teaching young people life skills, boosting their confidence and giving them the tools they need, to fulfil their potential.”

The original Radio Platfform studio will continue to be used for accredited training, taster sessions and workshops at Wales Millennium Centre, running alongside the daily shows. And the studio also functions as a mobile unit, enabling the Radio Platfform team to deliver outreach sessions in both Welsh and English at schools, community groups and festivals.

For more: wmc.org.uk/radioplatfform

Not long to go…

Get Nominating!

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 65

© JAKE MORLEY

A room in the rebranded voco St David’s Cardiff

Nominations are in full flow for the 2019 Cardiff Life Awards, and the deadline for companies to enter is now less than a month away. Businesses are encouraged to get cracking on a strong nomination to ensure they’re ready in plenty of time.

The deadline for companies to nominate themselves for a prestigious Cardiff Life Award is looming: and it’s 31 January.

“There’s not long left to submit your nomination for the Cardiff Life Awards. Entering is your chance to evaluate your year and highlight your company’s achievements,” said Steph Dodd, events director at MediaClash. “Winning an award is highly beneficial for company profile, and serves as great recognition for teams and individuals who go the extra mile for your company. And sponsorship can be a powerful marketing tool too.”

In previous years tickets to the awards ceremony, held at City Hall, have been snapped up weeks in advance, with 400 attendees and dozens on the waiting list. Tickets are on track to sell out again, with limited sponsorships packages also available.

Businesses should put their best case forward as soon as possible if they wish to reap the benefits of winning an award on 21 March.

Winners receive coverage in Cardiff Life magazine, a hand-crafted trophy, window stickers to proudly display and two places at a special Winners’ Dinner – plus the long-lasting memory of an award-winning moment.

The 2019 Awards are set to be the most highlysupported yet, backed by headline sponsors Cardiff Airport, platinum sponsors Jelf, and an impressive list of category sponsors which includes: Cardiff BID, Capital FM, Genero, Park Plaza Cardiff, Savills, Robertson Solicitors, Chapel 1877, WSET and Hotel Indigo.

To become a sponsor and benefit from a highly targeted marketing campaign, contact Mark George on mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk.

Nominees are also encouraged to check the ‘12 Top Tips’ and ‘How To Win’ presentations on the awards site, which cover everything from what to include within a nomination to using social media as a supporting tool.

Nominations close on 31 January, and finalists are announced on 5 February.

For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

advertising feature

Meet the Family Lawyer The experts who can advise on all your family’s legal needs Benjamin Delve

Berry Smith LLP 02920 345511; www.berrysmith.com What drew you to the area of family law?

When studying law at university I wanted to be able to use what I had learnt to help people in a way that would have a personal, important, impact in their lives.

Practising family law allows me to do that.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

When a new client comes into the office, they often have a lot of questions and are unsure about what their options are. It is really satisfying to be able to inform, educate and advise them so that they can make those tough decisions with confidence.

What advice would you give someone considering a career in family law?

Work hard at school. Get some experience in a firm (with a lawyer who is passionate about this area of law). Make positive connections.

What is your biggest career accomplishment?

The family team is pleased to be back at the No 1 level in the Legal 500 (an independent guide to the top ranking law firms in the United Kingdom) for Family Law in South Wales. It was certainly a career highlight to be a part of the process to get the team where it is and for our excellent work to be recognised by the rankings.

What misconceptions do people have about your area of family law?

That it is all about divorce – it’s not. Whilst we do provide advice on divorce, family law covers the whole spectrum of legal matters flowing from family relationships.

We can be asked to advise on a wide range of subjects covering everything from cohabitation to surrogacy agreements, and disagreements about a child’s schooling to protection from harassment

Richard James Scott Howells Legal Ltd 02920 404018; www.howellslegal. co.uk/services/family-law

What are the most common issues that you deal with?

When you meet a client for the very first time, their immediate concerns and worries are often about the following matters:(1) The arrangements for any dependent children post separation or divorce; (2) Whether they or their spouse or partner will have to move out of the family home and; (3) Whether that property must be sold now or in the future and how each party would effectively meet their independent needs and re-house post separation or divorce; (4) In general terms, their financial security in the future; (5) How much it will cost to have their case dealt with and what is the likely timescale for it to be completed.

I always try to give my clients as much reassurance and detailed information as I

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

possibly can in that very first meeting with them. Although cases do evolve from time to time and circumstances do change, I am usually able to provide accurate estimates of costings and timescales at a very early stage together with a detailed overview of the process that lies ahead and the likely outcome in each particular case.

I think clients prefer, and in fact deserve, the honest and direct approach and to be given as much information about what lies ahead, including the potential pitfalls, as early as possible. Being informative but realistic at a very early stage with a client helps to manage expectations and assists a client to plan ahead effectively and weigh up their options before making any important decisions.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Meeting different people from all walks of life and tackling different family related problems. No two cases are ever the same. The best part is often the end result when you know that you’ve done a good job, your client is happy with the result and is very grateful to have come through an emotional rollercoaster and is in a very good place moving on with their lives.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Growing teams, promotions and prizes – it’s all happening in Cardiff’s businesses

Stephen Jones and Huw Bowden

Big birthday Bowden Jones Solicitors, celebrated 15 years in business on 1 October. Formed in 2003 by Stephen Jones and Huw Bowden, and starting with only three members of staff, the firm has gone from strength over the years.

The firm is currently ranked by Legal 500 as the No1 firm in Wales, in the area of fraud and white collar crime. Huw Bowden is ranked as the leading individual in this field and leads a team based in the head office, who represent clients throughout the country.

Stephen Jones, managing director at Bowden Jones Solicitors, says, “It is incredible to think that 15 years has passed since we launched Bowden Jones Solicitors out of a small office in Rumney, Cardiff. It has been an exciting journey and we are all very pleased and proud of the progress we’ve made.

“We have built a first class team of lawyers spanning a wide range of work types at Bowden Jones Solicitors since the firm was established, and recent additions to personnel and practice areas will help strengthen us further.”

Huw Bowden adds, “With the support of our hugely talented team and our loyal clients we intend to grow the business well into the future.

The practice is attracting work at a level where we easily compete with both national and regional firms and we will only get stronger.”

For more: www.bowdenjones.co.uk

Joanne O’Keefe

Adding to the jar Creative communications agency jamjar has expanded its team following a year of growth and diversification.

The Cowbridge-based agency has appointed Anna Jarvis to head up its creative division and Mari Makarov as visual content producer.

Anna joins the team from leading outdoor advertising agency JC Decaux in London where she worked with national brands including Comfort and Savse Smoothies.

Anna, who has a BA in creative digital media, will develop the agency’s creative offering, providing branding, design and digital support to its growing client base, which includes Techniquest, NHS Wales Informatics Service, Scouts Cymru and Greenaway Scott.

Mari joins the team having honed her video production and editing skills back in her native Estonia working with clients including luxury brand Chanel. With a first class degree in visual effects and motion graphics from the University of South Wales, at jamjar Mari will be responsible for creating visual content, such as photography, videos and motion graphics.

For more: www.jamjar.agency

Anna Jarvis and Mari Makarov

Getting with the programme An apprenticeships programme development manager for South East Wales has been appointed as part of a new team created to make it easier for employers to engage with the Welsh Government’s apprenticeships programme.

Joanne O’Keefe, from Cardiff is one of five members of the new National Training Federation for Wales apprenticeships team and is looking forward to the new challenge of engaging with employers and developing apprenticeship opportunities in South East Wales. The team’s mission is to increase the number of employers recruiting apprentices and using the apprenticeships programme to upskill their existing workforce. The team will also encourage the recruitment of young people into employment sectors of national or regional importance.

Funded by the Welsh Government with support from the European Social Fund, the team is working with employers and interested stakeholders across Wales.

For more: www.businesswales.gov.wales

College appointments

John Fisher and Manon Antoniazzi

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Continuing its ambitious plan for the development of its international opera training provision, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama has announced the appointment of John Fisher as the first artistic director of the David Seligman Opera School. John Fisher has been the Hodge International chair in opera at the college, and this new post is also generously funded by the Hodge Foundation A hugely respected and

experienced figure across the opera world, John is assistant general manager at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He will take up the post of artistic director of the David Seligman Opera School at the college in August.

• Manon Antoniazzi has been appointed to the RWCMD board of directors. Manon has an extensive background in leadership, strategy and communications, and a proven track record of creating successful partnerships within high

profile roles for organisations with international interests.

She is currently the chief executive and clerk of the National Assembly, responsible for ensuring that Assembly members are provided with the services and support they need to represent Wales and its people, and that the Assembly’s reputation is championed within Wales and beyond as an accessible and efficient democracy.

For more: www.rwcmd.ac.uk

business insider

Luke Heydenrych

Live action

Big chief Welsh top 20 law firm, CJCH Solicitors has expanded its senior leadership team to drive innovation and continuous improvement. A recent senior placement is Luke Heydenrych into the newly established role of chief of staff. More and more international organisations are introducing this strategic role to help cultivate the direction of their businesses and meet the needs of a dynamic global market. Luke joined the firm in 2016 within the software anti-piracy consultancy, and became the head of operations in 2017.

Previously a management consultant with global firm Accenture, Luke specialised in corporate strategy, communication and organisational efficiency. With an honours degree in industrial psychology, an honours degree in brand strategy, a graduate diploma in law from Cardiff University and currently undertaking a doctorate in law at Swansea University, Luke offers a diverse thought leadership as he embarks on his role to guide the strategic operations of the prominent CJCH group.

For more: www.cjchsolicitors.co.uk

Hannah Ferris

Orchard Entertainment, the live music arm of the Cardiff-based Orchard Media and Events Group triumphed once again in the UK Live Music Industry Awards, recognition as Regional Promoter of the Year for the third time in six years.

The awards were made at a gala event at London’s Radisson Blu Portman Hotel before a national music industry audience on 11 October. The awards followed the Live UK annual conference and networking event, in which Orchard director Pablo Janczur appeared on a panel. Pablo says, “It’s terrific to win this award for the third time, and shows what can be achieved in Wales. We have great support from the likes of Welsh Government, local authorities and venues in Wales, giving local people access to some of the country’s leading performers. I have a terrific team working with me in entertainment and across the group at Orchard, and they all share in this award.”

For more: www.orchardentertainment.co.uk

Legal mind

Pete Tong and The Heritage Orchestra at Cardiff Castle – one of Orchard Entertainment’s projects

The Cardiff office of Clarke Willmott LLP has appointed a new commercial property paralegal.

The new team member is Hannah Ferris and her arrival has taken the number of people working in the Cardiff office, which is headed by Vicky Kells, to 17.

Born and bred in Barry, Hannah graduated from the University of Reading in 2016 and worked for a local family law firm after her studies. She has now joined one of Cardiff’s fastest growing legal teams where she will support the property team while studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC).

For more: www.clarkewillmott.com

New growth

Mike Palmer

Cardiff-based communications agency, Station Rd, has marked its next phase of growth with a new senior appointment.

The integrated communications agency has appointed, Mike Palmer, as head of creative to lead on brand strategy, creative and campaign activation across the business as well as overseeing its growing creative team.

Mike brings with him more than

10 years’ experience working with a range of national and international brands including Mr Tom, NHS Wales, GoCompare and Sport Wales. His appointment comes at a crucial period of growth for the agency, as it announces a turnover increase of 88 per cent between 2017/2018 and has recently been appointed to the Gov.uk supplier roster for the next 12 months.

For more: www.stationrd.co.uk

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business insider Naomi Taylor, Catrin Jones and George Edwards

Talking your language Making plans Property company Savills has bolstered its specialist planning team in Cardiff with the appointment of Catrin Jones who has taken the role of associate director.

Catrin joins from Tidal Lagoon Plc, where she played a lead role in securing consent for the world’s first tidal lagoon power plant.

Catrin joins the Cardiff Infrastructure team, working with director Will Ryan, who is deployed full-time on the Wylfa Nuclear project, and associate director, Gwenllian Elias, who joined Savills earlier this year. Gwenllian joined from from Innogy Renewables, where she led several major renewable energy schemes including the 33MW Mynydd y Gwair wind farm, which is now on site.

Catrin’s appointment in Cardiff follows the recruitment of graduate, George Edwards, who has relocated to Cardiff from London, where he spent 12 months at Savills UK head office. George, who graduated from Cardiff University last year, holds a Masters in apatial planning and development and is supporting the team on several projects, including the new arena in Swansea.

The expansion of the Cardiff team to 14 planning specialists comes as planner, Naomi Taylor, is promoted to senior planner. Her promotion is in recognition of her significant contribution to the delivery of retail and residential schemes across Wales and the UK. For more: www.savills.co.uk

Wales’ largest creative communications agency has made a key strategic appointment to boost its bilingual offer for clients.

Golley Slater has created a new role – head of Welsh content – and has welcomed Gweirydd Ioan Davies to the 70-strong team based in Cardiff.

Gweirydd, who has more than six years’ experience working within the Welsh educational and broadcast industries, will oversee the development of all Welsh language marketing and communications content that is created within the agency, from social media content and film to TV and radio campaigns.

Formerly social media lead at broadcaster S4C and marketing and communications manager at Welsh for Adults, Gweirydd will be working on a variety of pan-Wales and national brands, ensuring that all content adheres to the promise within the Welsh Government’s Welsh Language Standards, that the Welsh language will be treated on a par with English.

For more: www.golleyslatercardiff.co.uk

Gweirydd Ioan Davies

Scott Sanders

Taking action One of Wales’s leading housing chiefs has been elected as the new chairman of the tobacco control action charity ASH Wales.

Scott Sanders, CEO of Linc-Cymru Housing Association, has been appointed by the trustees in recognition of his excellent leadership skills and shared ambition to improve the quality of lives across Wales.

One in five of all Welsh adults still smoke and smoking kills more than 5,000 people in Wales every year.

Scott brings 20 years of business experience in the housing and social care sectors to the role.

For more: www.ash.wales

Judi Rhys

Leading the team Cancer Research Wales has appointed its first chief executive.

Judi Rhys will take up the role this month, and will be based at the charity’s offices at Velindre Cancer Centre.

Judi is currently chief executive of the British Liver Trust and previously held the same role at Arthritis Care. She is a non-executive director of Public Health Wales and Sport Wales and has postgraduate qualifications in health promotion, management, education and executive coaching. Judi achieved an ACEVO Fellowship award in 2015 and won the Third Sector Fundraising Team of the Year in 2016.

For more: www.cancerresearchwales.co.uk

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

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BUSINESS INSIDER

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS 2018 FOX AND HOUNDS

There’s nothing better than a good gastropub, and there’s no better gastropub than the Fox and Hounds, winner of the 2018 Cardiff Life Award for best gastropub. General manager Rhiannon CurtisDobson tells us more So how did it feel to win a Cardiff Life Award?

We were delighted, if not a bit shocked, to win Best Gastropub at the Cardiff Life Awards. It was an honour to be recognised for our work, and also to be able to share the win with other great businesses in and around the city.

GASTROPUB WINNER

our guest bedrooms and repaint the exterior of the pub.

SPONSORED BY

What’s the best thing about working there?

Feeling part of the local community – we are a proper village pub – and leading a small but enthusiastic team.

If I come to the Fox and Hounds, what should I order, and why?

Why do you think the Fox and Hounds won?

This is a hard one…. For these cold winter nights I would definitely recommend our pork, apricot and chestnut scotch egg with spiced plum ketchup to start, followed by eight hour braised featherblade of beef with braised red cabbage and red wine jus, with our gingerbread and vanilla cheesecake with clementine sorbet to finish. And for a quick supper, our beer battered fish and triple cooked chips and our homemade ice creams are always hugely popular.

For our commitment to producing high quality food, using local produce and making everything from scratch. And for the friendliness of our team, and the welcoming atmosphere we create.

When did you join the Fox and Hounds team?

My husband Jim (head chef) and I took over the running of the Fox and Hounds in February 2017. The pub is owned by Coach House Inns, a small pub group who purchased the Fox and Hounds in July 2016.

What plans are there for the Fox and Hounds?

To continue growing the business by changing our menus and drinks regularly to keep the sparkle there.

Little by little we are continuing to update elements of the pub, for example, in 2019 we will upgrade

What advice would you give someone looking to go into the hospitality sector?

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever been given?

“THE BEST THING IS FEELING PART OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY”

I studied hospitality management at Cardiff Metropolitan University many years ago, and I remember my lecturer saying to me to ‘never give up’. The average hospitality working week is very long so it’s important to use all the great customer feedback you receive as motivation to keep going.

The hospitality sector covers many areas so I would always advise people to specialise in an area that they feel most passionate about.

And don’t be afraid to start at the bottom and work your way up.

Some of the best managers I have ever worked with started out as kitchen porters or waiting staff.

What do you love most about being in Cardiff?

Cardiff is my home city and is where I went to uni and had my first hospitality jobs. I have been lucky enough to work around the world but I have gravitated back to my hometown to be near my family and friends. I love the fact that it’s a relatively small city where it’s easy to get to know people. I honestly don’t think there is a nation more patriotic than us Welshies!

Tell us your favourite bit Fox and Hounds trivia …

We sponsored the Llancarfan village annual duck race, where rubber ducks are ‘raced’ down the river that runs past the pub.

For more: www.fandhllancarfan.co.uk

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business insider Retailer WINNER

Paperclip

Paperclip’s innovative business idea certainly caught the eye of the judges at the 2018 Cardiff Life Awards. Paperclip’s CEO and founder Rich Woolley tells us more about the company which scooped the prize for best retailer you’ll be more upset about the things that you didn’t do than the things you did do; take some risks, life is short.’

What plans are there for Paperclip?

Our vision for Paperclip is to empower students of all situations by helping them to save money directly. For example, if you’re a fashion design student it can be a commercial outlet for your work – if you’re a PhD Maths student it can be a place where you advertise your tutoring services, and so on.

What’s the best thing about working at Paperclip

For anyone who doesn’t know, can you tell us a bit about what Paperclip does?

Paperclip is the UK’s leading provider of student marketplaces; we enable thousands of students to buy, sell and swap their goods/services with each other on campus. We have 30 universities signed up, including Oxford, Cambridge and UCL. So how did it feel to win a Cardiff Life Award?

It was a surreal feeling – it was our first ever award win! It lifted the entire team to know that what we’re doing is making a difference, and that people are starting to notice and appreciate the huge effort that we’ve all put in.

Why do you think Paperclip won?

I was pleasantly surprised because of the stature of the other nominees; I think we might have won because we’re becoming more established and are now adding value to thousands of lives on a weekly basis. We also

contribute to putting Cardiff on the tech startup map, and work extensively with Welsh universities like Cardiff Metropolitan and Swansea.

How did Paperclip come about?

Paperclip goes way back to when my co-founder and I were at university together. We had two very successful businesses while studying and living together, however we always felt that we struggled to get our products in front of a student audience – even at our own university!

Now it gives us pleasure every day to know that we’re empowering students to start businesses and make money while studying. From selling an old bike to creating your own business account to sell a product or service, Paperclip can help you achieve that.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever been given?

Probably the best piece of advice I’ve received would be; ‘when you look back on your life at the age of 60,

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The best thing about Paperclip for me is working alongside some highly intelligent, capable and determined people – both within our team, our partners, and our clients. There’s a real buzz about going into the office every day, we’re all pulling in the same direction and we’ve all put in the hours to make Paperclip a success. Winning the Cardiff Life award was a hugely motivating factor; to be recognized for our efforts and the good work we’re doing was incredibly rewarding.

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this sector?

For someone attempting to build a marketplace I’d say; start with a niche or a particular vertical, and focus on design before development. From my experience, every pound that you spend on design will save you 10

“it lifted the entire team to know that what we are doing is making a difference”

pounds on development.

Additionally: always consider whether you’re actually solving a problem adequately or overengineering a solution; ask as many potential customers as possible and take their feedback on board at every stage of the journey; concept, design, prototyping and development.

What do you love most about being in Cardiff?

Having previously lived and worked in London, I can safely say that moving Paperclip to Cardiff was the best decision I’ve made both for the business and my own personal wellbeing.

The startup scene is fantastic here.

Everyone is so helpful and accessible – people want to help each other!

There is a ton of support offered by both public and private organisations; we’ve received investment from the Development Bank of Wales, had £20,000 worth of accounting, legal, PR and other services from the Accelerated Growth Programme, and received a 50 per cent salary rebate on two members of staff thanks to Jobs Growth Wales. We’re even based in the most expensive office space in Wales – One Central Square – completely for free as part of the NatWest Accelerator. I’m now a four minute walk to work instead of a 55 minute tube journey and the difference is incredible.

Tell us your favourite bit of Paperclip trivia …

A lot of people ask us about the origin of our name, and why we chose ‘Paperclip’ for the marketplace. It was actually inspired by a Canadian called Kyle MacDonald, who swapped and bartered his way from a single red paperclip to a house in a series of 14 online trades. Over the course of a year, he traded a snowmobile, a recording contract and even an afternoon with Alice Cooper before finally securing a two-story farmhouse!

For more: www.paperclip.co

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Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful...

Get moving Your expert guide to moving home

By Charlie Rose

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

I

t all sounds so straightforward, doesn’t it? ‘Moving house’. Really, it should be called ‘Feeling the tectonic plates of your life shifting terrifyingly beneath your feet’. From that first scroll through Rightmove, to unpacking the final box a year later, finding a matchbox of unidentified baby teeth at the bottom, and bursting into tears, the process of relocating from one home to another is as traumatic as it is exciting.

We can’t make your moving day perfect, but we can make it a little bit easier with the help of some experienced local experts, who’ve seen all this a hundred times before.

Anyway, congratulations on your new home!

Don’t forget which box the corkscrew’s in...

What do estate agents do that people can’t do themselves with Rightmove and a solicitor?

Don’t underestimate the value of a good estate agent.They handle so much communication and have those awkward conversations that people don’t like to have or, if I am honest,

property As a vendor, how can you tell if someone’s a serious buyer or just sightseeing?

If your agent is a professional company they will be able to provide you with all the information you will need to have to ensure you have serious buyers over your door step.

Ask your agent what position the buyers are in, find out if they are selling a house and through which estate agent. Ask if they are local and if they have already seen the house from the outside. Most genuine buyers will complete a drive by first. If they are local buyers ask if they have viewed with your agent before. If they have, your agent should have a good idea as to what type of house they are really looking for, and that should ensure no wasted viewings. A good agent will also phone you within 24 hours with clear and honest feedback which is always very useful.

David Lovitt; head of PA Black

meet The experts Andrea Gardner Sales director, Waterstone Homes; www.waterstonehomes.com

David Lovitt Head of PA Black; www.pablack.co.uk

John Moore CHCJ Solicitors, solicitor – conveyancing and private client www.cjchsolicitors.co.uk

Julie Miles Conveyancer and chartered legal executive at CJCH Solicitors; www.cjchsolicitors.co.uk

Mark Hobbs Managing director, Howells Solicitors; www.howellslegal.com

can’t have, but think they can. Customers can be guilty of only looking at their own circumstances, which is completely understandable. They cannot appreciate the bigger picture of balancing the temperamental complications of the chain and, even when there is no chain, there can still be so many outside influences. I often think of agents a bit like counsellors and, while I see them smile, I know that often they are trying to work out how to untangle as many knots as possible, as calmly and professionally as possible.

Andrea Gardner; sales director, Waterstone Homes What’s the etiquette at open houses; how do you beat the other prospective buyers?

Open houses are very popular now so ensuring you are fully financially prepared gives you the best chance of securing your dream home. Ensure you have clear confirmation of funds ready to supply to the estate agent; even provide this information before your viewing to ensure you are top of the list of hot buyers. If you are a first time buyer ensure you have a mortgage in principle document or an Agreement in Principle (AIP) – your mortgage consultant will provide you with this information. If you are a second time buyer with a mortgage, ensure you have the same but also contact details for your agent, clear chain information and, if you are a cash buyer, then either arrange to have a letter from your solicitor confirming you are a cash buyer or a copy of a statement identifying clear funds from your bank or building society. If you feel the property is worth the asking price then offer it! Too many buyers lose out because of being too cautious.

David Lovitt; head of PA Black

We’ve got an offer on our house, but nowhere to move to. Should we rent while we look?

One half of me says, no don’t rent as you will lose money this way. The other half says, if you can sell your house for the price you want and can be chain free, you’re more likely to get the house of your dreams – but you have to factor in the rent costs and many forget this. It will eat into your deposit if you don’t budget wisely.

I am a great believer in a ‘let’s-get-it-done attitude’ so decide what you want to sell your house for, decide on what you want and go and get it. At Waterstone Homes we can offer part exchange on most of our homes, so we spare our clients a lot of the stresses that come from being in a chain.

Andrea Gardner; sales director, Waterstone Homes

“Don’t underestimate the value of a good estate agent” Renting is always an option and many vendors do this. The advantages are clear.

Firstly when you find a suitable property, your new buying position, as a vendor who has sold and completed and living in rented accommodation will put you in a very strong position when offering. If it’s a popular property you will have the best chance of securing it because you are not in a chain.

By breaking a chain and going into rented you will also take a lot of pressure away from your home move. After all, trying to synchronise a sale and purchase is no easy feat, and if you have ever had a bad experience in selling to a pedantic buyer, without a house purchase linked you can ensure you keep total control.

Renting however does not come without

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certain risks. If the market starts to unexpectedly rise, you could find yourself being left behind. After all once you have completed you can’t go back to your buyer and ask for more money. If you are looking for a very special and unique home, this may take a long time to find and renting is expensive.

David Lovitt; head of PA Black Conveyancing – what exactly is it and can I do it myself?

Conveyancing is the process whereby a property changes hands in the UK. The role of the conveyancer is very wide reaching.

In a purchase this entails checking that the title deeds at HM Land Registry are in order, submitting searches to make sure that there are no redevelopment plans, raising enquiries about extensions, alterations etc… and dealing with any requirements of your mortgage lender.

In theory, if you are buying a property for cash you could attempt to undertake the legal work yourself. However, in our opinion this would be most unwise. An average property price in the UK is £226,000 so the risks of doing something wrong are very significant.

Conveyancing fees are competitive and provide a customer with complete piece of mind and full insurance so that the buyer has complete confidence that their new dream home is just that as opposed to being a nightmare.

Mark Hobbs; managing director, Howells Solicitors Why do I need a survey?

A house will likely be the most expensive thing a person ever buys so it’s extra important to make sure that there are no hidden problems.

A survey will check the structure of the property as well as a range of other issues so that you are fully aware of any issues that exist.

A mortgage company’s valuation survey is usually only very basic so it is always a good idea to get a homebuyer’s survey undertaken.

John Moore; CHCJ, solicitor – conveyancing and private client

are used to receiving a high volume of calls and emails as very often all that is needed is for someone to alleviate the client’s concerns.

Mark Hobbs; managing director, Howells Solicitors You shouldn’t worry about getting on your solicitor’s nerves – at the end of the day you are their client, you’re paying the bill. A good solicitor will want to build that relationship and give you confidence. It’s fine to call them daily, but only if necessary. Sometimes you may feel that you need to drive your solicitor to do what is required in the necessary timeframe so don’t be shy, say what you want, when you want it.

Andrea Gardner; sales director, Waterstone Homes

“A good solicitor will want to build that relationship and give you confidence” How often can I call my solicitor without getting on their nerves?

Most successful conveyancing companies will operate on a fixed fee basis. Some will attempt to charge by the hour or for phone calls and emails. You should carefully check the terms and conditions of the business to ensure that you are not faced with any unexpected changes at the end of the case. We recognise buying a home can be a worrying time and accordingly we understand that our clients will want to contact us in a regular basis. To that end we

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I’m thinking of downsizing.

Can I gift my children money from the sale of the larger home without them having to pay any tax?

You can gift money to your children from the sale of your home and such gifts would potentially be exempt regarding the transfer.

During that seven year period, your gift is known as a ‘potentially exempt transfer’ or PET. If you do not survive the gift by seven years, the exemption fails and the PET is counted as part of your estate, and is subject to inheritance tax. As long as following the gift you survive for seven years your children will not have to pay any tax on the gift.

Mark Hobbs; managing director, Howells Solicitors

First time buying

If you’re a first-time buyer the whole house-buying process can seem more than a bit daunting.

Here, Julie Miles, a conveyancer and chartered legal executive at CJCH Solicitors, offers her advice on ensuring your buying experience helps you unlock the door to home sweet home Instruct a Solicitor You’ve found your dream home and your offer has been accepted, so the first step is to instruct a solicitor.

It is often better to instruct a solicitor that has been recommended to you by family or friends, who will put your interests first, rather than a firm suggested by the agent who is likely to have a referral arrangement with them.

Ask the solicitor to provide an estimate at the outset of the costs and disbursements (costs paid to third parties on your behalf) so you can budget accordingly.

Respond as quickly as possible to any information requested by your solicitor and agree with them a realistic preferred timescale at the outset.

property Funding Unless you have an impressive savings account, then the next step will be to obtain confirmation of funding and a mortgage.

You may have a financial advisor who can source the best deal for your circumstances, if not, most major lenders are on hand to help.

It is important that you provide your advisor or lender with the most accurate information from the start to avoid any delays later down the line. Most lenders are able to issue an offer within 21 days.

If you have saved in a Help to Buy Isa account your lawyer will arrange for the government bonus to be paid to them on completion. But ensure your solicitor is informed so they can advise you when to close the account in readiness for completion.

What you see is what you buy The property will be sold “as it stands” and whilst it may look wonderful to you, you would not wish to discover any nasty surprises once you have moved in.

For this reason, it is advisable to arrange a survey. This can either be done alongside the funding application or independently. This will be an additional cost but will provide you with a qualified surveyor’s report of the property, highlighting any urgent repair work.

A survey may also reveal excessive repair work, and if the seller is not willing to negotiate on price, you may be forced to withdraw your offer.

These common issues frequently face firsttime buyers and impact on the average six to eight-week timescale provided.

Why would it take so long?

Your solicitor will check the title deeds to the property, carrying out searches and enquiries to ensure that you buy a good and marketable property title.

A title proves that you own the property and no-one else has the right to purchase this.

This is a title that you will be able to sell without difficulty in future. This will also be the requirement of your lender.

Often there are problems with the title – perhaps the plan is wrong, a deed is missing, there is no right of way to the front door, the correct planning permissions were not obtained - the list is endless.

Common delays tend to be caused by waiting for answers to pre-contract enquires. This could be due to solicitors on the other side not responding promptly, or they are not receiving the information needed from their clients to respond.

These sorts of issues and the proposed solutions will be drawn to your attention as soon as they are noticed.

If there is a title defect, initially the seller’s solicitors will be asked to solve it. This can cause a delay as the involvement of third parties may need to be introduced to resolve the defect.

There can also be delays in the chain. Perhaps someone doesn’t want to move until a certain date or perhaps a buyer at the top of the chain is having difficultly arranging a mortgage or has had an adverse survey, forcing them to withdraw which will have a knock on effect for the chain below.

These delays are not unusual and it is important for buyers to have realistic expectations following the advice of their lawyer who will work to ensure the process runs as efficiently as possible.

It is important to be prepared for such matters, to avoid disappointment if intended timescales are significantly altered.

Whatever happens being prepared and flexible when it comes to this process really is key. Things can, and sometimes will go wrong, but most things can be resolved by a legal expert.

FIrst time FAQs

I’m a first time buyer – what’s the most useful piece of advice you can give me?

Plan ahead carefully. Make a list of all the things you need both financially and logistically and be sure to ask lots of questions to the professionals advising you as well as family and friends. There’s no such thing as a silly question so don’t be afraid to ask as the better informed you are the less stressful the experience will be!

John Moore; CHCJ Solicitors, solicitor – conveyancing and private client I am a young, first time buyer, single with no children, who has just completed on my first home. Is this the point at which to make my first will?

Everyone should have a will so you shouldn’t just wait until you have bought your first home but if you don’t have one then this would be the ideal time to make one. If you were to die without having a will your house and assets would pass under the rules of intestacy which set out who will benefit if you don’t have a will. This means that your assets may not pass how you would want them to so it is very important to have a will that clearly sets out how you want your assets to be shared and who you would like to nominate as the person to sort everything out (the executor) John Moore; CHCJ Solicitors, solicitor – conveyancing and private client

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advertising feature

Financial matters in divorce proceedings REBECCA OAKLEY FAMILY LAW can help you move onwards after a relationship breakdown

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ewspapers often report sensational facts about divorce settlements between multimillionaires but what about the average couple getting a divorce? It’s much more likely that the money available to be shared between a couple divorcing isn’t as much as both would like to have to spend. This is why it is crucial to get competent legal advice at the start of your divorce not near the end so that you have an idea about realistic outcomes which are likely to be available to you and your ex. There are some cases which require urgent legal action to protect an asset or ensure a spouse is not left without money to live on. An experienced family law specialist solicitor

will be able to advise you about this.

You may wonder how you even begin dealing with the finances and whether you have to involve the court at all. The starting point is to try and get a clear picture of the financial situation of both people in the marriage. Once that is established, whether by a voluntary exchange of information or one the court has timetabled, negotiations can begin. The court can be involved in several different ways: being invited to approve whatever you both agree, to shepherd the provision of financial information or to make a final order in the absence of an agreement.

You should always be encouraged to try and reach an agreement ahead of the court determining it but sometimes it is necessary to

bring the court on board.

Mediation and other forms of dispute resolution are also available should you wish to make use of them. We at Rebecca Oakley Family Law support the use of mediation where appropriate.

If you would like to speak to one of us about this, or any any other issue, then please contact us on 02920 532888 or by email at info@oakleyfamilylaw. com or by post at 5 Washington Chambers, Stanwell Road, Penarth, CF64 2AF and we will do our best to help you with your enquiry.

www.pablack.co.uk Prestige homes from Peter Alan

Briameadow Drive Thornhill ÂŁ565,000 EPC = C pa black Llanishen 02920 618552

Detached five bedroom residence in truly stunning private position, set back with fenced front gardens and a gated pillar entrance.

26ft x 17ft lounge, 16ft sitting room, 25ft kitchen & breakfast room, down stairs cloak room, utility room.

Ensuite dressing room, three bathrooms.

Unique family home. Idylic loaction, simply unique.

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Duffryn Avenue, Cyncoed ÂŁ585,000 EPC = E pa black Albany Road 02920 462246

Detached three bedroom house of character, fronting charming tree lined road, walking distance to scenic Roath Park lake.

27ft through lounge and dining room, 14ft study/snug, 17ft stylish quality german hacker kitchen & breakfast room. Stunning family bathroom.

Stylish contemporary shower room, gas heating, pvc double glazing, large and lovely rear gardens with lawns and two patios, many elegant period features.

Cardiff high school catchment, attic room, entrance drive.

Empire state of mind A contemporary apartment in the iconic Empire House

By Charlie Rose

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f you love the idea of a period property, but want all the comfort and convenience of a modern home, then this luxurious duplex apartment in an historic building in Cardiff Bay might be just what you’re looking for.

Originally built by Cardiff architects Percy Thomas and Ivor Jones in 1926, Empire House was the vision of commander Charles E Evans, chairman of Evans and Reid, one of the largest coal exporters in Wales. It became an iconic landmark within Mount Stuart Square, gained Grade II-listed status and in 2014 it was converted into 37 luxury apartments.

The communal entrance still retains the same luxury and grandeur that Empire House has had since day one, with ornate mouldings, mahogany panelling and a refurbished period life with exposed workings providing a stunning centrepiece.

You’ll have no need for the lift however if you choose to make this apartment your home, as it’s conveniently

property

located on the ground floor.

While the entrance hall might be a homage to the building’s history however, the apartment is the very definition of contemporary living.

On the ground floor of this two-level treat is an open plan living/dining/kitchen area with a dramatic double height ceiling. The kitchen is well equipped with plenty of storage space and built-in appliances including an oven, hob, dishwasher and fridge/freezer, and the gleaming black granite work surfaces are a seriously stylish touch.

French doors lead out from the open plan living area to a private paved terrace which has plenty of space for al fresco entertaining when the fine weather returns, and there’s even the additional luxury of a hot tub.

There’s a large double bedroom, complete with fitted wardrobes, on this floor too, and a bathroom, complete with a tub, for when you fancy a relaxing soak.

The first floor is reached via the modern spiral

staircase in chrome and perspex situated in the entrance hall of the apartment.

Upstairs is the master bedroom, which again comes with oodles of storage space thanks to fitted wardrobes, and a second beautifully finished bathroom – this one with a shower.

In the mezzanine there’s a generous space which is currently being used as a dressing room, but which could easily become a third bedroom if you need some extra sleeping space for all the guests that will undoubtedly be clamouring to visit your stylish new abode.

Apart from the chic accommodation on offer, this home comes with a host of other benefits including an on-site concierge, a storage cage on the lower ground floor, and allocated gated parking. Not to mention, of course, it’s fabulous location with the bars and restaurants of Cardiff Bay, as well as the world-class Wales Millennium Centre right on the doorstep, and Cardiff city centre just a short jaunt away. n

House numbers 3 Empire House, Mount Stuart Square, Cardiff Bay CF10 5LR Guide price £365,000 Bedrooms 2/3 Reception Rooms 1 Bathrooms 2 Terrace 1 For more: Savills, 5th Floor, 2 Kingsway, Cardiff CF10 3FD; www.savills.co.uk

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CARDIFF LIVES

“The Queen is so little and cute” door and asked a French lady to book me a taxi to Pontarddulais.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Wayne Courtney The Cardiff entertainer talks karaoke, ketchup phobias and why he thinks the Queen is cute I am Wayne Courtney. I’m 44 years old. Originally from Swansea but been living in Cardiff 12 years and I’m part of the ‘Wyburn & Wayne’ duo.

What is your job? How long have you been doing it?

I’m what you call a “Jack Of All Trades” and probably a master of none. I’ve been a gravedigger, an office clerk and a support worker to name just a few. For the last four years my full time job has been being one half of ‘Wyburn & Wayne’ with my sidekick Nathan Wyburn – we host events, do a radio show, vlog, blog and now write a column for Cardiff Life.

How do you like to spend your free time?

What’s that? Haha! If I get any spare time I like to go see my family in Swansea. I have three nephews and they are so much fun and very naughty, I love spending time with them.

Where in Cardiff do you live and what makes it special?

I live in Roath and I adore it.

It’s such a beautiful part of the city. There are great parks, lovely independent shops and a fantastic selection of restaurants.

Plus the people in Roath are really friendly.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Probably being invited to Buckingham Palace for the charity work I do. I love the Royals and getting so close to the Queen was surreal. She’s so little and cute.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

I don’t get embarrassed often, probably cause I’m always doing something silly. If I had to pick one time I really felt ashamed it would probably be the time I got really drunk and forgot I was in France and knocked on a farm

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Any eighties music, or old school disco. Toto, Kim Wild, Madonna are all oldies but goodies that get the endorphins pumping again.

Now this is a tough one! I once met Joanna Lumley and she was great – I was mesmerised by her tales so she’d be brilliant. I’d also invite the Welsh actor/TV presenter Stifyn Parri because he has all the best gossip. Cher – now she’d have some tales to tell – and if Cher is at the table then Trump would have to come as well because I love trouble. Ab Fab, gossip and fights equals a perfect dining experience.

What’s your favourite piece of clothing?

When did you last cry, and why?

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

Watching Bohemian Rhapsody. It was an emotional rollercoaster.

Freddie Mercury was an incredible entertainer with a fascinating and sad life story.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

I’d like to say Johnny Depp or Brad Pitt but that would never happen. Maybe Matt Damon with a lot of padding and prosthetics...

C’mon if Robin Williams could play Mrs Doubtfire Matt can play me, right?

What job would you be terrible at?

I couldn’t work in fast food. I have a phobia of ketchup What’s on your bookshelf at the moment?

My bookshelf is full of art and photography books but I rarely have time to read these days.

Who’s your celebrity crush?

I’ve never had celebrity crushes, I’m more likely to stop a complete stranger in the street and tell them “OMG you’re beautiful.”

A gold and silver sequin jacket I’ve just bought. It’s insanely OTT and I love it.

If you have a spare five minutes in the day, what are you likely to fill it with?

I’ll FaceTime my mum. I always want to know what the family is up to.

I can barely remember last week let alone 40 odd years ago but I do remember always being around family and grandparents.

I loved catching the bus to Llanelli with my gran – she would always treat me.

Favourite places to eat/drink and shop in Cardiff?

There are so many amazing restaurants in Roath so I’m spoilt for choice but I do love the Madeira Portuguese restaurant in the city centre and it’s usually followed by a good drink in The Golden Cross.

Tell us about a secret/ underrated Cardiff spot we might not be aware of…

Cardiff is full of great festivals and venues that you stumble upon and instantly love. One of the nicest thing to do is the open air theatre festival every year in Sophia gardens. I also love The Look Out Cafe Bar in Cardiff Bay. It’s got great views and is away from all the busy bars.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

We’d better let you get on….

What are you doing as soon as you’ve done this?

Which piece of music would you put on at the end of a trying day?

www.facebook.com/ WyburnAndWayne

Riverdale on Netflix. It’s so bad it’s good. At the end of each episode I question my sanity but I love it.

I’m about to go out and host a karaoke at The Golden Cross with Nathan, we do it every Wednesday. n