Cardiff Life - Issue 206

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 206 / AUGUST 2019 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

@CardiffLifeMag

OUTSIDE FAVOURITES

ISSUE 206 / AUGUST 2019 / PRIDE OF CARDIFF

WITH CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD

HOW TO WORK YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

WALK THIS WAY

GOING COCONUTS

EXPLORE CARDIFF’S CELEBRATED ARCADES

FINE DINING THE SRI LANKAN WAY

PRIDE OF PLACE LOOKING BACK AT 20 BEAUTIFUL YEARS OF PRIDE CYMRU

TRUE COLOURS

SHOP THE RAINBOW

PLUS HOLIDAY WITH ANDREA BYRNE / PARTY WITH WYBURN & WAYNE / CHAT WITH CLAIRE SUMMERS

EDITOR’S LETTER

T

here are so many things we can be proud of in Cardiff. The people, the Arcades, the spirit, the humour, the cafes, the restaurants, the entrepreneurial spirit, our incredible venues that attract the best talent in the world, it’s a long list…! But we can also be proud of Pride.

Pride Cymru has existed for 20 years in the city as an event, and forever as a way of life.

On page 28 we learn about the history of this inclusive, beautiful, vibrant, diverse, warm-hearted and good-natured celebration of LGBT+.

We also pay homage to the rainbow, which has come to represent the joy of life and acceptance, on our Ed’s Choice, page 40.

Strengthening this theme is our lovely interview with Strictly judge and soon to be Annie star at the Wales Millennium Centre, Craig Revel Horwood. He talks eloquently, frankly and movingly about the difficulties growing up in rural Australia while wanting to be a dancer, and his take now on love, life and maybe even being a dad himself one day. It’s a beautiful read and suits this beautiful issue.

M

ae cynifer o bethau y gallwn fod yn falch ohonynt yng Nghaerdydd. Pobl y ddinas, ei harcedau, ei naws, ei hiwmor, ei chaffis, ei bwytai, parodrwydd ei phobl i fentro, ein canolfannau anhygoel sy’n denu goreuon y byd...mae’r rhestr yn un hir! Ond gallwn hefyd fod yn falch o Pride. Mae Pride Cymru yn bodoli yn y ddinas ers 20 mlynedd fel digwyddiad, a bydd yn bodoli am byth fel ffordd o fyw. Ar dudalen 28 rydym yn dysgu am hanes y dathliad cynhwysol, hyfryd, bywiog, amrywiol, twymgalon a hwyliog hwn o bobl LHDT+. Rydym hefyd yn rhoi teyrnged i’r enfys, sydd erbyn hyn wedi dod yn symbol o ddathlu bywyd a derbyn pobl, yn newis y golygydd ar dudalen 40.

Mae ein cyfweliad bendigedig ag un o feirniaid Strictly a fydd yn serennu cyn bo hir yn Annie yng Nghanolfan y Mileniwm, sef Craig Revel Horwood, yn ategu thema’r rhifyn hwn.

Mae’n siarad yn huawdl, yn agored ac yn deimladwy am yr anawsterau a wynebodd wrth gael ei fagu mewn ardal © IL wledig yn Awstralia ac yntau am OV ES TH fod yn ddawnsiwr. Mae’n sôn hefyd E‘ DI am ei deimladau ynghylch cariad a FF bywyd ac ynghylch bod yn dad ei hun ryw ddiwrnod efallai. Mae’n erthygl hyfryd sy’n gwbl addas i’r rhifyn hyfryd hwn.

SARAH MOOLLA

Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

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

Contemporary, luxury apartments to let in a stunning Victorian property in the heart of the Capital.

AVAILABLE TO LET FROM 1ST AUGUST 2019

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6 open plan offices.

1-48 CHURCHILL VILLAS CARDIFF | CF10 2EA

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Issue 206/ August 2019 Cover Celebrating 20 years of Pride Cymru on page 28

feature

12 arcades Meet those who make Cardiff’s unique

arcades such a special and inspiring place

28 pride cymru A look back at 20 years of Pride

the arts

19 INTRO Celebrating the body beautiful with Morning

Glory by Ian Cook

20 WHAT’S ON Arts, gigs, shows and comedy, it’s all

going on in Cardiff

24 one to one Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood talks

dancing, babies, and his new role in Annie

34

12

food & DRINK

34 RESTAURANT Going nuts for The Coconut Tree

shopping

39 intro A Miss Havisham cake to be super proud of 40 Editor’s choice It’s a rainbow country special

lifestyle

45 outside living Expert advice on making your

outdoor space something special

Business

51 business insights News, views and interviews

with the region’s professionals

57 CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS Catching up with Retail

winners Pugh’s Garden Village

Property

62 showcase Explore Millford Lodge, a family home

with flair

Regulars

8 sPOTLIGHT Upbeat stories from our upbeat city 31 wYBURN & WAYNE The boys are back in town 46 scene Party on Cardiff people!

66 CARDIFF lives Shooting the breeze with BBC

Radio Wales’ Claire Summers

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@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 Samantha Walker, Louisa Hunt, Sally Land, Andrea Byrne, Sheri Hall, Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney, Sophia DeCarlos, Tirza Kreuwel and John Mather Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Kate Butterfield kate. butterfield@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 5

spotlight Claire Lawrie and Andy Polaris, director and cast member from Beyond There’s Always a Black Issue Dear which won the Best British Short award at Iris 2018

Roller derby

GO GET ‘EM TIGER!

A new BBC documentary called Hell on Wheels will tell the tale of Cardiff’s Tiger Bay Brawlers, a roller derby team, as they compete in the European Continental Championships. And what emerges is a fast-paced celebration of the fastest growing sport in Europe and reveals a cultural phenomenon that provides a safe place for women of all shapes, sizes and gender orientations to express themselves.

Laura Kemp of the Tiger Bay Brawlers says, “When we started this journey we didn’t know what to expect other than we wanted to share our experience of roller derby with

the wider community. To have our friendships, our highs and lows and the hard work as amateur athletes that we put into our sport captured in such a beautiful and moving documentary means more than words can say. We know roller derby can change the world, now everyone else will be able to see that too.”

The film’s director Toby Cameron adds, “The Tiger Bay Brawlers roller derby team are so eloquent and inspirational, they made my job easy.

I am now a Brawler for life. A lot of people are going to be buying roller skates and seeking out their local roller derby team after watching this film.”

Hell on Wheels can be seen BBC One Wales on 5 August at 10.35pm and will then be available on BBC iPlayer.

For more: www.bbc.co.uk

Kim Wild, Lyndsey ‘Kid Block’ Boulton, and Laura Kemp are part of the Tiger Bay Brawlers roller derby team

Flying the flag

Pride Cymru

PRIDE AND JOY

St David’s Cardiff has announced its partnership with Pride Cymru, working towards supporting the LGBTQ+ community across Wales. The partnership will see support for more events and awareness activities at the centre.

Steven Madeley, general manager for St David’s Cardiff says, “In 2018 we supported Pride Cymru during their Big Weekend, sponsoring the event and creating an installation in the centre, and for 2019 we are looking forward to growing this partnership to further benefit the LGBTQ+ community. St David’s promotes diversity and inclusivity in everything that we do, so we are incredibly delighted and proud to be partnering with Pride Cymru this year.” Turn to page 28 for more matters of Pride.

For more: www.stdavidscardiff.com

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The Iris Prize

GETTING BUFF

There’s a BUFF new member to the festival family as Cardiff’s Iris Prize LGBT + Film Festival has partnered up with the British Urban Film Festival (BUFF).

It means diversity will continue to be at the forefront of both festivals, and this year’s BUFF will include a special Iris programme, featuring the work of Iris Prize-winner Dee Rees.

Andrew Pierce, festival chair, says, “The UK is hugely diverse and we are committed to making sure that our programme represents the true nature of our LGBT+ population. Therefore, I’m delighted that BUFF, the leading UK BAME (black and minority ethnic) Film Festival is joining the Iris family – this partnership is a reminder that diversity starts at home.”

The £30,000 Iris Prize is supported by The Michael Bishop Foundation and is the only LGBT+ short film prize in the world which allows the winner to make a new film.

For more: www.irisprize.org

Summer Reading Challenge

The space race

Prepare for lift off – the 20th anniversary of the Summer Reading Challenge has begun.

This year’s theme is Space Chase and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the moon landings.

It will see young bookworms receive a special mission folder at their local library, and be rewarded with stickers when they read at least six books.

Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Lord Elis Thomas, says, “I’m delighted that the Welsh Government can support libraries to run the challenge and this year’s theme of space chase will certainly capture the imagination of children across Wales and encourage them to join in for an out of this world adventure.”

Children are encouraged to use the Summer Reading Challenge website to create a profile, chat about books, and get information on what books to read next.

During last year’s challenge 663,851 children’s books were issued in libraries across Wales and over 3,000 children joined the library as new members.

For more: www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Getting ready to negotiate the final frontier

JoJo and her dog get the look

Phil Glenister, Gethin Jones, Sir Gareth Edwards, Scott Quinnell, Tom Shanklin and Jonathan Davies get starstruck

Celebrity Cup

CUP OF CHEER

Team Wales has been crowned Celebrity Cup winners for the second year in a row.

The victory marked the end of an action-packed two-day charity golf tournament at the Celtic Manor Resort, where celebrities including Mike Tindall, James Nesbitt and Jenni Falconer teed off to raise funds for The Bubble Foundation.

The foundation supports the vital work of the Children’s Bone Marrow Transplant Unit.

The Welsh team was captained by rugby legend Scott Quinnell, and included Gareth Edwards, Tom Shanklin and Jonathan Davies, as well as TV presenter Gethin Jones and Life on Mars actor, Phil Glenister.

Gethin Jones says, “The team did brilliantly and the cherry on the cake is defending the Welsh title.”

For more: www.celtic-manor.com

JoJo Siwa

TAKE A BOW

Get your hair bows ready – Nickelodeon favourite JoJo Siwa is coming to Cardiff as part of her D.R.E.A.M. tour.

The teenage star will bring her dynamic live show to the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff, and says she can’t wait to take to the stage.

“I’m so excited to bring my tour to the UK,” says JoJo. “It’s one of my favourite places to visit and I can’t wait to see everyone.”

JoJo’s single Boomerang went platinum and she is also a host on Lip Sync Battle Shorties alongside Nick Cannon. She also has millions of followers on social media.

JoJo is known for her love of hair bows and accessories, something the 16-year-old has turned into a multi-million dollar business.

For more: www. motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Kitchen stars George North, professional Welsh rugby star and Becky North, double Olympic silver medalist, have recently had a SIGMA 3 KITCHEN installed by the Culverhouse Cross showroom. We spoke to them both to find out a bit more about their new space...

W

hen we bought our house, the kitchen that was installed was a Sigma 3 Kitchen and so we didn’t hesitate in visiting them for our new kitchen project. We fell in love with the H Line range and the super modern look that it could give us. We wanted sleek storage and so the Legrabox R-Design was perfect for us as it matched the modern aesthetic of the kitchen we had chosen.

We have internal cutlery drawers under our hob and also a SpaceTower from The Signature Collection, which is perfect for all of our ingredients! It was a must to have our beloved coffee machine installed and hooked up to the mains water. We’re pretty serious about our coffee! Becky has the latte art down

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

“‘I CAN’T SPEAK HIGHLY ENOUGH ABOUT THE SERVICE WE’VE HAD!’” to a T. This was incorporated perfectly into the design.

From the moment we walked into Culverhouse Cross showroom to the final handover, everything has been amazing. Gavin and the Sigma 3 team went through every stage showing us all thxe options, colours and ideas in depth. Also throwing in some ideas we hadn’t thought of, which truly added to the kitchen design. With the help of super fitter Gareth James, the beautiful design came to life.

A huge thank you from Becky and myself. ■

Sigma 3 Culverhouse Cross 485 Cowbridge Road West, Cardiff, CF5 5TG. 02920 593969

Diagon Alley has got nothing on the magic of Cardiff’s arcades 12 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

shopping

Amusement Arcades Samantha Walker speaks to the indies flying the flag for Cardiff’s arcades

Y

ou can’t help feel you’re stepping back in time when you enter the bustling myriad of Cardiff ’s many arcades.

These throwbacks to Victorian and Edwardian shopping habits and pastimes have seen Cardiff named City of Arcades, with seven fine arcades housing more than 100 bars, shops and cafés.

But don’t think for a moment that the arcades are in any way behind the times – the architecture may be a historian’s delight but the vibrant mix of indie traders means they remain stylishly cool and up-to-date.

“Our shop once sold Victorian ‘separates’”

© CIT Y OF ARCADES

DESIGNING FOR NEARLY FIVE DECADES…

In February 1970 Jon Ian, specialists in designer shoes, bags and accessories for men and women opened.

The beautiful premises, whose frontage spans the equivalent of three shops, is still going strong after nearly 50 years.

“Our shop was once a Victorian separates shop,” says managing director David Thomas.

“The Morgan Arcade has been my second home for a big part of my life with a mixture of good times and bad. I really believe that what Cardiff has to offer as a City of Arcades is so unique, and it’s crucial that it maintains www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 13

shopping

“On Record Store Day, the baguette bar Fresh lend us their till”

Ashli took Spillers Records back to an arcade base

the special qualities that for years have drawn people to the city. The arcades are, and always have been, a beautiful place to shop, the façades and the ambience are something quite special.”

RECORD BREAKING

“When our lease at our Hayes address expired in 2010 I considered a lot of other premises before deciding on this Morgan Arcade location,” says Ashli, the owner and manager of the world’s oldest record shop, Spillers Records. “When the store originally opened in 1894 it was located in the (now demolished) Queens Arcade so I feel that a return to an arcade is fitting for us.

“Our neighbours in the Morgan and Royal Arcade are fab. We share a lot of things between us – ladders, till rolls, even the occasional staff member in emergencies!

“On Record Store Day in April, our busiest day of the year, the baguette bar Fresh lend us their till!”

ART AT THE HEART…

Jian Chen, artist and owner of Jian Chen’s FINE ART, sells her original art and prints, as well as t-shirts, coasters and tote bags at Duke Street Arcade.

“I was fortunate to secure the perfect location, a long narrow shop with masses of window space at the junction with High Street

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

Arcade,” says Jian. “Claire Grove Buttons was helpful in introducing me to trading in Cardiff’s Arcades. Spillers were also helpful in helping me find an interesting independent local shop fitter, having admired their new Morgan Arcade shop fittings. Sweeneys, Hobo’s, and Galactic Attic always have a friendly smile and a word when they pass.”

“Local customers are drawn to Cardiff’s arcades, many realise the arcade shops offer an alternative shopping experience to that which the high street and big malls offer. Plus there are always tourists and visitors to Cardiff who want to experience the unique historic architecture of city’s arcades.

IT’S A STITCH-UP

Al Edge is owner and creative director of Princes & Paupers in Castle Arcade.

He says, “The biggest motivation for the shop was to offer the sort of style not found on the high street.

“Independent businesses and arcades are, in my opinion, what gives a city its personality – this is where you meet the real characters and the locals. I am not an activist against the high street but if you lose independent shops you lost a city’s character.

“We do classic styles and good top

quality vintage clothing, all hand-made for men and women – I don’t care who wears our clothes – they are for anyone and everyone. We also cater for the creative – think performers, bands and burlesque dancers, plus mods and rockers.

“Victoriana is big – as is Westernware – and our shop’s clients range from five to 80. We get people in who remember wearing a garment so there is a nice bit of nostalgia, or people might recognise something they have seen on films,” says Al. “People love vintage but if they find a garment elsewhere it may not fit – but we can draft a pattern and make it for them; it will have that familiarity but we are very fashion forward.

Down memory lane…

“Over the years there have been some fantastic shops in the arcades, Gentlefolk Jeans, Buffalo records, Jan Stedman and Woodies Emporium to name but a few. All of these shops used to feed off each other as Cardiff became renowned for its individual boutiques and quirky arcades.”

Jon Ian’s Dave Thomas “I’ve heard my shop was the Soho High Tech Nightclub in the mid 80s.” Jian Chen “Spillers Records predates records. When it opened in 1894, music came in the form of wax cylinders.” Spillers’ Ashli

shopping Keeping it fresh…

“We are hoping to launch our own hair care range early next year so watch this space.”

Bouvardia’s Georgia Jenkins “For our 50th year celebration we hope to do an event in the arcade and I would love to do an exhibition of shoes from over the years that customers may still have in their collections.” Dave Thomas of Jon Ian “We are collaborating with the St David’s Centre to put on a Gin Festival in August.”

Steven Salamon of Wally’s Deli

here and we feel we are in the heart of the city.

“There is a place for everyone in the arcades and we have made friends with everybody.”

BEST FOOT FORWARD…

Carly of Science Cream says the arcades attracts curious tourists

Keiron Macnamara is operations director at The Brogue Trader in the Morgan Arcade, which sells handmade British shoes.

“The Morgan Arcade is filled with a variety of great independents, beautiful twisting architecture and as one of the main thoroughfares from the Hayes to St Mary Street, it puts us in an invaluable position for trade.

The arcade occupants are great at referring customers between each other, for example if a customer is looking for an outfit for a special occasion I wouldn’t hesitate to walk them to Hawkes Bespoke Outfitters, alternatively if

BRAND AWARENESS

Steven Salamon is the owner of Wally’s Delicatessen & Kaffeehaus in the Royal Arcade, and also Wally’s Liquor Cellar found in Castle Arcade.

He says, “We feel Wally’s is now an ‘arcade’ brand and we also have an outlet in the Grand Arcade in the St. David’s Centre. Our businesses sit very well in the old Victorian arcades amongst other eclectic independent businesses.

“Richard Morgan from David Morgan’s was very helpful in the early days setting up the business in Royal Arcade. He was a gentlemen and in those days one still did business on the shake of a hand. He understood the arcades and didn’t let competing businesses open up next to each other.”

NEW-ISH KIDS ON THE ARCADE BLOCK…

Bouvardia Hair Co is owned by Sassoontrained Georgia Jenkins, Alison Inker and Jessica Davies. It’s found in Castle Arcade and makes the use of a space once occupied by a hair and beauty college. The salon celebrates its second birthday in August, with the arcade location a real factor when the team were looking for premises. “We wanted to stay in the city centre as we have got a lot of loyal clients who we didn’t want to lose – they love coming

Artist Jian Chen shops for her art materials at The Pen & Paper Stationery Co in the Royal Arcade

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 15

shopping Where would you recommend in the arcades?

Fresh the baguette bar in Royal Arcade for their paninis, Jones the Barber in Castle Arcade for a haircut, Pen & Paper for anything stationery.” Steven Salamon

“I love Madame Fromage at 21 Castle Arcade and Crystals at number 15.”

Georgia Jenkins “You can’t beat a Crumbs Kitchen salad.”

Dave Thomas “Our next door neighbours Diba always has incredible jewellery in their windows which is hard to resist when they’re so close.”

Ashli of Spillers Records

Al Edge of Princes & Paupers says arcades give the city its personality

© SOPHIA DECARLOS

“A favorite lunch spot of mine has to be Fresh in the Royal Arcade as their ingredients are baked and prepared daily.”

Keiron Macnamara of The Brogue Trader

© SOPHIA DECARLOS

“I buy specialist foods from Wally’s Delicatessen and Waterloo Tea’s jasmine green tea, and I also shop for my art materials at The Pen & Paper Stationery Co.” Jian Chen

Steven Salamon believes the Cardiff indie spirit is strong

we stumbled into conversation regarding home cooking, I would always endeavour to point customers to the wonderful Wally’s delicatessen.

“Coming into any one of our stores, is about making sure that every visitor is given the best possible customer experience. This can be as simple as offering them a cold beer or coffee whilst they browse through our extensive range, down to fitting the shoes and personally tying the laces for them.”

NICE ICE BABY

“For me, the arcades are just the most beautiful retail spaces in Cardiff, filled with interesting and unique local businesses,” says Carly Karran of Science Cream, which opened in July 2014 making liquid nitrogen ice cream in microbatches, using real ingredients from scratch.

“They attract curious tourists who love to explore the quirks, and also the locals who’ve always made a beeline for the arcades in search of treasure. I think we’re really lucky to have them – I’m not aware of another city that has managed to preserve the original malls this well.

“Our own premises in Castle Arcade was once a condom shop, and in recent years it has also been a millinery shop and board game shop!”

“The Morgan Arcade is filled with a variety of great independents’”

WALK THE TALK

www.bouvardia.salon Insta @jianchensfineart www.jonian.shop www.thebroguetrader.com www.princesandpaupers.uk www.sciencecream.co.uk www.spillersrecords.com www.wallysdeli.co.uk www.wallysliquorcellar.co.uk

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

Keiron Macnamara of The Brogue Trader gets his lunch from Royal Arcade’s Fresh

Specialist in designer shoes, boots, bags, coats and accessories for men and ladies Offering top brands:

SUPER SALE MANY ITEMS ARE NOW UP TO

70% OFF

Kendal and Kylie Anya Hindmarch Sam Endleman Kennel and schmenger Lulu Guinness Twin Set Lisa Kay Max and Moi Diego Mercy Delta Church Brics Luggage Lola Cruz Dubarry Of Ireland Chie Mihara

CARDIFF

7/11 Morgan Arcade Cardiff Telephone: 02920397339

COWBRIDGE

42 High Street Cowbridge Telephone: 01446 775226

www.jonian.co.uk

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

SUMMER EXHIBITION 4th July ­– 17th August 2019 A changing exhibition of work by more than 40 artists View the exhibition on our website www.albanygallery.com 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm

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

WHAT’S THE STORY? In this case it’s Morning Glory by Ian Cook whose work can currently be seen at The Albany Gallery. He says, “I retain an enduring fascination for the human figure. My approach to this is two-pronged: I regularly produce a series of life studies that allows me to merge academic drawing and use colour in explorative terms.”

For more: Albany Gallery, 74b Albany Road, Cardiff. tel: 029 2048 7158; www.albanygallery.com

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

What’s on

Music meets the arts at indie festival Green Man

3 August – 20 September

PLAYS/SHOWS/ PERFORMANCES 6 August

MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL Based on the smash-hit DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar The Musical follows all your favourite cracka-lackin’ friends including Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo, and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

13 – 17 August

CLUB TROPICANA Billed as the ’80s answer to Love Island, this brand new musical features iconic pop anthems including Take On Me, Relax and Just Can’t Get Enough, plus X Factor winner Joe McElderry. We can’t promise the drinks will be free though. Donald Gordon Theatre; www.wmc.org.uk

16 – 17 August

SWAN LAKE English Youth Ballet premières a new production of Swan Lake with

what promises to be a traditional production but with particular emphasis on the rivalry between the seductive evil Black Swan Odile and the beautiful, vulnerable White Swan Odette, as they compete for the affections of the Prince. New Theatre Cardiff; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

19 – 31 August

ANNIE Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan's orphanage.

When will her luck change?

Tomorrow, perhaps? Turn to page 24 for our exclusive interview with Craig Revel Horwood who plays Miss Hannigan. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

21 – 24 August

MEN AT ARMS The classic Terry Pratchett crime comedy Men at Arms is brought to the Cardiff stage by Peculiar Productions. Captain Vimes has been landed with a new hiring policy that means his City Watch must include members from the city's populations of trolls, dwarfs,

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gargoyles, and the undead. The Gate Arts Centre; www.thegate.org.uk

10 – 15 September

ONLY FOOLS: THE (CUSHTY) DINING EXPERIENCE Journey to The Nag’s Head to meet the pride of Peckham in a t’riffic night out of wheeling, dealing, eating and drinking that starts from the moment you arrive. The Trotters are trying to drum up cash, but why is the pub closed on the busiest night of the week? Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

COMEDY 15 September

WAHALA This rib-tickling clash will see Jamaica take on England, but just who will have the last laugh?

Comics include Kat MTV, Kevin J and Annette Fagon in this head-tohead battle. Glee Club; www.glee.co.uk

17 September

BIANCA DEL RIO Expect a very potty mouth from this self-proclaimed ‘clown in a gown’

and former winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race. The humour is pretty savage too – she’s been dubbed ‘The Joan Rivers of the Drag World’.

Motorpoint Arena Cardiff; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

MUSIC

4 September

SKUNK ANANSIE Rock out to this British band, bask in the talent of vocalist Skin, and enjoy classics including Weak, Hedonism and Twisted. The Great Hall, Cardiff Uni; www.cardiffstudents.com

7 September

MOD & SKA FESTIVAL Get your polo shirts ready because the annual Mod & Ska festival returns, raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust in the process.

The festival will feature a host of acts including Ska 45’s, The Brightoners, Ska Monkey and Future Sailors.

Tramshed; www.tramshedcardiff.com

13 September

PIXIES What will this cult band be playing

what’s on on the night? Quite frankly they don’t know – they will rehearse 90 songs in anticipation but musician Black Francis will decide what should be played as they go along.

Motorpoint Arena Cardiff; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

ART, PHOTOGRAPHY & EXHIBITIONS

Until 15 September

Snakes!

This touring exhibition from Blue Tokay explores snakes from live specimens, photographs, and interactive displays. It delves into the mystery and beauty surrounding these creatures in an exhibition that suits all the family. National Museum Cardiff; www.museum.wales/cardiff/

Until 10 August

ONE MATCH Photographer Paul John Roberts followed the progress of Wales’ players and trainers in the build-up to July’s Homeless World Cup, with this exhibition capturing the trials, tribulations and celebrations.

Ffotogallery; www.ffotogallery.org

Until May 2020

THE FOSSIL SWAMP Far back in time before humans... before dinosaurs... there was a different world. This new exhibition reveals a snapshot in time from 300 million years ago, when a vast tropical swamp covered what is now Wales.

The Fossil Swamp had monster plants, giant insects, thunderstorms and floods. Beautifully preserved fossils reveal this world including the huge 3D centrepiece Stigmaria, come from the world-class heritage site at Brymbo in north east Wales.

National Museum Cardiff; www.museum.wales/cardiff/

Until 13 August top:

Skunk Anansie won't shed its Skin at Cardiff Uni; left: Bianca Del Rio may look sweet but her humour will be savage at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff; below: Notes from Japan by Susan Gathercole can be seen at Martin Tinney Gallery

SUMMER EXHIBITION A whole range of Welsh artists are on display including Claudia Williams, who has exhibited widely over the last fifty years, and her work features in many important public and private collections.

Claudia’s paintings and drawings usually reflect the domestic world of children and grandchildren, family gatherings and seaside trips.

Also exhibiting are Catrin Williams, Richard Barrett, Rosemary Burton and Susan Gathercole. Martin Tinney Gallery; www.artwales.com

14 August – 4 September

CHARLES BURTON At Cardiff College of Art in the late 1940s, Charles Burton was at the heart of the Rhondda Group, 90th Birthday Exhibition. His paintings of the valleys evoke warm memories of a more innocent time, whilst avoiding any hint of sentimentality. Martin Tinney Gallery; www.artwales.com

Until 17 August

SUMMER EXHIBITION The summer show gives visitors an opportunity to view work by more than 50 artists, from top selling regular exhibitors to those new to the gallery. Artists include Donald McIntyre, Mike Jones, Tim Fudge, David Barnes, Theo CrutchleyMack, Sol Whiteside and Emma Connolly. The Albany Gallery; www.albanygallery.com

sport 3 August

Until 31 August

MANCHESTER UNITED V AC MILAN Manchester United will play AC Milan in the first ever International Champions Cup (ICC) game to take place in Wales. Principality Stadium; www.principalitystadium.wales

SUMMER EXHIBITION A whole range of mixed media artists, from emerging and established names including Jane Price, Jan Gardner, and Sally Tyrie. Off The Wall Gallery; www.galleryoffthewall.com

Until 1 September

of work featuring key sculptures from the 1960s to now. From photographs, films and drawings to living sculptures, Nash uses the natural environment to create his unique and striking work, which makes him one of Britain’s most important artists.

National Museum Cardiff; www.museum.wales/cardiff/

11 August

david nash: sculpture through the seasons Celebrating fifty years of working in Capel Rhiw, Nash displays his largest and most ambitious collection

THE VITALITY BLAST: GLAMORGAN V SURREY Hear the sound of leather on willow when Glamorgan take on their South Group opponents in what promises to be an exciting match.

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

What’s on After finishing sixth in last year’s group, and with Colin Ingram, Billy Root, the Marsh brothers and the rest of Glamorgan’s stars, they’ll be looking to bounce back against their South rivals. Sophia Gardens; www.glamorgancricket.com

17 August

WALES V ENGLAND The 2019 Guinness Six Nations Grand Slam champions begin their World Cup preparations in earnest when they host England in Cardiff.

Principality Stadium; www. principalitystadium.wales

31 August

CARDIFF DEVILS V MOUNTFIELD HK Champions Hockey League action when the Devils take on their exciting Czech opponents.

Viola Arena, Cardiff International Sports Village; www.cardiffdevils.com

31 August

WALES V IRELAND World cup warm-up that sees Wales looking for retribution and a chance to set the record straight with Six Nations Champions Ireland.

Principality Stadium; www.principalitystadium.wales

31 August

NXT UK TAKEOVER Expect tag teams and plenty of action when stars from WWE enter the ring and try to stay off the canvas. Grapplers include Toni Storm and Trent Seven.

Motorpoint Arena Cardiff; www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

Other

Until 31 August

FREE SUMMER SOFT PLAY Let the kids burn off some steam and have fun jumping and climbing over all manner of soft play equipment.

The event runs from Tuesday – Saturday, and there’s even space for parents to sit and watch too.

Queens Arcade Shopping Centre; www.queensarcadecardiff.co.uk

Until 1 September

AQUA PARK IN WALES Measuring more than 8,000 square metres and featuring 72 obstacles, including climbing walls, and trampolines, this is where all hot, bothered and bored children (and their parents, in fact everybody) should be heading to this summer.

Cardiff Bay; www.aquaparkgroup.co.uk

Until 16 September

the GREAT BRITISH COIN OLYMPICS Perfect for youngsters who fancy trying to break the record for the further coin toss, longest coin roll and highest coin tower. The Royal Mint Experience; www.royalmint.com

Until 20 September

THE GREAT BRITISH WATER FIGHT It’s a case of the wetter the better for this event. It goes without saying that a change of clothes is highly recommended. The Royal Mint Experience; www.royalmint.com

above: Ice, ice baby at the Viola Arena; left: Joe McElderry reckons you can suntan at Club Tropicana, Wales Millennium Centre below: The Pixies will be on their toes when they come to the ‘Diff

3 August

FORAGING COURSE Learn about nature’s larder with this foraging course in the great outdoors.

You’ll be looking for ingredients to make a shared lunch, which will be enjoyed at the end of the event. Bute Park; www.bute-park.com

10 August

CARDIFF TASTING TOUR Walking and tasting tour with seven stops showcasing some of the finest food Cardiff has to offer, including cheeses, cockles and laverbread. And you can wash down your feast with Welsh beers and ciders too. Cardiff Castle; www.cardiffcastle.com

11 August

PREHISTORIC CRUELTY-FREE FAMILY EVENT Try vegan food from around the world, check out cruelty free make up and listen to talks from a range of speakers at the meat- and dairy-free event. The Paget Rooms, Penarth. www.penarthtowncouncil.gov.uk

15 – 18 August

GREEN MAN FESTIVAL Indie music and arts festival which has evolved into a 20,000 capacity four-day event, showcasing predominantly live music, plus literature, film, comedy, theatre and poetry. Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons; www.greenman.net

equality and diversity takes to the streets for a three-day event.

Over 50,000 people are expected and there’ll be four stages of entertainment, music and comedy, plus a mile-long parade. Turn to page 28 for our Pride feature.

City Hall Lawns; www.pridecymru.com

17 – 18 August

24 – 25 August

TOURNAMENT OF THE KNIGHTS Travel back through time and witness valiant knights, alongside brave squires, in thrilling displays of medieval combat.

Cardiff Castle; www.cardiffcastle.com

23 – 25 August

PRIDE CYMRU BIG WEEKEND Wales’s biggest celebration of

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

BRITISH FISH CRAFT CHAMPIONSHIPS There’ll be plenty of engaging talks and cookery demos at this fishy event, plus skilled demonstrations from some of the best craftspeople in the business. Roald Dahl Plass; www.fishmongers.info

6 – 8 September

ORGANFEST 2019

A biennial national event, this year’s OrganFest will be held at key venues and includes a gala concert from internationally acclaimed organist David Briggs. Various venues; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

15 September

NOAH’S ARK CHARITY FAMILY FUN WALK Best foot forward for this familyfriendly fundraising event with a choice of 3K or 10K routes.

There’ll be plenty to entertain walkers along the way including face painting, music and perhaps even the occasional water pistol.

Proceeds will go to the charity, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales. Cardiff Bay; www.noahsarkcharity.org n

one to one

REVELLING IN HIS NEW ROLE Strictly judge and actor CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD, who is starring in the musical Annie, talks to Sally Land about how the show’s message has a deep relevance to his own life and his love for the ‘song birds’ of Cardiff

C

raig Revel Horwood, the Australian born dancer, choreographer, and theatre director, found UK fame in 2004 when he became a judge on a BBC1 show called Strictly Come Dancing. The celebrity dance competition series fox trotted its way up the ratings to become one of the country’s best-loved shows, and that’s in no small part, thanks to the sharp wit, insightful observations, and extraordinary dance knowledge, that Craig brings with him.

Now the performer has taken up the role of another caustic-tongued ‘baddie’ – Annie’s cruel orphanage owner – Miss Hannigan, in the musical coming to the Donald Gordon Theatre from 19 to 31 August. It’s a part Craig is clearly relishing. He says: “She is fantastic. I love her character so much.

Playing her is an absolute dream. She’s a tyrant and villain – and of course those characters are always the most fun to play.”

Miss Hannigan openly despises her young charges and tries to make their lives as pitiful as possible. And while, in the past, Craig has professed to never wanting children, since meeting his partner Jonathan Myring in Feb 2018, there has been a seismic shift in his attitude. For Craig and horticulturist Jonathan, have discussed adopting their own child. He says, “It is something we have talked about. It’s certainly not something we are dismissing, but we need to see how our relationship develops.

“I think it is a good thing to do. I encourage people to adopt. There are so many people out there – just like in Annie, who are orphaned for whatever reason and they just need a loving family. And that is why Annie as a production and storyline resonates in modern times now.”

Annie, which is set in 1930s New York during the Great Depression, follows courageous young Annie, who is forced to live in misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck changes when she’s chosen to spend a dream Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks.

Meanwhile the vindictive Miss Hannigan is dead set on destroying any chance of happiness in her life – including her search for her true family.

Craig continues, “Thankfully orphans aren’t kept in workhouses now – Miss Hannigan had them working at midnight making dresses. One of the central themes of the story is about finding love. And for Annie, of course, when she discovers her family is dead – then she really is an orphan. Then it’s that four-letter word that is so important – hope.

Annie provides the hope which is so crucial.”

Talking about the possibility of sharing his own home with a child, Craig says, “You have to be very mindful that it is the right environment for people to adopt. You need to make sure the relationship is solid before you go into any of that. That is what a lot of married couples do unless they accidentally get pregnant.

“So, it is not out of the question. And it certainly needs a lot of planning. You are under great scrutiny when you are adopting, more so than natural parents.

There are plenty of interviews and screenings. Some good friends of mine who have adopted – it took two years of their lives to arrange everything.”

And Craig hopes the production will appeal to children. He says, “It is a great show for kids to come and watch because they can associate with the children on the stage. The kids are fantastic actors and it’s amazing to see what can be achieved even at six years old – they are incredible. I really hope the show can inspire other children to join the theatre or frequent the theatre more often.”

After all, Craig grew up on musicals and fell in love with theatre after seeing Jesus

“You have to be brave and follow your heart.

You have to do what you love”

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

Craig is relishing his villainous Miss Hannigan role

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 25

one to one

© JonathanMyring @Twitter

Craig hopes seeing Annie will inspire other children to enjoy the theatre

“It can be especially hard for boys who want to dance” Christ Superstar in Sydney in the 1970s. After a string of stage roles, his career took him to choreography and directing, then judging on BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing. But Craig admits it initially took great courage for him to follow his dreams. He says,“ It can be especially hard for boys who want to dance. To anyone who is being told it is wrong to want to dance, I say ‘don’t listen, ignore them’.

“It was certainly difficult for me in Australia in the 70s. I grew up in a small town in Victoria where dance was not seen as an occupation, and certainly not a past time.

“Australians are into football, cricket, swimming – you know, sport in a major way and being a classical dancer in a pair of tights and slippers is not something to shout about.

“I kept it a secret. I was the only boy in the class. My teachers were the only ones who supported me. They told me I had to be brave. I was terrified but they said you can’t come back into class unless you put tights on. At first, I refused and wore football shorts.”

Craig is eternally grateful to his dance teachers. He explains, “If I hadn’t been encouraged, I would never be doing what I am doing now. I had inspirational teachers who accepted me into their world and that is where I felt the safest. I couldn’t wait to get into the dance class.

It was my escape.”

Sharing his experience, Craig counsels, “Certainly, you have to be brave and follow your heart. You have to do what you love, whether that is singing, dancing, acting, carpentry. If you are good at it – you must follow it. For those who follow their passion, they will end up somewhere, and the person who doesn’t will end up nowhere in life.”

For now, Craig is really looking forward to his summer in Cardiff.

“I love Cardiff. It is a fantastic city. I have stayed there several times and it’s wonderful to come back this summer.

Craig with his partner Jonathan

Craig is king of the Strictly witty put down

“I’ll be staying at Cardiff Bay which is always beautiful. I’m really looking forward to it and will treat it as a working holiday.

I really love performing in Wales. The Welsh come out and want to enjoy themselves. They are a lot more outgoing and outspoken.

They are proper songbirds – unlike London crowds for example.

The Welsh really enjoy musical theatre. It’s really lovely to be appreciated like that.”

Craig Revel Horwood can be seen in Annie from 19 – 31 August at the Donald Gordon Theatre. For more: www.wmc.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 27

© CLICK 2SHOOT

FESTIVAL

A MATTER W OF PRIDE As PRIDE CYMRU turns 20 this year, Tirza Kreuwel looks back at that very first event and the impact it has had on Cardiff ever since 28 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ales’ largest celebration of diversity and equality is hitting a major milestone this year, as Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend, turns 20. Although the event, happening 23 – 25 August is there to raise awareness and celebrate people’s individuality, the origins of Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend are far from rosy.

In 1999, South Wales Police noted a surge in hate crimes towards the LGBT+ community and decided to work closely with them in the hope of creating a safer Cardiff. As a result, the first ever Cardiff Mardi Gras –now known as Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend – was held on 4 September 1999 in conjunction with a national police conference.

It turned out to be a huge success, as just under 2,000 people came together in Bute

“It felt like we, the LGBT+ community, were no longer a small hidden minority”

RETURNING HEROES

To help celebrate the 20th anniversary of Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend, Tina Cousins who headlined the first Cardiff Mardi Gras on 4 September 1999, is returning to the Cardiff stage. Tina, who found fame with the smash hits Killing Time and Just Around The Hill, has collaborated with German DJ Sash!, and regularly performs at Prides around the world, says, “I am excited to return to Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend after all these years. I always enjoy performing at Pride events, where people of all ages and from all backgrounds come together

clockwise from top: Dr Bev and Miss Kitty with headliner

Tina Cousins, centre, back in 1999; these days Pride welcomes up to 50,000 people; just under 2,000 people attended the Cardiff Mardi Gras back in 1999

now one of only two Prides in the UK to have been awarded the Gold Award in Accessibility by the disability-led charity Attitude is Everything.”

Over the years a variety of acts have hit the main stage, ranging from local acts to drag performers and comedians. Some of the performers included Alesha Dixon, Charlotte Church and Iris Williams, whose rendition of Amazing Grace left thousands of people speechless. The event now has various stages and markets, including a Glee Comedy tent and Faith tents.

As Pride Cymru continues to grow, it has been able to increase its visibility not just within Cardiff but throughout Wales.

Although a few hundred LGBT+ supporters have marched through the streets of Cardiff since 1985, the parade has grown enormously and has become an integral part since 2012.

to celebrate love and equality. It creates a beautiful atmosphere and I cannot wait to be part of this year’s Big Weekend again.”

Also making a return are drag artists Dr Bev and Miss Kitty, who hosted the first event back in 1999. The Queens are two of Cardiff’s bestknown drag acts and have performed nearly every year since their first appearance. This year, the sensational duo will pay tribute to Pride Cymru’s journey by reviving their original and highly celebrated act from the first Cardiff Mardi Gras. Also performing are Gok Wan, Shellyann Evans, and the rock pop band Texas.

It has become a platform for people to come together and truly be who they are without feeling the need to hide. Especially in the last few years, the Welsh LGBT+ charity has seen a change in attitudes, as they work more closely with local schools and colleges, responding to the greater demand for assistance with younger people identifying as LGBT+.

Nevertheless, the charity’s fight for equality and inclusivity is far from over. Each year Pride Cymru continues to work towards a change in a society where everyone is treated equally, regardless of race, sexuality or gender, something that is crucial in recent times, where hate and intolerance are on the rise. During Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend the charity hopes to break stigma and encourage people to come along and find out more about each other.

For more: www.pridecymru.com © Click 2Shoot

Park. With their first ever headliner, Tina Cousins, performing hit songs like Mysterious Times and Killin’ Time on a stage that was the back of a lorry, the first Cardiff Mardi Gras had a significantly smaller budget. Yet, many who attended look back at the first event’s atmosphere and inclusivity fondly.

Rob Keetch, who hosted and performed alongside Miss Kitty in 1999, says, “The ambiance was amazing and the whole crowd were with us, singing and dancing along. It was a great experience that really highlighted how much the LGBT+ community needed this.”

Ever since, what is now known as Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend became one of the fastest-growing Pride events in the UK, as more LGBT+ people felt their voices were heard. Francis Brown, a long-time supporter of Pride Cymru, says, “The first few years were amazing, seeing it grow exponentially was wonderful and it felt like we, the LGBT+ community, were no longer a small hidden minority.”

Since then, Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend has become a family-friendly community event, enabling diverse groups to come together and find out more about one another and the matters that affect the LGBT+ community, through a variety of market stalls and a set of free community stalls.

Gian Molinu, director of Pride Cymru, says, “The community support we deliver throughout the year is at the heart of what we do, which is why we provide community stalls to organisations like Glitter Cymru, a group for black, Asian and minority ethnic people who identify as LGBT+.

“I am also very proud at how accessible the event has become. We have made BSL interpreters, an access platform, disability facilities and quiet zones the norm and are

Pride Cymru has been helping to change attitudes for 20 years

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 29

WYBURN & WAYNE Move over Ant & Dec. Make way Edina & Patsy. Stand aside Batman & Robin. Our dynamic duo are in town and they’re here to give us the low down on the Cardiff high life

Food, glorious food – and a little wine too!

T

he past few weeks seem as though they’ve been food, food, food and fun, fun, fun!

Who are we kidding? They always are! With the arrival of the annual Cardiff Food & Drink Festival, it did seem as if we enjoyed a little more food than usual of late. It was fantastic. We went down to do a little vlog (that’s a video blog so the kids tell us) on all the exciting things happening down there, so of course, we sampled many cuisines, and a few drinks too! The variety and quality this year was amazing. Not to forget the awesome live music that entertained every day up until 10pm. You then, of course, had many incredible options to continue your evening around Cardiff Bay – we chose The Lookout Café, at the World Of Boats, with our friends and enjoyed a few glasses of wine.

Nile Rodgers takes a good look at himself

Somewhere else we really enjoyed food-wise recently was Piatto by Giovanni’s. It’s opposite the WMC next to the fountains – Gio greeted us and has even renamed the fountains after himself – of course he has! The unique restaurant has been open just three months now and we’ve been told it’s doing extremely well.

We chose to dine outside in the sun and it was like being abroad. The restaurant has a great range on the menu and you can even have your main served in a bowl made of cheese! You read right... and for those of you with a sweet tooth... a pizza smothered with Nutella.

Simply gorgeous – we’ll be regulars there for sure. As we mentioned the WMC, we can’t not mention how awesome their Saturday Supper Clwbs are. We had the pleasure of attending David Mahoney’s musicals’ evening and it was awesome! It was in the Ffresh bar with drinks on arrival,

The Gio must go on at Piatto

Time for supper at the WMC

dishes served during the intervals and a dessert drink... divine if you ask us. They have so much lined up including comedy and even drag nights. Count us in.

Charity-wise we recently hosted the Emergency Services Fun Day down at Sophia Gardens cricket ground – all in aid of Welsh Hearts, of which we are patrons. There was fun and games for all the family, the weather was beautiful and there was live entertainment from the incredibly talented Gavin Sheppard too. The event had an attendance of over 2,500 people and we know for sure Welsh Hearts are extremely grateful. We also got asked to judge the final heat of Pride’s Got Talent down at St David’s Shopping Centre. Everyone who took part was super talented so it was a tough decision to make – but the final is shaping up to be incredible and the winner will get to perform

in front of thousands on the Pride Cymru stage in August.

Last but not least, how amazing was the buzz in Cardiff the night of the Nile Rodgers and Chic concert? Depot put on such an incredible weekend with Depot In The Castle and deserve a huge pat on the back. Nile as always was super lovely when we got to meet him, we chatted a little and Nathan presented him with a collage portrait made up using all his single and album covers, great fun.

We danced the night away to all his hits and yes... we got very drunk in the summer sunshine too! So many exciting things going on in Cardiff this summer, keep up to date with us on our social media and if you see us around grab a selfie!

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 31

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Mum’s the word ANDREA BYRNE

Jemima looks ready to party once the obligatory holiday snaps are done!

high flying!

Andrea finds holidaying with a new baby is a ‘kitchen sink and all’ operation!

“Turns out young Jemima is something of a Puddleduck”

P

assports. Tickets, Money.”

That’s what we always used to recite as we left the house for a holiday.

Well, it turns out you can add the kitchen sink to that checklist when you go away for the first time with a baby!

In my last column, you’ll remember Baby Byrne got her first passport and I promised that I would give you an update you on her first travels abroad. Well, the first thing to say is, she needs a heck of a lot of stuff!

Once we got over packing for what really did feel like a military operation, our thoughts turned to the practicalities of the flight. We were heading for the Greek island of Crete – a long enough journey to properly test Jemima’s taste for the high life, but short enough to know there was an end in sight! After all, on short haul, there’s no bassinet (the little basket at the bulkhead that babies get to sleep in) – so between her naps, Baby J was passed between our laps.

We survived our first flight with an infant with only one minor incident upon landing, which involved me having to use a large muslin cloth to fashion a makeshift sarong for her. Let’s just say, I’m not sure the changes in pressure agreed with her digestion!

And to add to the awkwardness, it was just as we all disembarked, that fellow passengers decided they wanted a little cwtch! I must have appeared terribly over-protective, as I tried desperately to save them

from a messy encounter!

To the holiday itself though and, I can confidently say, this is a good time to travel with an infant.

At four and a half months old, Jemima had not yet started to roll or crawl and she wasn’t weaning yet. We didn’t have to worry about her moving around and putting herself in danger and we only had to think of how to sterilise bottles in a hotel room, rather than packing baby food and providing meals.

And it turns out young Jemima is something of a Puddleduck!

We’d been having baby swim lessons near Cardiff for a few weeks to get her used to the water and on holiday she took her skills to another level as Daddy Lee started her early on her road to Olympic glory, by taking her on laps of the pool twice a day. Turns out this was also the perfect solution to getting us some time to ourselves.

Being pooped from all the paddling set Jemima up nicely for some long poolside naps!

When she wasn’t sleeping or swimming, Jemima easily attracted quite a holiday fan club. She rocked

her pink baby sunglasses wherever she went and there’s little doubt she was the coolest, and I think the cutest, baby in the resort! Though, of course, I may be a just a little bit biased! All in all, our first family holiday was an incredibly precious time. Moments to be forever treasured. New mums out there, however daunting the thought may seem, and however complex the preparation, it really is all worth it. And now we have a summer of family fun ahead in Wales to look forward to!

Follow Andrea on Twitter at @byrney15 and on Instagram @andreabyrnetv for all the latest Baby Byrne updates

“And relax!”

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

THE COCONUT TREE

Sheri Hall gives thanks for the delectable Sri Lankan delights that have just arrived in Cardiff

F

inally Sri Lanka has made its mark on Cardiff’s culinary scene – I’m so pleased. I visited the country back in 2014 and no other cuisine has made such an impression on me.

There is something moreish and memorable about it. In fact, I remember having withdrawals in the weeks following my return to the UK. Fortunately, I can now just pop to The Coconut Tree on Mill Lane to relive fond memories.

For such a small country, its geography is tremendously diverse. Bustling cities, rainforests rife with monkeys, tropical beaches, and plains where the safari experience is only second to that of Africa. The cuisine is also distinctive. Unique dishes such as hoppers and kotthu are commonplace outside of its curries, many of which have distinctly coconut undertones and plenty of spice.

Fortunately, a group of Sri Lankan friends had an understandable adoration for their culinary heritage

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

leading them to found The Coconut Tree in Cheltenham in 2016. Cardiff is now the fifth restaurant in the UK microchain and it has won a string of accolades. It’s clearly making a name for itself.

At The Coconut Tree, the menu is made up of small to medium tapas-style dishes – perfect for sampling an array of the food Sri Lanka has to offer. But the restaurant itself wouldn’t sit right on Mill Lane without a party vibe. One of its mantras is ‘don’t expect the volume to stay down too long’. With its wooden benches and coconut candle lights, it feels a bit like stepping into the bar of a backpackers’ hostel. So it goes without saying that The Coconut Tree’s appeal expands to its ‘cocotail’ menu, as well as its food.

If you want to try something of the region pick the Drunken Sri Lankan made with Ceylon Arrack, ginger beer, Cointreau, turmeric and fresh lime. Ceylon Arrack is a traditional Sri Lankan spirit distilled from the sap of the coconut flower. It can only be collected by hand, and

restaurant

is aged in oak casks. The waiter describes it as ‘a bit like tequila’ (which I love), so that sold it to me. It is limey, spicy and sweet. Oh, and served in the cutest ceramic elephant mug.

We then go for one of their sharer ‘cocotails’ – the Cina Colada (I’m sure you can guess which cocktail it’s a take on). Made up of El Jimador Tequila, Captain Morgan White Rum, cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Expect to murmur between yourselves when it arrives at the table as it’s served in an actual pineapple. But it’s not all fur coat and no knickers – this is a pina colada with a kick.

While we are sipping on ‘cocotails’ our food arrived.

Much like other tapas establishments, it arrives as and when it’s ready. The chefs aren’t afraid of a little heat but the staff will ask about your spice preferences, so you can tone it up or down as you like.

I almost squeal when the egg hopper arrives. It’s a bowlshaped coconut milk pancake served with coconut sambal, sweet caramelised and cinnamon onions (or seeni sambal) and Sri Lankan salsa. Often a breakfast option, but it can be eaten any time. It sounds like a strange combination, but it just works.

Kotthu is another popular dish you’ll often see served up at the side of the road in Sri Lanka, made from finely chopped rotti (flat bread), egg, vegetables and sometimes meat. It’s essentially a Sri Lankan stir-fry. This is one of the larger dishes, perfect for when you’re ravenous and need filling up.

Of course, you can’t visit a South East Indian restaurant without ordering some of its curries. We chose the squid and prawn curry which came in a light-coloured but rich and spicy sauce and the Jaffna goat curry which was dark and aromatic. Both delicious with some fried rice and rotti for dipping.

Unfortunately, we were so full that we didn’t have room for dessert. But when I go back I’ll be ordering either a treacle hopper with coconut ice-cream (because hoppers are the best) or the drunken banana, which is caramelised with Sri Lankan beer batter and served with treacle.

If you’re thinking about booking a culinary trip abroad, Sri Lanka should definitely be on your list. The Coconut Tree will give you a real sense of the food you can expect when you go. It’s truly authentic. But if a long-haul flight is a little bit out of your price range, wander down to Mill Lane. It might take a little bit of imagination to pretend you’re on a street in Colombo, but once you’re inside the restaurant the flavours of this magical island will be brought to life. n

“Once you’re inside the restaurant the flavours of this magical island will be brought to life” Dining details The Coconut Tree, 10 Mill Lane, Cardiff. tel: 029 2034 3266; www.thecoconut-tree.com Opening hours 12pm – 11pm Type of food An explosion of flavours in vegetables, meats, and fish Sri Lankan street food, with more than 16 vegan dishes to choose from Covers 120 Specialities Hot battered spicy cuttlefish; hoppers – a bowl shaped coconut pancake served with seeni samble, coconut sambal, and Sri Lankan salsa; Jaffna goat curry with potato Prices Tapas-style dishes start from £2.50 Drinks The ‘cocotails’ are made with spirits that have been sourced directly from Sri Lanka, including Arrack, an exquisite spirit made from coconut flower nectar Service and atmosphere Convivial, tropical, and downright tasty

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

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic magazines and events. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months.

If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475827 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOPPING

© OLIVER J PHOTOGRAPHY; W W W.OLIVERJPHOTOGRAPHY.COM VENUE: THE WOW BAR; W W W.WOWBARCARDIFF.COM

LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

FLAMING LIPS When asked to create cakes for Pride Cymru it would have been a little too easy just to whip up a multicoloured sponge. And while that would have been all very well and good, Joanne Towers, aka Miss Havisham’s Cakes, had something a little more creative in mind.

“I wanted the designs to be thoughtful, respectful and worthy of the 50th anniversary of Stonewall,” says the former nurse who left the profession to combine her passions of baking and art.

“Everything featured in my Pride cakes are meaningful and deliberately placed, from Andy Warhol’s depiction of Marsha P Johnson to the inclusion of the Sesame Street characters, Bert and Ernie. The main objective though is to produce beautiful contemporary and tasty buttercream cakes that celebrate Pride Cymru!”

Jo’s cake prices start from £65.

For more: misshavishamscakes@gmail.com or Instagram @misshavishamscakes

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

GENTLE FOLK RAINBOW JUICE, £25.95 This is a wine that walks to the beat of its own drum – a blend of 23 red and white varieties, all sourced from the Adelaide Hills From Wright Wines, Castle Arcade, Cardiff; www.wrightsfood.co.uk

PUNKY PINS, £7 Now you can wear the rainbow, whatever you wear, wherever you go From Sobeys Vintage Clothing, 31 Royal Arcade, Cardiff. tel: 029 2034 5101; www.facebook.com/SobeysVintageClothing

ALL THE LOVES

Show your Pride Cymru all year round with this rainbow tribe

DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

BY PINK FLOYD, £60 An original 1973 release of the prog rock concept classic album From Kellys Records, Central Market, Cardiff. tel: 029 2037 7355; www.kellysrecords.com

DOCTOR WHO RAINBOW MUG, £7 We’ll drink to the inclusive spirit of finally getting a female Doctor Who From The Television and Movie Store, St David’s, Cardiff; www.tvmnorwich.co.uk

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

RAINBOW SEQUINNED T-SHIRT DRESS, £295 Maximum impact, minimal effort: Pair with rainbow everything and go the full seven-hues From Michael Kors, 19 Grand Arcade, St. David's Centre. tel: 029 2034 8830; www.michaelkors.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE GREYSKULL OF THE MOON, BY ED SYDER, £250 We’re no art experts but we think this just might be a playful homage to a certain classic prog rock concept classic album From The SHO Gallery and Shop, The Castle Emporium, Womanby Street, Cardiff; www.thesho.co.uk

RAINBOW HEART EARRINGS, £7 Make yourself heard with these extra-large diamanté gems From 39 St David’s Way, Cardiff. tel: 029 2022 0773; www.uk.accessorize.com

SILVER LINING TOTE, £12 Made from 100 per cent organic cotton, printed in the UK in a renewable energypowered factory and carried with pride From The Cwtch Life; thecwtchlife.com

SWIM TRUNKS, £29 This rainbow ombre print makes life a beach From Hollister, St David’s Cardiff. tel: 029 2022 6025; www.hollisterco.com

FABULOUS LOVE CARD, £2.50 Spreading and sending the joy through a Rosie Made A Thing greetings card From Not Socks Again, 1 Windsor Terrace, Penarth. tel: 029 2019 1149; www.notsocksagain.com

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

advertising feature

Separate ways The experts at BERRY SMITH LAWYERS can offer advice on all aspects of family law

M

y partner and I recently separated following a lengthy relationship.

We have one child together, aged nine, who lives with me. Following our separation my partner has moved to Dubai, to work, and is refusing to make any financial contributions for our son. What can I do?

A: If you are unable to reach an agreement with your partner about the financial contributions for your son, there are a number of options available to you:-

Despite the fact that your ex-partner may be working abroad, the Child Maintenance Service will be able to calculate the contribution to be paid, and recover this directly from his employer.

However, the Child Maintenance Service can only take into consideration a gross weekly income of ÂŁ3,000 per calendar week, in calculating financial support for your child; if you believe that your ex-partner's gross income exceeds this figure it may be that an application to the court is required.

1. You can submit a claim with the Child Maintenance Service for child maintenance if your ex-partner is working abroad:a. as an employee/member of HM Civil Service, HM Diplomatic Service or HM Armed Forces; or b. as an employee of a company based, and registered, in the United Kingdom; or c. on secondment for a prescribed body (such as a local authority or health authority)

2. If your ex-partner does not work for one of the organisations listed above you will need to make an application to the family court for a financial provision for your son, and seek enforcement of the order in the United Arab Emirates.

These proceedings are complex, and very costly, with no guarantee that the order will be enforced.

Whilst many countries have entered into an agreement with our country, to enforce orders

made for financial provision for children, the United Arab Emirates is not one of these.

This is, regrettably, a complex matter and I would recommend that you seek independent legal advice, from a lawyer in England or Wales, before taking any further action; you may also be advised to seek legal advice from an independent lawyer in the United Arab Emirates. n

If you have any questions about child maintenance, or other legal matters, please feel free to contact our family team at Berry Smith LLP on 02920 345511 or 01656 645525.

OUTSIDE LIVING

OUTSIDE CHANCES Don’t be green with envy – we’ve got the knowhow to keep your outdoor space looking blooming lovely all year round

FIVE TIPS THE FLORAL TOUCH Border your paved / decked area with flower beds, or create built-in planters ADD SPLASHES OF COLOUR Don’t restrict colour to flowers – create patterns out of different shades of decking and paving COMFORT IS KEY Make sure products are good quality and can stand up to the elements. Rattan, wood and stainless steel are durable and look stunning SOME LIKE IT HOT With our changeable climate a firepit or chiminea will add warmth and atmosphere SMOKIN’ It wouldn’t be summer without a barbecue and there’s a wide choice of options, whether you opt for a traditional worth the wait, or swish, instant-to-use, gas model.

B

arely has summer arrived and we’re already wondering how to keep our gardens looking their best. A little rain and our plots may be overrun with weeds happy to soak up all the H2O, not to mention the slugs and snails happily feasting on our plants. If the weather has been hot however, our plots may be a tad dried out and in need of some greenfingered TLC. Just how do you make the most of your outside space so it can be enjoyed without you having to spend hours tending it? Andrew Graham, a director at Carpet Castle, South Wales’ leading supplier of artificial grass, says it pays to fake it.

“Artificial grass looks fantastic, it requires virtually no maintenance and it means that your lawn or outside space is usable all yearround with no mud and no mess.

“All the grass we supply is incredibly robust and comes with a nine-year UV fade guarantee as standard. The drainage holes mean any rainwater will simply drain through – like it would with regular turf.” Pets like it too and, as it’s hardy, the little rascals can’t dig it up and damage it. “The grass won’t discolour and is easily washable,” Andrew explains.

“The technology has developed a lot in the last few years and customers are often amazed when we show them the products. We often find that when we fit one garden in a street several of the neighbours will then contact us and we’ll end up doing their gardens too.

“We have an in-store display that more than a thousand customers have walked on that still looks fantastic.”

The living is certainly easy at Greensquares, which specialises in high-quality, lowmaintenance outdoor spaces. “We help our customers to totally transform their gardens,” says marketing manager Sian Lewis. “Our

team of CAD specialists can help you to design the hassle-free outdoor space of your dreams, and we even offer a professional installation service.

“When selecting products for your outdoor space, there are two key questions to ask yourself: how long will this last, and how much work will I have to put in?”

“Many people fall into the trap of purchasing cheap, low-quality items in an effort to minimise costs, but this can lead to big problems in the long term when those inferior materials start to fall apart.”

So it’s best to think about your lifestyle and just how much time you’re willing to dedicate to your outdoor space’s upkeep. After all, a lawn can be lovely if you’re willing to get the mower out every week, but if you’d rather keep things low-maintenance, then artificial grass or hard materials like decking or paving may be preferable.

Pugh’s Garden Centre is an independent, family-run garden centre that has been helping gardens grow across South Wales for over 60 years. (It’s also picked up a coveted Cardiff Life Award – read more on page 57). They stock a plethora of shrubs, indoor plants and flowering bulbs so you can plan ahead for the seasons. You can also change up your plot’s palette too, with pots and planters in striking colours plus a great selection of quality garden furniture.

You won’t need a mower for this lawn

GARDEN DIRECTORY

CARPET CASTLE Nantgarw Road, Caerphilly. tel: 029 2088 4951; www.carpetcastlecaerphilly.co.uk GREENSQUARES Hadfield Road, Cardiff. tel: 029 2080 3756; www.greensquares.co.uk PUGH’S GARDEN VILLAGE Tynant Nurseries, Morganstown, Radyr, Cardiff; tel: 029 2084 8000; www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk LEEKES Cowbridge Road, Pontyclun, Rhondda, Cynon Taff; tel: 0333 222 412; www.leekes.co.uk

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

SCENE

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

Barbara Natasegara and Anne Davies

Frederica Von Stade Dr Haydn Mayo, Fiona Jones, Kim Rolfe, Anne Koppel, Ann Simpson and Sue Olley

Faith Gladwyn, Jane Lambert and Beverley Edwards

Lucy Stout, Frederica Von Stade, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Carlo Rizzi and Kate Woolveridge

Nefydd Jones, Sandra Jones and Emma Berry

MUSICAL NOTES

Operatic legends, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Frederica Von Stade joined guests at a fundraising lunch for the Forget-me-not Chorus charity at Holm House, Penarth on 18 June.

Around 80 guests attended, including Maestro Carlo Rizzi, patron of the Forget-me-not Chorus, helping to raise over £2,800 to support the charity’s work in South Wales.

Photos by Jake Morley Photography www.jakemorleyphotography.co.uk

Kate Woolveridge, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Frederica Von Stade

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

Graham Oliver and Carole Oliver

Geraldine Twamley

SOCIETY

Fun on the Maes

Francesca Sciarrillo – winner of the Learner’s Medal Huw Stephens and Mistar Urdd

EISTEDDFOD 2019

The Cardiff and the Vale Urdd National Eisteddfod 2019, hosted by Urdd Gobaith Cymru at the end of May, was attended by approximately 100,000 visitors. This year, 797 branches of the Urdd took part, 14,500 pieces of art, design and technology work were received, with 70,000 names registered to compete from all parts of Wales and beyond in a wide range of competitions including clothes designing, singing cerdd-dant, and disco dancing. www.eisteddfod.wales

Eastside Young Leaders Academy Mistar Urdd, Mei Gwynedd and children from Cardiff perform at the opening concert

Mistar Urdd and Betsan Powys

Ryan Giggs and Mistar Urdd

Mark Drakeford Eluned Morgan and young people from the Urdd

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 47

BUSINESSINSIGHTS CARDIFF GETS SERIOUS

Quote of the issue

Julie Thomas, right, the Womenspire Champion, is presented with her award by Alison Thorne, chair, Chwarae Teg

“AS AN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN ADEPT AT MOVING QUICKLY” Turn to page 57 to find out which Cardiff Life Award winner said this about their successful ‘growth’

The Big Number

£50K

WONDER WOMEN Remarkable women from across Wales are celebrated at Chwarae Teg’s annual Womenspire Awards ceremony

M

ore than 500 people attended the fourth Womenspire awards that took place on 4 July at St Fagans National Museum of History in Cardiff. Organised by Chwarae Teg, Wales’ leading gender equality charity, the event recognises and showcases the achievements of extraordinary women in all aspect of life.

Cerys Furlong, the charity’s chief executive, says, “There’s no end to the amazing stories out there from women of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life. At Chwarae Teg we know how important it is that the achievements of women are highlighted just as much as those of men. Our Womenspire finalists have all accomplished so much, made incredibly valuable contributions and in doing so become fantastic role models for others.”

The overall Womenspire Champion 2019 was Julie Thomas from Bridgend, who was also the Woman in Sport category winner.

When Julie lost her sight ten years ago her life as a dedicated head teacher came to an end. However, her determination to form new interests led to her becoming a bowls champion who competes against sighted players. In 2018 she reached the National Welsh Elite fully sighted finals and was selected for

Turn to page 52 to find out who has donated this amount to help ‘build’ local charities

the Commonwealth Games, coming back with a bronze medal. Julie has also worked to support other people with sight loss in a range of ways including coffee mornings, trips to audio described films at the cinema and raising funds for a purpose built allotment for partially sighted people to garden in, which received a European Innovation Award.

For more: www.chwaraeteg.com

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

FULLY EQUIPPED MICROSUCTION EARWAX REMOVAL CLINIC

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

© COMPILED BY LOUISA HUNT

Debbie Jones from Teenage Cancer Trust, Julie-Ann Haines from Principality and Jennie Kirkham from Alzheimer’s Society Cymru

Jigsaw kids hanging out

GIVING BACK Thanks to Wales’ Grand Slam win at the Guinness Six Nations in March, the Principality Building Society is donating £50,000 to two Welsh charities.

Wales’ largest building society had pledged to donate £10,000 for every game Wales won, with the money to be split between Alzheimer’s Society Cymru and Teenage Cancer Trust Cymru.

Stacey Hawdon, senior regional corporate partnerships executive for Alzeihmer’s Society Cymru, says, “‘Donations of this size are life changing. We urge everyone to join Principality Building Society’s lead and come together and unit against dementia.”

For more: www.principality.co.uk

This will be the second year Admiral sponsors Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend

PERFECT FIT

A SURE THING Pride Cymru and Admiral have revealed they’ll continue their partnership, which has spanned for nearly 20 years with the Welsh employer returning as headline sponsor of Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend for the second year running.

Gian Molinu, chair at Pride Cymru says,

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

“Admiral’s public commitment to us as a charity and to the wider LGBTQ+ community has been priceless. Their contributions demonstrate that Pride matters, and that diversity should be celebrated within society.”

Turn to page 28 for more on Pride Cymru For more: www.admiral.com

Jigsaw Performing Arts, which offers acting, singing and dance classes to 3 – 18 year olds, will open a second school in Cardiff this autumn.

After filling up waiting lists at the performing arts school at Cardiff High, with over 100 students attending every week, Jigsaw’s new classes will run from the Bishop of Llandaff High School.

Phillipa Atkins, the school manager of Jigsaw Cardiff, says, “The inclusive ethos of Jigsaw is one of the reasons that I wanted to run a theatre school in Cardiff.

The word Jigsaw is representative of all the parts of performing arts coming together, but to me it represents finding a place that feels like a perfect fit. We are all different, like the pieces of a jigsaw, and that should be celebrated.”

For more: www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHTS Stephen Leeke, Rhys Mallows, Andy Mallows and Mike Fowler outside Hensol Castle

Dr Ted Miln and team outside the front of HeadQuarters Hair

IN GOOD SPIRITS MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC USING HIS HEAD

Dr Ted Miln, a specialist surgeon in hair restoration, has recently become the resident hair transplant surgeon at HeadQuarters Hair Transplants on Harley Street, Cardiff. Dr Ted Miln graduated with a medical degree from Bristol University and has since worked in Cardiff in trauma and orthopaedic surgery, general surgery, liver surgery, colorectal surgery, as well as cardiology, general medicine, geriatrics and psychiatry. www.hqhairtransplants.com

The basement of the 17th century, Grade-I listed Hensol Castle will soon be converted into a craft spirit distillery, bonded warehouse, gin school and visitor experience, as part of a £7million scheme to bring the castle back into use.

Stephen Leek, managing director of the Vale Resort, explains, “The conversion will be a joint venture between the Leekes family-owned Vale Resort, and Bottlers & Distillers Wales, started by father and son duo, Andy and Rhys Mallows. The

project will create up to 120 new jobs over the next three years.”

Hensol Castle Distillery, which has previously been used as a set in BBC dramas including Doctor Who, Sherlock Holmes and Torchwood. will sell a range of entry-level, mid-level and premium quality gins, vodkas and spirits, which will be on sale in local pubs and restaurants, as well as major supermarkets.

For more: www.hensolcastledistillery.com Martyn Prowel team go all Top Gun for a good cause!

CREATIVE CARE

Residents at the private care home Ty Llandaff in Cardiff showcased their artwork to local visitors last month. The exhibition was part of an annual event celebrating ‘Arts in Care’ and encouraging people to visit the care home. Lisa Cristina says, “Building relationships with the local community is really important to us.” www.tyllandaffcare.com

THE BUILD UP

Businesses in Cardiff are gearing up for 8 November as nominations, which can be made for free via the website, are now open for the firstever Cardiff Property Awards. The 20 categories include Commercial and Residential Agent. www.cardiffpropertyawards.co.uk

SKY HIGH A team from Martyn Prowel Solicitors took to the skies to raise funds for their corporate charity BulliesOut. The jump itself took place on 22 June, and saw Hannah Head, Michelle Spencer and Natalia Xuereb brave heights of 12,000ft and speeds of 120mph as they each took part in a

tandem SkyDive over the beautiful Gower Peninsula. Director Caron Rockey says, “We as a firm are committed to supporting such a worthy cause and so were delighted our colleagues were willing to take on such an amazing challenge”.

For more: www.martynprowel.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 53

BUSINESS INSIGHTS

“SPORTING LIFE IS VERY STRUCTURED WITH A MONTHLY SCHEDULE TO LIVE BY, INSTRUCTING WHAT TO DO, WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO EAT”

TOM SHANKLIN

The former Welsh rugby union player puts his sporting prowess to good use as director of Genero Experiences, a leading corporate hospitality company How did your corporate hospitality event, the Locker Room, come about?

Through a collaborative relationship I have with Pete Leckie.

Pete is MD of Genero Productions, a leading event production agency.

We would brainstorm ideas about what opportunities we could introduce into the sporting event industry calendar.

How might you describe the work dynamic?

It’s a two-way relationship which works because I look after the talent and running of the event, whereas Pete looks after the technical side.

We’re both incredibly sociable, with a wide variety of friends and we felt that there was a gap in the market for this level of event. We wanted to create an event which reflects the rugby legends that attend; ensuring

that we invite the correct level of speakers for the environment that we have created.

When did you first go into business with Genero?

As the Locker Room grew, so did my relationship with Genero.

I felt there was an opportunity to work closely with Genero and help grow the brand as the Genero ambassador, MD of Genero Experiences. We collaborated together and I began to introduce potential new clients. It was important for me to align myself with professional business people; Genero certainly does that and is a business I am proud to be part of.

How does it compare to the sporting life?

Sporting life is very structured, with a monthly schedule to live

by, instructing what to do, where to go, what to eat. Whilst now, it’s important to find the balance between work and family. It’s about keeping a tight diary, being organised and disciplined.

and I really love golf; recently taking part in the Celebrity Cup as part of the winning Team Wales.

I officially voted myself player of the tournament! (See more about the Team Wales win on page 9.)

What have you found to be the best tools for growth in your business?

The best tool for us is offering a bespoke and personal service to our clients. Through building relationships, we have reached a point where people look forward to the Locker Room experience and we enjoy it with them. It’s a fantastic networking opportunity as we have a vast range of industries that attend. Nothing is more satisfying than people attending our events and making new business contacts.

What has been your favourite moment from past Locker Room events?

When Wales win there is a great atmosphere in the room, everyone comes back from the match full of spirits… not drinks! It is difficult to pick a highlight but this year’s Six Nations was incredible, where Wales won the Grand Slam against Ireland. It’s amazing to watch the rugby legends entertain the crowd, creating a fun, social atmosphere.

How do you help cultivate those contacts?

We socialise with our clients outside of Locker Room; inviting our key clients to other sporting events that we attend. We support our partners by attending their own charity events, it’s a mutually beneficial relationship. We always follow up with our clients post event, to ensure that we have met and exceeded their expectations. We want to make sure that the event is the best it can be, to ensure the Locker Room brand grows.

How and when do you switch off from work?

At home I have three children aged 10 years, seven years, and 10 months, they help me switch off as it’s chaos in the house. I don’t even have time to think! I also like to cook, as I find it quite therapeutic

What are your plans for the future?

Growing the Locker Room. We are planning to take the brand outside of Cardiff for away fixtures. We pride ourselves in being able to offer bespoke solutions for our client’s needs. For example, we have hosted bespoke trips to Dubai for the Rugby Sevens, golf days and private sporting tours. We want to continue to expand our services and love the challenge of a new request.

For more: Genero Experiences, Unit G, Priority Enterprise Park, Ty Verlon Industrial Estate, Barry tel: 01446 740043; www.genero-experiences.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I CARDIFF LIFE I 117 55

business insights

Cardiff life awards 2019 PUGH’S GARDEN VILLAGE

© Studio 87

Marketing executive Amy Hawkins talks about the importance of family when it comes to the business’s success

You won! Congratulations!

Tell us about your reactions on the night…

RETAILER WINNER

Cardiff Life Awards are the first awards I have ever entered so it was a really exciting experience. It was such a genuine surprise and wonderful feeling when our name got called out as the winners of our category – everyone was thrilled and being able to join members of the Pugh family on stage to receive the award was lovely.

What do you think helped secure your Cardiff Life Award?

How did the Pugh Garden team celebrate? And where is the award now?

I like to think that the judges could see how hard the Pugh family and of course the staff here really do work.

Our judges’ comments highlighted that “Pugh’s is proof that passion can power success” and it means a lot to us that this has been recognised because there is nothing but passion oozing from every person here!

We thoroughly enjoyed being able to attend the Awards ceremony on the evening and to be surrounded by all the other fantastic businesses and winners that night gave us a real buzz! Our Award has since been proudly on display on the wall in our popular coffee shop so that everyone can see it.

What does winning the Award means to you and the team?

Tell us a little about Pugh’s Garden Centre…

It all started in 1919 when Sydney Pugh, at Wenallt Nurseries in Rhiwbina, wholesaled fruit and veg from the nursery gate as well as milk and eggs which he locally sourced. The firm of S Pugh & Son came into being when Mr Colin Pugh joined his father in 1948.

They made the move to Tynant Nurseries in Morganstown in 1969, where you can still find the garden centre today. Much hard work back then, with the help from Colin’s

quickly before the opportunity goes elsewhere. Our ‘Garden Village’ concept for example was actually recognised as the first, nationally, to successfully break the mould of the traditional Garden Centre.

Maidenhead Aquatics were the first concession to join us back in 1995 and today as you know in Radyr we now have a total of 15 concession stores, meaning we have become more of a ‘family day out’ shopping and leisure destination.

wife Winnie, created the nucleus of the present Garden Centre.

Two more generations of the Pugh family have since become involved in the business; Colin and Winnie’s sons Graham and Ian along with Graham’s wife Helen and most recently their daughters Kara and Nicola Pugh who now head a management team which has seen the garden centre evolve and grow dramatically over the last few years.

“We have become more of a ‘family day out’ shopping and leisure destination”

Winning this award at the beginning of the year was a real push and motivation for the whole team and hearing feedback from the judges and the other businesses involved was a lovely feeling and it makes you feel really inspired to continue striving forward.

What’s the secret of Pugh’s Garden Village success?

The Pugh family have always been heavily involved in the business and this has meant that they’ve been able to identify opportunities and adapt

What have you found to be the best tools for growth in your business?

I think the fact that Pugh’s is a smaller, family-run business plays a big part as this has allowed us to effect rapid change which perhaps isn’t possible in larger establishments.

As an independent business we have always been adept at moving quickly in regards to seeking new opportunities and continuously staying ahead of the trends.

Any exciting plans in the pipeline?

Right now a lot of our time is going into planning and finalising this year’s Christmas experience which is our biggest event in the calendar.

We’re already receiving messages asking when tickets are going on sale – which will be the beginning of October for anyone wondering!

For more: Pugh’s Garden Village, Tynant Nurseries, Morganstown, Cardiff. tel: 029 2084 8000; www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk

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

property

MILLFORD LODGE Samantha Walker steps inside a beautiful Castleton home, and tries very hard not to get lost

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

I

t pays, when looking for a home, to create a wish list of the perfect property. You’ll know, of course, how many bedrooms and bathrooms are de rigueur but spare a thought for just how your new home will be used.

Do you want it to be the perfect place for your family or a home where you can wine and dine your friends? And will it offer enough space so you can step away from the hubbub for a little solitude and some calming me-time?

At Millford Lodge in Castleton, located between Cardiff and Newport, we may just have found the property that will give most wish lists a very big tick. It is detached, so perfect for the privacy most of us crave, yet has oodles of space for a growing family and hanging out with friends. Or both should you so wish. Outside, a gated driveway leads to the redbrick property, plus a double garage for your cars. Don’t think though, that this lodge is a small affair, it boasts four bedrooms, four

bathrooms and four reception rooms.

The generous hallway is so spacious you could easily use it as more entertaining space, but we rather like the way the central staircase is a very stylish feature.

A stunning wood floor gleams nicely, with doors leading off the hall to the main reception rooms.

But first, let’s go to the kitchen which is very much at the heart of this substantial home. It is open plan and perfectly fitted with a handmade kitchen – bespoke naturally – and has an all-important island. Granite worktops abound and there’s also a Belfast sink, range cooker, dishwasher, space for a fridge freezer yet still plenty of space for entertaining.

The dining area is set in a large bay, and has French doors opening onto the rear terrace. Not to be outdone, a set of bi-fold doors opens onto the terrace from the sitting area. A utility room makes sure you never have the washday blues but, once you’ve done the chores you may face a dilemma, just which reception room should you

kickback and relax in? Both the drawing room and sitting room have striking stone feature fireplaces and are lovely bright spaces so, whichever you plump for, you’ll be more than happy.

Venturing upstairs you’ll find the bedrooms, three of which are en suite, plus a family bathroom. The master bedroom is vast, so much so that it has its own dressing room and large bathroom. The second and third bedrooms also have en suites with double showers and rainwater shower heads. The family bathroom also ensures guests can stay squeaky clean.

It is time to head back downstairs, with planters at the front of the property hosting all manner of flora and fauna. At the back there’s a fully enclosed garden bordered by mature trees, perfect for getting back to nature. Millford Lodge also has an enormous paved terrace with seating areas so you can watch the kids, entertain or dine al fresco.

Or even all three simultaneously. n

House numbers Guide price £899,950 Approx. square foot 3,947 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Reception rooms 4 For more: Savills, 5th Floor, 2 Kingsway, Cardiff. tel: 029 2036 8900; www.savills.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

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Ty Cudyll, Pen Y Waun, Pentyrch ÂŁ895,000 EPC = D pa black Whitchurch 02920 612328

Detached four bedroom executive style family residence with stunning panoramic views over pretty Pentyrch Village extending across to open country side and the channel, Magnificent large and lovely landscaped gardens with truly breath-taking views across rolling fields and country side. New bespoke 29ft x 29ft open plan kitchen, breakfast room and family room. 17ft x 17ft lounge, 3 stunning bathrooms, gas heating wit new boiler, composite grey double glazed windows, 1 ft study/snug. Atrium style entrance reception hall with large gallery landing, picture window with high ground views, must be seen!

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Clos Goch, Pentyrch ÂŁ420,000 EPC = B pa black Whitchurch 02920 612328

Detached double fronted Redrow built high specification four bedroom home. Lovely position fronting a charming and quiet close walking distance to the vilage centre, Truly stunning landscaped gardens, spacious 16ft lounge, down stairs cloak room with stylish suite, utility room. Outstanding 22ft open plan luxury bespoke kitchen & dining room, two stunning sottini bathrooms, stylish and contemporary fitted wardrobes, immaculate condition, many extras, 19ft garage. Must be seen, no chain

CARDIFF LIVES

“A presenter didn’t turn up and the director said to me…‘You’ll have to do it!’” up and the director said to me…

‘I can’t put out an empty chair, you’ll have to do it!’ and that’s how I started presenting. Thankfully it was so close to transmission I didn’t have time to think about it.

CLAIRE SUMMERS The BBC Radio Wales breakfast show presenter talks Anthony Hopkins, Tiger Woods, and why Cardiff has everything Cardiff-born Claire Summers was recently announced as the new host of Radio Wales’ Breakfast. A journalist with the BBC since 1999, Claire has most recently presented news and sport on BBC Wales Today.

Claire grew up in Cowbridge and gained a BA degree at Aberystwyth University before earning a post-graduate degree in journalism from the University of Cardiff.

I was born in Cardiff and have lived here all my life.

I have lots of family in and around Cardiff – Culverhouse Cross is the centre of my universe!

I think Cardiff is an incredible city to grow up in.

It has everything. It’s all contained within the city centre, with the castle and park. We lived in Thornhill when I was little then

moved to Cowbridge. I used to play hockey on the fields at Black Weir and we’d walk back to school which was on the Parade.

I don’t think I was the best student. But I was very happy, I certainly enjoyed it. I remember we went on a trip to the HTV studios at Culver House Cross. I read the news in my convent uniform! I think it’s on tape somewhere.

After my degree, I completed my post-graduate course and went to ITV at Bristol to work for a company called Channel One. I was producing, reporting, filming and presenting by the end of the first month. It was the best way to get stuck in.

I’d been at Wales Today for only a short time and I was producing the early breakfast bulletins. A presenter didn’t turn

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

I’ve been lucky enough to work on many big stories.

The London Olympics, The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Champions League but the Ryder Cup really stands out for me. The drama of it going into an unprecedented extra day, and getting to interview Tiger Woods….the atmosphere was incredible and I loved every minute.

I once showed a cow at the Royal Welsh Show, while presenting Wales Today. It had disaster written all over it.

Ceridwen the cow was firmly in charge and I was very lucky to hold on to her rein – she was very strong and all I could hear was Derek the weatherman laughing his head off.

I went to the Dorchester in London to interview Sir Anthony Hopkins a few years ago. We were told we just had a few minutes, but when I told him I was from BBC Wales he said, ‘Give her more time!’ He was charming.

My morning routine is an early one! I wake just before 3am; check to see what’s happened overnight, get ready and drive in.

I like to sit at my desk before 4am just to look at the programme and see who we’re talking to.

Some of the team eat before we go on air but I can’t even look at them, I can’t eat a thing! Tea is about all I can manage.

I live with my husband Chris and little boy Charlie Beau.

Having a three-year-old means life is never dull. Because I finish work early it means I can pick him up from nursery.

My biggest achievement is my little boy. We really struggled to have him and every day I know I’m blessed. My only regret is that I couldn’t have had more children – I would have liked four.

As a working mum, you carry so much guilt for not being there. Although I miss the struggle to get him dressed and out of the door in the morning (it has been known to take an hour, especially when he demands the Spiderman socks that I haven’t washed) it’s a joy to be there at the end of day and pick him up from nursery.

My desert island disc is Different Drum by Susannah Hoffs and Matthew Sweet. It’s just a song that follows me everywhere.

I’m a very nervous flyer. I think I’m going to die every time I get on a plane.

My secret Cardiff is Merthyr Mawr or Dyffryn Gardens – two places we regularly go just to get fresh air and wear our three year old out. Barry Island is always a favourite too…. even in the drizzle.

Last summer we hired a house in Tenby, right on the beach. The weather was glorious. The whole family went, 15 of us, and it was bliss. n

BBC Radio Wales’ Breakfast with Claire Summers is on air at 6am Monday to Thursday, with Oliver Hides presenting on a Friday and Saturday.