Cardiff Life - Issue 237

ISSUE 237 / SPRING 2021 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

23

PAGES FOR FOODIES INSIDE

@CardiffLifeMag

ISSUE 237 / SPRING 2021 / TELL ME TO MY FACE

CLOSER THAN CLOSE A NEW SOLO ART SHOW IN THE CITY LOOKS AT THE DETAILS OF UNCONSIDERED BEAUTY

OUT OUT

LET’S PARTY, AL FRESCO STYLE

MEET THE MAKER

ELIZA ELIZA’S TABOO PRINTS ARE HIGHLIGHTING DEEPER ISSUES

GAME ON

AFTER A LUCKY ROLL OF THE DICE, CHANCE & COUNTERS RETURNS TO THE CITY

WORLD CLASS

THE INCREDIBLE WORK OF CARDIFF’S MATICO, THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND EDUCATION IN GHANA

© MOTEL NIGHTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

It’s warming up and there’s no time like the present to drink and dine al fresco.

See page 10 for more

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ow that some sort of normality has resumed and the prospect of going ‘out out’ is returning, we’re very excited to bring you an event-packed issue of Cardiff Life.

For starters there’s our massive al fresco section on page 10; pretty soon, indoor dining will be back in action, but even when that time comes, we don’t think we’ll be over all the incredible outdoor dining efforts we’ve been seeing in and around the city of late. We’re majorly impressed, and so are plenty of other people by the looks of the sell-out reservations lists all the way into June. Some restaurants have even set up brandnew outdoor-only locations for the warmer weeks ahead; and there are exciting plans lined up, from outdoor foodie cinemas to street food socials.

We are poised and ready to support the hell out of these foodie champions, what a year it’s been for them all. We’re so happy to have them back!

Moving on, the arts are still irrepressible and bursting with intensity. On page 21, painter Hannah Short, whose vivid work you’ll see on our front cover, tells us about her first solo show in the city, and on page 24 we chat with Jason Camilleri at Wales Millennium Centre, who shares his thoughts on the lack of diversity in Cardiff’s art scene. You’ll also find our What’s On diary on page 22.

Elsewhere we have tons more fun and thoughtprovoking things – from the reopening of immersive game night café Chance & Counters (page 43) to the incredible charity work of Cardiff’s Matico, which is not only the driving force behind a school in Ghana, but also pays the teachers’ wages and the children’s fees (page 6). And there’s so much more besides, too.

Our unstoppable, inventive, caring city is getting back on its feet, and we genuinely couldn’t be filled with more glee. #CardiffTogether, always

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awr bod ein bywydau’n dechrau teimlo’n normal i ryw raddau unwaith eto a bod gobaith y gallwn ni fynd allan go iawn, rydym wrth ein bodd o allu cyflwyno rhifyn o Cardiff Life sy’n llawn digwyddiadau.

I ddechrau, ar dudalen 10, mae gennym adran enfawr am fwyta allan yn yr awyr agored. Yn fuan iawn, bydd modd i ni wledda dan do unwaith eto, ond hyd yn oed bryd hynny mae’n siŵr y byddwn am wneud yn fawr o’r ymdrech anhygoel a welsom o amgylch y ddinas yn ddiweddar i ddarparu cyfleusterau bwyta yn yr awyr agored. Mae’r cyfan wedi gwneud argraff fawr arnom ni ac ar lawer o bobl eraill hefyd, o weld bod cymaint o fwytai’n llawn tan fis Mehefin. Mae rhai bwytai hyd yn oed wedi creu lleoliadau newydd sbon yn yr awyr agored yn unig ar gyfer yr wythnosau mwynach sydd i ddod ac mae yna gynlluniau cyffrous ar y gweill, o sinemâu awyr agored sy’n gweini bwyd i ddigwyddiadau cymdeithasol sy’n cynnig bwyd stryd.

Rydym yn barod i gefnogi’r holl hyrwyddwyr bwyd hyn i’r carn, oherwydd mae wedi bod yn flwyddyn anodd iddynt i gyd.

Rydym wrth ein bodd o’u cael yn ôl!

Ar wahân i hynny, does dim pall ar weithgarwch a bwrlwm y celfyddydau. Ar dudalen 21 mae’r peintiwr Hannah Short, y mae ei gwaith lliwgar i’w weld ar ein clawr blaen, yn sôn wrthym am ei sioe gyntaf ar ei phen ei hun yn y ddinas. Ac ar dudalen 24 rydym yn sgwrsio â Jason Camilleri yng Nghanolfan y Mileniwm, sy’n sôn am ba mor amrywiol yw’r celfyddydau yng Nghaerdydd. Mae ein Dyddiadur Digwyddiadau i’w weld ar dudalen 22 hefyd.

Fel arall, mae gennym lwyth o erthyglau difyr a diddorol – mae un yn sôn am ailagor Chance & Counters, sef y caffi nos lle gallwch ymgolli mewn gemau (ar dudalen 43) ac mae un arall yn rhoi sylw i waith elusennol anhygoel Matico yng Nghaerdydd, sydd nid yn unig wedi sefydlu ysgol yn Ghana ond sydd hefyd yn talu cyflogau’r athrawon a ffïoedd y plant (ar dudalen 6). Ac mae yna ddigonedd o bethau eraill hefyd.

Mae ein dinas ddiwyd, ddyfeisgar a gofalgar yn ailagor ei drysau, sy’n destun llawenydd mawr i ni i gyd. #CaerdyddYnghyd, bob amser

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

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

Issue 237 / Spring 2021 COVER Artwork by Cardiff painter Hannah Short, whose first solo show is coming to Cardiff MADE in June.

See page 21 for more.

FEATURES

10 AL FRESCO FARE Let’s get outside! Our pick of the city’s best

outdoor offerings

24 BIG INTERVIEW Jason Camilleri at Wales Millennium Centre

on diversity

32 MEET THE MAKER We chat taboo topics with Eliza Eliza

THE ARTS

21 ARTS INTRO Cardiff painter Hannah Short’s first solo show is

coming up

22 WHAT’S ON Arts, shows and upcoming events, it’s all going on

in Cardiff

SHOPPING

29 SHOPPING INTRO The haven that is Hamptons in Penarth

town centre

30 EDITOR’S CHOICE Local shops share their prettiest pastel

offerings with us

32

FOOD & DRINK

39 INTRO Jane Cook on the newest ventures in the city 40 FOOD NEWS Tasty morsels for you to chew on 24 GAME ON The return of Chance & Counters board game café 44 DECAF DELIGHTS The best places to grab a lighter cup of the

dark stuff

48 RESTAURANT REVIEW We’re whisked away to tropical lands at

The Coconut Tree

SCENE

51 SOCIETY SECTION Four of the coolest reopenings in the city

PROPERTY

57 MATCHDAY LUXE The new, luxury hotel opening in time for the

Autumn Nations Series

58 SHOWCASE Is it a spa or a house? We’ll let you decide

BUSINESS

61 CARDIFF WORKS News and views and awesome new businesses 62 BIZ Q&A Behind the scenes at Coles Funeral Directors

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT Is this the most selfless business woman in the land?

27 WYBURN AND WAYNE They have launched a new coffee court 66 CARDIFF LIVES An author, musician and David Tennant

body double tells all

48

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@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 Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney, Jane Cook and Polly Angelova Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@ 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 Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Gemma Scrine gemma.scrine@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 and Exeter. 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

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

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The good that people do

WORLD CLASS © DIANA TEODORESCU @POMEGRANATESANDSTORIES

Our spotlight section this month is all about the incredible charity work of Mati Roberts, founder of Cardiff’s Matico Studio, who is not only the driving force behind a school in Ghana, but also uses her business’s profits to pay the teachers’ wages and the fees for the children. Here, Mati tells us more Your time in Ghana led you to your major charity work; could you tell us more…

I’d always loved bright colours and bold patterns, and, as a child, I used to raid my wonderfully stylish grandmother’s wardrobe and grew up with tales of family members living in various Asian and African countries. This inspired me to travel a lot, and I was lucky enough to get experiences to lecture in Somaliland and volunteer as a nurse in Ghana, and this is where Matico’s story began.

ABOVE: Mati is definitely one of the most selfless humans you’ll meet; LEFT: Mati with pupils in Ghana, many of whom she pays school fees for; BELOW: Matico earrings made from offcuts of traditional Ghanaian fabrics; BOTTOM: Mati with the pupils

What happened next?

I became aware that the amazing fabrics that I had fallen in love with in Ghana were under threat from the millions of unwanted clothes thrown away each year by people in Europe and America. These end up in either markets or landfill sites in various African and Asian countries. Approximately 15 million pieces of unwanted clothing arrive in one market in Ghana every week! This, along with the threat of counterfeit fabrics made in China, has put Ghanaian jobs and traditions at risk, and the once booming textile industry has declined by 90 per cent since the 1980s. This inspired me to buy lots of the fabulous fabrics with no idea what I would make.

When did you decide what to do with fabrics?

I moved back to Wales in 2017, and, when I was asked to make a lampshade for a friend, I realised that a lampshade was the perfect way to show off the wonderful fabrics. Then I started using the offcuts to make jewellery.

How did you come to be involved with building a school in Ghana?

While I was there, I met a small boy at an orphanage. I’m not sure how old he was, but he was only up to my hip. We had brought the children sweets, and he came up to me to say thank you then said, “What we really need are dictionaries and encyclopedias”. This experience, and staying with a family who had a seven-year-old girl living with them who would work before school from the crack of dawn until late at night to be able to afford to attend class, made me want to help. I found it so heartbreaking that these children were so desperate for an education, while we often take it for granted.

And what were the first steps with building the school?

Kofi was a lovely Ghanaian person who I became friends with over the years. Kofi was the first generation of his family to be educated and feels very passionately about the importance of education. When he asked if I would like to be involved with the school in 2016, I of course said yes.

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

SPOTLIGHT

left:Profits from Mati’s lampshades help pay the teachers’ wages; middle: A vibrant library of traditional, handmade fabrics; bottom: Mati fell in love with the markets in Ghana

When was the school built?

In 2016, Kofi had been building flats to rent. He realised that although flats would be beneficial for him, it wouldn’t benefit the local community, so he changed the building into a school and also provided an outside well. The school first opened in 2018 with 36 pupils. We now have nine classrooms, starting with creche and nursery, through to 10 and 11 year olds.

What’s the latest?

By November 2020, we had managed to build around 80 per cent of the classrooms but needed a further £1,800 to buy the building supplies needed to finish. I started a crowdfunder in December and we managed to raise over £3,000! This meant we had enough money to buy supplies and were able to employ builders. The build was finished in time for the school to reopen in January 2021. Although there’s more to be done.

What does the future hold?

This is definitely not a short-term project and we are now planning on building an extra four classrooms for the Junior High School. We reached our target with the crowdfunder for this, but it is still possible to donate. Any support would be massively appreciated.

And sales from Matico go towards funding the school?

The school is funded by money from Kofi’s business and Matico sales, so the money given to the school each month

by Matico can fluctuate from all proceeds to a percentage of profits, depending on our outgoings. From April 2020 until January 2021, all proceeds from Matico sales went to pay for the teachers’ wages.

And you pay the fees for some children too, don’t you?

Yes, I feel very passionately that all children in the area should have access to education. I pay the fees for the children whose families are not able to contribute.

You are a truly selfless human, Mati! If your profits go to the school, does that mean you have a second job?

ABOUT MATICO

Matico uses beautiful fabrics, collected from countries whose textile industries are in dramatic decline, to create home décor and statement jewellery, which Mati handmakes in Whitchurch.

By buying Matico pieces you are supporting jobs and traditions, while also helping to fund a school in Ghana. Matico’s hope is to make education accessible to all children in the area and that the pupils will have some of the many opportunities that we are so lucky to have here in the UK.

Yes, I work part-time as a nurse practitioner and a sexual health advisor in Cardiff Royal Infirmary. When I was 19, I spent a bit of time at an HIV clinic in Delhi, which inspired me to study nursing and started my interest in working within sexual health.

Where can people buy your vibrant Matico products?

They’re available on my Etsy shop and I will be launching my website very soon. I also often have a stall at the Paper Mill Road makers’ market at the Bone Yard on the last Saturday of the month, and at the Indie Superstore markets in the city. I also sell on the site Anni.wales – a marketplace for Welsh independent businesses.

Find out more on www.maticostudio.com, and follow @maticostudio on social media

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 7

James Bourne, Head of Kalah Wales L2

Nicky Burchett Instructor L1 2020

Eve Morris Instructor L1 2020

YMCA anti violence project 2019

Nicky Burchett, James Bourne & Eve Morris

Nahum Belver, Idan Abolnik & James Bourne Spain 2019

Everyone is aware of Knife Crime statistics, how fast it continues to rise, the increase of youth violence… the question is what are people actively doing about it?

HERE AT KALAH WALES OUR KNIFE CRIME DIVISION IS AND WILL CONTINUE TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM HEAD ON! One of our aims is to continue to focus on Taking Action to help vulnerable people improve their circumstances, improve their safety and minimise the chances of injury.

THE PROGRAMME CONSISTS OF 3 STAGES Stage 1 Kalah Self Defence Full on reality Self Defence. Please view the video on our online page for a brief insight.

Stage 2 First Aid & Citizen Aid This will be delivered with the same reality as the Kalah Self Defence

Stage 3 Counselling Services This is a service we offer to the ones who fortunately survived a brutal attack.

Our belief is simple. To face violence and survive, your training must be as close to reality as is safely possible.

The Kalah system will change the way you think about combat ... forever.

Online: www.kalah.wales | Social: x kalah_wales b r

HAPPY ON THE OUTSIDE

Cardiff ’s al fresco spots have taken it to another level this year; there are heated glass pods, stretch tents, disco balls, epic views and so much outdoor entertainment on the cards right now. We have never been more excited to brave the Welsh weather and get outside

By Lisa Evans 10 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

AL FRESCO

“Coming up are comedy and drag nights, outdoor cinema and weekly quizzes”

Drink your chosen tipples under a giant disco ball and festoon lights at Motel Nights

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“Sip on spritely cocktails while looking out over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront”

above: The Admiral St David offers unreal views; opposite page, top: Science fiction-style dining pods at Still of Night;

P

bottom: Good, honest (and fun) hospitality at Hang Fire Southern Kitchen

retty soon, indoor dining will be back, and normality will hit once again, but even when that time comes, we don’t think we’ll be ‘over’ all the incredible al fresco efforts we’ve been seeing in and around the city of late. We’re majorly impressed, and so are plenty of other people by the looks of the sell-out reservations lists all the way into June. Some restaurants have even set up brand-new outdoor-only locations for the warmer weeks ahead; and there are exciting events lined up, from outdoor foodie cinemas to street food socials.

Motel Nights

What to expect…

It’s an outdoor dining experience under a giant disco ball and festoon lights. It’s nestled at the back of an industrial unit and next to a train track, giving a Brooklyn meets Budapest ruin bar vibe.

On the menu…

Street food, with takeovers from Keralan Karavan, Reaper Hot Sauce and their in-house Side Piece Street Food brand. There’ll be something different every day of the week.

Did you know…

Motel Nights was an events company pre-Covid, responsible for some of Cardiff’s favourite events such as Disco Motel, HUSH silent discos at the museum, and NYE at Tramshed.

Coming up…

They will soon launch their comedy and drags nights, outdoor cinema and weekly quizzes.

Paper Mill Road, Cardiff; www.motelnights.co.uk

specials while looking out over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and Penarth.

It’s almost tropical.

We’re ordering…

The Welsh harissa sausage roll sharing plate.

Fun fact…

It’s a regular celebrity hotspot.

Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; www.stdavids.vocohotels.com

The Botanist The lowdown…

The Botanist’s terrace is a world away from the city life. Escape to their rooftop, warm up sat around the fire pit and enjoy the live music on the outdoor stage (coming soon). Expect vintage iron seating, big benches for groups, and plants everywhere in true botanical style.

The view…

From each corner of the terrace you can see iconic landmarks: Cardiff Castle clock tower, the tower of St. John’s church, the spikes of the Principality Stadium and the clock tower of City Hall.

We’re ordering…

One of their famous straight-from-the-grill hanging kebabs: chicken and chorizo; crispy halloumi; or lamb kofta. And sweet chilli chips ofc.

Church street, Cardiff; www.thebotanist.uk.com

The Fox and Hounds What to expect…

The Admiral St David

The al fresco area overlooks a little river which runs through the village and also has lovely views of St Cadoc’s Church. Part of their terrace benefits from a glass canopy and heaters, and the other part has tables with parasols. There are also a few outside sofas which are ideal for drinking in the sunshine.

It’s an all-day summer hotspot based on the outdoor terrace of Voco St David’s Cardiff hotel. Sip on spritely cocktails and indulge in à la carte

They have designed a garden menu which offers light, summery dishes using all-local suppliers (even down to the homemade ice cream and

What to expect…

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

The food…

AL FRESCO wine). Their recommendation is the beef brisket croquette with pickled purple carrots and smoked garlic aioli.

Fun fact…

Their main bar, Harry’s, was named after a past local who used to regularly sit at the end of the bar. There is still a photo of him and his dog on the wall in what was his favourite spot.

Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan; www.fandhllancarfan.co.uk

Curado Bar & Vermut The set-up…

These are actually two businesses that are next door to each other.

Thanks to recent pavement-widening works, Curado will have around 20 covers outside, and Vermut, the cosy bar next door, will have eight.

They offer a little taste of Galician bar life in the capital. There’s also a fantastic view of the Principality Stadium.

On the menu…

Expect Ibéricos and pintxos plus more substantial Galician dishes.

They independently source all of their produce directly from Spain, straight to your plate and glass. No hype, just great produce.

Fun fact…

They are the largest Spanish importer in Wales.

Guildhall Place, Cardiff; www.curadobar.com

Still of Night The set-up…

There are three science fiction-esque dining pods which will catch your eye. They are classed as ‘ultra premium’ and are conditioned/heated and have music playing in them. There’s more outdoor seating under a covered area too.

The menu…

There’s an outdoor pizza oven and a mobile gin bar in a converted horse box serving all their own gins from their on-site distillery, Cardiff Distillery. Head chef Wayne Barnard is a National Chef of Wales finalist and has experience working under Marco Pierre White, Michael Roux Jr and Tom Kerridge, and his menu is a mixture of modern popular and handmade dishes. Think ham hock eggs benedict croissant followed by a salted caramel doissant (half croissant half donut).

Coming up…

Their gin schools will be back up and running soon.

Cathedral Road, Pontcanna; www.stillofnight.co.uk

Hang Fire Southern Kitchen What to expect…

Good, honest, Southern hospitality and good, honest homemade food.

It’s all under umbrellas and gazebos in a lovely little space right outside the restaurant. It’s not bookable, it’s first come first served. Music-wise, there’ll be Southern-style tunes, from country and western to blues and bluegrass.

What’s cookin’…

There’s a new street food menu specialising in dishes from the deep south of America.

Fun fact…

They took 1,300 bookings in their first 24 hours five years ago, and they’ve been fully booked every single day ever since. They also won The Observer Food Monthly’s Best Restaurant in the UK in 2018; it had never been won by a Welsh restaurant before and never been won by anything outside of fine dining. n The Pumphouse, Hood Road, Barry; www.hangfiresouthernkitchen.com

The Coconut Tree All about it…

It’s a Sri Lankan restaurant based on Cardiff’s vibrant Mill Lane, a pedestrianised road in the city centre that is perfect for café culture as there is no noisy traffic. Come summer, they will be opening their selfcontained, weather-proof cabins. Think pavement café culture with island-inspired vibes.

On the menu…

Their take on Sri Lankan cuisine is made up of tapas-style dishes cooked fresh to order, embracing plants, fish and meat. Popular dishes include battered spicy cuttlefish and mango curry. Their sweet and

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DEPOT Cardiff’s Street Food Social event

“It does what it says on the tin and offers some of Cardiff’s favourite street food”

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AL FRESCO The Pen & Wig All about it…

It’s a haven in the middle of the city, just three minutes’ walk from Queen Street, with a relaxed and chilled out vibe. There’s a covered terrace with heaters alongside further welcoming areas with a sun canopy and umbrellas.

Foodie favourites…

Hand-battered fish and chips, and Sunday roasts. They also have an ever-changing selection of real ale that they source from local breweries in Wales.

Park Grove, Cardiff; www.classicinns.co.uk

Heathcock

What to expect…

In their large beer garden, there are individual gazebos, and there’s a stretch tent on the way.

The food…

fiery ‘cocotails’ have always been a huge part of their offering too, the perfect liquid accompaniment! See our review on page 48.

Fun fact…

They can train anyone to be a cocotail-pouring wizard. Bar theatre is returning soon.

Mill Lane; www.thecoconut-tree.com

Corporation Yard All about it…

It’s a curated outdoor experience with the finest street food vendors alongside craft beer, wine, and a cocktail bar. An exciting program of events and independent markets await you.

On the menu…

Offerings from loads of different street food traders, such as Bao Selecta, serving Taiwanese street food; Saray, dishing up Turkish cuisine; and Return of The Mac, offering totally rad topped mac and cheese.

Canton, Cardiff; www.thecorporationyard.co.uk

It’s a relaxed and informal menu, think BBQs, casual small plates and sharing dishes.

Fun fact…

The beer garden is also home to herb and salad beds run by Heathcock’s head chef, Dave. Talk about reduced food miles.

In the pipeline…

Their Champagne & Oyster bar is ready and waiting to open as soon as possible, and then they’re planning boutique B&B rooms for the very top floors, opening in around three months.

Bridge Street, Llandaff; www.heathcockcardiff.com

Steak on the Rooftop What’s it all about…

Based at the Celtic Manor Resort, this new premium pop-up, set in the resort’s rooftop garden, overlooking ancient Welsh woodland, offers customers an exclusive taste of the resort’s signature steaks with a side above: At The Corporation Yard, an exciting program of events and indie markets

await you; below: Goodsheds is the first new sustainable urban high street in the UK

DEPOT Cardiff What to expect…

Their Street Food Social events take place in a 30m x 15m covered outdoor space, with table service. It does what it says on the tin and offers some of Cardiff’s favourite street food in a safe environment where you can socialise with friends. It’s a little community.

On the menu…

Their traders change every few weeks, but the current line-up includes Franks Hotdogs, Bearded Tacos, Dirty Bird Fried Chicken, and Winnie’s Ices.

Did you know…

DEPOT has been to Hollywood. They were featured as a filming location in Showdogs, which starred Ludacris as a voice artist.

Williams Way, Curran Embankment; www.depotcardiff.com

Goodsheds

What to expect…

Situated in the centre of Barry, Goodsheds is the first new sustainable urban high street in the UK, where people can work, eat, live and play.

It offers a mixture of independent food and drink from traders such as Meat & Greek, Tukka Tuk, Tokyo nights, Mr Croquewich, Bab Haus Mex, and Grumpy’s Gelato. The cherry on top is their roof top bar (Academy 297).

How to order…

Goodsheds has partnered with the Cardiff-based Yoello app so that you can enjoy your experience with minimum fuss and minimum contact.

Just scan the QR code on the tables using your camera on your phone, see what takes you fancy on the menus, then wait for you order to arrive at your table.

Hood Road, Barry; www.goodshedsbarry.co.uk

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© NATHAN ROACH, TR AMSHED above: Tramshed and Neighbourhood Kitchen’s cool collab; opposite page, above: Fresh things at Hub Box Cardiff; below: Grumpy’s Gelato at Goodsheds

of five-star service. There are also three more extended and improved spaces that are open every day for al fresco lunch and dinner while soaking up some wonderful views – The Olive Tree Terrace, The Grill Terrace and Rafters Mezzanine.

Chepstow Road, Newport; www.celtic-manor.com

Hub Box Cardiff The set-up…

This New York street food style dining experience has extensive waterside views across the Bay. We’re ordering…

Dirty Breakfast Fries: skin-on fries with bacon, egg, cowboy beans and cheese sauce; or maybe the Big Kahuna: a double 4oz patty with BBQ pulled pork, Swiss, smoky BBQ sauce and an onion ring.

What’s more…

They bring their Cornish roots to Cardiff Bay (their mothership Hub is in St Ives) sourcing fresh, Cornish ingredients for the menu. They also collaborate with local legends Tiny Rebel Brewery, offering a revolving range of IPAs and NEIPAs, as well as stout and lager.

Mermaid Quay, Cardiff; www.hubbox.co.uk

Neighbourhood Kitchen X Tramshed What’s it all about…

Neighbourhood Kitchen is a newly launched rotating street food kitchen in Riverside. They are currently running a collab with Tramshed, a music and arts venue, hosting an al fresco courtyard, with street food provided by Neighbourhood, and drinks provided

by Tramshed.

Expect…

Fairy lights, good vibes and the epic building of Tramshed as an urban backdrop. Heaters and umbrellas are at the ready, and there’ll be some banging tunes.

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

What’s cookin’…

The street food offering will differ each weekend, traders include: Jollof House Party, offering vegan Nigerian dishes; Hero Cubano, serving up cubano sandwiches; Dough DoJo, bringing wood-fired pizzas to the table; and Comfort Food, dishing up brownie sundaes.

Tramshed Courtyard, Clare Road, Grangetown,; www.neighbourhoodkitchen.co.uk

Dusty’s Pizza

The set-up…

It’s at The Boneyard in Canton, surrounded by a creative community of shipping container microbusinesses. Their entire site is outdoors, with seating under their epic stretch tent. It’s electric for peoplewatching while you feast, and you can browse the market stalls when you’re done.

Menu recommendation…

From the menu of fresh pizzas that have been licked by the flames of their wood-fired oven, their carbonara pizza, topped with mozzarella, guanciale, a sunny egg yolk, pepper and parmesan, is our go-to.

Fun fact…

Dusty’s co-founder, Phill, once left Cardiff with nothing but a sack of flour, a case of tomatoes, and a box of cheese, and traded his way to Naples, using only pizza as currency, as part of a fundraising effort for Slow Food UK. The Boneyard, Paper Mill Road; www.dustyspizza.co.uk

Nook by the River What’s it all about…

This new temporary pop-up was set up by Victoria Park restaurant Nook in order to trade during ‘outdoor only’ rules because the original restaurant had no al fresco space. The pop-up is a romantic space underneath a 12 x 10m stretch tent nestled alongside Llandaff Rowing Club. What a view.

AL FRESCO

LOCAL LOVE

Here are a few foodie recommendations from local restaurants and bars…

Dusty’s Pizza “We like grabbing a burger from Ansh and then sitting in Victoria park!”

The Botanist “We love Pitch Cardiff, Park Plaza Hotel, and La Pantera’s takeaway tacos.”

Heathcock “Heaney’s is lovely, and we can’t not mention our sister pub, Hare & Hounds in Cowbridge.”

Hang Fire Southern Kitchen “The Hare and Hounds in Cowbridge is brilliant.

They’ve got a lovely new outdoor area that’s really nice when the sun shines.

And they’ve just opened a little bakery as well.”

Still of Night “Heaney’s, Pontcanna Inn, The Beverley and Canna Deli are neighbours of ours. We love Pontcanna.”

© MEOR

Motel Nights “Our neighbours Dusty’s Pizza, just down the road at The Bone Yard are just great.”

“It’s a world away from city life”

The Deck “The Custom House and Pickford’s are two of our favourites.”

Depot “We’re big fans of The Romilly beer garden.”

Curado Bar “We’re really looking forward to dining at Nook by the River as soon as possible.”

The Pen & Wig “Our favourite al fresco dining spots in Cardiff include Slug and Lettuce on The Friary, and Henry’s Cafe Bar.”

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

AL FRESCO On the menu…

Seasonal small plates using ingredients from local suppliers, and natural wines by the glass.

On the banks of the River Taff; www.nookcardiff.co.uk

Cosy Club

The set-up…

Cosy Club’s outdoor terrace area consists of 40 seats overlooking the water on Mermaid Quay.

We’re ordering…

The panko-crumbed buttermilk chicken burger, or the vegan fish and chips (interesting).

Did you know…

As homage to the local history of the area, Cosy’s Cardiff Bay logo includes a tiger as Mermaid Quay used to be known as Tiger Bay when it was a thriving commercial port.

Unit 24, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff; www.cosyclub.co.uk

Chapter

What’s the al fresco deal…

There are two outdoor areas for eating and drinking: a marquee tent and a beer, garden all with the backdrop of Cardiff’s celebrated arts centre, Chapter. The marquee is surrounded by a beautiful community garden that’s looked after by a local volunteer group, and you can also see a new artwork by celebrated American artist Carrie Mae Weems.

What’s cookin’…

Hearty meaty and veggie breakfasts, scrumptious Sunday roasts, vibrant salad bowls and tasty burgers. Local craft beers are a must here too.

Did you know…

When you eat and drink at Chapter, all the profits go back into supporting the local arts community.

What else…

They have plans for outdoor entertainment in the summer months, including performances and pop-up craft markets. This is part of their 50th anniversary celebrations.

Market Road, Canton; www.chapter.org

The Deck

The set-up…

There are two main al fresco areas – The Jetty Bar, which is an area that floats in the marina itself, and the Balcony, which overlooks the boats moored below. Most of the external areas are under cover of either a clear span marquee, gazebos or large umbrellas so that a little rain won’t spoil the day.

That view…

It’s spectacular, especially at sunset, looking out across the beautiful, bustling marina.

On the menu…

It ranges from fish and chips and burgers to fresh lobster and chateaubriand. They’ll soon be reintroducing the sharing steaks on the big Green Egg BBQ too.

Penarth Marina; www.thedeckpenarth.co.uk above: Fresh-air tapas at Cosy Club; middle: Nook by the River has popped up alongside Llandaff Rowing Club; left: The Film & Food Fest open-air film festival is coming

THE FILM & FOOD FEST 2021

The Film & Food Fest 2021, a first of its kind touring open-air film festival, is visiting 15 UK cities this summer, including Cardiff’s Bute Park on 17 – 20 June. Taking place over four days in each location, the festival will show: movies from local independent filmmakers; family favourites, cult classics and modern blockbusters; live comedy; and there’ll be street food from local traders and a dedicated bar. www.filmandfoodfest.com

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

The balcony at The Deck which overlooks the boats moored below

“The Jetty Bar is an al fresco area that floats in the marina itself”

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

THE ALBANY GALLERY MAGGIE BROWN solo exhibition

Glass by Ruth Shelley

6th May - 29th May 2021

View images on our website www.albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday - Wednesday by appointment only, Thursday - Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F C A R D I F F ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

CLOSER THAN CLOSE

“I like to show the beauty in the unconsidered,” says local artist Hannah Short, whose first solo show at Cardiff M.A.D.E is coming in June. “My art is about noticing and investigating the world around me. I find inspiration in a variety of small moments or subjects that I become obsessed with and use acrylic paint to explore. I share the heightened yet calm world I want to exist in, full of beauty and exaggerated colours. I like to create less obvious narratives within my work by using colour to create atmosphere or to represent different meanings.

“I see painting as a never-ending learning adventure, an opportunity to zoom in on and explore the overlooked everyday details of the world around me, freezing them in time and giving them an importance that they did not have previously,” adds Hannah, whose studio is based within Cardiff Met, where she is an Artists Benevolent Fund (ABF) Fellow. “Being based in Cardiff is a great source of inspiration. Each season brings something different, as the colours gradually change and influence my palette. The city has a great art community, too; I love seeing other local artists exhibiting their work.”

See Hannah Short’s first solo show at Cardiff M.A.D.E, Lochaber Street, from 10 June – 3 July; www.hannahshortart.wixsite.com/website www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

Patricia Volk’s work can be seen at Blackwater Gallery

WHAT’S ON From 15 May onwards

PLAYS / SHOWS / PERFORMANCES 15 May – 26 June

#LIVEFROMTHEDORA This series offers an outstanding line-up, performed from the Dora Stoutzker Hall. Roderick Williams, one of the foremost baritones in the UK performs with the Royal Welsh College’s String Ensemble in Residence The Albion Quartet, and the Canadian baritone Gerald Finley returns to complete the Schubert Song Series.

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

16 May – 13 June

HOOF! Theatr Iolo will transform outdoor spaces this spring with their travelling theatre show. The company are set to reinvent the production HOOF! for sunnier days. Starring three tap-dancing deer, the show has been created in collaboration with Kitsch & Sync. It will take place at locations in Cardiff including Chapter, Llanrumney Hall and Kitchener Primary School. www.theatriolo.com

27 May – 12 June

THE WORLD PREMIERE OF THE

MERTHYR STIGMATIST Sherman Theatre and Theatre Uncut will present the world premiere of The Merthyr Stigmatist in a fully-staged digital production recorded in the Sherman Theatre Studio. The play, written by Walesbased playwright Lisa Parry, will be available to watch online and on demand in May. Sherman Theatre; www.shermantheatre.co.uk;

Ongoing

NEW THEATRE PROGRAMME New Theatre in Cardiff has just announced its upcoming 2021/2022 programme. Tickets are now on sale for a mixture of uplifting musicals, intense drama, brilliant live music and fabulous dance. Upcoming are: Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Al Stewart's Greatest Hits, The Billy Joel Soundbook, and The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

ART/ PHOTOGRAPHY/ EXHIBITIONS Until 29 May CAMBIUM

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

Always check Covid-19 restrictions and instructions with venues before your visit

This years’ annual spring open show is titled Cambium, relating to the layer of active cells in plant tissues responsible for regeneration and growth, from the word ‘cambial’ meaning change. It feels an apt theme for the first exhibition this year for MADE gallery, re-opening after lockdown in a positive re-emergence, with a display of artists responding to nature and the symbolism of new growth, offering a personal connection to universal themes of enduring cycles and life in full flourish.

Cardiff MADE; www.cardiffmade.com

Until 29 May

MAGGIE BROWN EXHIBITION Maggie Brown is a painter of landscapes and nature, and she is joined by glass artist Ruth Shelley from Cardiff. Albany Gallery; www. albanygallery.co.uk

Until the end May

PORTRAITS OF SOUND Portraits of Sound is an exhibition of work by JP Jones, an international contemporary artist and acclaimed musician. Motivated by his quest to marry his two greatest passions – music and art – he has created a visual language from the invisible patterns of sound, a technique which has been welcomed and revered by

the deaf community.

Blackwater Gallery; www.blackwatergallery.co.uk

Until 5 September

ARTES MUNDI 9 Artes Mundi is the key internationally focused flagship visual arts organisation in Wales generating unique opportunities for individuals and local communities to engage creatively with the urgent issues of our time in ways which resonate with us all. The ninth edition of the critically acclaimed Artes Mundi exhibition and associated prize is presented across Cardiff in partnership with the National Museum Cardiff, Chapter and g39.

The exhibition will feature work in a diverse range of media and will open when lockdown restrictions allow. At the moment, the exhibition will be available for you to experience from home. www.artesmundi.org

5 – 6 June

GRANGETOWN ZOO A two-day celebration of everything arty and creative in Grangetown.

Windows and gated alleyways of Grangetown will be turned into life-size zoo enclosures. Residents are invited to get involved by decorating

WHAT’S ON take place at Cardiff Castle this summer and will be their biggest event to date.

Cardiff Castle; @shangagram

7 – 12 September

top left:

With Spring in Mind is one of the artworks being shown in the Cambium open show, at Cardiff Made above: Ella Eyre will be playing at the castle this summer left: Comedian Eshaan Akbar is one of the hosts of the Film & Food fest in Bute Park

their own windows, gardens or alleys or taking part in the free art workshops. If you plan to create an enclosure and would like it to be included in the zoo map, get in touch with them.

Grangetown; www.artgrangetown.wixsite.com

experience like no other, feasting together in an outdoor food court featuring the best street food trucks and chefs from Wales and beyond spanning over eight weekends, pitched under canvas. www.forestfeastival.com

Ongoing

WELSH VEGAN FESTIVAL The one-day only event is in aid of Farplace Animal Rescue. Expect vegan stalls selling world foods, drinks, quirky clothes and accessories, cosmetics and more.

Tramshed; www.vegevents.coms

PATRICIA VOLK Patricia’s obsession as an artist is catching a very simple form or line, then enhancing it with colour.

Sometimes these are juxtapositions that suggest contradictions of strength and fragility – like the relationships between human beings.

Blackwater Gallery; www.blackwatergallery.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK 22 and 29 May

THE EMPORIUM FOOD MARKET It launched on 8 May in collaboration with Proper Lushh, and the new premises is based directly opposite Cardiff Castle, the ideal spot to chill out and enjoy some amazing food from awesome local vendors. www.thecastleemporium.co.uk

Until 23 May

THE FOREST FEASTIVAL After the success of trialling a street food experience at the Welsh Street Food Awards in Cardiff last summer, the Street Food Circus are now hosting the Forest Feastival in the magical woodlands of Merthyr Mawr. It’s an al fresco dining

8 August

FESTIVALS

Until the end of May

FEEL GOOD FILM FESTIVAL A brand-new film festival celebrating positivity and the art of happiness is making its world premiere in the UK this March. Launching virtually, the Feel Good Film Festival features a collection of hilarious and heartwarming short films. “From joyful explorations of wacky subcultures to heartfelt tales of triumph over adversity, the Feel Good Film Festival is a dose of joy and inspiration – delivered to your sofa!” says festival director Nell Teasdale. www.feelgoodfilmfest.com

15 May

TAFWYL Tafwyl festival celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Among the musicians performing are Geraint Jarman, Mared, Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog, Ani Glass, Gwilym,

and Breichiau Hir. 15 bands will perform across three stages, curated

by Clwb Ifor Bach. The event will be streamed on the digital platform AM, live from the festival's home at Cardiff Castle, hosted by presenters Huw Stephens, Seren Jones and Tara Bethan. As well as the live music there will be an exciting mix of discussions, talks and workshops for children in an ambitious programme of varied events. www.tafwyl.cymru

21 May – 20 June

THE RICHARD BURTON COMPANY’S NEW WRITING FESTIVAL Online for the first time, four new plays from some of the UK’s best playwrights and directors will premiere at this festival, performed by actors of the Royal Welsh College’s in-house theatre company.

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

BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS TOUR All three test matches will be shown live at Depot Cardiff.

Depot; www.depotcardiff.com

26 – 27 June

CARDIFF TRIATHLON Located in the iconic Cardiff Bay, this triathlon is one of the most unforgettable city races on the calendar with the event village and positioned in front of the Wales Millennium Centre.

Roald Dahl Plass, www.alwaysaimhighevents.com n

17 – 20 June

THE FILM & FOOD FEST A first of its kind open-air film festival is visiting 15 UK cities this summer, including Cardiff.

Taking place over four days in each location, the festival will show everything from indie films to live comedy, and there’ll be street food galore.

Bute Park; www.filmandfoodfest.com

GLITZIEST DIARY DATE OF THE YEAR 30 September

DEPOT IN THE CASTLE Kaiser Chiefs, Tom Grennan and Ella Eyre will be among the starry acts playing at the castle this summer.

Cardiff Castle; www.depotcardiff.com SHANGRI-LA The open-air dance festival will

INSIDE OUT FESTIVAL Be enveloped by sights and sounds that will stimulate all of your senses.

Inside Out brings the best of the outside world, in to the festival.

Welcome. To. Utopia.

Bute Park; www.insideoutcardiff.co.uk

24 July, 31 July, 7 August

SAUSAGE AND CIDER FEST The world-famous food festival featuring all your favourite sausage flavours and ciders from around the UK will be returning to Cardiff.

Portland House; www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk

21 August

2 and 3 October

OTHER

12 June

14 August

VIRTUAL WALKING FESTIVAL Outdooractive, Europe’s largest digital outdoor tourism platform, launches its ‘Virtual Walking Festival 2021, working with Walking Festivals, including the Vale of Glamorgan Walking Festival, to offer a selection of self-guided walks and support local businesses. During the Vale of Glamorgan Walking Festival, you can enjoy a spectacular variety of walks for all levels, travelling in good company and guided by experienced walk leaders. www.outdooractive.com

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS Nominations are currently open for the Cardiff Life Awards (deadline for entry is June 10!). Whether you're a first time entrant, previous winner, tiniest of new companies or the largest of corporates, absolutely anyone can win! Nominations can be made easily online using the form, and you never know, you might even win.

City Hall; www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 23

ONE TO ONE

CREATIVE CONTROL Here we chat with Jason Camilleri, the man at the helm of creative learning at Wales Millennium Centre, and the ambassador for multiple youth arts organisations in the city. He tells us about his 20-year career in entertainment – from TV hosting and radio presenting to touring with bands as a lyricist – why he feels a duty to mentor young people, and how he wants to help tackle lack of diversity in Cardiff’s art scene

By Lisa Evans

G

rowing up in Cardiff, Jason Camilleri says there were very few creative opportunities available to him, and even fewer mentors within the arts, especially from Black, Asian, or ethnically diverse backgrounds. As an adult, Jason has always aimed to help change that narrative for the younger generation.

“I believe strongly in the concept of giving back,” he says. “So much of what I do now was self-taught. As a result, I have found myself volunteering on a number of initiatives. I’m on the board of three youth arts organisations in Wales – Fio, Valleys Kids, and Youth Arts Network Cymru – I’m also a school governor for Grangetown Primary in Cardiff, and most recently I became an ambassador for the new music initiative New Era Talent.”

Jason is also the senior producer for creative learning at Wales Millennium Centre (WMC), a role which heads up the team that designs and delivers creative and arts education projects to young people across Wales.

“The projects include the youth-led radio station Radio Platfform; and Together Stronger, a partnership with Valleys Kids. The main ethos of our work is to provide creative skills, and a platform for the expression of young people’s voices, and to enable a pathway into the creative industries.”

On top of the multiple ventures he’s involved in, he’s also an artist in his own right.

“I’m often called a rapper, but I usually refer to myself as lyricist as my writing style rarely fits within the confines expected of poetry or rapping. It’s something that I’ve been doing for a very long time. I am currently working on a project with the oldskool Welsh hip-hop artist Johnny B, and C-Live, so you can expect to hear some material coming soon.”

You’ve been involved in the arts world for over 20 years – from radio presenting to TV hosting – what are the highlights?

I’ve worn many hats over those two decades.

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

I started as a freelance tutor teaching young people how to become lyricists. This led to me working for Cardiff’s Sherman Theatre as a creative learning co-ordinator, as a facilitator at the much-missed Immtech, and eventually leading to the WMC. I have volunteered for the Cardiff-based organisation Theatre Versus Oppression which took me to Uganda, working in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement where we used applied theatre to explore issues of conflict.

I have also hosted TV shows – most notably an educational series on BBC Wales, and an ITV programme around the Bafta-winning Amma Asante film A Way of Life. I presented my own radio show on BBC Radio Wales for seven years, called Mixing It, which focused

“I find the lack of diversity a massive issue in the arts scene” on Welsh people from ethnically diverse backgrounds, and I have toured with different bands as a lyricist. I also deliver diversity workshops to schools and colleges, and I host events – from award ceremonies to festivals all around the country.

Best career moment so far?

Performing at The Point in Dublin to over 6,000 people. I’m half Irish and mum travelled over from Cardiff to watch the performance in her home town. It was a special moment.

How are things at WMC?

It has been a tough year since lockdown, but things are in a pretty exciting place at the Centre right now. We are developing our youth programmes, our community team is working on exciting initiatives, and we’re planning our Voices for Change exhibition – which is made up of artworks sent in by the public.

We are also looking forward to the return

of live performances and have some amazing shows in the pipeline, including Beauty & the Beast, and another development is the Creative Associates programme, which aims to put the voices of artists right at the heart of our work.

What do you make of Cardiff’s art scene?

I’m worried about how the pandemic has affected artists, but the level of creativity that we have in Cardiff is exceptional. There are so many high-quality artists out there; the most exciting developments are coming from artists who are mixing genres and experimenting with cross-artforms and digital performances. I’d also love to see more of the independent fringe events that pop up such as Made in Roath.

Does it need more diversity?

Personally, I find the lack of diversity a massive issue in the arts scene. I know of so many freelance artists from diverse backgrounds who are creating some fantastic work, but aside from a handful of organisations I feel as though the platforms that exists currently do little to showcase them. I struggle to recall the last performance that I have seen coming from a diverse writer/director/performer etc.

Representation is a major factor in inclusion and raising aspiration, and I feel that more needs to be done to diversify the programming, and the workforce at arts venues across Wales.

How can places like WMC change that?

Venues have to be honest with themselves about their track record when it comes to diversity in all its forms, and pledge to remedy their shortcomings. WMC has acknowledged what more can be done to create an ethos of equality, this has included the creation of a diversity action plan, and a commitment to the work of the community development team, which is at the forefront of pushing diversity with the arts. Venues need to be held accountable to either the public or to funding bodies to ensure that diversity is an active element of their work. n

www.wmc.org.uk

© KEIR AN CUDLIP

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

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

I

n what has been the busiest time for us, we’ve decided to open a charitable coffee shop.

What are we like?

Yes, we are continuing our fundraising for essential upkeep and repairs of the beautiful St Andrew’s Church on the corner of Wellfield Road and Pen-Y-Lan Road, near where we are based in Roath. The side of the building, which is a sun trap almost every hour of the day, has been almost a derelict car park for years, so we approached the elders of the church to ask if we could use it for our latest outrageous venture. They said YES! There is still space for cars, of course, as the building is home to Sunday service, public groups like Scouts and Beavers, classes such as yoga, and is also used for several confidential support

groups as well as a space for the Kinetic School of Performing Arts. So, basically, the building is an incredible community hub, that without essential upkeep may close. We can’t have that, so here we are.

We invested in a full converted horse box, painted it, and opened up almost within one week. The response has been phenomenal.

We sought out freebies online for things like benches, crates, pallets etc, and the donations kept coming. A few mentions: the Golden Cross donated picnic benches (continuing support after such events like Dragged To Church every Christmas from the LGBTQ community), Kwik Fit on North Road donated tyres to turn into planters, Pauline from the church donated parasols, and also £100 worth of plants were given to us by Jayne and Josh!

Wyburn & Wayne are serving up Cardiff Life mags with every brew

Not to forget a kickstart of coffee from a few people also. And our good friend Craig, at Craigieboy Promotions & Printing, helped us design the banners and branding So thank you, all!

It’s become a beautiful community space. We even have a rocking horse and who knows, maybe some quirky Nathan Wyburn art might be popping up soon too.

We are serving various hot and cold drinks, along with individually packaged snacks like muffins and crisps. There are books and (wink) Cardiff Life

Follow Wyburn & Wayne’s new charitable coffee shop on social: @StAndrewsCoffeeCourt

magazines lying around to read while here basking in the sunshine, and if it does rain, don’t stress as we offer umbrellas and we have plenty of shelter.

We are so overwhelmed with the response and local businesses have been very supportive. Agit, who owns Saraztro Greek bar & restaurant across the way has been sending us food to keep us going, former mayor Dan De’ath has been in and showed his support with posts on social media, and we’re bursting with enthusiasm to get this community, charitable project off the ground! So come on down, bring the family and your dogs and enjoy the space safely.

We’ve all been stuck indoors for too long!

Every charitable cuppa goes towards keeping this community building open.

And yes, we’re tired; Wayne’s working nights at the hospital and Nath’s super busy with big art projects as always, BUT there’s always time for another coffee!

About our columnists: Nathan Wyburn is a pop culture artist who uses nontraditional mediums such as Marmite, beans, soil and fake tan; and Wayne Courtney is a healthcare support worker at University Hospital of Wales.

They are also Radio Cardiff DJs with their own show, and basically know everything and everyone in the city.

Follow them on social: @wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne

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

HAMPTONS PENARTH Set over two floors in a beautifully converted former Victorian market and meeting hall, Hamptons is a haven of unique, design-led occasional furniture, lighting, home interiors and gifts, and home to the brand new Hamptons Food Hall. If you simply need a beautiful greetings card or something gorgeous for the home we’ll be delighted to assist you.

Hamptons, 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth, CF64 1EA Tel: 029 2070 5391 www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.VALEVETCENTRE.CO.UK Cardiff: 233 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9PP. E-mail: cardiff@valevetcentre.co.uk | Phone: 02920 004007

Barry: 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Est, Cardiff Rd, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2BE. E-mail: info@valevetcentre.co.uk | Phone: 01446 739739

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

SHOP THE LOOK

Hamptons in Penarth town centre is a haven of unique, design-led home furnishings, interior accessories and gifts. It’s also home to the brand-new Hamptons Food Hall where you’ll find an exceptional range of food products from small, artisan producers.

Step inside Hamptons – which is set over two floors in an elegantly converted former Victorian market and meeting hall – and you’ll discover beautifully upholstered sofas and armchairs, solid wood dining tables and chairs, coffee and side tables, floor and table lamps, prints, mirrors, throws, cushions and other gorgeous goodies for your home. You’ll also find a beautiful range of fashion accessories including jewellery, handbags, scarves, watches and sunglasses.

If you haven’t visited yet, it’s a must-try from us.

Pictured, clockwise: Sophie Allport Fetch pet beds, from £44.99; Aery Fig Leaf Diffuser, £34.99; Sara Miller teacup and saucer, £23.99; Newgate Clock, £75 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 29

LADIES TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 35MM WATCH, £1,700 Taking wrist candy to the next level.

From Laings, St David’s Shopping Centre; www.laingsuk.com

LIGHTWEIGHT SCARF, £9.95 Featuring a metallic dandelion design to blow you away.

From Zia Boutique, Mermaid Quay; www.zia-Boutique.co.uk

PASTELS PREFERRED Nothing quite says spring like a pretty pastel. Here’s our pick of ice cream-hued fashion from local boutiques and makers

C’EST CHIC TOP, £39 Are you cool enough to rock this tee? We dare you…

From Soul Sisters, Cardiff; SistersSoulStudio on Etsy

CHOPARD HAPPY HEARTS EARRINGS, £1,460 Could they be any cuter?

From Laings, St David’s Shopping Centre; www.laingsuk.com WOVEN CLUTCH BAG, £13.50 Sure to add the prettiest finish to your look.

From Stwff-Stuff, High Street, Cowbridge; www.stwff-stuff.co.uk

GWENA SWEATSHIRTS, FROM £39 Designed, embroidered and packaged in Cardiff.

From Clecs, Cardiff; www.clecs.co.uk

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

ED’S CHOICE COTTON TOTES, £18.75 We're tote-ally obsessed with these naturally dyed, good-for-the-environment, organic cotton bags.

From Lil & Co, Sustainable Studio, Cardiff Bay; www.lilco.uk

IHALPA LEMON CARDI, £35 A sorbet-coloured, slouchy dream.

From Box Edit Boutique, Goodsheds, Barry; www.boxeditboutique.co.uk

CANDY PASTEL PINSTRIPE BLAZER, £25 You’ll generally only find one of everything at Fussy – a vintage clothing and homeware shop – this blazer is from the 80s and is a size M/L. From Fussy, Goodsheds, Barry; www.fussyhome.com

DEVOTION DIP DYE T-SHIRT DRESS, £26 Slow, sustainable, vegan fashion by two sisters.

From Da-Ti Clothing, The Sustainable Studio, Cardiff; www.daticlothing.co.uk

REACH LEGGINGS, £35 In tonal sage and lilac shades come these buttery soft gym leggings.

From DistanceWear, Cardiff; www.distancewear.co.uk

EMU AUSTRALIA MAYBERRY RAINBOW SLIPPERS, £59 Treat your feet; go on, we know you want to.

From Kiti, Pontcanna; www.kiticymru.com

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

MEET THE MAKER

FINE PRINT

Eliza Eliza is an accessories brand which aims to raise eyebrows and break the ice when it comes to taboo subjects.

Local founder Elizabeth Rees, whose customers include the goddess that is Gillian Anderson, tells us more…

Words by Lisa Evans Pictures by Gemma Griffiths Photography

E

very time a jaw drops in surprise at Elizabeth Rees’s naughty designs – especially her boob and vulva creations – she feels a goal has been reached. She wants people’s heads to turn, that’s the whole point, because the designs then open discussions about taboo topics such as breast and gynaecological cancer.

“I want my products – from clutch bags to face masks – to highlight the importance of knowing our bodies, checking ourselves, being aware of changes and going to our GPs if we have any worries,” says Elizabeth, who is based in Pentyrch. “Each of my collections raises awareness for a different cause, from modern day slavery to endangered species, cancer to gender equality, and other causes that we care about; my motto is ‘carry your cause’.

How do your prints highlight deeper issues?

They act as an aid to help empower the user to start conversations and speak confidently about what can sometimes be taboo subjects.

Many women do not know that they should be checking their breasts at least once a month. I’ve had messages from my customers saying without their bag they would never have had the confidence to start a conversation about the five gynaecological cancers: ovarian, womb, cervical, vulval and vaginal.

I’ve been fortunate to discover super talented artists from all over the world to illustrate the designs used. I’d love to work with someone in Wales on a project; if anyone has any ideas, please get in touch.

What makes you want to highlight these causes?

In February, I found a lump in my left breast which was scary. My GP was amazing and sent me to see a breast specialist; it was only a cyst,

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

“The boob and vulva designs definitely raise a few eyebrows”

Elizabeth with one of her clutch bags, lined with talking-point prints – from breasts to endangered animals; left: There’s no need to shy away from talking about vaginas as far as Eliza Eliza is concerned

MEET THE MAKER

above: Elizabeth with one of her unassuming tote bags, lined with colourful thought-provoking prints;

opposite page: Elizabeth works from home, using her sewing machine to create all manner of pretty products

which was such a relief, but it could have been so different. It’s the most common cancer in females; around 2,800 people are diagnosed with it every year in Wales, yet 47 per cent of women do not check their breasts regularly and 10 per cent have never checked their breasts. Also, men need to be checking their chests too.

How does being based in Cardiff benefit the work that you do?

It’s a great small business community, I love the Warrior Women events and I gave a talk last year about self love and my experience with postnatal depression. I can’t wait until these sorts of events can start up again, I love meeting new people and discovering small brands this way, running a small business can be lonely.

Tell us about the environmentally friendly side…

I use hemp in all my bags, it’s an incredibly sustainable material; it needs half the amount of water to grow than cotton does and it doesn’t need pesticides. It’s a wonderfully strong and durable fabric which also has antibacterial and antifungal characteristics. The designs I use are printed using eco-friendly inks onto organic cotton, in small quantities to reduce waste.

Your most popular item at the moment?

The V Collection purses and scrunchies. Awareness months make a difference, e.g. The Eve Appeal’s Get Lippy month in May, gynaecological cancer awareness month in September, and breast cancer awareness month in October. The designs of turtles (endangered animals) and butterflies (modern day slavery) are popular in spring and summer months.

How do you make your products? Could you tell us the process?

I make them in small quantities, and pieces such as the yoga and tote

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

bags I make to order, this is to reduce having to store large amounts of stock, especially as I’m working from home, but also to reduce deadstock. I cut out the pattern pieces either with a rotary blade or scissors, then sew them together on my home sewing machine. I find the whole process rather therapeutic, I love nothing better than to put some music on or a podcast and sew!

How has the business grown, changed and developed?

When I first started, my priority was to invest money into making sure that I used the highest quality materials; it meant that my marketing and other areas were a bit rough around the edges. I come from a background of teaching (I was a secondary geography teacher) so I’ve had to teach myself to run a business.

Last year I had to take on a seamstress, Naomi, who also lives in Pentyrch and works from home, to help out with the high demand of face masks in particular. It’s been wonderful to grow as a business but I will always want to keep hands on the production side.

Where do you sell your products?

I sell mainly online through my website but also in some bricks-andmortar shops. In Cardiff, I’m currently stocked in Studio Muse, Pontcanna, as well a few other places around the UK such as the Vagina Museum! I’m always looking for more stockists.

Surprise us…

Gillian Anderson has one of my purses! n

www. elizaelizauk.com

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

MEET THE

WILLS AND PROBATE SOLICITOR It may seem like daunting task, but more and more people, including younger generations, are starting to think seriously about writing their Will after the destabilising events of the pandemic. Here’s an expert guide to get you started.

RHIAN REES

ROBERTSONS SOLICITORS 029 2023 7777 www.robsols.co.uk Tell us about your firm in a nutshell?

Robertsons is a full-service law firm that has served the people of Cardiff for over 100 years. We pride ourselves on our level of expertise, exemplary service standards and commitment to supporting the communities in which we operate.

What are your specialist areas?

The firm provides family law, litigation, company law and conveyancing services. My area of expertise is Probate, Wills and Trusts.

At what age should we be looking at making a Will?

For a Will to be legally valid, you must be over 18 and have the testamentary capacity. There are exceptions to the minimum age where you are military personnel. However, many people do not consider making a Will until they are in their later years.

Why would you recommend that people make their wills NOW, rather than waiting?

We simply don’t know what the future holds.

If a Will is not in place and something happens to you, your wishes around the dispersal of your assets may not be taken into account.

So many clients come to us after the wake-up

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

call of a serious accident, for example. Often when it could just have easily been too late.

Do assets automatically fall to certain people in your family if you do not have a Will?

When you die without having written a Will, the disposal of your assets becomes slightly more complicated. Dying without a Will means that you have died Intestate, and your assets will be disposed of based on the Rules of Intestacy. Where a relative of a deceased finds themselves faced with a situation where no Will has been prepared, we would advise that you seek legal advice from a solicitor as to how the Estate is administered and distributed.

How often should a Will be updated?

There is no generic time frame in which a Will should be updated. However, we advise all our clients to review their Will every five to seven years, or where there is a life-changing event. Life-changing events can include, but are certainly not limited to, the birth of a child, a marriage, a death, or an inheritance which could impact the client’s own tax affairs or exposure to residential home fees.

Do clients have to come into the office?

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we have had to adapt our usual methods when it comes to taking instructions. We are now very well versed in offering appointments via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, or other virtual means or via telephone. Generally, we find our more elderly clients, and those who have

mobility issues, prefer to attend the office, and that is something we are certainly able to accommodate in the safest surroundings.

Most frequently asked question?

The most frequently asked question we have is “Can I transfer my house to my children, in order to avoid inheritance tax/residential home fees?” This area is a minefield and without proper legal advice, people may often make the wrong decision which is very difficult to rectify.

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AFONWY HOWELL-PRYCE

HARDING EVANS 02922 676818; www.hardingevans.com Tell us about your firm in a nutshell?

We are a 100-strong team of experienced solicitors and support staff. With offices in both Cardiff and Newport, we can offer assistance with any legal support you may need – including conveyancing, personal injury, family law and Wills and probate. We are ‘Your Lawyers For Life’.

RACHAEL MCCARTHYJONES, SOLICITOR, TEP

JNP LEGAL 52 Station Rd, Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5LU; 02920 763 211; www.jnplegal.org Tell us about your firm...

JNP Legal Solicitors has been serving clients and local communities in Cardiff, and across South Wales for over 40 years. As a firm, we focus on law for individuals, including Wills and probate, lasting powers of attorney, estate administration, residential property, family law, children law, civil litigation, personal injury and crime. The team at JNP Legal is a collective of experienced, dedicated and professional solicitors and support staff who are passionate about delivering exceptional service and value for money.

Why would you recommend that people don’t hang about when it comes to making their Wills?

If you do not have a Will, the intestacy rules determine who inherits your estate. This may result in your estate passing to persons that you did not intend to provide for. It is a common misconception that a co-habiting couple will automatically inherit from one another. This is not the case under the intestacy rules. Furthermore the intestacy

What are your specialist areas?

Will, Estates, Trusts and Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Why would you recommend that people don’t wait around when it comes to making a Will?

A Will can be made at any age as long as you are over the age of 18 and have mental capacity to do so. A Will is not dependent on your monetary worth. For example, young parents should make a Will so that they can appoint guardians for any children under 18.

Similarly it is becoming more common for unmarried couples to own properties together.

If you do not have a Will it is not always the case that the property will pass to the survivor.

How often should a will be updated?

We advise every two to five years, or when your situation changes – such as buying a house or having a baby.

With your expert knowledge of this field, can you share any other tips or advice that you think our readers should know?

I am a big fan of getting your affairs in order early. Many clients often think they are too young to think about Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney, but, as we have seen in the past year, none of us are invincible.

With the pandemic, has anything changed about your services?

As with everyone, we have had to adapt to the changes caused by the pandemic. In the

beginning, this caused many challenges with the witnessing of Wills but through windows, doors and car parks we managed to keep all parties safe and finalised their Wills. I think most people have got used to the changes now and some clients prefer being able to do video conferencing as they work full time so it is easier to fit in with their schedules.

Will assets automatically fall to certain people in your family if you do not have a will?

If you do not have a Will in place, your estate passes to your family as per the rules of intestacy. This may not be what you wish for as you may be estranged from your family.

Further, you may wish for your estate to go to your unmarried partner. It is a common myth that common law spouses have the same rights as married couples.

Best and most challenging parts of your job?

My favourite part of the job is meeting clients, building a relationship with them and assisting them in what they need. I like to problem solve and I certainly do see some challenging problems! I would say the most challenging aspect of the job is balancing your time effectively. Sadly in this area of law you quite often are required to deal with urgent matters.

A lot of the time this means you do have to drop everything and deal with that, but you also have to try not to let this detriment other clients.

rules only recognise biological and legally adopted children. Therefore if you wish to provide for a co-habiting partner or stepchild it is important that you make a Will.

If someone is unmarried and has no living relatives, with no valid will in place, their estate could pass to the Crown (Government).

By having a Will in place, it will be both clear who is to inherit and what they are to receive, whether it is money, property or other possessions. This should not only offer peace of mind but also avoid uncertainty, which is often the catalyst for arguments that arise between family members after a death.

With the pandemic, has anything changed about your services?

The pandemic has forced us to introduce new ways of working to ensure that we continue to provide a vital service to our clients, whilst adhering to Government guidelines, and to keep our clients and team as safe as possible.

Where suitable, client appointments have been conducted outdoors at a social distance and via telephone and video link. We have also witnessed Will signings at a social distance and via video calls, in accordance with the recently introduced Government legislation. However our Covid-secure offices are open for pre-arranged meetings, for clients who require a face-to-face service.

We also offer home visits when necessary.

What advice would you give those who are looking to sort out their Wills?

Whilst the thought of making a will might be a daunting prospect for some, the pros of doing so greatly outweigh any cons. All adults should make a Will, and should review it to consider if it needs updating. We never know when life can change unexpectedly, and it is important and reassuring to have your affairs in order. Some people prefer to opt for ‘do it yourself Wills’ rather than instruct solicitors. However the laws and regulatory requirements surrounding the making of a Will can be complex.

By instructing a solicitor you will have peace of mind that your Will is an accurate, legal document devoid of the errors that can lead to disputes and costly legal expenses.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 37

FOOD & DRINK SNAPSHOTS OF CARDIFF’S FOOD SCENE

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Ansh the burger

joint talked about their lockdown launch in the latest episode of the Hank! Cardiff Podcast; hot stuff at Matsudai Ramen; Weigh To Go Refill is a grocery store in a van; one of Ansh’s stacked creations; Jane Cook

TOP TIP

To keep abreast of the latest news as the sector finds its feet again, sign up for the Find My Dine newsletter – it’s a great way to discover new independents local to you. Sign up at: www.findmydine.co.uk

THE EAT IS ON

Indie PR guru and good food fanatic Jane Cook* has her finger on the pulse(s) when it comes to what’s new and tasty in the city.

Here she looks back on a crazy year for hospitality, and tells of what’s coming up… *If that isn’t nominative determinism, we don’t know what is

W

ith indoor reopening just around the corner, it feels like the right time to reflect on one hell of a year for Cardiff’s hospitality businesses.

Who could have predicted that they would be forced to close for a huge 279 days between March 2020 and May 2021?

As an indie PR consultant, I’ve spent the last 12 months supporting the Welsh Independent Restaurant Collective, who formed to give a voice to the industry, raise the profile of independents, and lobby for financial support.

The last year has been a real rollercoaster, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that hospitality folk have creativity and resilience built into their DNA. I’ve marvelled as restaurants quickly switched to DIY recipe kits and online

tasting events, helped spread the word about new takeaway offerings and subscriptions, and navigated more rule changes and last-minute updates than you can shake a fork at.

A few brave souls even managed to launch brand-new businesses right in the middle of the pandemic. New openings from Cardiff Dough & Co and Wingstack breathed new life into Lakeside shops; and over in Victoria Park, Ansh talked about the experience of launching a new restaurant during lockdown in the latest episode of the Hank! Cardiff Podcast, which you can listen to at: podfollow.com/hank-cardiff. It’s also good to know that sustainability hasn’t slipped off the agenda; Weigh To Go Refill is a new mobile, zero-waste grocery store in a van, which will give people a chance to shop for plastic-free

dry goods by popping up at farmers’ markets around South Wales.

For the rest of this month, I’ll be making the most of eating and drinking in all of my favourite places again, and it looks like I’ll be soon be discovering some new ones soon; Brother Thai have finally committed to bricks and mortar on Whitchurch Road, James Sommerin has just confirmed a new 20-cover site in Penarth, and rumour has it that Matsudai Ramen are on the lookout for a permanent spot, too.

Now if we can just get the weather to warm up a bit, we should be all set for a summer to really remember!

For more: www.janechicomendes.co.uk; @janechicomendes

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

One of Bryn’s specialities needs no introduction

TASTY BITES

A handful of juicy food news morsels for you to chew on

WENT TO MARKET The latest venture from the guys at The Castle Emporium indie market on Womanby Street is their Emporium Food Market. It launched on 8 May in collaboration with Proper Lushh, and the new premises is based directly opposite Cardiff Castle, so it’s the ideal spot to chill out and enjoy some amazing food from awesome local vendors. The upcoming dates are 22 and 29 May. www.thecastleemporium.co.uk

The Forest Feastival is set in magical woodlands

IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY After the success of trialling a street food experience at the Welsh Street Food Awards in Cardiff last summer, the Street Food Circus are now hosting the Forest Feastival in the magical woodlands of Merthyr Mawr. Running until 23 May, it’s an al fresco dining experience like no other, feasting together in an outdoor food court featuring the best street food trucks and chefs from Wales and beyond spanning over eight weekends, pitched under canvas. www.forestfeastival.com

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

Culinary ambassador of Compass Cymru, chef Bryn Williams

CYMRU AM BYTH! The UK’s largest food and support services firm, Compass UK & Ireland, has just launched a distinct business within the group: Compass Cymru.

With locality more important than ever, the business is making moves to commit to supporting the Welsh hospitality industry, championing local suppliers, and fostering the next generation of talent in Wales.

Headed up by Jane Byrd, the organisation operates in more than 60 sites across Wales, employing thousands of people. Providing innovative, sustainable and high-quality catering and support services across sectors including sports and leisure, education, defence, and workplace catering, the company drives the availability of Welsh produce through its supply chain, with a focus on sustainable and seasonal produce. Central to the new Compass Cymru business is a commitment to people; supporting development and the creation of jobs for Wales with a genuine focus on wellbeing and skills development. As part of the launch, Compass Cymru has announced at least 50 apprentice places within the next 12 months.

Compass Cymru has partnered with Chef Bryn Williams as its culinary ambassador, too.

He says, “Wales has one of the best food larders on earth, and using Welsh ingredients from local suppliers is the backbone of all of my kitchens, giving me the platform for consistency throughout all of my restaurants. I am looking forward to working with Compass Cymru on showcasing what Wales has to offer.” www.compass-group.co.uk

SPORTS BAR BANTS Stars of the smash hit podcast The Socially Distant Sports Bar will be taking their show on the road for the very first time this autumn, as they embark on a sevendate UK tour, including Cardiff’s New Theatre on 9 October.

Elis James, Mike Bubbins and Steff Garrero will discuss big sporting stories such as having lunch with Joe Frazier and Nigel Havers in a hotel near Maesteg; the social history of Carmarthenshire; and X-Rated trips to Wimbledon in the 1980s. They may even get around to talking about some actual sport. www.distantpod.com/live

FOOD & DRINK Fancy Michelin-star meals delivered to your door?

BIRD IS THE WORD

In an apparent first for a restaurant that sells both meat and veggie options, plant-based chicken is set to overtake real chicken as the most popular menu item at Mexican eatery Barburrito, in St David’s, Cardiff.

Supplied by THISTM, the pioneer of creating hyperrealistic plant-based products, the veggie chicken has soared above Barburrito’s other real meat fillings including chicken and chorizo, spicy shredded beef and pulled pork.

The news is a reflection of shifting eating habits as more people switch to a more plant-led diet. Britain alone has seen a 40 per cent increase in consumers switching to veganism since 2020, rising from 1.1 million people to 1.5 million people at the start of the year. www.barburrito.co.uk Veggie sales are soaring like never before

MICHELIN MEAL KITS Following a successful London launch, Hakkasan, a suave, sexy Michelinstar restaurant, has announced that Occasions by Hakkasan, which sees their signature modern Chinese dishes translated into cook-at-home feasts, is now available for delivery in Cardiff, complete with delicious new dishes to choose from.

Packaged in a beautifully designed keepsake box, complete with chopsticks, incense and a reusable bamboo steamer, the Occasions by Hakkasan hamper will bring delicious dishes to doorsteps nationwide, to be recreated at home. We tried it ourselves and were beyond impressed, especially as the whole feast only took minutes to cook, with easy-to-follow instructions. The flavours of the dishes were immaculate; from the menu, we chose dim sum, grilled Chilean sea bass in honey, smoked beef ribs with Jasmine tea, Hakka noodles, and stir-fried baby broccoli. And for dessert, an indulgent chocolate and mandarin melting pot. And if you’re feeling extra boujee, add some wine or vintage champagne to your order, all exclusive to Hakkasan’s cellars. www.hakkasan.com

LEAD THE WAY

Cardiff’s hospitality experts have spoken

At the end of April, leading representatives from the hospitality industry shared their expertise to inspire Welsh businesses to recover, rebuild and revitalise as the sector begins to reopen.

Alistair Darby at S.A.Brain Ltd, Ian Edwards at Celtic Manor Resort and ICC Wales, Shauna Guinn of Hang Fire Southern Kitchen, Kathryn Jones at Castell Howell, and Graham Randall of Quantuma Corporate Advisory Firm took part in a lively conversation, sharing interesting insights from different facets of the sector including pubs, accommodation, independent restaurants and wholesalers.

Organised by Chambers Wales – the leading business membership organisation in Wales – the event was broadcast live from Corporate Partner Capital Law’s offices in Cardiff on 21 April.

Watch the discussion online at: www.chamberswales.com

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

FOOD & DRINK

© ANDREA MEDGYESI

OH CRUMBS CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

© ANDREW HAYNES WATKINS

Kasim Ali at Waterloo Tea; Mitch Tonks of The Seahorse and Rockfish; Kate Nicholls of UK Hospitality; Wild Thing café; Chef Josh Eggleton

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

The first online Crumbs Takeaway Conference took place on 19 April, bringing together an array of business owners from Cardiff, Bristol, Bath and Exeter who all work in the hospitality sector, we even had our very own Cardiff Life section in which we shouted about the good that people do.

Those working in restaurants, cafés and bars tuned in to hear stories, insights and top tips from a top panel of food and drink producers and suppliers who’ve had to alter their business models over the past year to adapt to an everchanging, challenging period.

And the conference saw examples in each city of great work during the pandemic. From Cardiff, we heard from Kasim Ali at Waterloo Tea who spearheaded the Feed the Heath initiative, a fundraiser launched back in March 2020 which offered free food and drink for NHS Staff at University Hospital of Wales. They raised over £75,000. Working in collaboration with other local food businesses and the Cardiff and Vale Health Charity, they not only provided free food to the NHS staff working across the hospital campus, but they got Michelin-starred chefs, specialty cafés, quality-focused catering firms and hotels involved. It was good food. They wanted to ensure that hospital staff didn’t have to live off processed fast food, or go hungry, during their long shifts.

The initiative offered nutritious food to fuel the staff, and The Health Charity distributed the food directly to the wards (essential, as many staff were unable to leave wards once they started their shifts). The initiative began by supplying food to the Heath Hospital (UHW) and then expanded to serve other hospitals in the Health Board.

Also from Cardiff was Lauren Saunders of Wild Thing café; during the first lockdown, the café was involved in an incredible project set up with Holy Yolks to feed the NHS. The project saw so many indie businesses across Cardiff come together to bring their food to front line workers.

Even more impactful, though, was their collaboration with Fizzi Action Events and Cathays Community Centre who opened Cardiff’s First Community Fridge. Wild Thing is now involved in the food procurement and volunteer management of the project and have recently launched a food business partnership so that other food businesses can donate food to the fridge, which anyone has free access to.

Big names such as Mitch Tonks of The Seahorse and Rockfish, and Kate Nicholls of UK Hospitality made for exceptionally interesting keynote speakers too.

You can watch the conference on YouTube: @MediaClash / Twitter: @CrumbsMag

FOOD & DRINK

GAME ON

After a lucky roll of the dice, Chance & Counters returns to Cardiff. And the immersive board game cafe’s comeback was no trivial pursuit

W

top: Rhys Chamberlain (manager of the Cardiff branch) with Steve Cownie and Luke Neal (directors of Chance & Counters Ltd.) other pics: Board games galore

hen Chance & Counters announced the closure of the Cardiff café in October 2020, the customer response was overwhelming. “Hearing people’s memories of Chance & Counters was really humbling,” says founder Steve Cownie. “But we really thought that was it for us in Cardiff.”

It wasn’t until early 2021 that discussions about a future collaboration with Rhys Chamberlain, the manager of the Birmingham venue at the time, turned toward saving the café, and, before long, he became the co-owner of the Cardiff company. “The high point was definitely knowing that all the blood, sweat and tears we poured into that little café for years wasn’t going to waste,” Steve reminisces.

Planning a reopening alongside the changing Covid restrictions has been a bit of a nightmare, admits Rhys, but at least it’s provided time to refurbish the café and really make it shine.

So what can customers expect when Chance & Counters finally opens its doors again on 20 May? “The same laid-back vibes but really leaning into welcoming new people to the hobby,” says Rhys. “We’ve also really tried hard to warm up the décor and bring out the old features of the building.”

But these are not the only exciting changes on the menu. Rhys is bringing over culinary favourites from the Birmingham venue, including freshly cooked burgers, wings and loaded fries, as well as loads of vegan options and even more tapas to go with the extended range of craft beers.

Once things are back in full swing at the board game café, customers can book four-hour slots and sample as many of the games as they wish for a cover charge of £5.

The extensive range includes everything from fun party favourites like Obama Llama and What Do You Meme, to more involved strategy games such as Ticket To Ride and Betrayal at House on the Hill.The biggest perk, though, is the helpful team on hand to walk customers through the rules of any game; no more scratching your head for hours trying to decipher the instructions!

Sociable gamers can also take part in the events Chance & Counters run. Blood on the Clocktower, for instance, is a drop-in evening with an improvised script and a different cast every time, which combines elements of The Wicker Man and Sleepy Hollow.

There are also ticketed immersive game nights, like Spy Hard and Prohibition. A crossover between a murder mystery and an escape room, these events will have you working with (or against) other players to uncover hidden information and achieve your assigned objectives.

“We will be ready and waiting to welcome everyone through our doors as soon as we’re allowed,” says Rhys.

“I’m excited to meet all the wonderful people of Cardiff!”

High Street; www.chanceandcounters.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 43

DECAF DELIGHTS

FOOD & DRINK

What’s coffee without the caffeine kick, you ask? Well, it’s better for you, for a start. Here we share our favourite local spots for grabbing a lighter cup of the dark stuff Words by Polly Angelova

D

rinking decaf is a waste of coffee.

I’ve heard this more times than I care to remember in the two years since I switched to the caffeinefree version of my favourite drink.

But there’s actually a good reason why I made that move. According to experts, the level of caffeine in your blood peaks around an hour after you finish your coffee. After five hours, half of the caffeine you consumed is still in your body, and it can take up to 10 hours to leave your bloodstream completely. This makes afternoon coffee meetups with your friends particularly tricky, and you might be risking a poor night’s sleep if you opt for caffeinated drinks in the PM. Regular coffee can also make you feel anxious; since caffeine is a stimulant, it can trigger reactions in your body that are almost identical to an anxiety attack, such as nervousness, restlessness and increased heart rate. The only trouble is finding a good decaffeinated blend.

Not one to settle for the bitter slush served by mainstream coffee chains, I’ve made it my mission to scour Cardiff for the best indie decaf cuppa…

1

PARK SIDE CAFÉ This charming family-run café greets you with a decadent selection of bakes, and a cosy hygge-inspired interior. Firmly focused on community, the coffee shop has quickly become a resident favourite. Located at the edge of Heath Park, it’s the perfect start or end point to an afternoon stroll.

Heath; @park_side_cardiff

2

CHAPTER CAFFI BAR The lovely little profit-for-purpose café is another local gem serving great decaf to patrons of the Chapter Arts Centre. Complete with a beer garden tucked away at the back, it’s a

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

sweet spot for a refreshment at Cardiff’s cultural hub.

Canton; @chapter_eats

3

EARTHA One for the plant lovers, Eartha is a gorgeous gem near the intersection of Albany Road, City Road and Cryws Road. Doubling as a plant shop with some stunning specimens, the café caters to decaf and vegan needs with a menu stocked by local suppliers.

Cathays; @earthastore

in common is huge windows, which let in plenty of daylight – a big winning point for all you avid people watchers.

Pontcanna, Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff Bay, Adamstown and Splott; @kinandilk

7

WATERLOO TEA The Waterloo Tea houses are a staple for hot drink lovers around Cardiff. Attention to detail has gone into every element, from the variety of coffee-brewing methods and the smooth decaf blend they serve, to their selection of organic teas and the bakes which cater to vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free diets. Plus, they feature rotating art exhibitions, so you can get your culture hit in.

Cardiff City Centre, Roath, Penylan, Lakeside and Penarth; @waterlootea

“The trouble is finding a good decaffeinated blend” 8 4

ACADEMY @ PLATFORM This container café and bar is strategically located right at the heart of the refurbished Cardiff Bay train station. It has generous outdoor seating, perfect for sunny days in the bay, and since it stays open well into the evening, it doubles as a spot for a few cheeky drinks.

Cardiff Bay and Barry; @academyplatform

5

SECRET GARDEN CAFÉ Aptly named after the popular book, this sustainable spot is tucked away in the middle of Bute Park. It’s the perfect stop on your weekend walk, or your lunch break escape from the concrete jungle of the city centre.

Bute Park; @secretgardencf

6

KIN + ILK You can find the shops peppered around various Cardiff locations, but what they all have

HARD LINES A good choice for the sustainability conscious Cardiffians among you. All the coffee they serve has been ethically sourced and roasted in house. To top it all off, the newly refurbished Canton shop offers a friendly atmosphere that makes their hot foods and sweet treats even more enjoyable. Their own decaf roast, Decaf de Cana, is sourced from the Huila region. The blend is made up of Castillo, Colombia, and Caturra beans, which come together to create chocolate biscuits tasting notes.

Canton; @hardlinescoffee

9

PENYLAN PANTRY More than just your average café and deli, this is a lovely corner shop stocking local produce from Wales’ bakers, makers, farmers and dairies.

A great spot for some lazy weekend shopping, the pantry has a range of tasty products you can browse while you sip, from chutneys and jams, to sauces and spices. n Roath; @penylanpantry

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

Explore the city of two halves this summer Ready for a short stay like no other? THE URBAN SPACE offers stylish serviced apartments in Cardiff, Cardiff Bay and the Vale for days or months at a time

T

he attractiveness of short-stay apartments has been on the rise for a good few years now.

Throw a global pandemic into the mix, and their many benefits shine; enjoy hotel comfort with the space and freedom of your own home. By short-term, we mean anything from three nights up to a few months.

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

Serviced apartments have living spaces and well-equipped kitchens, they offer more flexibility than a hotel room. They provide the space you crave and allow you to be in charge of your own routine.

The Urban Space and Travel Company Limited is an independent business offering stylish serviced apartments and apartment hotels in Cardiff, Cardiff Bay and the Vale. From our carefully chosen locations to the finishing touches we want our guests to feel completely at home and looked after.

Our apartment hotels are a new kind of hospitality. We wanted to bring together a collection of boutique apartments and social spaces. With home comforts inside and lots to do outside, they are the perfect base for a stay away from home.

Looking for a city break to explore the best culture, dinning and shopping experience? Our Park Lane Apartment Hotel is located in the heart of the city opposite the iconic National History Museum. Cardiff Castle and the Principality stadium are just steps away, or shop until you drop and return to your apartment to recharge. A boutique apartment, with stylish décor throughout the living and sleeping spaces, including king size beds. The designer furniture provides that premium touch!

Wanting a bit of adventure? Our Goodstay apartments are well placed. Located at the Goodsheds in Barry, the first urban high street in the UK where you can eat, live and play. All apartments have north- and south-facing views with plenty of room for everyone. Go forth and explore some of the best beaches, coast and countryside in the Vale of Glamorgan. It’s a great destination for walking, activities and many attractions.

You can travel light, we have thought of everything you might need including the little touches. Many of our apartments are ideal for sharing, whether at work or play. From sand castles to stone castles, where the city and sea sit side by side our team are on hand to choose the best location for your stay to be as you need it to be. n

029 2002 9959; www.theurbanspace.co.uk info@theurbanspace.co.uk; f 

SPONSORED CONTENT

A clean break Benjamin Delve of BERRY SMITH LAWYERS tells us about the new rules of the divorce process

I

f you are looking to bring your marriage to an end, you have two broad options: to lay the fault for the breakdown in the relationship on your spouse or, if neither of you want to blame the other, wait for a period of at least two years from the date that you separated.

Many clients that we see, seeking a divorce, issue a petition on the fact of ‘behaviour’. They are eager to proceed with divorce and wish to be able to move on with their lives and, whilst they may not want to apportion blame on their spouse, they do not want to have to wait at least two years before they can start divorce proceedings. Unfortunately, in this scenario, the law currently requires that, if you want to issue sooner, rather than later, someone will have to take the blame.

In this situation family solicitors can help resolve matters amicably by, for example, by informing your spouse in advance of an intention to file for divorce, providing them

with a copy of the draft petition with a view to agreeing the content, and negotiating any contribution towards legal costs that may be incurred.

However, some couples do not like the idea of one person taking ‘the blame’ for the breakdown of the marriage. What can you do in this case, if you do not want to wait two years?

Well, it may, in this instance, be worth waiting until the autumn instead.

In autumn 2021 the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 will come into force, changing divorce law, and enabling a separating couple to file for divorce immediately without having to lay blame, or responsibility, for the breakdown of the marriage on their spouse.

You will still be able to file a petition on other grounds, such as your spouse’s adultery but, from autumn, if you don’t want to, you don’t have to. n

Benjamin Delve

If you would like any information, or advice, about the divorce process and forthcoming changes in the law please contact a member of our Family Team at Berry Smith LLP on 02920 345525 or family@berrysmith.com

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THE COCONUT TREE

It was a chilly day to al fresco dine, but the fiery, vivid island-inspired flavours of this Sri Lankan haven soon warmed things up

By Lisa Evans

I

’ve never felt emotional while eating a cube of cheese before, but The Coconut Tree’s tropical island-inspired cooking shot me back three years ago when I was on a palm tree-strewn beach, warm waves sparkling at my ankles. Not having been on holiday for 1,095 days – due to a mix of a newborn and a pandemic – has been a struggle, a very trivial one, I know, and I actually feel silly having a grump about it because there are people out in the world with real problems, but that crimson-glazed, sticky block of paneer made me glassy eyed, I can’t lie.

The same couldn’t be said for my surroundings, though; they didn’t whisk me beachside. I was dining al fresco wrapped in faux-fur lined parka with another jacket underneath and could barely bend at the elbow to clutch my cutlery due to the Joey-from-Friends number of

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layers going on – could I have BEEN wearing any more clothes? I said goodbye to the menu within moments, the wind had that, and my frosty fingers were camouflaged against my blue elephant-shaped mug filled with a ginger beer Cointreau ‘cocotail’. You call this spring?! But, after months of Covid restrictions forbidding any chef-cooked feasts, paradise it still was.

The modern menu from these street food pioneers consisted of moreish Sri Lankan tapas dishes. My teeth-chattering companion and I ordered eight plates between us. There was: fat sister, a carve-with-a-spoon tender coconut cream pumpkin curry; hot, juicy devilled pork belly finished in the wok and served with pineapple; crispy polenta-battered cuttlefish with sugary tangles of caramelised onions (my ultimate fave dish); rich, slowcooked goat curry, a recipe courtesy of the chef ’s dad; the

RESTAURANT

previously mentioned emotion-inducing cheesy columbo cubes; fried spiced potatoes; and the freshest egg fried rice.

Also, thanks to the lovely, incredibly accommodating waiter – who I’d love to be my new best friend if you’re reading this – we went for the recommendation of trying the ‘hoppers’: bowl-shaped coconut milk pancakes served with coconut sambol, cinnamon-infused caramelised onions, Sri Lankan salsa, and a sunny-side-up egg, a dish which is described as ‘legendary’ and ‘not for sharing’ on the menu. It’s an interesting one, for sure.

There was no room for dessert; had there been, I would have either opted for the treacle hopper with coconut ice cream, or the vegan stracciatella.

We’re told there is a saying back in Sri Lanka, “lay an extra place at the table; always have room for an unexpected guest,” The Coconut Tree definitely reflects this kind of warmth. And we also like just how many dishes we were able to sample, due to the mix-and-match nature of the menu.

We weren’t really able to experience the full ‘vibe’ of the place due to being outside, with no music, and only a meek version of the usual hubbub that we’ve come to expect of Mill Lane. But we’ll be returning when the city’s fully and wondrously back to life again.

Extraneous matters aside, these are my kind of partyin-your-mouth flavours – sweet, fiery, vivid, and fresh, with heaps of authenticity good measure. My first bite inspired me to decide on where my next long-haul will be headed, too; get me on that plane! n

“It’s a dish described as legendary and not for sharing”

DINING DETAILS The Coconut Tree, 10 Mill Lane, Cardiff; www.thecoconut-tree.com Food Sri Lankan street food tapas; an explosion of flavour Veggie options Probably more so than meat options – we counted 20 dishes! And everything is gluten-free Prices Dishes range between £2.50 and £9 Drinks The ‘cocotails’ are made with spirits that have been sourced directly from Sri Lanka Service Speedy, and literally the friendliest I can probably ever remember experiencing Did you know The restaurant is offering 50 per cent off for all eat-in customers (Monday to Wednesday) until the end of January 2022

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

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

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SCENE

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

STREET FOOD SOCIAL

DEPOT Cardiff, the home of some of the city’s most creative pop-ups, has relaunched its epic Street Food Social events, and its first week of diary dates – from 26 April to 3 May – was a huge hit. The eight-day extravaganza took place in their large covered outdoor space, feat 40 tables, and some of Cardiff’s favourite street food vendors – from Bearded Tacos, to Dirty Bird Fried Chicken – were busy whipping up impressive feasts. The traders change every few weeks to keep everyone on their toes. www.depotcardiff.com

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Neighbourhood, a newly launched rotating street food kitchen in Riverside, has teamed up with neighbours Tramshed – a staple in the Cardiff music scene – to bring a new outdoor collaboration to the city. The launch day, on 30 April at Tramshed’s courtyard, saw nosh provided by the street food traders at Neighbourhood and the drinks provided by Tramshed’s bar in a never-been-donebefore outdoor party. The events will continue each weekend until the end of May. www.neighbourhoodkitchen.co.uk

© NEIGHBOURHOOD

© NATHAN ROACH, TRAMSHED

© NATHAN ROACH, TRAMSHED

© NATHAN ROACH, TRAMSHED

© NEIGHBOURHOOD

© NATHAN ROACH, TRAMSHED

NEIGHBOURHOOD X TRAMSHED

SOCIETY

MOTEL NIGHTS

Disco balls, festoon lights and street food were aplenty at Motel Nights' re-opening on 26 April. The venue had foodie takeovers from the likes of Keralan Karavan and Reaper Hot Sauce, paired with classic cocktails and the signature pints they have become known for – Peachy Boys lager. As lockdown eases, look out for their comedy, drag and quiz night. www.motelnights.co.uk

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NOOK BY THE RIVER

As Victoria Park’s much-adored restaurant Nook has no outdoor space, and could therefore not host al fresco diners, they went the extra mile and set up a brand-new pop-up on the banks of the River Taff just to fit with the most recent Covid hospitality rules. Nook by the River’s opening night, on 29 April, was a sell-out success, and they swiftly booked out four more weeks’ worth of reservations within hours of opening. www.nookcardiff.co.uk

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P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

THE PERFECT MATCH

Stay close to the action as Cardiff’s newest luxe hotel opens with the Welsh Rugby Union in time for Autumn Nations Series 2021 The Parkgate is located just a drop kick from Principality Stadium

Cardiff’s latest and most luxurious destination, The Parkgate Hotel, will launch in style with opportunities to stay close to the action when the might of the southern hemisphere visits Wales for this year’s Autumn Nations Series.

Operated on behalf of the Welsh Rugby Union, The Parkgate is located just a drop kick from Principality Stadium and will open in time for the big autumn clashes with New Zealand, South Africa, Fiji and Australia.

New computer-generated images released to mark the launch of the hotel brand show how the development will breathe new life into two of Cardiff’s most historic landmarks – the old Post Office and County Court properties on Westgate Street.

The new hotel had the ‘working title’ Westgate Hotel, but it has now been confirmed that it will take its name from the Parkgate building that housed the old Post Office.

The Parkgate Hotel’s distinctive ‘P’ logo draws influence from the quills that would have been used on the old writing tables, with the feathers giving a subtle nod to the WRU.

Dating from the turn of the 20th Century, the Grade-II listed buildings’ most striking period features have been brought out in a careful restoration that marries stylish innovation with the elegance of yesteryear.

The hotel includes 170 guest bedrooms and suites, a signature restaurant and bar, an elegant tea lounge, and a luxurious rooftop spa overlooking the skyline of the Welsh capital. It will provide alluring spaces to meet and drink, dine and relax, as well as the city centre’s finest place to stay.

When Wales play at home, rugby lovers can enjoy pre- and post-match hospitality in the hotel’s grand function suite with their big match seats just a few steps away. In weekend packages described as The Perfect Match, they will also enjoy an overnight stay in the luxe lifestyle hotel.

The Parkgate Hotel is an exciting collaboration between the Welsh Rugby Union, property developer Rightacres, and The Celtic Collection, the group behind the iconic Celtic Manor Resort.

For more: www.celtic-manor.com

MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE

“We have very much missed welcoming people to Principality Stadium and we are extremely proud to have this fantastic new hotel on show right beside the stadium,” says WRU chief executive Steve Phillips.” Supporters now have a complete menu of options to complete their matchday experience, from our premium hospitality offerings at the new Parkgate Hotel or on site at Principality Stadium, to a full range of concessions for U17s across all ticket categories and frozen prices for this year’s Autumn Nations Series.

“The Parkgate Hotel is another fantastic addition to what we are able to offer our visitors for rugby matches and other sporting fixtures, music concerts and corporate events.”

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CEFN MABLY Is it a house, or is it a five-star spa retreat? You decide

By Evelyn Green

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

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n a not-so-surprising turn of events, the pandemic has seen more and more people opting for a quieter life outside of the cities for the first time in decades. Given how we have all had to adapt and drastically change the way we live and work, it’s no wonder that there have been huge increases in buying properties in less hectic settings with more flexible space inside and out. A house became not just a place to live, but your office, your gym, your restaurant, your spa, your respite, and a place you’ve had to spend all hours of the day.

But can you imagine being cooped up inside Cefn Mably – a jaw-dropper of a home in Michaelston-yFedw? We wouldn’t mind that, to be fair. With its eight bedrooms, six reception rooms, indoor swimming pool, cinema room and games room, plus its 1.3 acres to explore. Throw away the key, we say.

It’s a unique property which has been substantially extended, doubling the size of the original layout. And the décor and high-quality finish of the place is at showhome standard.

The central entrance hall, with its modern glass and oak staircase, is bigger than my living room for a start.

PROPERTY

And the kitchen is a space of dreams – bespoke fitted with integrated appliances including a wine fridge and warming drawers. It sticks to a neutral colour scheme, with its Silestone worktops and slick tiling (heated underfoot, of course), and positively sparkles with glossy sophistication.

Talking of things that sparkle, I’d sacrifice a lot at this precise moment to plunge into that perfectly heated pool and then lounge about in the spa for a few hours.

After that, I would take tea, or maybe a glass of bubbly if I was feeling decadent enough, cocooned in a dressing gown in the grand orangery-style family room, or maybe in the drawing room, darling, with its exceptionally high ceilings, solid stone feature fireplace and air conditioning.

If it were a particularly sunny day, I would throw open the doors and pad around in my waffle weave hotel slippers (which is what I’m wearing in this vision for some reason, imagining I’m at a luxe mansion spa) and chill out in the outdoor seating area, taking in the views of the adventure-beckoning garden and the stream which runs through it, with pathways and bridges meandering through the woodland.

Anyway, let me snap out of my daydream for a second

and talk about the upstairs. The master bedroom has a dramatic vaulted ceiling, the dressing room has bespoke fitted wardrobes, and the en suite wet-room is exquisitely finished with open shower, a modern roll-top bath, and a double vanity wash basin. Ok, I’ve submerged back into my spa retreat vision again.

On this floor, there are six further bedrooms, five of which have en suite facilities, and a family bathroom.

To the second floor is a landing opening onto a further bedroom with en suite shower room. And it’s on this floor you’ll find the cooler-than-cool games room, too.

In the extension, you’ll find the plush cinema room with countryside views. There’s also a detached triple garage outside which has an upstairs area comprising two rooms, currently used as a home office.

The house sits on a prestigious development, Cefn Mably Country Park, a private and exclusive site set in around 15 acres of parkland. It’s just six miles outside of the city, and, since completion, it has become one of Cardiff’s most sought-after locations, affording residents a beautifully maintained, secluded and peaceful setting.

Yep, I can really see myself there; one for the vision board, I think. n

HOUSE NUMBERS Where Cefn Mably Park, Michaelston-y-Fedw, Cardiff Square footage 8,610 Bedrooms Eight Bathrooms Seven Garden 1.3 acres Stand-out features Heated pool, games room and a home cinema Price £2,450,000

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It’s the city’s business

CARDIFFWORKS Mallows Beauty, Miniso and Get Caked have arrived at St David’s

In the pink Cardiff’s St David’s shopping centre is celebrating a collection of new brands, including plenty of local, independent names

F

rom luxury watches to locally made beauty products, the new offerings join more than 150 existing retailers at St David’s. The arrivals include Mallows Beauty, a Cardiff-based brand with an emphasis on positivity; its products are made in the UK and include feel-good bath bombs, face masks, and body scrubs. There’s also BoConcept, a premium Danish lifestyle brand designing and producing contemporary furniture and accessories; Get Caked Bake House, a South

BUSINESS CLUB

Wales bakery serving loaded cheesecakes, fondue cookies and cupcakes; Miniso, a Japanese-inspired brand offering fun and affordable home goods, cosmetics, and gifts; family-run brand Simply Grace, selling jewellery handmade in Wales as well as gifts and trinkets; Cardiff’s only TAG Heuer boutique; and Shuropody, the UK’s largest provider of podiatry services.

“It’s a really exciting time here at St David’s, and we’re pleased to welcome so many new stores as retail is reopening in Wales,” says James

Waugh, centre director. “We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring on board new brands, so guests returning to the centre will notice some new names that have joined the lineup. From beauty to high-end jewellery, and from furniture to wellness, we’re giving the public even more reason to visit – and we’re looking forward to announcing even more new arrivals in the coming months.” www.stdavidscardiff.com

Virtual one hour sessions, all free to attend Search Cardiff Life on LinkedIn for upcoming dates and registration If you would like to get involved, please email events@mediaclash.co.uk

community to share a positive memory from the last 12 months while making a donation to the charity. These images will then be transformed into a bespoke piece of art by local artist Nathan Wyburn which will be titled ‘The Bigger Picture’. This will be on display later this year and we welcome all donations as it’s for a great cause.

You can visit our website for more information and to get involved.

Gareth Coles

We chat with Gareth Coles, the managing director at Coles Funeral Directors, which has sites in Rumney, Birchgrove and Llandaff. Here he tells us about his career, from driving funeral cars while at uni just to earn some extra money, to buying his first funeral home in his twenties Hi Gareth, can you tell us a bit about yourself…

I have over 18 years of experience in the funeral sector, and my mission is helping loved ones before, during and after any services.

In my role, I’m also working to tackle issues affecting families across Wales and the UK including funeral poverty, with the introduction of Coles’ funeral plans and funeral finance options.

Tell us a little about the company too…

We’re a family affair. I work alongside my wife, Francesca, our mothers, uncle, brother and extended family. It was established over a decade ago and is one of the last remaining independent, familyrun funeral directors in Cardiff.

How do you compete with larger companies?

With three funeral homes in the city, a state-of-the-art operational base in Cardiff Bay, and ambitious growth plans, we remain resilient to market changes by delivering exceptional

services that allow us to thrive despite fierce competition from large, national conglomerates.

those dealing with loss, and also providing a library of books on bereavement, and more.

What’s new?

I’m very proud to say that we launched our third funeral home in Cardiff in April. We’re taking up residence at 98 Cardiff Road, a landmark site in Llandaff, to support the West Cardiff community. We’ve already recruited four new members of staff to support us as we mark this next key phase of business growth.

You’ve launched an education programme too?

Yes, we go into schools to talk to children about death, dying and loss in the hope of normalising these conversations and changing the taboo around this subject from a young age. So far, we’ve worked with Birchgrove Primary School and it was a massive success.

We’re looking to continue this as lockdown restrictions ease and will be looking at digital options too.

How does being based locally benefit the work you do?

Our community is at the heart of everything that we do. From sponsoring local sports teams to getting involved in wider initiatives with organisations such as Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, we believe in giving back and investing in our community. This is one of the reasons why we also introduced our Bereavement Hub in Birchgrove, offering oneto-one counselling sessions for

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

Any collaborations with other local businesses?

We regularly collaborate with local charities including 2 Wish Upon a Star and City Hospice. In doing so, we’re able to reach families at their time of need and offer them the vital support they require. We’re currently running a campaign to raise vital funds for City Hospice called #CreateShareRemember where we’re encouraging the

What jobs were you doing before this?

I was a student in university studying construction. I started driving funeral cars to earn some extra money but was slowly given more responsibility. At the age of 21, I was asked to conduct my first funeral. The rest is history, and by age 25 I had bought my first funeral home in Rumney.

Would you say there’s someone in business that you admire and try learn from?

Alan Sugar, because he started from nothing and he’s genuine, straighttalking and proud of his roots.

What highs and lows have you experienced during your time with the business?

Highs would be when you see your plans come together with a strong, committed team supporting you.

Lows would be when we have had to deal with really tragic funerals, maybe that of a baby. It can be difficult not to take these emotions home with you.

Help us get to know you outside the business...

I’m going to be very honest here, I flunked school because I never turned up. I wasn’t engaged at an early age, but I went back and did my GCSEs and A-Levels later on and this was followed by university.

I’m quite a spiritual person and I use meditation and mindfulness to help me deal with the daily stress of running a business. I’m also an introvert and although I can be perceived as quite outgoing, I’m often more comfortable in my own company.

Surprise us…

Coles is the only funeral directors in Wales to be recommended by the independent Good Funeral Guide. www.colesfuneraldirectors.co.uk

CARDIFFWORKS

WELL WELL WELL Simply Wellness Cardiff has opened its new salon on Winsor Place. The new location opened in mid April, and owner Leah Blanc is absolutely thrilled with the calm and inviting timeless spa environment they’ve created.

The new massage room for two is a highlight – perfect for mothers and daughters, friends and couples who want to make celebrations extra special and spend an hour of uninterrupted pampering tucked away in a relaxing cocoon.

There’s also a shower room for scrubs and wraps, as well as aromatherapy massages and Decléor facials which embody the salon’s holistic, natural approach to wellness.

For more: www.simplywellnesscardiff.co.uk

GOT THE MOVES

ARCADE FIRE

Cardiff’s Morgan Quarter has announced the arrival of a bevy of businesses to their line-up. The new tenants include Bean Freaks, a health food store; Brooklinde Jewellers, offering bespoke, handmade gold jewellery; and Jian Chen Fine Art, specialising in bold watercolours.

There are also plenty of pop-up galleries at the arcade, too, supporting the local arts and culture community which has been hit hard by the pandemic. In June and July, you’ll see our Cardiff Life columnist Nathan Wyburn, who creates iconic celebrity portraits and pop culture imagery with non-traditional mediums such as food; and Carl Bevan, an artist producing beautiful, vibrant paintings of his favourite places around Wales, is there in May. For more: www.morganquarter.co.uk See Carl Bevan’s pop-up gallery at Morgan Quarter

One of Wales’ most familiar dance names, Gwyn Emberton Dance, is relaunching under a new name and organisational vision as Jones the Dance. The launch of Jones the Dance will see the company give empowerment and a voice to different dance and movement artists and young people from across Wales. Inspired by the Welsh tradition of someone’s surname connected to their job (John the Milk, Bevan the Butcher etc.), Jones the Dance incapsutaltes the company’s ambition to promote the voices of Wales, its mixed heritage, cultures and languages, and support and nurture dance in Wales.

“I started the company as Gwyn Emberton Dance in 2015 just so I could make larger scale shows,” says Gwyn Dancing to a Emberton, “but over different beat time we invited other dance artists to join us on our projects, and this encouraged us to think how we can evolve to involve even more people in what we do.”

For more: www.Jonesthedance.com

CALLING ALL ENTREPRENEURS… EntreConf, a new conference coming on 1 July for entrepreneurs, is gathering pace with seven big name sponsors and an innovative tickets scheme.

The virtual conference seeks to inspire entrepreneurs, start-ups and scale-ups with powerful insights, and to link them with key advisers and partners.

The first tranche of sponsors features: Bath Spa University; law firms Bevan Brittan and Burges Salmon; Swiss private bank Lombard Odier; technology companies Rocketmakers and Storm Consultancy; and the University of Bath’s School of Management.

It features a unique approach to attendance. “Our sponsors are gifting tickets to entrepreneurs,” explains event organiser Claudia Butler for MediaClash, Cardiff Life’s publisher. “This means that many will be able to access this compelling content for free – and develop crucial partnerships.”

Further sponsorships are available, including opportunities to sponsor a special entrepreneurs’ dinner in real life in the autumn.

Details are on the site: www.entreconf.com For sponsorships: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk

CLUB CLOBBER

Dave Jones – maybe better known as Dave Mills, the former DJ and promoter to Cardiff’s award-wining Cool House, voted one of the best nights in the UK by Radio 1 listeners – has launched a new clothing business.

“I have decided to get back into something related with music but this time it’s based on clothing,” says Dave, who lives in Canton. “It’s basically designs based on music that has influenced me over the years. I only launched it three months ago but I’m already getting good feedback from local and international DJs. “I work with local designer Matt Miles, who helps turn the vision of the designs into reality. I keep things all-Welsh as I use a distributor in North Wales to get my garments, and I also use Cardiff Bay printers (Visible Art).

I’m currently only selling via my website but I will definitely be looking at local retail outlets or pop-ups soon. The dream is to see my garments across dancefloors in the UK and Ibiza.

For more: www.inthemusicuk.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

After THIS year of all years, please NOMINATE for your teams: closing on 10 June

NOTHING BEATS BEING THERE… 30 SEPTEMBER 2021, CITY HALL

PLATINUM SPONSOR

INITIAL SPONSORS

Talk with annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk or mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk events@mediaclash.co.uk cardifflifeawards.co.uk @cardifflifeawds

CARDIFFWORKS

© STUDIO 87

“I DIDN’T THINK WE COULD WIN..!”

© STUDIO 87

Sponsors gain close association with the most prestigious event in Cardiff

That Award-winning feeling can’t be beaten…

Backed by a massive marketing campaign, this event has sold out every year its been held

TESTIMONIAL

“We’re always really excited about the Awards; we have been to many through the years and the evening in City Hall blows everyone else out of the water! Good luck again to you and everyone entering this year.”

Craig Pugh, The Galley, Penarth

Nominate yourself!

The clock is ticking. There are just weeks to go until the nominations close for the upcoming Cardiff Life Awards – AKA the glitziest party of the year. 10 June is the final date that you can put forward your business for an Award, and we really recommend you do after the year we’ve all had. Plus, it’s free!

B

usinesses are encouraged to get cracking on a strong case to ensure they’re ready in plenty of time.

“There’s not long left to submit your nomination,” says Annie Miekus, events and brand manager at MediaClash.

“Becoming a finalist is highly beneficial for business profile, and provides great recognition for teams and individuals who go the extra mile for your local company.

“The Awards celebrate all aspects of Cardiff – from all areas of business to culture, arts and charity. Everyone plays their part on shaping this city: from the smallest of indies to the largest of corporates. And uniquely, they all come together in the Awards.”

“We understand how difficult times have been: NOMINATIONS They close on 10 June; nominate your business via www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 16 June SPONSORSHIPS For remaining options, please contact:

we’re all in the same storm if not the same boats. So our judges will be looking for the smart and positive ways that you’ve responded.”

In previous years, tickets to the uberglam Awards, held in City Hall, have been snapped up weeks in advance, selling out with around 450 attendees and plenty more on the waiting list.

Winners receive coverage in Cardiff Life, a handcrafted trophy and window stickers to proudly display – plus the long-lasting remembrance of an award-winning moment.

Nominees are also encouraged to check the ‘Top Tips’ page on the Awards site, which cover everything from what to include within a nomination and how best to showcase achievements to a freshly selected panel of judges.

For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk @cardifflifeawds

annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk or mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk.

Our current sponsors are Marsh Commercial, 13Fields, Genero, Park Plaza, Regus and WSET

AWARDS The uberglam Cardiff Life Awards will be held at City Hall on 30 September 2021. Nothing beats being there…

TICKETS Updates when on sale. Please note: We sell out every year with many on the waiting list

SOCIAL MEDIA Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for all updates @cardifflifeawards

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

CARDIFF LIVES

“I spent time on Doctor Who, as a body double for David Tennant” get the books from the library.

A few I remember were Jaws, Amityville Horror, The Exorcist, and The Wicker man. Even as a kid I was attracted to folk tales with elements of horror in them.

The Grimm folk tales can be really dark. The Juniper Tree for instance is truly horrific. So that was all bundled in there in my psyche and is still sorting itself out, I think.

Two of the stories are based on the process of making films. Why is that?

COLUM SANSON-REGAN The local author, musician and David Tennant body double tells us about his latest book and the dark allure of horror Colum Sanson-Regan, who lives in Pontyclun, has a bit of a double life. As a musician, he has worked with Grammy Award-winners, such as K-Klass, as well as the likes of Dan Myers and Charlotte Church. He has written, recorded and released two solo albums and two band albums and continues to perform as a singer and as a guitarist.

On the flip side, he’s an author, and his latest book release is The Tall Owl: And Other Stories, a collection of short tales, which tell of adversity, loss, obsession, secrets, triumph and love.

Here we chat…

Where did the inspiration for your Tall Owl short stories come from?

People talk to me. Strangers, I mean. It happens a lot. Letting people talk, and having no agenda other than listening, it’s surprising what they will talk about. I used to hitchhike a lot when I was younger and that is what used to happen. You get to know something about the other person and then they drop you off and you keep walking. Maybe I’m just nosey.

There are elements of horror in the stories…

When I was a young teenager, I always wanted to see movies that I was too young for. So, I’d

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

I find film very interesting as a process. I spent a lot of time on the set of Doctor Who, as a body double for David Tennant, and the laborious nature of getting the filming done was something that I got to see up close. Even when it was boring, I still found it interesting. So, as a writer, you pick experiences up and work them into a narrative to help you to make a bigger point.

And you performed your stories with a live band?

Yes. Around the time I was writing the book, there were a few stories I wanted to read aloud to see how they worked, so I got some musician friends of mine, who are multiinstrumentalists and are wonderful at improvisation, to put together soundtracks for a few of my stories. We did a few live performances.

How has lockdown impacted your writing?

Well, I thought I’d get a lot more written, but no. More time doesn’t necessarily mean more productivity. I get frustrated and down about it, but then feel bad about feeling bad about such a

trivial thing, when you think about what other people are going through.

How do you feel about the arts sector right now?

The realm of the arts is being left by the roadside while the juggernaut of restrictions in the name of safety ploughs inevitably ahead, and this is really worrying for me. It feels like the role of the local artist is being negated.

TV, Netflix, and big-budget entertainment will be what is left when the smoke clears and that’s very dangerous for the soul of society.

What’s new with you?

I have been working with artists and storytellers, collaborating on two exciting projects. One is an exhibition of artworks inspired by the stories in the Tall Owl collection, due to open at Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, in 2022. The other is based around my release – the dual release of an album of acapella traditional folk songs and a collection of 10 original folk stories.

Performances are being set up ready to go as soon that section of the arts gets the green light, with dates at The Gate in Cardiff being provisionally booked before the end of the year. And as soon as musicians are allowed to make noise on stage again, I’ll be out and about performing with my band Goose. n The Tall Owl: And Other Stories by

Colum Sanson-Regan is published by Cardiff’s Wordcatcher Publishing www.colum sansonregan.com