Exeter Living - Issue 239

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 239 / MIDWINTER 2019 / £3

EXETER AND BEYOND

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE:

EXETER‘S TOP 25 DEFINING MOMENTS

SOUND MIND SESSIONS

ISSUE 239 / MIDWINTER 2019 / HOME RUN

LITTLE WHITE BUYS

PLUS BRUCE FOXTON / GEOFF NORCOTT / LLOYD GRIFFITH

WE FOUND YOUR DREAM DARTMOOR HOME PLUS! ALL THE LATEST, LOCAL PROPERTY NEWS

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Our cover star, page 65; LEFT: Shopping for a whiter

shade of pale, page 32

H

appy New Year! And welcome to the first Exeter Living of 2019 – we’ve heard the starter’s pistol, and we’re out of the blocks, but like Mo Farah not Usain Bolt because it’s a marathon not a sprint, remember?

Life’s too short to waste on the January blues so let’s start as we mean to go on.

Big dreams, new hopes, new ambitions, and maybe even new homes – like the magnificent Everley on our cover (and page 65). (OK, I accept this last part is just a fantasy for now...)

A new year is also time to take stock of the past, which is why we felt inclined to document Exeter’s history via 25 of its biggest moments and how they shaped the city we love – see page 25. What’s in the stars for Exeter in 2019, and beyond? We have a few hunches – all of them good.

In these pages you’ll also find all the usual arts previews, shopping tip-offs, party pictures, food, drink and business news and inspiring Exeter characters to get you through to February.

Stay resolved, and see you next issue!

ANNA BRITTEN Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 3

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Issue 239/Midwinter 2019 Cover ‘Everley’ on Dartmoor

upfront

11 Spotlight Good news from in and around Exeter 15 julie Reid Technology plus teenagers equals one

completely outwitted columnist

the arts

17 intro Geoff Norcott – right here, right now, and

right-wing

18 What’s on Our pick of the best art, theatre,

comedy, music and more on your doorstep

22 WE’RE JAMMIN’ The man from The Jam comes

calling...

FEATURES

25 exeter’s top 25 LANDMARK MOMENTS

From the Romans to rugby triumph – here’s our pick

of Exeter’s biggest big days...

shopping

25

31 intro The wondrous wool creations of Topsham-

based Lauren Aston

32 ed’s choice It’s an absolute whitewash

17

31 www.mediaclash.co.uk I exeter LIving I 5

Issue 239/Midwinter 2019

TRAVEL

41 try five A fistful of reasons to book a break in

Cornwall right now

than a surfer’s paradise

42 rock and rollers Newquay – much more

Business

55 business insider Co-working spaces,

apprenticeships, and more exciting developments in the local business world

Property

65 showcase A salubrious small estate on Dartmoor 70 PROPERTY NEWS What have Wilkinson Grant,

Barratt Homes and Burrington Estates been up to?

Regulars

42

47 society 74 Exeter lives Local music champion Pik

Rawlings

65

Editor Anna Britten anna.britten@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 Editor’s Photo Emma Solley Contributors Julie Reid, Roxanne Duris, Yasmin Braddell, Deri Robins, Kitty Kane Advertising Manager Paul Wiltshire paul.wiltshire@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Production Manager/Production Designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane. ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Exeter Living MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

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

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spotlight

Everybody’s talking about…

You’ve really not got long now – so get your nominations in!

You’ll have to hurry if you want to nominate your company for the Exeter Living Awards. The deadline is Thursday 17 January!

Many businesses leave entering to the last minute – and time is now of the essence.

Finalists will be revealed at midday on Tuesday 22 January by email, on the Awards site and on Twitter. Tickets are selling briskly and are expected to be in extremely high demand once finalists are revealed. As such, companies are urged to secure their places before this Grand Reveal Day. “It’s been inspiring to see the quality of nominations flowing in for this year’s Awards,” says Steph Dodd, event director of Exeter Living’s publisher MediaClash. “If you’ve not entered yet, there’s still time – but you’ll need to act swiftly as the deadline is fast approaching.”

Companies self-nominate via the Awards website and can enter multiple categories. It’s also free to enter. Nominees are also encouraged to check the organisers’ ‘12 Top Tips’ and ‘How To Win’ presentation available on the Awards site.

Businesses who wish to take home an Award at the glittering ceremony on 7 March should look sharp and enter their

EXETER LIVING AWARDS: LAST CALL FOR NOMINATIONS! Nomination before the deadline.

Those who have already entered are encouraged to nudge their favourite companies, clients, friends and peers to submit their own entry as soon as possible.

The Exeter Living Awards are held at the University of Exeter’s Great Hall and look set to sell out once more, having sold out in 2018. With increased demand meaning sales are tracking ahead of this time last year, those hoping to attend the überglam evening should secure tickets as early as possible.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available, all of which feature an extensive marketing campaign and media coverage. Showing their public support for the Awards are Platinum Sponsor Jelf, along with category sponsors Princesshay, Visit Exeter, Energy Hair, Cathedral Appointments, WBW Solicitors, Wilkinson Grant & Co, Dana Mulligan PR & Marketing, Exeter College, Ashley House Triangle Networks, and Warwick Event Services, with The Oddfellows joining Premier Financial Planning as Silver Sponsors.

To join the bill of our sponsors and to benefit from the Awards, please contact Rosanna Hood rosanna.hood@mediaclash.co.uk www.exeterlivingawards.co.uk; Twitter: @ExeterLivingAwd

Health

DO, DO, DO

Banish the January blues with Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs Devon and Torbay libraries, which has launched its sixth annual Active Life Active Mind programme for January. The month-long programme sees over 250 events taking place across the county, many of them in the Exeter area.

Says Colin Bray, service development manager for Libraries Unlimited: “The New Year brings a new outlook and new opportunities, but for some, this time of year can be somewhat challenging and isolating.

Libraries are the perfect venue to bring people together, our spaces are welcoming and our staff are warm and friendly. Active Life Active Mind aims to encourage people to try new activities and learn new skills or simply to meet like-minded people. The programme helps promote positive mental and physical health and wellbeing through a range of events, working alongside a number of specialist partners. Libraries also signpost to relevant reading material, local services and places for support.” www.devonlibraries.org.uk; www.librariesunlimited.org.uk

LOL: An Active Life Active Mind ‘laughter yoga’ session

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spotlight Exeter Deaf Academy’s young campaigners

Young People

SIGN OF THE TIMES

Students at Exeter Deaf Academy have been campaigning for more British Sign Language (BSL) on local TV news.

Live, regional TV news programmes in the UK do not currently carry live BSL interpretation – and subtitles and closed captioning are widely considered a poor substitute, due to misspellings, omissions, delays, speed, and, often, language difficulties (not all deaf viewers have English as their first language).

The Exeter Deaf Academy students, aged 15-16, delivered a presentation to the Devon County Hall Council Chambers in British Sign Language (BSL), articulating the need for regional TV news programmes to be accessible for all, and explained their goal for the South West’s regional TV broadcasters to lead the way for the rest of the UK. Says Exeter Deaf Academy student council member Matthew McCauley: “We’ve recognised that there’s a disparity between Great Britain and other countries such as America and France.

Their TV news always has an interpreter present when there’s important news being broadcast.”

Student council co-secretary Tom Bowden adds: “We have been writing to the Government in London, but we understand they’re busy trying to sort out Brexit. So we have decided to campaign more locally.” www.exeterdeafacademy.ac.uk

SEVEN DEADLY SINS In our regular mini Q&A with visiting and local performers, comedian LLOYD GRIFFITH bares his wicked soul LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after today?

Nachos loaded with chilli beef. I saw someone order them in the restaurant I’m writing this in and I can barely think of anything else.

GREED: What should you be cutting down on (non-food and drink!)?

Obviously social media just like everybody else.

I need to start reading more books, plus books won’t call you a ‘tubby toad’ at three in the morning.

GLUTTONY: What one thing could you happily eat or drink until you burst?

Pizza. Cheese and meat and dough till I burst?

Yes, please.

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SLOTH: What should you be really putting your back into right now?

My solo show that I’m promoting right now.

It’ll be finished by the time you book tickets though, so please book tickets.

WRATH: What/who makes you angry?

Twitter. Everyone on there should be ashamed of themselves, including you and me. Pick up that book.

ENVY: Who are you jealous of ?

Any professional goalkeeper. You’re probably thin, tall, on a shedload of money and you get to jump about for a living. The dream.

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

Probably when I broke a Guinness World Record by eating in the most amount of Pizza Huts in the UK in a week. It was weirdly only 55.

Lloyd Griffith: All Rounder is at Exeter Phoenix on 3

February. Tickets available at www.lloydgriffith.com; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Eyecatching recent Instagram pics from in and around the city #Exeter

Sports

LET THE GAMES BEGIN

Exeter will play host to the world’s first environmental-themed multisports event this summer, providing a unique Olympic and Paralympicstyle experience for young people and their families while sharing the best in sustainability in sport and beyond.

Formerly the South West Youth Games, and before that the Devon Youth Games, The Planet Earth Games is a new concept from organiser Chris Broadbent who has taken inspiration from the Special Olympics and Invictus Games.

“We believe Exeter will be the first city to stage an event of this type,” says Chris, adding that, as well as the more recognised sports such as rugby, football and hockey, there would events such as plogging (picking up litter and jogging), group cycles and tai chi to connect people with the environment.

A number of high-profile regional sporting figures have signed up as ambassadors including five-time Olympian Jo Pavey, rugby players Matt Jess, Moray Low and Julian Salvi, GB cyclist Lauren Dolan and fitness clothing and lifestyle brand Wellity Active.

Dates and venues will be announced soon. www.southwestyouthgames.org.uk

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Alan in action

Community

REAL TALK

A talk from last year’s TEDxExeter has reached a global audience.

Former lawyer Alan Crickmore, who has himself served time in prison, told last year’s conference at Exeter Northcott about how his charity Storybook Dads helps prisoners to keep in touch with their children by enabling them to record stories they can listen to at home.

Now his talk has been selected to appear on the main TED website – making it the 11th TEDxExeter talk to receive such an accolade.

Says Claire Kennedy, licensee and curator of TEDxExeter: “This is a rare honour and testament to the emotional impact of Alan’s talk and the power of Storybook Dads’ work as well as the hard work of our team in helping him to prepare in the months leading up to TEDxExeter.”

TEDxExeter will return on 5 April.

Hear Alan’s talk on www.ted.com; www.storybookdads.org.uk; www.TEDxExeter.com

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OPINION JULIE REID

Losing ctrl

The robots are taking over.

Or the kids, anyway…

I

do not feel in control of my life anymore. I go about my daily business but there is always, in the back of my mind, the concern that I don’t really know what is going on in my house.

I mean, I know the floor has been vacuumed and the washing done but beneath that, behind the scenes, in the world of technology I am being left behind.

Even if I try to catch up I am always being outdone by the other inhabitants in my house, my children. They, in fact, run the house because they know how things work better than I do. In the background they are controlling me. They may come home from school and play swing ball and eat chocolate and look childish enough but, like a digital age Nanny McPhee, the children now have the power to scare me, confuse me and ultimately manipulate me.

“At one point whenever I typed ‘Julie’ on any text or document the auto-correct changed it to ‘bum’”

It’s not just the house either, they’ve also taken over the new car. As soon as it was home from the garage my 15-year-old, Simone, went to her room with the manual (I mean, who ever actually reads manuals, right?) and locked herself away for hours.

She had the luxury of time to do this. While I was carting her younger sister to piano lessons and dance class, making dinner, tidying up etc, she was plotting to become the car’s master. Now, if I try and programme the car’s sat nav to go to the petrol station it has to check with Simone first if that would be OK. I don’t even bother to try and play a radio station of my choice, it is permanently tuned into her Billie Eilish iPhone playlist and has no plans to let me change that!

As for parents monitoring their children’s online activity, the only surveillance I could do would be heavily surveyed, and I’d be laughed at for even attempting to get the upper digital hand. At one point whenever I typed ‘Julie’ on any text or document the autocorrect changed it to ‘bum’. How did this happen? How can I stop it? Only the children know.

I bought Alexa as a kind of PA, someone who could help me compile my shopping list and tell me what the weather is going

to be like next Wednesday in Dawlish. But after just two days she disappeared, and I’m pretty sure she didn’t leave by herself.

OK, looking back, I did shout at her a lot, and told her to shut up quite often, but she seemed to like that: I mean, she always did what I said. But I’m regretting that now. When I asked Simone if she had seen her, she denied ever having known her. Yet I’m sure sometimes, late at night, I hear them talking to each other about how much the house is worth.

The slightly worrying latest development was overhearing the kids talking about an app that investigates the way you answer text messages; how long, on average, it takes you to reply, what you would reply etc. Then, after your death it automatically answers any texts you get as if you were still alive.

So in the future when you die, nobody need actually know for weeks, even months of your demise. That’s easily enough time for the kids to get the house on the market and leave for Disneyland with a suitcase full of Mr Kipling’s. ■ Julie Reid is a photographer/writer and London exile who moved to Sidmouth with her two children and rock star husband. Instagram: @londondevongirl

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the arts s n a p s h o t s o f e x e t e r ’ s c u lt u r a l l i f e

IN HIS RIGHT MIND It takes guts to be a publicly pro-Brexit Tory on the comedy circuit in 2019. But it takes genius to make your largely leftleaning audiences not only desist from throwing beer at you, but actually crease up at your jokes.

Geoff Norcott, former English teacher turned star of BBC’s The Mash Report, has both guts and genius – and is set to prove it to Exeter when he brings his Traditionalism to town on 24 January.

Anyone who caught the subversive stand-up’s recent BBC Radio 4 special, Right Leaning But Well Meaning will agree with the Radio Times’ verdict: “This is about talent, not Toryism.” Banish all thoughts of Jim Davidson or Bernard Manning – Norcott’s a different breed: incisive and topical, yet warm and teasing (in fact, one pundit has even suggested his whole shtick’s a wind-up…)

“One thing I love about the Exeter crowd,” he says, “is they always want to know how you got there. If you came M4, M5 they don’t respect you. However, if you came via the A303 you are immediately accepted as a real man.”

Geoff Norcott: Traditionalism is at Exeter Phoenix on 24 January; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk; www.geoffnorcott.com

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What’s on 11 January – 11 February

Ferris And Sylvester head for The Cavern

EXHIBITIONS Until 31 January

JOHN SLATER: DOGS & THEIR OWNERS Portraits of good boys/girls and their devoted masters/mistresses.

Bigger Picture Gallery, 100 High Street, Crediton; www.biggerpicture.gallery

Until 3 February

Hepworth, Gillian Ayres, Exeter’s Olive Wharry, illustrator Kate Greenaway and leading horse painter Lucy Kemp-Welch, whose In Sight – Lord Dundonald’s Dash on Ladysmith is on public display for the first time in decades.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm

12 January-9 February

JAMIE FITZPATRICK: BIG DICK Solo exhibition loosely inspired

by Moby Dick and blending sound, video, automation and sculpture.

Artist talk, 19 Jan, 2.30pm (free but booking advised).

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

SOUTH WEST ACADEMY EXHIBITION Alan Cotton and Ray Balkwill are among the local members of the South West Academy of Fine & Applied Arts on show here.

Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell Street, Honiton; www.thelmahulbert.com

Until 19 May

19 January-17 March

EXETER’S FINE ART COLLECTION: WOMEN ARTISTS Works from the 1770s to 2011 including some by Barbara

CRIMINAL ORNAMENTATION Contemporary art focussed on patterns, selected by Yinka Shonibare, from the Arts Council Collection, one of the most

18 I exeter living I www.mediaclash.co.uk

important collections of British modern and contemporary art in the world. Look out for works by Alexander McQueen, Bridget Riley, Susan Derges, Bedwyr Williams and Timorous Beasties.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm

Theatre, Comedy & Dance 12 January

BEYOND THE BARRICADE: 20TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR Leading performers from past Les Miserables perform over two hours of the best music from Broadway and the West End. Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

14-17 January

BONNIE AND CLYDE The story of real-life fugitives

Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, retold by Shotgun Theatre, the University of Exeter’s awardwinning musical theatre society.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street,Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

16-26 January

LORD OF THE FLIES Exeter University Theatre Company presents a contemporary take on William Golding’s dark parable about humanity’s darkest impulses.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

19-20 January

LAMINATED Lucy Bell/Documental Theatre’s new comedy about a couple raising a child with profound learning difficulties.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

what’s on 23-26 January

OKLAHOMA! University of Exeter Footlights present Rodgers & Hammerstein’s evergreen musical about rival farmers and cowboys in turn of the century Oklahoma Territory.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

27 January

THE STORY OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM Dazzling live show combining onstage demonstrations, storytelling and images to tell the tale of how our planetary neighbourhood came into existence.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

30 January-2 February

above: Opet by Milena Dragicevic features in Criminal Ornamentation at RAMM; left: Wanna dance with somebody? Whitney – Queen Of The Night; below: Ruts DC hit town

THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD Gilbert and Sullivan’s dark, Tower of London-based comedy, presented by Exeter University’s G&S Society.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

3 February

music & opera 18 January

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: UNMISTAKABLE VOICES Shostakovich’s First Symphony and Beethoven’s Violin Concerto, with Augustin Hadelich on violin.

Kirill Karabits conducts.

The Great Hall, University of Exeter, Streatham Drive, Exeter; www.bsolive.com

20 January

FROM THE JAM See page 22.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

21 January

THE 1975 Chart-bothering Manchester rock band behind hits such as Chocolate and The Sound hit town as part of a 10-date arena tour of UK and Ireland.

Westpoint Centre, Devon Showground, Clyst St Mary; www.westpointexeter.co.uk

LLOYD GRIFFITH: ALL ROUNDER The comedian, choirboy and cohost of Soccer AM brings his new new stand-up show to town. See also page 12.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

25 January

8 February

SOUND OF THE SIRENS Local folk-rock duo who’ve announced the release of their hotly anticipated new album, This Time, on 25 January.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

JIM CAUSLEY Spend an evening with local trad folk legend and BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards nominee Jim. St Paul’s Church, Starcross; www.jimcausley.co.uk

26 January

COMEDY AT THE PARK The first Sandy Park comedy night of 2019. Acts tbc.

Sandy Park, Exeter; www.sandypark.co.uk

6-9 February

MILES JUPP: THE LIFE I LEAD The comic actor shares the extrardinary life story of English actor David Tomlinson, best known as Mr Banks in Disney’s Mary Poppins.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

10 February

WHITNEY – QUEEN OF THE NIGHT Barnstorming tribute to one of the greatest singers of all time – Shanice Smith and her lungs give great I Will Always Love You. Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

26 January

THE STORY OF GUITAR HEROES From Chuck Berry to Brian May, guitar virtuoso Phil Walker pays tribute to the world’s greatest axe-wielders, with a little help from video footage, cutting edge lighting and humour.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

2 February

SOUND & MIND SESSIONS: VELVET & STONE Rising local alt-folk stars V&S perform for Pik Rawlings’ and Pete Falloon’s new, mental health awareness-raising venture.

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WHAT’S ON Support from Georgia Omarah and Ben MorganBrown. See also page 74.

St John In The Wilderness, St Johns Road, Exmouth; Facebook: @soundmindsessions

OTHER EVENTS 12 January

FERRIS AND SYLVESTER First UK headline tour for the hip, London-based folk and blues duo.

Exeter Cavern, 83-84 Queen St, Exeter; www.exetercavern.com

RE-IMAGINED JOURNEYS: DIGITAL ANIMATION WORKSHOP Join artist Monica Shanta Brown for an afternoon learning how to create stop-motion animations inspired

by RAMM artifacts. Book ahead, bring a smartphone or tablet, and download the free Giphy Cam app.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm

11 February

13-16 January

9 February

RUTS DC Members of the seminal reggae-punk band The Ruts, of Babylon’s Burning, Staring At The Rude Boys and Jah War fame.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

GIVING & LIVING The South West’s largest gift and home trade show. Aimed at independent retailers and anyone who fancies becoming one.

Westpoint Centre, Devon Showground, Clyst St Mary; www.westpointexeter.co.uk

LIBRARY LIFE

EMILY MACAULAY shares the latest from Exeter Library Every year is a big year for books in libraries (though don’t forget we are more than books too!) and here I look forward to some 2019 publications.

Margaret Atwood’s sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale is due for publication in September. Titled The Testaments and set 15 years after The Handmaid’s Tale which sold over eight million copies in English, this new novel looks at the inner workings of Gilead and is sure to be a hit.

If you can’t wait until September, then Matt Haig’s hotly anticipated follow-up to Reasons To Stay Alive will be

published in January. Notes On A Nervous Planet considers the impact of social media, sleep, work and the pressures many of us feel in day to day life. In this book, Matt will share the lessons he learned finding happiness.

And finally, another book I’ll be getting my hands on as soon as possible (published in February 2019) is About The Burqa by Mariam Khan. This is Mariam’s debut book and is a collection of essays by 17 Muslim women. It promises to be a fascinating and candid insight into voices that are often unheard in the British mainstream media, and tackles different issues including identity, religion and relationships. I look forward to it teaching me things I didn’t know.

After all, that’s the power of books. www.librariesunlimited. org.uk

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16 January

MONTY HALLS: MY FAMILY AND THE GALAPAGOS AND THE FREEDOM TRAILS Marine biologist, travel writer, ex-Royal Marines officer and Devon chap Monty talks about how the migration of animals and humans around the world has shaped cultures and civilisations.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm

17 January

WHIMPLE WASSAIL Traditional wassail ceremony taking in apple trees (and pubs) around the East Devon village. So famous it has its own Wikipedia page. Starts 6pm at The New Fountain Inn. Whimple; www.whimple.org

20 January

HANS REY: RIDING LIFE Hitch a ride with the superstar mountain biker – he’s a former World Champion, pioneer of Freeride, and Mountain Bike Hall of Famer – on an inspiring

journey through his 30 year career.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

24 January

EXETER CHIEFS QUESTION OF SPORT Chiefs players Alex Cuthbert and Sam Simmonds, Exeter City FC’s Jake Taylor and Pierce Sweeney, Somerset County Cricket’s James Hildreth and Olympic swimming champion Liam Tancock show off their sporting knowledge.

Sandy Park, Exeter; www.sandypark.co.uk

26 January

ANIMALS IN ACTION DIGITAL ANIMATION WORKSHOP Create your own animal gif with artist Cara Roxanne. You’ll need a wifi-enabled smartphone or tablet and the ImgPlay and YouDoodle apps. Ages 8-12.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm ■

WE’RE JAMMIN’ Bruce Foxton, bassist of The Jam talks about the legacy of the band and what the future holds, ahead of From The Jam’s All Mod Cons 40th Anniversary Tour at Exeter Phoenix Words by Roxanne Duris

F

orty years ago – in RAC Studios, Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler of The Jam were recording their third album, All Mod Cons, which would go on to reach number six in the UK album charts. The album would push The Jam into the forefront of the British musical landscape with hits like Down In The Tube Station At Midnight, David Watts and A Bomb In Wardour Street.

Forty years on, I sit down with Bruce Foxton to talk about what he remembers from recording the album, as he sets off to perform the album live with From The Jam. “It doesn’t feel like 40 years and it doesn’t sound like 40 years,” says Bruce. Yesterday was the first rehearsal with leadsinger and guitarist Russell Hastings.

“The songs yesterday in the rehearsal room sounded really fresh. We’ll be playing the album in its entirety, but like Eric Morecambe, not necessarily in the right order. There’ll be all the hits in there too, that’s what got us to where we are today.”

It’s refreshing to see an artist so at ease with their back catalogue of hits. Some acts shy away from them and others rely on them too much – but From The Jam have struck the perfect balance of honouring the legacy and emotion of the songs, with all songs still being played with as much passion, energy and excitement as when they were debuted.

All Mod Cons came at an important time for The Jam. After middling reviews for their sophomore record This Is The Modern World “it was a make or break album for The Jam” as Bruce puts it.

22 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“We just had a really good feeling about it – we just went in the studio to record a great album and I think we came out with it.

“What keeps me and Russell going is we just love it. We love playing those songs and there is an audience for it. As long as there is an audience I’d like to think we’ll keep on doing it.”

The last I saw From The Jam was at Rewind Festival, where they played a blinding set of hits that left the crowd roaring with applause.

“It was great! We’ve done a lot more festivals now so we’re much more comfortable with playing to an audience where not everyone is there to see From The Jam. I remember in 1978, we played at Reading festival and we just didn’t know how to deal with it in those days.

The audience was vast and we were used to playing intimate little club shows so it was quite a transition to make between a club date and a festival date and we didn’t handle it very well. But 40 years down the line I’ve kind of got it now,” Bruce laughs with a wry smile.

It’s not just in the UK that From The Jam are finding favour, with shows across the globe in Hong Kong, US, Japan and Australia already ticked off the list. “We’re off to France too for a show, so we’re spreading our wings a little bit!”

With their biggest tour to date ahead of them, it’s a testament to Bruce and Russell for making From The Jam a band not being pulled along by their hits, but pulling those hits into new and ever expanding global audiences.

From The Jam’s All Mod Cons 40th Anniversary Tour reaches Exeter Phoenix on 20 January. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Modcast: Bruce Foxton (right) with Russell Hastings

ONE TO ONE

“It doesn’t feel like 40 years and it doesn’t sound like 40 years”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 23

history

They’re so rude

Exeter’s TOP 25 landmark moments William The Conqueror had his work cut out

From the Romans to Coldplay, and everything in between, YASMIN BRADDELL takes a whistle-stop tour through the centuries, pinpointing some of Exeter’s most defining events www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 25

Goool!: The day Exeter played Brazil

50 AD

The Romans arrive! They set up a wooden fort on a hill near the River Exe, and name the resulting town Isca Dumnoniorum, after the native Dumnonii tribe who, it’s believed, pushed back against any further ‘Romanisation’ of the South West.

Thus began... Exeter’s tendency to be gloriously unbothered by trends in the rest of the country.

1050

The founding of Exeter Cathedral – officially The Cathedral of St Peter in Exeter – on the site of a former Roman army camp. It doesn’t look like it does now until about 1400. Over the years, the cathedral is added to, rebuilt, and restored, with its grounds welcoming both tourists and locals all year round.

Thus began... Exeter’s number one landmark, and a thousand years of city centre sunbathing.

1068

Exeter refuses to surrender to William the Conqueror’s forces – citizens line the city walls, pull moonies at the invading Frenchman and make other insolent gestures. It takes William 18 days to overcome them, and he is then forced to swear to be kind. He sets about building Rougemont Castle upon the original site of Exeter Castle which, over the following years, falls in, and out, of the hands of several kings, including Henry III, Edward I, and Richard III. It is now privately owned, but remains open to the public as a centre of art, music, food and drink.

Thus began... Exeter’s reputation for being an island of resistance.

1743

1 January: In keeping with national medical advances, the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital is founded. The 30-bed facility is manned by six physicians and five surgeons. Safe to say, the hospital has grown with the city; the trust now has about 8,000 staff, 12 community hospitals, a large teaching hospital, and provides community services to a core

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population of 450,000.

Thus began... Exeter people’s annoying tendency to healthiness.

1844

1 May: Exeter St David’s Station opens, and narrowly avoids being named ‘Red Cow.’ The south of the city is now connected to London, bringing opportunities for travel, leisure, and business. Over 170 years later, commuters are still heavily reliant on the station… just a shame that adverse weather still tends to interfere with the line!

Thus began... the endless clatter of suitcase wheels up and down the steep, scruffy St Clements Lane (it’s getting a makeover in early 2019).

1873

26 October: The first Exeter Rugby match takes place. Renamed Exeter Chiefs in 1999, the club has played a fundamental role in the careers of many well-known players. Of course, local supporters continue to back the team all the way, come rain or shine. (See also the year 2017) Thus began... The best rugby club in the South West world.

1887

5 September: 150+ people perish in the Theatre Royal fire, when some curtains catch fire during a performance of romantic comedy Romany Rye. It’s the worst theatre fire in British history, and prompts Parliament to introduce stringent safety regulations in theatres across the UK. Thus began... Exeter’s ability to turn disaster into something positive.

1901

Exeter City FC is born! Initially called St Sidwell’s United and soon nicknamed The ‘Grecians’, it made St James’ Park its home ground in 1903, and become Exeter City Association FC in 1904. By 1910, the team colours would change from green and white to the red and white we cheer today.

Thus began... a century of bragging about being the first English

history club to play Brazil (in 1914) and have Michael Jackson (yes, that one) as an honorary director.

1905

6 September: The statue of 19th century British army officer General Redvers Buller of Crediton,

by Adrian Jones, is unveiled at the junction of New North Road and Hele Road. Said to weigh 4½ tons, it depicts Buller astride his favourite horse, Biffen.

The bronze statue still stands today.

Thus began... an exciting new purpose for the city’s traffic cones.

“Of course it causes havoc on the trains and buses but Exeter goes bananas”

1922

The University College of the South West of England is established; the annual tuition fee is between £20 and £30. It will later become the University of Exeter, ranking as a world-class university. Today, the institution funds and fulfils research all over the world.

Thus began... Exeter’s rep as a centre of academic excellence.

The 2015 Rugby World Cup was ’ere

1933

1 July: Exeter Central Station opens, replacing Queens Street Station, which had suffered severe damage in a fire.

The station is instrumental to war efforts, both transporting soldiers to Salisbury Plain for training before they are sent to the front line, and returning wounded soldiers to Exeter’s military hospitals.

Thus began... Millions of baffled visitors saying, “So, hang on, Exeter Central isn’t the main station?”

1938

30 July: Sir Kingsley Wood, the Air Minister, opens Exeter Airport.

Having flown in and out of a ‘tented’ terminal for the previous year, those using the airport were just grateful for the single terminal building

(even if the runway was a maximum length of 870 yards). Expansion plans are currently in discussion, as demand continues to grow.

Thus began... Exeter’s easy access to foreign climes.

1942

4 May: The darkest day of the Exeter Blitz. Shortly after 1.30am, 10,000 incendiaries and 75 tons of highly explosive bombs are dropped on the city in a Nazi bid to target British cathedral cities. 163 people lose their lives, with a further 560 people injured; Sidwell Street, Paris Street, and the railway lines at St David’s see the most damage.

Thus began... A Blitz spirit that still resurfaces when needed.

1961

Granted, it isn’t every day that a house is jacked up and rolled along the street to its new location, so it’s no wonder The House That Moved, and it’s moving, was of local, and national, interest. Encased in timbers said to have cost more than the house, 16 Edmund Street relocates to West Street, where it still stands – attracting tourists, and holding strong memories for those who remember this very special moving day.

Thus began... Exeter’s belief that literally anything is possible if you give it some welly.

1963 - 64

The House That Moved – it was on the telly and everything!

The Beatles play three gigs at the ABC Cinema, at the height of their fame – one in 1964 sees the Fab Four perform two sets, for which they are paid £850.

Afterwards, they take their chauffeur, Alf Bicknell, for a night out in Exeter to celebrate his 36th birthday.

Thus began... Exeter being the place to perform – and as soon as we get a decent-sized live music venue, we’re sure that Foo Fighters and Rihanna will recognise that…

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 27

history right: Princesshay: #shoppingmallgoals

below left: Exeter Quay stars in BBC’s

The Onedin Line

1967

Exeter Northcott Theatre, today the city’s flagship theatre, opens with a production of The Merchant of Venice.

The Northcott remains a central part of Exeter’s arts and cultural world, creating its own attention-grabbing productions as well as receiving top shows from the West End around the country. Theatrical luminaries including Robert Lindsay, Geraldine James, Celia Imrie, Imelda Staunton and Nicholas Hytner get early breaks here.

Thus began... A sense that Exeter’s cultural life was its lifeblood.

1971

Exeter is chosen as the key location for BBC drama series The Onedin Line. The well-loved series depicts a ship’s master trading from the Port of Liverpool, the latter portrayed very convincingly by Exeter Quay. Whilst it might not be the set of any current period dramas, the Quay remains one of Exeter’s most visually dramatic locations.

Thus began... Droves of tourists hoping for a glimpse of leading man Peter Gilmore, sort of the Aidan Poldark Turner of his time.

1974

8 September: Monty Python’s Flying Circus comes to Exeter to film its last series. Cleese, Gilliam, Idle, Palin, Chapman, Jones and crew film in St Thomas, at Bicton College and in Southernhay West, to name but a few locations. Check it all out in the Up Your Pavement sketch on YouTube.

Thus began... the city’s Monty Python fans always looking out for bottles of champagne in Cowick Street litter bins…

1977

2 March: The one, the only, Chris Martin is born in the village of Whitestone, four miles west of Exeter. His musical talents develop at Exeter Cathedral Prep School where he forms his first band, The Rocking Honkies. Today, he is the lead singer of one of the UK’s most successful musical exports, Coldplay. And even if you’re not a fan you still went a bit funny when they did Fix You at Powderham Castle…

Thus began... 18 years of literally everyone in Exeter’s nan knowing Chris’s nan.

1996

The first internet café in the South West opens at Central Station; Exeter goes online.

Thus began... Exeter’s evolution into a nationally renowned hub for technology and innovation.

2003

The Met Office moves from Bracknell to its huge, new, glass-andsteel £80million home at Exeter. The oldest national meteorological service in the world, every day it gathers 215bn data observations from its 4,500 observational sources – located everywhere from the outer reaches of space to the depths of the ocean – and cleverly converts it into four million individual forecast products for clients who include the media, government agencies, aviation and more.

Thus began... The taking of a trillion moody photos of the city’s most spaceship-esque piece of architecture.

2007

Princesshay re-opens following a £230million regeneration, Exeter’s biggest ever. Promising improved views of the Cathedral, and keen to make the most of the Devon air, the development avoids conventional shopping mall aesthetic, instead creating a stunning, multi-awardwinning destination that’s been fundamental in putting Exeter on the

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map for shoppers, evening entertainment, and business alike.

Thus began... the end of the usual Saturday shoppers’ exodus to P**mouth – hooray!

“Hello, Kenton!”

2015

Exeter’s Sandy Park is one of 13 UK locations hosting the Rugby World Cup. Three matches are played in the city, attracting supporters and visitors from across the world, and the Tonga, Georgia and Romania teams all stay here. Of course, it causes havoc on the trains and buses but, nevertheless, the city goes bananas.

Thus began... Humans as far flung as the tiniest inhabited island in Tonga knowing what Exeter is.

2016

28 and 29 May: Lightening a really heavy year, Exeter’s beauteous Powderham Castle plays the perfect host to the annual BBC Radio One Big Weekend. Chris Martin brings Coldplay home, the sun shines all weekend, and Exeter has a truly magical weekend during which, for pop fans, there is arguably nowhere more ‘now’ on the entire planet.

Thus began... An exciting new chapter in Exeter’s live entertainment scene; Powderham’s been packing in the big hitters every summer since.

2017

27 May: Exeter Chiefs win the Rugby Premiership – underlining their position as a major rugby force to be reckoned with. Even England head coach Eddie Jones seems to be cottoning on…

Thus began... Every rugby fan in the country not really minding that much actually when Exeter Chiefs thrash their own team – because they’re just so hard-working/humble/deserving/nice/brilliant.

2019

What do you reckon? Cathedral and Exeter St David’s to swap places?

Rob Baxter to become PM? Exeter to declare itself an independent people’s republic? If it happens, Exeter Living will be on it…

“Thus began 18 years of everyone in Exeter’s nan knowing Chris’s nan” www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 29

Elizabeth Ann of Exeter

SALE NOW ON

Smart, casual and occasion shoes. Large selection of HB loafers. Lisa Kay, Cefalu, Caprice, Van Dal. Hand made Spanish boots by Brenda Zaro and Italian boots by La Ross, Franco Russo and much much more.

Sizes 2 (35) to 8 (41) available and various fittings

3 Cathedral Close, Exeter EX1 1EZ Telephone: 01392 252876 www.elizabethannshoes.co.uk

shopping live well, buy better

GROSSE POINT BLANKET No, this isn’t a teeny-tiny pixie caught in one of your Granny’s knitted squares. It’s a life-size adult grabbing some me-time under a super-chunky throw by Topsham-based Lauren Aston.

Hand knitted on comically giant needles using soft merino wool, it’s the sort of no-holds-barred woolly gorgeousness that’s made Lauren a big hit on Not On The High Street, and Instagram, where she’s got over 50,000 followers.

As all seasoned loungers know, you can’t be stingy when it comes to snuggling. You go all out or you don’t bother. We’re talking decent (and clean) PJs, quality, high-calorie snacks, a stack of glossy magazines and this blankie – on the sofa or bed, your shout.

Would you like us to call in sick for you now, or in the morning?

‘Digby’ throw, from £100; www.laurenastondesigns.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 31

‘SALLY’ LEATHER PENNY LOAFER, £55 For all those springtime yachting trips you’re planning/ fantasising about (and definitely not to be placed anywhere near dirty slush) Chatham UK; www.chatham.co.uk

WHITER SHADE OF PALE

Knee-deep in winter, we’re inspired by snow, hot milk, polar bears and the moon...

POODLE POSE BY IAN MASON, £495 (ORIGINAL INK PAINTING, FRAMED) If pale pooches are your thing, Ian has depicted plenty, and they’re all as fabulous as this Lantic Gallery, 38 Gold Street, Tiverton; www.lanticgallery.co.uk

ENAMEL CAT KEYRING, £4.95 Let Puss-in-Shades take care of your keys Hyde & Seek, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk

TRICERATOPS EGGCUP, £7.95 Smash the back of this fearsome fella? Don’t think we will, thanks...

Hyde & Seek, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk

HONEY & THYME SOAP, £5 One of those you’ll want to exhibit on the bathroom shelf rather than actually use...

No Guts No Glory, 125 Fore Street, Exeter; www.ngngdesign.com

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ED’S CHOICE

FOSCARINI ‘BIRDIE’ SMALL TABLE LAMP, £228 (SALE PRICE UNTIL 27 JAN, THEN £254 ) This cute, contemporary illuminator is just waiting for a feathered friend to perch upon it Amos Lighting, Bridford Rd, Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, Exeter & Dart Business Park, Topsham; www.amoslighting.co.uk

WHITE BY KENYA HARA (LARS MUELLER), £20 *Strokes chin* What is the essence of white? Supercool Japanese graphic designer and curator Kenya knows...

Crediton Community Bookshop, 100 High Street, Crediton; www.creditoncommunitybookshop.co.uk

RARE PEAR ‘ESME’ BAG IN ICE WHITE, £100 You might want to pack some wet wipes in here for on-the-spot splodge-removal...

Rare Pear, Topsham; www.rarepear.co.uk

AVEDA ‘SHAMPURE’ SHAMPOO, £15.50, AND CONDITIONER £17.50 (BOTH 250ML) 25 pure flower and plant essences are crammed into this pure-as-the-driven-snow hair fodder Amanda Marsden, 75 Queen Street, Exeter; www.amandamarsden.co.uk

CHUNKY MERINO SCARF, £75 Cosiest. Scarf. Ever. And handmade in Topsham!

See also page 31 Lauren Aston Designs; www.laurenastondesigns.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 33

advertising feature

straight

Talking Hair

I

with Aimee Goodwin, top stylist at Jeff goodwin hair

f you shop at the supermarkets I do, you haven’t had too much ordinary wine over Christmas, you’ve had too much refreshingly crisp and citrus sauvignon blanc. You won’t have had any old chocolate cake, you’ll have had too much intensely rich and decadent chocolate fudge brownie!

Don’t you love the way they put the many additives in small print on the back and the multiple adjectives in bold on the front? Are you on one of those “new year, new you” diets the glossy mags are always on about this time of year, or are you really toughing it out and doing “Dry January”?

If you are, then the best way to stop the dullest month from being unbearable is to spruce up your hair colour. At Jeff Goodwin Hair, we specialise in colour, not just any old hair colour, but intensely rich, smooth, shiny, long lasting hair colour! (Yeah, we can do those adjectives too!) The only difference is, we’re also proud of our additives. We stock a

unique, British colour brand called Affinage Infiniti, it contains a patented exclusive technology called “Datem”, which opens the cuticle layer of your hair less than ordinary brands, so that the process causes minimal damage and therefore fades less and comes out richer and shinier. Richer and shinier in cold, dull January is good, all year round is even better, because your hair is the accessory you never take off!

If you’d like to start a new way of life for your hair in 2019 and achieve a style and colour that suits your face, reflects your personality and is easy to manage, just ring me to book a consultation.

I thought for a second that I might do Dry January or eat sensibly for a month, but the trouble is, whatever the month, some days only a nice glass of wine or yummy piece of cake will do the trick – even though I do have exceptionally vibrant, shiny hair! Happy New Year! n

Aimee G

For appointments with Aimee call: 01392 219855 For further info visit: www.jeffgoodwinhair.co.uk For careers: e-mail salon@jeffgoodwinhair.co.uk

BURNS-ING THE MIDNIGHT OIL

black tie Burns Night Supper in aid of Hospiscare on 24 January.

As is traditional at this celebration of the life and words of poet Robert Burns, the haggis’s entrance will be heralded by a bagpiper, before receiving its customary “Great Chieftain o’ the Puddin-race” address and taking its place alongside the neeps and tatties on diners’ plates. There’ll also be Scottish music and dancing.

“Huntsham Court is above all our home,” say Huntsham Court’s owners Chris Badham and Damian Llambias, who have transformed the once-neglected VictorianGothic country estate into an exclusive hospitality venue, “and we like nothing better than to share it with others. We can’t think of a nicer way of supporting Hospiscare in their work, which is so vital for local people.”

Full details and tickets for the event (£50 per person) are available on the Hospiscare website or by phoning 01392 688020. www.hospiscare.co.uk www.huntshamcourt.co.uk

Feel the Burns at Huntsham Court

Liam sticks his nose in

KING OF TERROIRS

Exeter boutique hotel and restaurant Southernhay House has teamed up with Devonian wine expert Liam Steevenson to curate a new wine list entitled ‘When A Friend Makes Your Wine’.

In 2004, at the age of 27, Liam became the youngest Master of Wine in the world, later working as a senior wine buyer for Waitrose – now, as Vineyard Productions, he works with vineyards from around the world to create his own artisanal fine wines, six of which join two of his favourites on the new list.

“I’ve always regarded Southernhay House as the height of elegance,” Liam says, “so I am very proud to have been invited to present this new wine list, which is very personal to me and brings together the wines I have made myself around the world.”

Adds Deborah Clark, who owns Southernhay House with her husband Tony Orchard: “The property was built at the beginning of the 19th century for a trader who worked for the East India Company and has been associated with travel and adventure ever since. We are specially excited to see Liam’s new Syrah from India on the list, which fits perfectly with the spirit of Southernhay House.” www.southernhayhouse.com

STILL IN THE GAME

Howard Davies and Angus Lugsdin of Salcombe Gin

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Salcombe Distilling Co ended 2018 by placing two more awards in its already groaning trophy cabinet – this time won for its classy design and packaging.

The creators of Salcombe Gin won ‘Best in Class’ and a ‘Master’ medal at The Design & Packaging Masters, part of the internationally renowned Global Spirits Master Awards Series, for their limited-edition gin ‘Mischief ’.

Developed with chef, restaurateur and food writer Mark Hix, ‘Mischief ’’s award-winning looks involve a white ceramic bottle, a bespoke copper stopper and distinctive presentation box. “Brands may have amazing liquid but if the packaging doesn’t entice consumers, they’re playing a losing game,” said the judges, adding that gin is “arguably a category where design is particularly important because of the glut of new players.”

Salcombe Distilling Co was founded in 2016 by former sailing instructors Angus Lugsdin and Howard Davies. www.salcombegin.com

© Hamilton Br anding

The glorious Huntsham Court, near Tiverton, will serve as the perfect backdrop to a

food & drink news

GO WEST

New lounge cocktail bar The West Quarter has opened in the former Bike Shed Theatre on Fore Street, Exeter, following a six-week refurbishment. Opening night saw the first 100 customers receive a complimentary cocktail.

The West Quarter offers a selection of beer, rum and other spirits, with a view to serving food in early 2019, and will also offer a courier service for those who want to enjoy professionally mixed cocktails and other drinks from the comfort of their own home. Owned by Linda Horner, who also owns No.3 in Topsham and co-owns Crocketts Gin Bar in Exeter, The West Quarter is open Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm to 1am.

Facebook: TheWestQuarterBar

Feeling the squeeze: Quickes create their clothbound cheese

COME TO CHEDDAR, RIGHT NOW

Are you a ‘curd nerd’? If so, get yourself onto one of Newton St Cyres-based

Raise a glass at The West Quarter

cheesemaker Quicke’s’ popular Cheese Tours in 2019.

Hosted by Quicke’s brand ambassador, Stuart Dowle, the Friday morning tours will take place between April and September, and teach visitors about everything from grazing and milking to how Quicke’s create, by hand, their award-winning cheeses. You’ll also get a look around the impressive cheese stores and a tutored tasting. The tours end with lunch at Devon’s oldest working brew pub, The Beer Engine in Newton St Cyres. www.quickes.co.uk

ALE, YEAH!

The Red Lion rings the changes

The Red Lion Hotel pub in Oakford, near Tiverton has been bought by first-time pub owners, to the delight of the local community.

The highly rated free house has been closed since October 2017, and was recently listed as an official Asset of Community Value (ACV) to prevent it being converted into homes.

“We recently moved from Warwickshire to Oakford and had always intended to buy into a local business,” say new owners Richard and Bronwen Hurley. “The villagers of Oakford made us feel so welcome and were so passionate about supporting The Red Lion that we decided save the pub by buying it. We plan to reopen the pub by Easter 2019 and look forward to the continued support of the community.”

Adds Stephen Champion at Christie & Co’s Exeter office, which handled the sale: “The Red Lion Hotel was the hub of the village and its closure was a real loss for the local community. It has been widely reported in the press recently that over a quarter of pubs have been lost in the last decade, so we are delighted to see the pub sell for continued use.

“Demand for quality pubs still remains strong across the South West with buyers seeing the potential in these sometimes underutilised properties. We have no doubt Richard and Bronwen’s background will help them bring The Red Lion Hotel back to its former glory.” www.redlionoakford.co.uk

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advertising feature

Meet the Pet Expert From grooming to pet sitting to veterinary care, meet the people who can help you and your best animal friend

Emma Jameson

Pooch bathtimes 07525751202; www.poochbathtimes.co.uk How long have you been a dog groomer?

I have been in mobile dog grooming for around four years and started my training with the Pooch Mobile who were the first to offer this service to customers in Australia.

From joining at the right time, I was given the opportunity to buy the franchise earlier than normal and I have not looked back since.

With the Pooch Mobile, from training and support, I was able to learn how to groom dogs and gain a customer base.

Why should readers come to you?

I offer customers a one-to-one for their dogs in a purpose-built mobile dog grooming van which I have recently purchased from Wet Pets after seeing them at Crufts a couple of years ago. The van has luxury spa grooming facilities with a hydrobath using natural shampoos that have no nasty chemicals in them.

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I use Wild Wash products as they are suitable for a hydrobath, with an assortment of shampoos such as dry and itchy, light coats and general deodoriser. I check the ears, eyes and feet and will cut the claws if necessary. I also will let the customer know if I have any concerns over their health and whether their dog could benefit from a trip to the vets.

I travel to you, which is less stressful if your dog is nervous in the car or doesn’t like to be left in a sometimes noisy grooming salon.

What is the most important question a dog owner can ask A question from a dog owner that is particularly useful is, ‘How often should I have my dog groomed?’

advertising feature Jo Nightingale

Ed Pattison

All Paws on Deck 07490 735793; Find us on Facebook How long have you been a dog groomer?

I finished my Level 3 dog grooming qualification on 1 August this year (which took six months to complete) so have only been a few months working on my own now.

Are there any breeds of dog you prefer to work with?

I have a Yorkshire terrier which I practice on a lot, so I do have a soft spot for them! All dogs are so different and each one has their unique and funny qualities.

If you weren’t working with animals what would you be doing?

I recently left the Royal Navy due to medical discharge. I was planning on making it my full career, so if this hadn’t happened then I would still be serving. However, everything happens for a reason and I am absolutely loving my new career choice working with these gorgeous animals.

What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making?

Here are a couple... Firstly, people not introducing their puppy into the grooming environment soon enough. It can be very daunting, so the sooner they visit the more relaxed they will be when they need full grooms. Secondly, with the poodle mixed breeds being so popular, owners need to make sure they spend a little time a day brushing their dogs. I’ve seen alot of dogs in my short time of grooming where they are very matted and it can be painful for them living with it daily, as well as being uncomfortable for them to have to have the hair shaved off.

CityVets Exeter Alphington 01392 493999/ Heavitree 01392 250066 / St Thomas 01392 250000 / Whipton 01392 465553; www.cityvets.co.uk

Jo Nightingale

Ed Pattison

Jo Crocker

Exeter Pet Sitters 01392 811397; www.exeterpetsitters.co.uk What services do you offer?

Exeter Petsitters offer a range of services where we come to your house and look after your pet in its own home. Each visit is individual to your pet and their needs. We cater for every kind – from cats to snakes to dogs to chickens. Our partner company Exeter Dog Walkers also delivers our dog walks and drop ins (for puppies and elderly dogs).

What is the secret to being a great pet sitter?

The secret is to understand that you are there for the pet. We all have a love of animals, a passion for caring for them and we treat each one like they are our own.

Are there any pets that you prefer to work with?

We obviously love our regular dogs and cats but also love having new and different kinds of pets coming in.

Have you noticed any changes in pet trends over the years?

We’ve noticed that more people are using our kind of services as opposed to catterys etc... as they prefer knowing that their pet is happy and healthy at home being cared for.

Why should readers come to you?

We have a dedicated team of animal lovers all with wide ranges of experience at looking after different kinds of animals. We are a close knit team so your pets will always receive their care – even if their main sitter is unable to provide it at that time.

Why should readers come to you?

I am part of a team of experienced and dedicated vets, many with further qualifications and all of us with special interests. This gives us the ability to treat almost any illness to a very high standard.

We are an independent, family run practice providing our own 24-hour care and out of hours emergency cover ensuring the same standard of care, night and day.

Are there any animals which you are afraid of?

I’m not a massive fan of spiders but we have an exotic species and small mammal specialist who is very happy to deal with them!

Whats the secret of being a great vet?

I think this is about having a relationship built on trust and honesty from which we can then work together with owners and their pets to decide on the right treatment course for that individual animal.

What is the most important question an owner can ask?

Asking about preventative healthcare. Keeping your pet healthy with regular checks and preventative treatments ensures the best chance of a long and healthy life and why we offer a Healthcare Plan.

George ives

Running Duck Pet Services 07957831383; www.runningduckpetservices.co.uk

Jo Crocker

George Ives

How long have you been a pet sitter?

We started looking after pets and homes across the South West in 2014. The demand for our service surprised us, in fact this year we have had to block out time to take our own holidays.

What’s the secret to being a great pet sitter?

The secret to our success as pet sitters, with many repeat customers, is having fun. We take great delight in caring for pets. When we take on an assignment we have two customers. The most important are the pets we look after but we also cater to their owners’ needs. That means clear communication, keeping in touch and diligence.

Are there any pets you prefer to work with?

We love all animals great and small but typically we are assigned to look after dogs, cats, chicken, ducks and even pigs, ponies, sheep and goats. When you still yourself and observe you will see that all animals display unique character and connect with us and each other in fascinating ways. Pets are a great reminder of how to live, love and laugh.

Why should readers come to you?

We are local to Devon and aspire to a ‘slow living’ lifestyle, which means living mindfully. We aren’t tourists and our attention is spent on your home and your pets as well as supporting the local community. We spoil animals with love and like to think that we are giving the pets a holiday at home while their owners are away.

Visit our website to enter a free prize draw for readers of Exeter Living Magazine.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 39

TRAVEL 2

3 1

TRY FIVE

Check out (and into?) this quintet of Cornwall’s finest luxury hotels. Warning: they put the jam on first down there Words by Roxanne Duris

1

St Enodoc Hotel, Rock Fresh seaside chic is the best way to sum up the vibe at this boutique hotel overlooking the golden sands of the Camel estuary. Choose from 16 cheerful double rooms and four suites, many with scrumptious sea views. When you’ve exhausted the pleasures of Rock, the lovely Padstow is a 25-minute ferry ride away. www.enodoc-hotel.co.uk

2

The Headland Hotel, Newquay A Newquay landmark – yes, it’s that big redbrick Victorian pile gazing sternly across the famous Fistral Beach. Despite the slightly forbidding, Grade II-listed Victorian façade, inside you’ll find a friendly, modern luxury hotel with 95 rooms complete with Elemis toiletries and Nespresso machines, and a fancy spa. If you’re mob-handed, there are also 39 self-catering cottages available. www.headlandhotel.co.uk

3

The Alverton Hotel, Truro Want access to Cornwall’s most Poldark-y pleasures but also the conveniences and buzz of a town? This romantic, Grade II-listed former convent is for you. Think mullioned windows, ivy-covered walls and acres of wood

paneling, and a location just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of cathedral city Truro.

Go for one of the three junior suites in the newly built Courtyard section, which is set apart from the main house. www.thealverton.co.uk

4

Watergate Bay Hotel, NEWQUAY Trendy, fun, exceedingly family-friendly spot set on a huge stretch of surfing beach on the edge of Newquay. Fill your face in the four different, upscale on-site eateries – one of them is Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall. And there are superb water sports facilities on the doorstep to help you burn it all off. www.watergatebay.co.uk

4 5

5

St Ives Harbour Hotel Part of the estimable Harbour Hotels family, this colourful and stylish spot is situated just above the dreamy, painter-inspiring Porthminster Beach, and a 15-minute meander from St Ives’ famous Tate, myriad other galleries, restaurants and boutiques. Spa, excellent bistro, and so much else to love, not least the decanters of complimentary gin and sherry in every room. n www.harbourhotels.co.uk/st-ives

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 41

clockwise: Sweeping enough for you? Cantock

Sands; just add smugglers; foam party down Fistral; Lusty Glaze – like an Ibiza beach club in summer, gloriously cosy in winter

Rock and rollers

We visit the UK’s capital of surfing, now offering entertainment, elevated cuisine and a long, wave-battered coastline

By Deri Robins

42 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

great escapes

T Oh, and since you’re in the area . . .

If you’re down for a couple of days, and want to mosey around a classic Cornish fishing village (and hell, who doesn’t?) then hightail it to nearby Padstow.

Here, Rick Stein’s fishy empire holds sway. There’s his Seafood Restaurant; his Fish & Chips; his Gift Shop, and his Deli – and just as you have all those sorted in your head, you discover Rick Steins Café tucked away in Middle Street.

Thought that was confusing? Then know this: the name is disingenuous.

It may call itself a café; it may have more than a soupçon of old-school seaside charm with its scrubbed wooden tables; but the cooking is as ambitious (Asian fusion), the service as smooth, the dining as fine as you’d find at a restaurant with a far posher name.

A pair of lethally good spiced apple daiquiris preceded a bowlful of plump mussels with chilli, garlic and ginger (me) and fat, fish-heavy, potato-lite cod fishcakes (him).

Ignore perceived wisdom about sea bass being too delicate and easily overwhelmed to take strong flavours; served here, in a hot sweet chilli sauce with crunchy cashews, ours was up there as one of our best dishes of the year.

Dining à la carte here isn’t cheap, but the three-course menu at £24.95 is an absolute steal for food of this quality and refinement. It’s not exactly a secret, though; booking ahead is recommended.

o reach the Lusty Glaze restaurant, deep in a Cornish cove surrounded by 200ft high cliffs, you have three choices: go by boat; stumble down a set of 133 steps clinging to the side of the cliff, or whizz in by zip-wire.

In the realms of surreal access to restaurants, clearly we are dealing with giants here. But it appears to put nobody off. Demi Moore apparently once opted for the zip-wire route, while visiting with Ashton and the kids (what, and he still left her for Mila?).

We, however, clambered gingerly down the 133 fairylit steps on a dark November night. Even though a force five south-westerly whipped in off the Atlantic, I think we managed our descent with an acceptable degree of aplomb.

Whatever your means of arrival, you’ll be glad you made the effort. The restaurant sits – well, dominates – the cove, looking out west across the Atlantic. On a hot summer’s day, you could be at an Ibizan beach club; the stretch of sand it fronts was named the best beach in Britain by The Times last year. In winter, the surf is pounding outside, but in the restaurant the log burners are roaring away, the day’s catch is in, and dishes are being prepared – try the mussels in cream sauce. If I told you how many we had, you wouldn’t believe me.

By the way, the words ‘Lusty Glaze’ aren’t anything to do with what you might think; the only saucy thing here is the stuff you get with the aforementioned mussels. In fact, ‘Lusty Glaze’ comes from the old Cornish meaning ‘a place to view blue boats’. Which sounds fair enough, if somewhat niche.

After clambering back up the steps, you’ll be wondering where to stay. Nowhere better than nearby Lewinnick Lodge, a hotel perched with admirable bravado right on the cliff edge. Modest enough from the outside, it’s rife with luxurious

boutiquery within; picture windows frame views along the snarling coastline, the roar of the sea is a constant, and you’ll wish you’d packed your complete Penguin set of Daphne du Mauriers.

But we have to get underway. Put those binoculars down (supplied in every room) and get ready for Newquay. This is the capital of surfing UK. Fistral Beach, just west of the town, is its number one centre – dudes relax in dunes before braving the rollers, which have had 3,000 miles to pick up speed before crashing into Cornwall.

There’s a surf school, surf shop and beach bar.

The natural grandeur of Newquay’s beaches has remained unchanged since the tectonic plates first began to inch about. But the town itself is transformed. Yes, you can still get your candyfloss and your slot machines, but next door to the amusement arcade you’re just as likely to find silent disco yoga or a vegan café. Top chef Nathan Outlaw recently named Newquay’s Kahuna as his “under-theradar” choice of where to eat in Cornwall.

(Not under the radar now!) The hipsters have arrived, and co-exist alongside the surfers, the families, the dogwalkers, the ramblers, and you.

Newquay’s beaches include Cantock, whose beautiful white dunes are bound together by marram grass as tough as fisherman’s twine. The esoteric sounding Polly Joke beach is no laughing matter; the name comes from the ‘Porth Lojowek’ meaning ‘cove abounding in vegetation’. This is no idle boast — it’s bounded by National Trust land, and is a top destination for those studying marine botany.

This area of Cornwall is renowned for is surfing, but today is attracting new visitors to its destination hotels and its cliff top walks. Of course, heavy weather isn’t uncommon; but you already knew that. It just means that the changing drama of the seascapes, the cuisine and the craft beer is a huge attraction, no matter what time of the year you decide to visit.

“‘Lusty Glaze’ comes from the old Cornish meaning ‘a place to view blue boats’. Which sounds fair enough, if somewhat niche”

Travel details Lewinnick Lodge Pentire Headland, Newquay Cornwall TR7 1QD (01637) 878 117; www.lewinnicklodge.co.uk

Double rooms January/February mid-week, including breakfast, from around £110 to £155

For more: www.rickstein.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 43

ADVERTISING FEATURE FAMILY LAW

RACHEL BUCKLEY FROM THE FAMILY LAW COMPANY EXPLAINS THE BENEFITS OF SEEING A DIVORCE LAWYER When you’re separating, one of your first considerations is whether to instruct a lawyer. You may be worried about the cost, or perhaps you think it would be easier to sit down with your spouse and agree a settlement between you.

In some cases, this could work well. However, there are certain disadvantages with a DIY arrangement. For example: • In many relationships, one person is usually more knowledgeable about finances than the other. Any agreement reached without full knowledge could be unfair.

• Essentials like child maintenance, tax implications and pensions may be forgotten.

• If you don’t have the right protection, the other person could come back for more money at a later stage.

• The law is complicated; a lawyer has the experience to guide you through the legal minefield.

• You may not be thinking clearly and be vulnerable to undue pressure from your spouse, friend or family members. A lawyer will look out for you and your interests.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE A LAWYER? Your lawyer is the person you will be relying on to give you the advice you need to make the best decisions for you and your family. They should be: • Fully experienced in family law • Able to talk to you in plain English • Someone you feel comfortable with when revealing personal information • Someone who will put your children’s needs first • Affordable and upfront about costs.

Seek references and testimonials and see what other clients have said about them. Or talk to friends, relatives or professionals to find out who has a good, solid reputation in family law.

Many law firms offer a first free meeting. Use this time to: • See whether your lawyer is prepared to spend the time with you to ensure all your questions and queries are answered • Discuss possible outcomes • Ask why you should use them, what makes them different • Get a clear cost estimate • Ask questions – write these down before you attend the meeting

RACHEL BUCKLEY is a Director at specialist law firm THE FAMILY LAW COMPANY by HARTNELL CHANOT in Exeter. Call to make an appointment on 01392 457 155 or email Rachel.Buckley@thefamilylawco.com Balliol House, Southernhay Gardens Exeter EX1 1NP.

WWW.THEFAMILYLAWCO.CO.UK

If you’re confident this lawyer will act rather than react; take control instead of letting your spouses’ lawyer take control; plan ahead; care about your feelings and support you at every stage, then you’ve found the right person.

STILL UNSURE? Remember, information is power. Your lawyer can give you information about how the law will apply to your precise set of circumstances. It is very easy to listen to the advice of friends or relatives about what is likely to happen, but that advice is all too often based on conjecture or their own experience.

A lawyer will dispel the myths and give you information so that you can take control of your life.

SOCIETY

SOCIETY

SEEN! ACROSS E XE TER, ONE S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

Alice Evans and Claire Toze

Charlie Dingley and Adam Milton

Dawn Chamberlain and Ollie Christophers

The Tavern in full festive swing

MULLING IT OVER

Was there a jollier vibe anywhere this side of Lapland when Exeter Living held its winter drinks reception at The Oddfellows’ twinkly pop-up bar The Cathedral Tavern in Exeter’s Christmas market? No, there was not.

We lost count of how many clients and friends of the magazine joined the MediaClash team for mulled wine, sundry other warming libations, and canapés from Good Game. Happy new year, everyone!

Photos by Simon Tutty Continued until page 49

Christina Ridley and Chris Collins Damian Gorman and Sam Taylor

Catherine Moore and Daisy Otton Andy Cooper, Olivia Champion and Steve Michell

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 47

SOCIETY SOCIETY

Dana Mulligan and Charlotte Heaver

Matthew Baker and Jonathan Baker

Erin Cox and Suzanne Pugh

Anna Britten and Angela Robinson

Ed Price and Becca Prangnell

Emma Grant and Janet Brinton Mark and Marie Buckfield

48 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Julie Weaver and Joanne Caine

SOCIETY

SOCIETY

Sue Williams, Paula Miller and David Williams

Sophie Brookes and Paul Wiltshire Steve Williams and Pete Woodham-Kay

Sue McQueenie, Jamie Vittles, Ben Jordan and Guy Fennell Julian Harris, Maddison Turvey and Simon Murthwaite

Kirsty Hammond and John Hammond Hollie Cole and Debra Vanstone

Phil Goodwin and Stuart Crewes

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 49

SOCIETY SOCIETY

Kate and Christopher Baylis

Carol Scholes Eric Dancer and Helen Lindsay-Fynn

Brian and Sonia Meaden

CANONTEIGN CHRISTMAS Canonteign House played host to 160 guests for convivial Christmas drinks just before Christmas, to raise funds for Exeter charity St Petrock’s, which provides a ďŹ rst point of contact for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the Exeter area. Hosts Kate and Christopher Baylis, who are the current owners of the Canonteign estate, and their guests were entertained by choristers from Exeter Cathedral choir and bellringers Tor Bells.

Photos by Emma Solley

Lady Day Sarah Gilbert

50 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Tor Bells Lianne Bell, Tim Deal and Henry Wray

SOCIETY

Sophie Jeffery, Phil Stapleton, Dani Richards and Hollie Hayman

Si Paull, Dave Watts and Tom Bates

Ross Chesterfield, Kayleigh Walter, Tamara Edgar and Davin Broadbent

Matt Furnell, Hollie Hayman, James Connell, Becky Yates, Charlie Carr and Jenna Stapleton

KINGS OF THE CASTLE

Jody Kennard and Charlie Carr

Bosses, take note. Grateful senior managers at Exeter-based serviced apartment booking agency SITU rewarded staff for a fantastic 2018 – a year that included an office move, headcount increase and awards nods – with a black tie Christmas party at Bickleigh Castle. Not sure how they’ll top that if 2019 goes well…

Dan Collier and Pamela Lambden Becky Yates and Raquel Mendoza

Rachel MacLauchlan and Jenna Stapleton

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 51

advertising feature

Calling all animal lovers!

This Valentine’s Day, the RSPCA LITTLE VALLEY ANIMAL SHELTER is calling on all animal lovers to remember to include animals on their love list

F

ebruary is the month of love and it is traditionally the time of year when we let those that we care about know just how much we love them.

Animals are part of the community we share, and our lives, our homes and our environment are richer for that, yet each year, across our region we hear thousands of tales of animal neglect, abuse and homelessness. This February we are asking you to show animals your love and turn homelessness into hopefulness.

In 2018, RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter on the outskirts of Exeter was able to find homes for almost 600 animals. When one animal finds their forever home, it enables RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter the chance to care for another animal in need.

Animal adoption is your chance to offer a safe, loving and permanent home to a homeless animal and our team of staff and volunteers are

committed to helping you on your journey of discovery, to find your new companion. Visit our website to see our adoptable animals or call or drop into the shelter, during opening hours, to find out more.

If you are unable to commit to a permanent adoption you can still channel your love by registering as one of our volunteer foster care team to make a difference in the lives of animals.

Our foster care programme benefits animals by providing a temporary placement of animals who have a good chance of adoption, yet may be too young, sick, injured, under socialised or emotionally stressed to survive in the shelter environment. Instead, animals are cared for and supported in a nurturing foster home.

If you would like more information on joining any of our programs or you simply wish to show your love by donation to support the animals in our care, we would love to hear from you. n

RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter, Black Hat Lane, Bakers Hill, Exeter EX2 9TA Tel: 01392 439898 www.rspca-littlevalley.org.uk

businessinsider E XETER AND E A S T DE VON GET TO WORK

Quote of the issue

“We’re delighted and excited to be operating on a national level from a city that is a fastemerging tech hub”

Which rising Exeter company is this? Find out on page 56

The Big Number

30%

Co-working space on Exeter Quay, one of two The Generator Hub locations in the city

amount per year by which ‘flex space’ is predicted to grow across Europe over the next five years.

More on this page…

BETTER TOGETHER

‘Flex space’ takes off in Exeter and Devon

C

o-working space in Exeter now makes up around 125,000 square feet of the city’s offices market, according to research by global property consultants JLL. The newest shared work space in the city, Venaspace in Paris Street, became fully occupied within a few months of opening and joins two Regus Centres in the Senate and on Exeter Business Park, The Generator Hub in Dix’s Field and Kings Wharf and Basepoint Business Centre at Matford, and specialist shared work spaces such as Sowton

Technology Centre, the Exeter Science Park Centre, and Exeter City Futures in Broadwalk House.

Exeter City Council is also hoping to include some flexible working space in the proposed redevelopment of the city’s bus station.

The flexible office space market, or ‘flex space’, has more than doubled in size since 2014 across Europe, and is predicted to grow by up to 30% per year over the next five years, according to JLL’s new national report, Disruption or Distraction. Exeter’s co-working sector has been relatively slow

to take off compared to that in neighbouring regional cities, including Bristol, where 20% of office letting deals completed this year are expected to be flexible, co-working space. But this is now changing.

As well as being good news for the self-employed, and small and medium sized businesses seeking affordable office space, Andrew Pearce, director in global property consultants JLL’s Exeter office, says co-working space is also a key growth area for the commercial property market: “Commercial property owners in Exeter and

Devon need to be brave in their designs and investments in order to capitalise on this rapidly growing trend in terms of workspace.

“Whilst flexible, shared and open space has its practical challenges for business, it’s definitely more than a fad. The traditional offices market is playing catch up and the irony is that many younger businesses and start-ups have actually been pushed into taking flexible co-working space because conventional premises have stuck to rigid terms. If they haven’t had three years’ worth of accounts or the ability to commit to a longterm lease, then conventional office space has remained out of reach to many.

“The market has certainly woken up to that, with investors and owners becoming much more creative and flexible in their approach.”

For more: www.jll.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk mediaclash.co.uk I exeter living I 115 55

business insider

FLEET OF THE MOMENT Bus passengers will be travelling in luxury in 2019 when they catch one of Stagecoach South West’s 14 new, state-of-the-art buses.

Costing £2.5million, the new fleet is British built, single decker and boasts high-backed, e-leather seats, multiple USB charging points, environmentally-friendly, Euro 6 engines – which produce less pollution than the average family car – and start/stop technology. As with the rest of the fleet, the new buses are fitted with technology that will allow customers to use the Stagecoach mobile app to track their bus live.

The buses will serve the popular I and J routes, operating in crucial Air Quality Management Areas around the city, including Holloway Street and Topsham Road, Blackboy Road and Pinhoe Road. www.stagecoachbus.com

Come and get us! Exeter College apprentices are playing vital roles in local businesses

APPRENTICESHIPS ASSEMBLY Exeter College’s reputation as a national leader in apprenticeships was enhanced recently when the further education provider welcomed over 200 of the South West’s leading employers – as well as keynote speakers of national importance – to Sandy Park for the landmark ‘Bringing Clarity to the Future of Apprenticeships’ 2018 conference.

Speakers included Christine Ourmières-Widener, CEO of Flybe, Rob Nitsch, chief operating officer at the Institute for Apprenticeships, and David Hughes, CEO, Association of Colleges (AoC).

Says David Hughes: “It was a pleasure to speak to employers in Exeter about the power and value of apprenticeships to their businesses and the excellent services that Exeter College provides. It was

inspiring to hear from apprentices about how they are taking forward their careers and supporting other people to benefit from being an apprentice.”

With apprenticeship numbers in decline nationally, Exeter College is bucking this national trend with a record year of growth in apprenticeships.

Director of apprenticeships at Exeter College, Mike Blakeley says: “Despite the challenges that are presenting themselves on the national agenda we recognise that the employers in the South West are hugely positive about apprenticeship training. Through our work with them we see amazing and innovative employer programmes that really deserve to be celebrated on a national stage.” www.exe-coll.ac.uk

Anthony Peake (right, seated) and colleagues at Software Solved

56 I exeter living I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Race you to the back seat

HOT DATA

Leading technology firm Software Solved, based at Cranmere Court in Exeter, is set for a 40 per cent increase in its workforce, with 14 new roles being introduced across the business and ambitions to expand its range of associates.

The company – which is one of the UK’s market leaders for software, online customer portals and real-time data solutions in the ‘insurtech’ sector (technology innovations for the insurance industry) – is already working with six of the top 10 insurance companies including RSA, AXA XL, and AVIVA, and key clients including Save The Children, The National Trust and Devon County Council. It is also embarking upon a major data research project funded by the Government through Innovate UK. “Building on a very strong two years, we are now stepping up recruitment in line with our growth plans,” says Anthony Peake, Software Solved’s MD. “We’re delighted and excited to be operating on a national level from a city that is a fast-emerging tech hub.”

Adds Karime Hassan, chief executive of Exeter City Council. “Exeter has a growing reputation as a digital hub with renowned strength in data sciences. Software Solved’s ambitious expansion here is further evidence of our impressive growing digital economy.” www.softwaresolved.com

EXETER CHIEFS NEWS

JMP PHOTOGR APHY/E XETER RUGBY CLUB

MARK STEVENS brings you the latest from inside Sandy Park

Gary Fletcher, regional managing director for Gallagher

INSURING GROWTH

Devon-based commercial insurance broker Pavey Group has been acquired by insurance broker, risk management specialist and consulting firm Gallagher.

Pavey Group was established in 1971. With offices in Torquay, Exeter and Holsworthy in Devon, and Highbridge in Somerset, it has spent more than 40 years providing independent insurance advice, tailored risk solutions and a fully managed claims service to businesses across the South West and beyond in a wide range of industry sectors from construction to charitable organisations.

Gallagher – which has existing South West operations in Exeter, Barnstaple, Bristol, Gloucester and Swindon – will welcome Pavey Group and its 83-strong team into its UK-wide branch network, which serves customers from more than 50 locations. Together, Gallagher and Pavey Group will have more than 300 insurance professionals serving businesses large and small across the South West.

In April 2018, Gallagher announced a multi-year partnership with Premiership Rugby as its official title sponsor, kicking off with the 2018/19 season. www.ajg.com/uk www.paveygroup.co.uk

A force to be reckoned with – plus Don Armand and Henry Slade

Ahead of what was a busy festive period for the Exeter Chiefs, stars from the Gallagher Premiership club took time out to pay a special visit to the Bramble Children’s Unit at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital (RD&E).

Leading the way was Don Armand, who was joined by team-mates Henry Slade, Moray Low, Matt Kvesic, Ben Moon, Sam Skinner, Elvis Taione, Pete Laverick, Tom O’Flaherty, Ollie Devoto and James McRae. Loaded up with sacks full of presents and other goodies, the players took on the role of Father Christmas for the very special day, getting to meet with parents and youngsters who were potentially facing up to the prospect of remaining on the wards for Christmas and beyond.

Spending time not only delivering presents, but also sitting down and chatting with the young children and their families, the Chiefs were delighted to help bring some early festive cheer to the Bramble Unit.

The Chiefs players also took time out to visit the maternity ward, as well as Cherrybrook Ward, which is the day case chemotherapy unit at the RD&E. Don Armand says: “You have mixed emotions coming here because it’s nice to put smiles on people’s faces and try and cheer the kids up, but some

of the wards are really tough. That said, we always enjoy coming here and spending some time with the children, parents and the staff who do a fantastic job every day of the year.

“For us as players, and also as parents ourselves, it’s about giving something back to people who are suffering around Christmas time. We aim to cheer the kids up, give them a few presents and try and bring a smile to their day. It’s something that’s very important for all of us at the Chiefs.”

As well as presents bought personally by the players, youngsters on the Bramble Unit were also presented with Junior Chiefs Supporters packs, little Big Chief toys and wall planners, all of which had been purchased through the Exeter Chiefs Foundation, the club’s official charity.

Next up at Sandy Park: 13 Jan – Exeter Chiefs v Castres (Heineken Champions Cup) 23 Feb – Exeter Chiefs v Newcastle (Gallagher Premiership)

For more: www.exeterchiefs.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 57

EXETER LIVING SERVICES GUIDE PLUMBING & HEATING

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t: 01392 462014 m: 07790 866746 devon.sparks@hotmail.com www.devonsparks.co.uk

BUSINESS INTERIORS

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MD Business Interiors, 103 Grace Road West, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8PU; 01392 834980 www.mdinteriorsdevon.com

OUTDOOR LIVING

16a Fore Street, Topsham Exeter EX3 0HF 01392 877717

• Accredited, professional, experienced • Exeter, Devon and the Southwest

EXETER LIVING SERVICES GUIDE TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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advertising feature

The final tax Find out how The fry group can shave, reduce or wipe out your inheritance tax liability

S

o, you have worked hard and saved for your long-term future and along the way paid the tax man his rightful dues. Financially, you are the model citizen. When your estate is passing to loved ones there is one final tax take, all assets that are chargeable and exceed your allowances are subject to a 40% tax hit. Billions are taken in inheritance tax annually and it is almost voluntary.

So much can be done to reduce or eliminate the burden yet we often find a reluctance to act.

The typical drivers of fear and greed do not seem to have the same impact when looking at this tax.

Certainly, there is a desire to avoid it but as the beneficiaries of any tax saving are family members the individual is not motivated so much about a personal outcome. Fear of losing access to capital, the costs of making changes and the complexity involved often lead to procrastination.

This might seem harsh but with a century of experience in guiding clients in tax planning matters The Fry Group is sufficiently experienced to know not only the solutions that can help, but also how to package these to achieve the outcomes individuals need in the least painful way possible.

Starting with the simple steps of assessing your regular income needs and likely future capital needs can provide much needed clarity about your capacity to gift. Doing that gifting in small initial steps is often a means of establishing financial confidence. Perhaps then more significant savings can be made by packaging assets in such a way that ongoing income is still available to you, but over time the capital is outside your estate.

It is true that really is achievable. We have been doing this for decades and have shaved, reduced or wiped out clients’ inheritance tax liabilities, saving millions of pounds for loved ones. n

We are pleased to offer a free, no-obligation, one-hour meeting for you to discover who we are and for us to discover if we can help you – please call Ian Ellis now in Exeter on 01392 278494 or email exeter@thefrygroup.co.uk Wilfred T Fry (PFP) Limited are Chartered Financial Planners, and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Divorcing and inherited wealth

W

By Zoe Porter of ASHFORDS SOLICITORS

e are all told to plan ahead, to save tax and to gift our allowances to our children – but how are these assets treated in the unfortunate event of a divorce?

The bad news is that money or property inherited during a marriage are not automatically excluded from the assets to be divided. The court will need to take a number of factors into consideration in order to decide what should happen. The size of the inheritance received, the timing of when it was received, the length of the marriage, how the inheritance was dealt with during the marriage and the financial needs of the parties are all considerations of the court.

If the inherited assets have been 'intermingled' with the matrimonial assets – then

this can give rise to a claim that the inheritance should be treated as part of the matrimonial pot and therefore capable of sharing upon divorce between both spouses. The same would apply if an inherited asset had been transferred into the parties' joint names, or used for the benefit of the family.

Inherited assets can be treated as matrimonial assets if both parties' 'needs' (as defined under the Matrimonial Causes Act) require it to help meet the parties' capital or income requirements upon divorce. The extent of a party's needs can vary considerably, and indeed can become the subject of dispute. Needs will depend upon many factors including the length of the marriage, the provision for any children and the standard of living enjoyed by the parties during the marriage.

In terms of protection – what is clear is that

the ringfencing of inherited assets away from the matrimonial pot is more likely if it has been kept separate, and if it is not required to help meet the party's needs. ■

For more information or advice please call us on: 01392 337000, or visit www.ashfords.co.uk/expertise/family

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A PLACETO CALL HOME

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

EVERLEY

KITTY KANE roams around a delicious small estate with stunning views across Dartmoor www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I EXETER LIVING I 141 65

66 I exeter living I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY

E

mbedded in everybody’s heart is a place like Everley. It’s the backdrop to a thousand fantasies of the perfect, Devon family home, replete with roaring fires, a paddock of ponies, and roses always in bloom. You think you want a sexy warehouse conversion or an imposing Regency townhouse but actually, admit it, most of the time you’re aching for an Everley.

So, the bullet points. It’s a 37 acre estate. 19th century. Undulating Dartmoor gorgeousness stretches on all sides for your viewing pleasure. It’s basically a Jilly Cooper novel you can walk around in (wearing jodhpurs, of course).

You’ll find Everley only 16 miles from Exeter, close to the quiet and classy village of North Bovey, and within easy reach of Chagford and Moretonhampstead.

At the end of a pretty, beech-lined drive, through wrought iron electric gates, Everley presents one of the most welcoming faces we’ve seen in ages – wisteriafestooned traditional granite beneath a slate roof, it

seems entirely at one with its envirnonment.

Inside, as you’d expect, period charm abounds, with high ceilings, fine cornicing, elegant sash windows with panelled shutters, traditional-style radiators and ornate fireplaces.

Highlights include the large reception hall with parquet floor, fireplace with carved stone surround and wood burner; the family kitchen and its Aga, stone flagged floors and French doors opening to the terrace and gardens. (There’s also, obviously, a secondary kitchen because you’ll be having some big guest lists to cater for).

We also love the magnificent orangery/sitting room with its double height ceilings and exposed French oak roof timbers, and large French windows opening to the outside.

Yoga room, you ask? Of course there’s a yoga room, and it comes with a sprung, heated oak floor, air conditioning and wiring for a media unit.

Stepping outside, the courtyard to the rear of the house is impressive enough, before you even reach the divine landscaped gardens and grounds complete with paved terraces, levelled lawns and a large pond in front of the house fed via a series of waterfalls through the granite rock garden. That’s not all: be enchanted by your own ancient wood, through which natural footpaths and a ridiculously picturesque stream meander. Then there’s your pasture paddocks, and

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 67

PROPERTY

further areas of ancient, mature, natural woodland around the fringes of the property.

Located on the estate but separate from the main house is an attractive three bedroom granite cottage, which has been recently refurbished and is currently listed on Airbnb. And adjoining that is a large openplan office space with double height ceiling.

There’s also a three-car port/open-fronted garage area but cars might well be the least important means of transport when you’re master or mistress of Everley.

See, if you don’t already own a fleet of racehorses – or at the very least enjoy the company of the equestrian population – you will inevitably find yourself doing so.

Because your three and a half mill also gets you some very serious horsey stuff (technical jargon). There’s a stable block; a large, five-bay, timber-framed barn, incorporating a staff kitchen and cloak room, feed room, hay store and loft storage space; a stone-built tack room; a machinery store and workshop; fenced paddock; timber field shelter; and sand and rubber outdoor riding arena with all-weather surface.

Giddy up, folks, we can’t imagine this heavenly home staying on the market for long…

68 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

House numbers Acres

37

Square footage 9,357 sq ft Bedrooms 5 Kitchens 2 Yoga room

1

Separate 3 bedroom cottage with adjoining double height office 1 Price

£3.5million

For more: Savills, Sterling Court, 17 Dix’s Field Exeter EX1 1QA 01392 455700; savills.co.uk

PROPERTY news

Barratt Exeter sales director Sara Parker

JOLLY ROGER Exeter-based independent estate agents Wilkinson Grant & Co have been recognised as the Best Small Estate Agency in the South West at the EA Masters 2018, the biggest UK estate agency conference and awards.

The event saw around 15,000 brands and 25,000 estate and letting agency branches rigorously assessed by Property Academy and Rightmove. Wilkinson Grant & Co principal Roger Wilkinson accepted the award from TV presenter Gabby Logan at The InterContinental, London – The O2 hotel in front of over a thousand leading estate and letting agents from across the UK. Says Roger Wilkinson: “There are many industry awards, but this is by far the most challenging to achieve and most widely recognised. Judging is rigorous and exacting with detailed performance data analysis and mystery shopping. We are very proud to have been recognised as the Best Small Estate Agency in the South West.

“Thank you to our many clients and congratulations to our hard working team” www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk www.bestestateagentguide.co.uk

NEW YEAR, NEW HOME? Housebuilder Barratt Developments, which built 544 homes in the South West during 2018, has released the final phase at its Saxon Fields development, which is within walking distance of Cullompton town centre.

“Saxon Fields offers something for everyone – from young professionals and growing families to retirees and investors,” says sales director, Sara Parker. “We know buyers are keen to view our latest offering here, and our team can’t wait to show them off.

Prices start at £209,995 for the two-bedroom ‘Tiverton’ home.

The company is also showcasing the three-bedroom ‘Norbury’ and four-bedroom ‘Woodcote’ townhouses in its Minerva development on the eastern edge of Exeter, where prices start at £292,995.

“These are extraordinarily flexible homes,” says Sara Parker. “Their spacious and adaptable layouts are perfect for a whole range of living combinations.” www.barratthomes.co.uk An example of a previous Burrington development

ROCKBEARE AND ROLL

When Roger (centre) met Gabby

70 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Award-winning local developer Burrington Estates New Homes has acquired land in Rockbeare to build five luxury new properties.

The 1.62 acre site off High Bank, Rockbeare, has detailed planning permission for five dwellings, a mix of four- and five-bedroom houses, which will be known as The Grove.

Says Colin Palmer, managing director at Burrington Estates New Homes: “Whether we are launching five individual homes, like The Grove in Rockbeare, or a larger collection coming soon to Pinhoe, we give the same care and attention to detail to the build and customer service for each and every one of our new homes. Rockbeare has been specially selected by our developments team as it is a highly desirable place to live in the region, and ideally placed for these luxury five bedroom properties.”

Set to launch in early 2019, The Grove will be the latest addition to the developer’s expanding portfolio in the South West, which includes new homes at EXIII in Topsham and 120 properties set to launch in Pinhoe in early 2019. www.burringtonestates.com/rockbeare

EXETER DEVON

Price £1.900,000

A quite exceptional 4,770 sq.ft. Highly individual, luxurious, detached house of striking contemporary architectural design.

Select residential address close to Exeter University campus and just 1 mile to the city centre. Offering stylish and versatile accommodation and set in magnificent gardens of about half an acre.

For further details telephone Michael Shaw on 01392 427500 or email m.shaw@wilkinsongrant.co.uk

01392 427500 www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL LAND & DEVELOPMENT SALES ACQUISITIONS LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AUCTIONS SURVEYS PROBATE & VALUATIONS

OTTERY ST MARY DEVON

Price £695,000

A spacious detached bungalow in lovely gardens extending to 0.49 acre and a long driveway. In a favourable position in prestigious West Hill. With a study, separate dining room, kitchen/breakfast room and a utility room the living accommodation is well-catered for. There are four bedrooms and two bathrooms. An extension to the rear provides an excellent indoor/outdoor lifestyle and delightful aspect over the rear garden. Plenty of parking and space for motorhome.

For further details telephone Michael Shaw on 01392 427500 or email m.shaw@wilkinsongrant.co.uk

01392 427500 www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL LAND & DEVELOPMENT SALES ACQUISITIONS LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AUCTIONS SURVEYS PROBATE & VALUATIONS

EXETER LIVES

“I fell into a freshlydug grave in a local churchyard when I was pregnant!” for, mental health support for those working in the creative industries. Two years ago, the world’s largest known study of musicians’ mental health (‘Can Music Make You Sick?’) found that around 70% of respondents had suffered from panic attacks, high levels of anxiety or depression, and over half felt there were gaps in the provision of services for musicians.

How did you first get into the live music biz?

Pik Rawlings The busy Exeter music promoter loves a chai latte and is understandably nervous about walking past holes…

The indefatigable Pik Rawlings – mother of a mega-musical family – has been a rock, and a loud voice, for young and emerging musicians in Devon for ages now. As if that weren’t admirable enough, last September she co-launched Sound Mind Sessions, a series of acoustic gigs by local acts designed to raise money to support young musicians with mental health issues.

Whereabouts do you live, and what makes it special?

We live in Kenton, a beautiful village on the west bank of the River Exe, in a 150-yearold cottage with a view of the breathtaking medieval All Saints Church.

Is Pik your real name?

I had better maintain an air of mystery on the origin of this one, but ‘Pik’ is a bit of a ‘stage name’ as I work in my real name in my other professional life and healthcare role. The only other person I know to have shared my name is ‘Pik’ Botha, former South African Foreign Minister!

Tell us a bit about Sound Mind Sessions…

Sound Mind Sessions is a new joint venture between myself, and Exmouth-based singersongwriter Pete Falloon. They are Devon acoustic music concerts, held in beautiful settings along the Exe Estuary, designed to celebrate the South West music scene as well as to raise awareness of, and funds

74 I exeter living I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Through supporting my daughter, singer-songwriter Holly Morwenna, and her brother, composer and pianist Finn Talisker (again, they use their stage names), to get started with careers in music through supporting local events and charities. I now promote and support musicians from across the South West.

The Bike Shed used to be my fave place; now it’s gone I look for independent tea rooms and coffee shops that do a frothy chai latte, or proper tea in a proper teapot, like the Hidden Treasure Tea Room or the Glorious Art House.

If you had a time machine, which era would you return to and why?

I adored the ’70s and would go back there tomorrow – life was simple and all I wanted to do was spend time with my beloved grandparents, swim in the sea and Finnish lakes and dance to Top of The Pops!

What’s your favourite indulgence?

Who’s your celebrity crush?

If I’m out, wild mushrooms at Forest Fungi, Dawlish, mussels at The Anchor at Cockwood or, at home, a glass of bubbly in the bath!

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

Multi-tasking, of course – an article for the village newsletter, chatting to my children and promoting any festivals and gigs featuring the many artists from our #DevonMusicFamily. n

Well, it would have to be someone with chivalry, a knightly virtue. Can’t think of many gentlemen that fit the bill except the character of Ross Poldark.

I fell into a freshly-dug grave in a local churchyard when I was pregnant!

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

Making myself cry singing sad songs to myself in my cot in about 1971!

Favourite places to eat and drink in Exeter and the surrounding area?

We’d better let you get on…

What are you doing right after this?

The next Sound Mind Sessions is at St John in the Wilderness, Exmouth, on 2 February 7pm, with headliners Velvet & Stone supported by singersongwriters Ben Morgan-Brown and Georgia Omarah.

Facebook: Sound Mind Sessions