Exeter Living - Issue 245

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

EXETER AND BEYOND

ISSUE 245 / CITY SPECIAL 2019

ISSUE 245 / CITY SPECIAL 2019 / FACTORY SETTINGS

CLOCKING ON WITH THE CITY'S BUSIEST MANUFACTURERS FROM THE TERRACES

WHERE TO EAT AL FRESCO

ROOMS FOR IMPROVEMENT EXETER’S BEST DO-ER UP-ERS

OH LÀ LÀ!

C'EST AMÉLIE THE MUSICAL

PLUS SUMMER EARRINGS ENERGY HAIR FATHER’S DAY

© EMMA SOLLEY

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Made In Exeter, page 16; BELOW: Ed’s Choice, page 34

I

ndustry and manufacturing are probably not things many people would associate with Devon – or, let’s be honest, with this here glossy lifestyle magazine. But there are more factories making stuff right here in your city, and on its outskirts, than you might imagine. Not in China, or Thailand, or Singapore, but right here. And not on a dinky scale, but big, international. And not folksy bits and bobs, either – serious, complex technological products we can barely get our heads around but know are deeply important to the smooth running of this world. What’s more, Exeter’s employment market and economy would be ravaged without them. We chat to some local industrialists from page 16, and hope you enjoy a glimpse into their worlds.

We’ve also gone hunting for the nicest spots to eat and drink al fresco in Exeter, been shopping for Father’s Day and found you the dangliest, beachiest summer earrings ever. See, we haven’t gone completely serious on you...

ANNA BRITTEN Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving

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Issue 245/City Special 2019

© Emma Solley

Cover Made In Exeter illustration by Trevor Gilham

upfront

16 26

9 Spotlight Newsy nibbles to get you started 13 JP hedges On civility and sleep patterns...

15 my desk Where the Chandos Deli gaffer catches

up on emails

cover feature

16 MADE IN EXETER We hit the factory floor to

check in with Exeter’s thriving manufacturing sector

the arts

25 INTRO Rocking American bluesman Cedric

Burnside

26 WHAT’S ON A month of going out, sorted 30 FRENCH FANCY Mademoiselle Amélie Poulain is

en route to the Northcott stage...

shopping

33 intro The locally-made earrings everyone in

Chelsea is talking about

34 editor’s choice Father’s Day! Don’t worry, it’s

a tie-free zone

30

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Issue 245/City Special 2019

food & DRINK

38 TOTALLY OUT THERE The best al fresco spots in

Exeter – and a few beyond...

43 food & drink news Beer, sausages and other

edible triumphs from round here

Business

51 business insiGHTS Socially responsible lawyers,

cyber crime experts and more

54 the way i see it Should you get an apprentice?

55 Meet the winners Air Marketing Group and

Apple Blossom Café

Property

58 JUST DO IT (UP) Looking for a ‘project’? We found

38

five brilliant do-er up-ers in/near Exeter

Regulars

46 society 66 Exeter lives We grabbed that nice Nathan from

58

Energy Hair before he disappeared up a mountain!

43

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 JP Hedge, Roxanne Duris 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

Nan was doing the Running Man again...

You didn’t think he vaped, did you?

Music

WHERE’S THE KIEF? We try not get over-excited about visiting A-listers when there’s so much home-grown stuff to make us drool.

But look, it’s only Jack Bauer from 24. President Tom Kirkman off Designated Survivor. David from The Lost Boys!

He’s the ultimate international badass – and he’s going to be at Exeter Phoenix on 2 August.

Kiefer Sutherland is not just a famous actor, you see, but a highly competent country musician with a new album, Reckless And Me, to plug.

Brilliantly, Exeter Phoenix will be going all out on the Kiefermania, staging a mini festival of the star’s bestloved films in Studio 74, its independent cinema.

Code red emergency lockdown!

For more: www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Everybody’s talking about…

EXETER RESPECT FESTIVAL Exeter Respect will once again turn Belmont Park into a riot of globally-themed colour and fun on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June.

The first Exeter Respect festival took place in 1997 and has taken place virtually every year since then, attracting around 20,000 people at last count.

This year, the family-friendly festival marks 25 years since the end of apartheid in South Africa, and is dedicated to the victims of the Christchurch shooting in New Zealand.

Expect food and drink (but, as every year, no alcohol), workshops, children’s area stalls, arts and crafts,

campaigns, activities and displays from diverse cultural backgrounds.

There will be plenty of music and dance spread across the festival’s five stages, featuring everything from breakdancing to Bollywood and pop to jazz.

Headlining the Saturday are the SACT (South African Cultural Talents) Choir – who claim amongst its members some of the UK’s most talented and professional South African artists – while, on Sunday, festival veterans RSVP Bhangra top the bill. Entrance is £2 per day (under 16s go free).

For more: www.exeter-respect.org

Some of Exeter’s new gateway signs

Community

SIGNS OF THE TIMES

Twenty-four new, eyecatching gateway signs into Exeter are being installed in the city over the coming weeks.

The project, featuring the work of prominent Exeter artist Aylwyn Bowen, celebrates the successes and future ambitions of the city.

The signs are part of a three-year project that uses existing capital funds to help improve broken or out of date signage around Exeter.

The bespoke designs feature local landmarks – including Exeter Chiefs, Exeter City Football Club, The Met Office, the University of Exeter and the River Exe – and will be positioned along the route to those locations.

All the signs feature the words ‘Exeter Live Better’ – the city’s slogan, celebrating its triumphs and its goal of achieving a better quality of life for all. Eleven of the most prominent signs also boast of the city’s Fair Trade status.

Different designs by Aylwyn were recently installed across Exeter city centre as part of a project led by InExeter.

For more: www.aylwyn.co.uk

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spotlight Yes, you are allowed massive hot chocolates while training for a marathon

Fitness

KEEP ON RUNNING…

MY EXETER MARATHON DIARY University of Exeter student Tom Lambert, 20, is training for the Exeter Live Better Marathon, organised by CITY Community Trust, which takes place on 19 May – and the end is in sight…

We’re now coming towards the home straight of our marathon training, as the big day approaches!

After quite a few hard weeks back to back, I decided to give myself a full week off training. Although I don’t enjoy taking time off running now, I found it was actually surprisingly beneficial. It really gives your legs a chance to strengthen and recover from all of the impactful miles that you’ve been building. But an important factor for me is that it gets my mind back in the game. With fresh legs and a nicely recovered body, it definitely makes you feel a lot more determined to get back out running again.

The time off can also be a really great time to reflect back on the sessions you’ve done and identify what training has worked well for you.

Going into the last few weeks before a marathon, it’s a good idea to taper your training. Coaches have always told me that the aim is to reduce your mileage by about 15% per week until race week. Then, on race week it is important to keep your legs moving with some short and easy runs, but don’t expend too much energy. Then, fingers crossed, the hard work can be translated into your target marathon time.

On my playlist this month – Donald Trump by Mac Miller.

For more www.exetercitycommunitytrust.co.uk/running-events

Scott Monello (far left) and the Frankie’s Guys cast

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

Chocolate cake, as I’m currently on a health kick.

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

Surfing Instagram! Wastes far too much of my time.

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

Barbecued food. You can’t beat that burnt, chargrilled flavour.

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

Cleaning under and behind the furniture – I’m due a good spring clean!

happy and content with what I have.

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

WRATH: What/who makes you angry?

Performing alongside and working with Brian May in the We Will Rock You musical in the West End.

ENVY: Who are you jealous of ?

Frankie’s Guys: A Celebration of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons is at the Northcott Theatre, Exeter, on 15 June; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

Unfairness makes me really angry, and people who don’t treat others as their equal.

I’m honestly not jealous of anyone. I’m very

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EDWARD MOSS/BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION CHRIS TURNER - BMA

OPINION JP HEDGE

Chris Turner argues that civility is literally a lifesaver

A civil question Do snarky comments keep you awake at night? JP has the answer.

Actually, he has two…

I

turned 40 this year, and my family very kindly clubbed together to buy me a ‘special blanket’.

I realise the gift sits squarely somewhere between mid-life crisis and cry for help, but one month in and I couldn’t give two hoots. I now sleep like a baby and I’m fully prepared for a public disclosure and mocking.

It’s an absolute game-changer.

It’s a weighted/gravity blanket, roughly 10 per cent of my body weight, which is fairly hefty. Think trapping a rhino with a squashed giant bean bag and you are halfway there.

As well as practical help in aiding sleep it provides a full work out as

you make the bed. It has also made for interesting conversations as it occasionally encroaches onto my pint-sized wife in her slumber.

The reason it is weighted is to provide some subconscious comfort in between sleep cycles.

For me, magically, it stops me waking around 1.30am and processing the day gone by. Mostly that involves winning an argument.

Any argument will do. My job includes ultimately being the guardian of Exeter City Council’s reputation so, as you can imagine, I have the complete set of topics at my disposal to chew through in my mind...

Incomplete sleep isn’t all workrelated and isn’t a new thing for me.

“It tends to be the one comment on Twitter, or the one dig in a headline, that hangs around”

I remember coming downstairs at a young age, switching on a blank television screen, and waiting for the TVAM ‘egg’ to appear before the titles rolled.

History has repeated itself with my son Harry, six, who counts 5.45am as a Sunday lie-in.

I learned more about why my brain might be trying to think of the perfect retort, despite the day ending, thanks to the wonderful Chris Turner at TEDxExeter this year. Chris is a consultant in emergency medicine and founded and runs Civility Saves Lives, a campaign that aims to raise awareness of the power of civility in healthcare.

It was an amazing talk that I think has brilliant implications for any sized workplace.

Chris pointed out that being civil to people in a work environment matters. It’s not a case of being ‘nice to be nice’ – in the NHS you can show that civility saves lives. Being civil reduces stress, reduces errors, and, therefore, actually saves lives.

In my line of work, being civil increases productivity. That’s because it doesn’t matter how much you achieve in a day, or how good things are, people hold onto the bad.

I spin a lot of plates across culture, communications and tourism. In a day where I get to share in some amazing achievements of members, it tends to be the one comment on Twitter, or the one dig in a headline,

that hangs around.

Chris said that your brain has a limited capacity to deal with tasks. When colleagues are rude, it actually reduces your capacity to deal with things on that list.

It’s only when you head out of that environment that your capacity increases, and you think of the perfect comeback for that argument. It’s the same reason that some of the best ideas come to you whilst walking or in the shower.

I think understanding that is huge. It’s already changing my thinking at work. We are doing a lot about celebrating success with Exeter Live Better, but this has great applications in your day-today working. Not just being civil to people because it’s the right thing to do – but because it actually means everyone gets more done.

When the talk goes live I think it will be another idea out of Exeter that will have far-ranging impacts that we may never truly know. It will be well worth a look, when it is released, to hear from Chris himself.

And in the meantime, I highly recommend a weighted blanket, despite the mocking I might endure.

It’s totally worth it. ■ Jon-Paul Hedge is a director at Exeter City Council where he currently looks after tourism, communications and culture. He is a former newspaper editor and lives in the city with his wife and two young children. www.exeter.gov.uk

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LIGHTING

DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT LIGHTING Over recent years, lighting has been getting attention from designers and designer lovers alike.

The range of shapes, designs and effects of today’s lighting is creatively inspiring with many pieces becoming an art form within the home.

If you are looking for the perfect accent piece to cap off your favourite room then look no further. Our expertise and spectacular range of individual lighting is at your fingertips…

Visit us online at www.dusklights.co.uk

Unit 1 Lancaster Court, Exeter Airport Business Park, Clyst Honiton, EX5 2DP 01392 363200 | sales@dusklighting.com

PEOPLE

Nicaraguan La Bastilla ‘Cup of Excellence’ coffee. I think it’s quite easy to get nerdy about coffee and lose sight of what the people drinking it really care about. On paper we have probably one of the best coffees in Exeter, but coffee is such a personal thing and I don’t see any benefit to obsessing over it

MY DESK

‘Gordal’ olives from Spain.

We’re quite famous for our olives. We can get through one of these three kilo jars in a day sometimes

© MAT T ROUND

Incredible Butter Bike Co peanut butter made here in Exeter. It’s all handmade small batch stuff in different fantastic flavours which are perfect for both sweet and savoury dishes. I’ve tried to build an eclectic array of products in the shop

RUSSELL COURTNEY

T

© MAT T ROUND

I’m notoriously forgetful and, unfortunately, if something isn’t written down it won’t happen. Pen of choice has to be a uniball ‘Eye’

Exeter Gin. It’s the only gin we stock and it’s a bestseller – the local products always are. Around Christmas, we must have sold over a hundred of the miniature bottles This iPad is one of the most vital parts of the business.

It serves as a till, a tool for processing invoices, placing orders, stock counts, research and recipes. It’s almost as important as our coffee machine!

his is no ordinary desk. It is a shapeshifting, multitasking flat surface with legs. Look, it’s not actually a desk at all, OK? It’s a food prep table upon which everything from billionaire shortbread to scotch eggs are crafted – but it becomes a desk-like object whenever hardworking Chandos Deli general manager Russell needs some quality time with his laptop.

“I’ll try and catch up on admin whenever I get a quiet minute, perching here with a big mug of green tea and a stack of invoices,” says Russell, whose working day begins at 8am when he drags the outdoor furniture outside and starts churning out the flat whites for the nine-to-five brigade.

Maybe you’re one of them. In which case, you’ll agree with us: Russell, you deserve your own corner office. ■ For more: www.chandosdeli.com

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industrial exeter

MADE IN EXETER One started in a chicken shed.

Another wrapped Concorde. Exeter’s factories are thriving – here, we salute the city industries that are proud to be manufacturing their products right here, right now Words by Anna Britten Photos by Emma Solley

Y

ou didn’t think we were only about the

restaurants, shops and parties in this magazine, did you? Oh no. There are many aspects of Exeter that make us proud to be a part of it, and one of them is its manufacturers. Whether it’s circuit breakers or books, aerospace technology or sliding doors, we wanted to show our admiration and respect for the Exeter companies that operate local factories, trading on an often international scale, and providing valuable employment and economic benefit to the city in the process.

They’re part of a bigger national picture – in 2018, the UK manufacturing sector accounted for 10% of total UK economic output and accounted for 8% of jobs.

When you think of the UK’s greatest manufacturing hubs you might not think of Devon. But the combination of the creative and can-do nature of Devon folk, a highly skilled workforce and strong regional heritage in certain sectors, such as aerospace, the local industrial scene is chuffing along very nicely. Yes, despite Brexit uncertainty. We chatted to a handful of local industrialists about what they do – and why Exeter is the only place they want to do it.

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Gary Squires on the factory floor at Rotamic

ROTAMIC

Gary Squires, MD What do you manufacture?

Bespoke precision components for the aerospace, defence, F1 and medical markets using the latest CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery, tooling, software and metrology equipment.

When was the company founded, and how has it grown?

The company was founded in 1976 in an old chicken shed in Crediton. In 2015 we relocated to a purpose-built, 3000m² facility on Sowton Industrial Estate which gave us the floor space and facilities to continue growing and break into new markets.

How many people work at Rotamic in Exeter?

We employee 43 people from, and including, eight apprentices through to skilled engineers.

Do you export and, if so, where?

We export to France, Sri Lanka and southern Ireland.

Why are you based here and not somewhere cheaper like Thailand or India?

We were founded here in the UK and firmly believe that the UK is the best-cost country. The UK has a long heritage of being innovative and providing quality product at competitive prices.

Has Brexit uncertainty led to stockpiling and/or investment issues?

Quite simply no. Over 90% of our work comes from the aerospace and defence industry and as yet we at Rotamic have not seen any impact of Brexit related to the work we do for these industries.

Are you facing any other challenges at the moment?

There is a shortage in our part of the country of highly skilled precision engineers. That is why we are keen to encourage the right people to get into the engineering industry. An example of which is being great advocates for the apprenticeship programmes. We currently have eight apprentices with two more joining us this year.

“The low hum of machines can be heard throughout the shop floor – only interrupted occasionally by the sound of seagulls returning to their nests on nearby rooftops”

What are the sounds and smells of your factory?

Being only four years old, Rotamic still has that new redolence coupled with classic engineering smells of coolant and various metals. The low hum of machines can be heard throughout the shop floor – only interrupted occasionally by the sound of seagulls returning to their nests on nearby rooftops!

Tell us a secret about life at Rotamic…

One of the special things about working for Rotamic is that we are a non-hierarchical organisation where the most junior people in our team are encouraged to voice their opinions, ask questions and suggest solutions. Everyone is expected to actively contribute to our overall success. www.rotamic.co.uk

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industrial exeter SHORT RUN PRESS Mark Couch, director

What do you manufacture?

Short Run Press is a specialist litho and digital printer that produces high quality paperback and hardback books to a wide range of customers from all over the UK. When was the company founded, and how has it grown?

Established in 1981, Short Run Press is widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading book printers and binders. Owned by the Gliddon and Couch families, we have built a reputation for quality printing and binding and for excellence in service. We grew steadily until the economic downturn in 2008 – like most UK manufacturers we had to dig in. We continued to invest, and recent years have seen significant increases in turnover and, more importantly, a return to profitability.

How many people work at Short Run Press?

We have a highly trained work force of 38 people who take great pride in our craft. We are always looking to add to our team whether that’s a seasoned professional or someone looking to do an apprenticeship in the world of printing and binding.

Do you trade with the rest of the world and, if so, where?

Our customers include global publishers, learned societies, small presses and numerous individual authors. These customers come from all over the UK with a handful from Europe and further afield.

The books we produce are sent all over the world, which always fascinates the publishers and authors.

Why have a factory here and not somewhere cheaper like Thailand or India?

The skills required to print and bind take many years to perfect, technology is always helping our skilled operators but ultimately

we have great value in the vast experience that our workforce possesses. When we started in 1981, Sowton was a small industrial estate. Things have changed massively in this time but the accessibility to suppliers and customers via the main transport links in and out of the South West means we are very well located.

Has Brexit uncertainty led to stockpiling and/or investment issues?

We have looked at our key products and spoken with all of our suppliers – we have been assured that there will be no major issues with materials being supplied. Our suppliers are now carrying more stock and we have also increased our stock levels but not significantly. We continually invest and have not slowed down our programme; in October we were offered a great deal on a machine that we would have purchased in 2020 but decided to invest and take the benefits now.

Are you facing any other challenges at the moment?

Paper prices continue to increase, which puts pressure on us to increase our costs to customers; we try to absorb these where possible. Couriers continue to be a source of frustration as we print and bind to a schedule and then an issue occurs with the delivery…

But with customers all over the UK, it’s not financially viable to deliver direct.

What are the sounds and smells of your factory?

Anyone who has worked in a print factory will comment on the unique smell of ink coming from the printing presses. This hasn’t changed since print was first developed. Our Komori Litho presses are state of the art machines that do automatic plate changes and makereadies. They have three sounds that indicate when this automation is happening so that operators are aware of moving components for health and safety – unfortunately, it’s either a repeating beep or an annoying tune! www.shortrunpress.co.uk

Ahhh, the heady whiff of printer’s ink

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“The books we produce are sent all over the world” Pressing ahead: Mark Couch at Short Run Press

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EXETER TRADE ALUMINIUM Nick Sandbrook, general manager

What do you manufacture?

Slimline aluminium windows, bi-folding doors, sliding doors, rooflights and verandas, for both domestic and commercial installations.

When was the company founded, and how has it grown?

We started manufacturing in March 2015, initially focusing on aluminium lift and slide sliding doors. After outgrowing the manufacturing space at our sister company’s premises, in May 2017 we moved to our current factory at 15 Apple Lane, Sowton.

The factory floor and mezzanine was purpose built to suit our needs – allowing us to expand our offering, and giving us the space to stock £250,000 worth of profile in order to offer fast lead times.

Since the move, we have seen month-on-month growth, with this last financial year, achieving 66% growth in terms of sales compared to the previous FY. How many people work at Exeter Trade Aluminium?

Nine, a mixture of office staff and factory.

THE EXPERT VIEW

How Exeter’s manufacturers can best face the future “The world in which today’s businesses operate has become not only riskier but also more volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA), including for Exeter-based manufacturers,” says Dr Bill Russell, senior lecturer and specialist in innovation and marketing at the University of Exeter’sBusiness School.

“Firms that ‘stay safe’ and maintain traditional ways of operating, ignoring the digital disruption affecting both the service and manufacturing sectors, will be hampered in their ability to succeed.

“Exeter-based manufacturing firms have much to offer national and global customers. As they plan for the future it is worth remembering that: • Established firms need to react to change – rather than hoping to ‘ride out the storm’ • Bold, at-scale responses pay off twice as much as ‘semi-bold’ reactions and three times as much as ‘medium’ reactions • To do better than just break even on digital disruption, companies must also integrate digital strategy into their corporate strategy.” www.business-school.exeter.ac.uk

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Do you export and, if so, where?

Whilst we have had products exported to Europe by some of our customers, we don’t export ourselves. The core area we serve is the South West, delivering our products to sites across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.

Why do you manufacture here and not somewhere cheaper like Thailand or India?

Exeter Trade Aluminium was born out of a long established company based in Exeter, which is why we set up the factory here.

With nearly 40 years’ experience in the industry we know what is important to our customers; quality products, excellent customer service and short lead times. Although we offer competitive prices, we are committed to quality and manufacturing here in the South West, which helps make it easier to ensure that our high standards are met. We are also able to offer a turnaround time of two weeks when using stocked profiles, something we wouldn’t be able to do if the manufacturing took place in Thailand or India. It is also important for us to provide employment locally.

Has Brexit uncertainty led to stockpiling and/or investment issues?

We have always had a large amount of stock, it is essential in order to offer fast lead times, so this hasn’t changed. We are also continuing to spend money and invest in the business. We will have to wait and see how it’s going to play out.

industrial exeter Are you facing any other challenges at the moment?

The biggest challenge, like it is for many companies, is continuity of work. Ensuring we are getting regular work through the door to keep the whole team busy is always a big focus for us. This is why we have worked hard to build relationships with local installers and builders to encourage repeat business. Recruitment has also been quite a challenge for us, finding people with the right skill set and experience has been testing.

Taking a stand: Nick Sandbrook of Exeter Trade Aluminium

What are the sounds and smells of your factory?

From the moment the factory doors open to when we close at night the factory is noisy all day long. Mainly due to the CNC machinery and the saws. In terms of smells, it’s a mixture of curry and hot metal! The CNC machine is working all day long picking the right tools for the job, as such it needs oil lubricant which smells of curry!

Tell us a fun fact about life at Exeter Trade Aluminium…

We have over 20km of gasket in the factory, which, if we were to lay it out flat, would reach all the way to Tiverton! www.exetertradealuminium.co.uk

“In terms of smells, it’s a mixture of curry and hot metal” www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 21

industrial exeter PACKEXE

Andrew Orchard, CEO What do you manufacture?

Packexe are manufacturers of protection products. We supply a range of top-quality protection films throughout the trades that protect surfaces during construction and decorating work. We also provide rescue services across the world with our innovative safety products. Packexe SMASH saves time at the scene of an accident by securely holding vehicle glass in place, allowing emergency personnel to cut through without risking injury, as well as offering protection for those trapped inside the vehicle.

“Every morning at 10.45am we have a toast break” Marsh Barton: it’s more beautiful than you think...

When was the company founded, and how has it grown?

Packexe began trading in 1989 and 2019 marks an exciting milestone in the company’s history as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. Due to the quality of our products Packexe is a great success story that has developed from one man’s idea to a globally recognised success.

Do you export and, if so, where?

Along with continued growth in the UK market, Packexe now sells a range of products in 54 countries across Europe, along with the USA, Canada, Middle East, Australia, New Zealand and Asia.

Why do you manufacture here and not somewhere cheaper like Thailand or India?

A lot of our processes are designed and created in our Exeter factory, we’ve built our unique product range here and of that I am very proud. We have a very loyal customer base in the UK, especially throughout the trades and we put this down to the uniqueness of what we do. Exeter offers us a base to produce high-quality tested products, which are exported all over the world.

Are you facing any other challenges at the moment?

The challenge is always to be better! Designing innovative and better products with the customer in mind is a constant challenge that cannot be achieved without passion.

What are the sounds and smells of your factory?

Packexe is a busy, vibrant and rewarding place to work. When you step into the head office you are greeted by a display showcasing Packexe’s history and some of our proudest achievements, including receiving the Royal Warrant in 2016 and wrapping the iconic Concorde in 2017. The factory floor is full of hustle and bustle of machinery, highly skilled staff and the loading of stock as it is sent around the world. Just next door the office teams will be working on new and exciting ventures.

Tell us a secret about life at Packexe…

Every morning at 10.45am we have a toast break. It came about accidentally and was for a while replaced by a juice detox but we soon returned to toast. It’s something everyone enjoys and I’ve not heard of it being done elsewhere! www.packexe.co.uk

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Photo by Matt Round

Has Brexit uncertainty led to stockpiling and/or investment issues?

Packexe, alongside the rest of the UK, has prepared for Brexit as best we can at this time of uncertainty. Distributing to over 54 countries, many of which are outside of the EU, means we have experience in dealing with the issues that Brexit may introduce and through regular discussions and strong relationships with customers and our supply chain we are as prepared as we can be!

HIVES OF INDUSTRY

Most of Exeter’s manufacturing activity takes place at the city’s two main industrial estates Sowton Industrial Estate is home to manufacturers Rotamic, Short Run Press and Exeter Trade Aluminium (see main feature) as well as the usual hardware stores, building supplies businesses and car dealers. It’s impressive but it’s no Marsh Barton Trading Estate, which is Exeter’s largest industrial estate, spanning over 1.2 square miles and home to over 500 businesses including mega-manufacturers Packexe (see main feature) and Flotec, who make meters that measure the flow of liquids, and are used in industries from water supply to shipping.

Also car dealers, builders’ merchants, and local independent businesses like office design specialists MD Business Interiors, Amos Lighting and furniture store Stoneman & Bowker. You may recall we did a whole feature on Marsh Barton once, because we think it’s pretty cool…

BESPOKE CURTAINS, POLES, TRACKS, BLINDS & ACCESSORIES AFFORDABLE LUXURY CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION 01392 531117 www.simplyinteriors.co Simply Interiors is located inside S&B. 11 Marsh Barton Road, Exeter, EX2 8NU Image courtesy of

Our aim is to always give exceptional service, unique design solutions and value for money.

DESIGN We believe that a successful office fit out of supply of office furniture starts with a great design.

We use a consultative process to ascertain fully what your business needs to achieve when going through a relocation or refurbishment.

FURNITURE We partner only the best and most reliable furnishing manufacturers ensuring that we offer you exceptional quality at the most competitive prices.

REFURBISHMENT We will take you through our tried and tested process of analysing your current work place, formulating a set of proposals to include design, drawings, and estimated costings.

Supplying office furniture, office design and office refurbishment/renovation services across the South West

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

Celebrating 20 Years of e xcellence!

Offering delicious balanced dishes at superb value

House Menu, A la Carte and popular Taster Menu and Wine Flight are all available, check out our website for sample menus and future events.

Newly refurbished with the same smiley faces.

Open Wednesday to Saturday from 6.00pm Now open Saturday & Sunday Lunch from 12.00pm

The Triangle, Kenton (Nr Powderham Castle) Exeter, EX6 8LS. 01626 890195

www.rodeanrestaurant.co.uk

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

BLUE SUNDAY Memphis-born Cedric Burnside here was barely big enough to climb on the stool when he first started whacking a drum kit.

From the age of 13, he toured across the world with his grandfather, US country blues legend RL Burnside, and by his late teens was considered one of the finest blues drummers on the planet. Since then he’s won four Blues Music Awards and, in 2015, a Grammy nomination.

Latest album Benton County Relic shows Cedric’s not too shabby on the guitar either, and, like musical peers The White Stripes and Black Keys, is ensuring blues remains very much a living, breathing, stomping, sweating musical genre for the 21st century.

Don’t expect any between-song banter about Br**** or Tr***. “Politics divides people,” says Cedric. “The blues brings them together. A bluesman has to find a way to make it through.”

Cedric Burnside performs at Exeter Phoenix on Sunday 2 June; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

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What’s on 17 May – 17 June

Gaz Coombes: still waiting for a James Bond callback (and at Exeter Phoenix on 13 June)

EXHIBITIONS Until 2 June

Awesome Art Space, 27 Paris Street, Exeter; www.artworkexeter.org.uk

EXTREME IMAGINATION Works by 22 artists with aphantasia (no inner visual imagery) and hyperphantasia (its opposite).

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

25 May-22 June

Until 23 June

26 May-2 June

JOURNEYING TO LIGHT: THE MOSAICS OF ELAINE M GOODWIN Retrospective of the Exeter College of Art & Design-trained artist known worldwide for her stunning, contemporary mosaic art.

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

23-29 May

STUART CREWES: SPECULATIVE SUPERMODELS The Exeter-based artist presents new works inspired by architecture, urban planning and the Situationists.

PAPER PLAY Works inspired by the recent On Paper exhibition.

Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell St, Honiton; www.thelmahulbert.com LYMPSTONE ART EXHIBITION Paintings, prints, sculpture and ceramics, plus secret auction and children’s competition.

Lympstone Village Hall; Lympstone; www.lympstone.org

28 May

SERGE/SURGE Exeter-based artist group Preston Street Union (PSU) breach the city wall in this 10-minute performance piece on the theme of migration.

Northernhay Gardens’ Queen Street entrance (1.15pm), footpath beneath Yaroslavl Bridge

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(2.15pm), Cricklepit Lane (4.15pm) and Northernhay Gardens’ Northernhay Place entrance (5.30pm), Exeter; www.prestonstreetunion.wordpress.com

7-9 June

CRAFT FESTIVAL Now in its 16th year, this friendly celebration of creativity lets you see and buy the work of over 200 makers – plus demos, workshops, street theatre, food vendors and more.

Various venues, Bovey Tracey; www.craftsatboveytracey.co.uk

theatre, Comedy & Dance 24 May

THE BALLROOM BOYS Strictly Come Dancing stars Ian Waite and Vincent Simone deliver a night

of dance, song and bants.

Exmouth Pavilion, Exmouth; www.ledleisure.co.uk/exmouth-pavilion

25 May

LET ME SHOW YOU Modern fairy tale about plastic pollution in our oceans.

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

28-29 May

ALIENS LOVE UNDERPANTS Madcap tale based on the bestselling children’s book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. Ages 3+.

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

29 May

JERRY SADOWITZ: MAKE COMEDY GRATE AGAIN! The master of hilarious misanthropy and subversion returns.

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

what’s on 31 May

15 June

1 June

music & opera

3-8 June

ENGLISH TOURING OPERA: MACBETH/IDOMENEO/ ELIZABETH I Tales of war, sacrifice and power. from the ETO and respectively Verdi, Mozart and Rossini.

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

ADAM KAY: THIS IS GOING TO HURT His extraordinary memoir of the same name remains a bestseller; now the former junior doctor takes to the stage with this show about life on the NHS frontline.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk SEANN WALSH: AFTER THIS ONE I’M GOING HOME Excellent observational comedy from the London stand-up/snogmeister.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk AMELIE THE MUSICAL See feature, page 30.

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

Tangomotion at the Northcott left: Scummy Mummies bin off the bedtime story for a night at Exeter Corn Exchange below: Marvel at the mosaics of Elaine M Goodwin at RAMM

SCUMMY MUMMIES Ellie and Helen celebrate everything from drinking wine at teatime to hiding from the PTA. Based on the hit Scummy Mummies podcast and best-selling book.

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

7 June

LES MISERABLES South Devon Players take on the Victor Hugo epic.

Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter; www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk

7 June

PASSIONATE MACHINE Rosy Carrick’s new play about time travel takes in everything from David Bowie to #MeToo. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

9 June

SOFIE HAGEN: BUBBLEWRAP, HAPPY FAT Edinburgh Fringe Best Newcomer Award-winning stand up from the compelling, London-based Dane.

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

12 June

21-25 May

1 June

6 June above:

FRANKIE’S GUYS: A CELEBRATION OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS Concert-style celebration of the artist behind classics such as Big Girls Don’t Cry. See also Spotlight, page 10.

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

TANGOMOTION A journey into the heart of Argentine tango, with world class dancers and the Tango Siempre Quartet.

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

CRAIG DAVID The resurrected pop superstar heads to Kenton, with DJ Sigala, Becky Hill and DJ Nathan Dawe.

Powderham Castle, Kenton; www.lhgtickets.com

2 June

CEDRIC BURNSIDE See page 25.

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

6 June

HAWKSMOOR CLASSICAL CONCERT SERIES: SOLEM QUARTET 2019’s trio of recitals at RAMM draws to a close with the awardwinning quartet performing Schumann, Britten and Beethoven.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.rammuseum.org.uk

7 June

JIM CAUSLEY Spend an evening with local trad folk legend and BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards nominee Jim. Otterton Mill, Budleigh Salterton; www.jimcausley.co.uk

7 June

MENSING & MARTIN SCRAGG The newest choir from Wren Music joins forces with the Devon folk artist to perform powerful folk songs from around the world.

Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter; www.cygnettheatre.co.uk

7 June

THE WEDDING PRESENT Indie veterans celebrate the 30th anniversary of their album Bizzaro.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I exeter living I 27

WHAT’S ON Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

13 June

GAZ COOMBES The Mercury-nominated former Supergrass frontman airs dazzling new album World’s Strongest Man. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

16 June

NICK LOWE & LOS STRAITJACKETS Songwriting national treasure emerges for his first tour in 10 years.

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

OTHER EVENTS Until 29 May

ROSEMOOR LIVE! Live music, comedy, talks and children’s shows at the glorious garden.

RHS Garden Rosemoor, Great Torrington; www.rhs.org.uk/rosemoor

25 May

ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH The author of The No 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series chats to Tim Hubbard about his career.

St Peter’s Church, Budleigh Salterton; www.budlitfest.org.uk

25 May

GARDEN PARTY Storytelling, arts and crafts, street

LIBRARY LIFE EMILY MACAULAY shares the latest from Exeter Library Libraries Unlimited, the organisation that runs Exeter Library and all Devon libraries across the county, is one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations.

This means that we are funded to bring new and exploratory installations into the library and we’re pleased to currently have local artist Hugh McCann’s Listening Booth. Here is what he had to say about it: “The Listening Booth is a new space to hear words and sounds in Exeter Library. It is a place to rest and listen to audio, located on the ground floor by Listen in at Exeter Library the computers. It is a wooden structure that seats two and uses a open whenever Exeter Library directional speaker to is open and is free to use.” play audio that only those The Listening Booth within the booth can hear. is supported by Libraries It is designed to offer new Unlimited, Arts Council and existing library goers, England and Exeter City including visually impaired Council. Built with Knowle people, another way to West Media Centre: The engage with content in the Factory. library. Every four weeks, four new pieces of audio are www.listening-booth.com; programmed into the booth. www.librariesunlimited.org.uk “The Listening Booth is

WANT MORE? Sign up now for the Exeter Living newsletter...

Weekends: sure, sometimes all you want to do is the big shop, and some boxset bingeing. But, mostly, you yearn to get out and about: browse a flea market, maybe, catch a dazzling new exhibition, or hit a festival, for example. Come the tail-end of Friday, however, you’re often still without a plan.

Guess what? Exeter Living can help!

Sign up now to start receiving the popular Exeter Living Friday afternoon email newsletter, in which I suggest the best events and outings for the coming weekend – from theatre to gigs to family fun days and more – along with a property pick of the week, money-saving offers, and the week’s most amusing, locally-sourced tweets.

(Fear not, we don’t share your data with third parties – ever.)

food, live music and bar from 5-8pm.

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

25-31 May

Five local sailing clubs unite in this summer jamboree on the Exe, with around 200 boats taking part across the weekend, and a lively social calendar.

Various venues; www.river-exe-regatta.org.uk

INHONITON EVENTS WEEK Free taster events from East Devon and Honiton councils, including walks, talks, classes, workshops and outdoor cinema.

Various venues, Honiton; www.eastdevon.gov.uk/inhoniton

9 June

1 June

14 June

OTTERY ST MARY FOOD & FAMILIES FESTIVAL Live music, market stalls, street food, cooking demos, auction and more at this free family day out.

Ottery St Mary; www.otteryfood.org

8 June

RESPECT FESTIVAL See Spotlight, page 9.

Belmont Park and Exeter Phoenix; www.exeter-respect.org

8-9 June

EXE REGATTA

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

Like the sound of it?

Then jump on mediaclash. co.uk/eln pronto and you’ll hear from us soon.

OPEN FARM SUNDAY AT DARTS FARM Meet farm animals, press apples, and sample plenty of local food and drink.

Darts Farm, Topsham; www.dartsfarm.co.uk DAVID STARKEY: A MONARCHY OF MISFITS The leading historian traces the history of royal marriage from the Middle Ages to the house of Windsor.

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

15-16 June

FEAST FEST Food and drink festivals to raise funds for Topsham Rugby Club. Live music and kids’ rides, too.

Topsham Rugby Football Club, Exeter Road, Exeter; www.feastfestuk.com ■

Audrey Brisson gets her teeth into the lead role

As Amélie The Musical waltzes into Exeter Northcott, ANNA BRITTEN finds out how you convert a quirky, record-breaking French movie into a successful stage show

© Michael Wharley

FRENCH FANCY

theatre

© Pamel a R aith Photogr aphy

They don’t do quiet carriages on the Paris métro...

“At a time where we are increasingly feeling at a distance from each other, Amélie is a musical that seeks connections”

W

hen it was released in 2001, the JeanPierre Jeunet film Amélie became one of French cinema’s biggest international hits – and its tale of a young, stone-skimming, crème brûléecracking, photo booth-frequenting Parisian woman’s quest for meaning and romance is still passionately loved by fans around the world.

You can see it reborn as a musical in Exeter this June, and here’s director Michael Fentiman to explain precisely why you should…

How closely does Amélie The Musical resemble the 2001 film?

The film refused to behave like any film we may have recognised at the time. The approach to narrative is episodic, favouring small vignettes, tiny films within a film, that group together to create a collage, a poetic mural that conjures a sense of loneliness and isolation in the bustling metropolis of ’90s Paris.

The central character is largely passive. The first rule of script-writing is usually that your protagonist is actively pursuing a change in the world they inhabit; Amelie is largely trying to avoid it.

It favours philosophical thought and ambiguity over conflict, sentimentality or explicit didact (usually the staple diet of your blockbuster filmmaker).

Somehow, by ignoring the rules of what constitutes enjoyable art, Amélie managed to appear as a hugely enjoyable antidote to all the art that had started to believe there was a formula.

So, if the film refused to behave like a film, in some respects Amélie The Musical must resist the pressure to behave like a traditional musical. It can’t be loud and brash – that would crush its fragile frame. It can’t always yearn to please – that would fight the spirit of its aloof, Parisian roots. It can’t resort to slapstick laughs or lean on personal tragedy to elicit tears in ballads. It can’t open Act Two with a kick line or close Act One with a burst of pyro or a tense cliff-hanger.

But what it can do is invite an audience into a simple, gentle, moving exploration of human loneliness and isolation, and the earnest attempts to avoid them.

Tautou are striking...

As soon as I was asked to direct this production, Audrey was the first name I mentioned for the part. We have worked together before. She is an extraordinary performer. A rare thing. A classically trained singer, who once toured the world with Cirque de Soleil, a superbly charismatic comic and clown and a sensitive and intelligent actress.

She is also a fluent French speaker!

Can you tell us a little about the music?

The music is hugely influenced by the tone and feel of Yann Tiersen’s music for the film.

How could it not be? We have an amazing company of actor musicians, so we have incorporated into the score multiple violins, cellos, accordions, pianos and flutes to create a very unique and moving sound.

What is the enduring appeal of this story?

At a time where we are increasingly feeling at a distance from each other and, to some degree, from the world we inhabit, Amélie is a musical that seeks connections. Kind connections, that close down distances and make us feel like we are able to look up, smile and reach out to the strange and the stranger.

How did you go about finding your Amélie? The similarities between your Audrey Brisson and the film’s Audrey

How have you recreated Paris on stage?

It was impossible to fully realise Paris onstage.

So we have tried to capture a smell of Paris, so that the audience can fill in the gaps. Our location for the set is one of the iconic métro stations featured in the film, but from there we are whisked all around the city with simple props, beautiful music, brilliant acting… and a bit of imagination.

Amélie The Musical is at Exeter Northcott from Mon 3 – Sat 8 June; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

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Elizabeth Ann of Exeter

Reach the best in the west

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Smart, casual and occasion shoes. Large selection of HB loafers. Lisa Kay, Cefalu, Caprice, Van Dal, Riva.

Hand made Spanish and Italian colourful sandals and much much more.

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

Affluent, active and influential and just a call away...

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

Exeter Living team

01225 475800

shopping live well, buy better

SHELL’S ANGELS We know we come across all highbrow and independentminded (oh, please say we do) but even Exeter Living isn’t immune to being influenced by someone off Made In Chelsea.

There, we said it.

But look at these splendid summertime danglers, crafted with freshwater pearls, shell charms and 24-carat goldplated mini hoops! We’d want them even if it had been Piers Morgan sporting them on social media, and not plummy reality TV star Louise Thompson, whose endorsement of them on a Bali beach came to our attention recently thanks to their creator, local lass Sadie Hawker, aka jewellery brand Shh By Sadie.

Actually, we’ve been going on about Sadie and her colourful, boho jewellery, designed and handcrafted in South Devon, for about 18 months now. Don’t feel like you’re late to the party or anything, Louise...

Pearl charm earrings, £39, from www.shhbysadie.com

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ED’S CHOICE POPS BY MICHAEL CHABON (FOURTH ESTATE), £10 Make him blub with this intelligent, moving and unsentimental meditation on men and parenthood From Crediton Community Bookshop, 100 High Street, Crediton; www.creditoncommunitybookshop.co.uk

‘I’M THE FATHER’ MUG, £11.99 For the cup of tea in bed you’re going to have to take him, kids From Toot Garook, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; www.tootgarook.co.uk

WHO’S THE DADDY? Think outside the tankard this Father’s Day…

‘PETREL’ SUNGLASSES, £65 (USUALLY £85) Crafted from beechwood with polarised lenses, from Exeter’s sustainable shades makers Bird From Bird Sunglasses; www.birdsunglasses.com

BEAR HANDS OVEN GLOVES, £14.95 For when it’s too hot to handle From Hyde & Seek, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk BEOPLAY E8 2.0, £300 Give him the gift of superior sound with these snug, top-of-the-range wireless earphones From Bang & Olufsen, 30-31 Gandy Street, Exeter; www.bang-olufsen.com/exeter

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

BEAR IN THE WOODS CARTOON, £40 Hand-drawn to order by Exmouth’s superstar cartoonist Moose Allain From World of Moose; www.worldofmoose.com

PATAGONIA ‘PARROTS’ SHORTS, £50 Swap the Speedos for this and he will own the beach this summer. Fairtrade and made from 100% recycled nylon, too From Always In Colour, 2a The Crescent, Queen Street, Exeter; www.alwaysincolour.com

AVEDA MEN PURE-FORMANCE SHAMPOO, £20 Because not even Antoine Griezmann can make Head & Shoulders actually cool From Amanda Marsden, 75 Queen Street, Exeter; www.amandamarsden.co.uk

AVEDA MEN PUREFORMANCE GROOMING CLAY, £22.50 Help him out, quiff-wise, with the modern gentleman’s pomade From Amanda Marsden, 75 Queen Street, Exeter; www.amandamarsden.co.uk

CARHARTT ‘HOUSTON’ POCKET T-SHIRT, £40 New season garb from the US workwear specialists – other colours available but this is the trendiest, Daddio From Always In Colour, 2a The Crescent, Queen Street, Exeter; www.alwaysincolour.com

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Diagnosis in a heartbeat An irregular heartbeat could be the sign of an underlying heart problem, say medical experts at EXETER HEART

T

he Exeter Heart team at Nuffield Health, Exeter Hospital is raising awareness of the symptoms of an irregular heartbeat, known as arrhythmia, and what to do if you suspect you or someone you care about is at risk.

Exeter Heart, based at the Nuffield Hospital is a unique collaboration formed by leading cardiologists to offer the latest techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions.

Consultant Cardiologist Professor Bellenger, on behalf of Exeter Heart, explains why the electrics of the heart can go wrong and why it is so important: “There are many reasons why electrical signalling through the heart can go wrong.

These include issues with the heart’s natural pacemaker, the electrical conduction system, and damage to the heart muscle that can block or cause abnormal electrical signal to certain parts of the heart wall. Fortunately, many patients with palpitations have extra heart beats which do not cause any damage or need any treatment beyond reassurance.”

These are some signs and symptoms to look out for: · · · · · ·

A fluttering in your chest A racing heartbeat (tachycardia) A slow heartbeat (bradycardia) Chest pain Shortness of breath Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting (syncope) or near fainting

These symptoms are relatively common and can also be caused by disorders like dehydration and anaemia, but it could be worth getting your heart checked by a GP or cardiologist to make sure there is not a more serious underlying cause as Dr Matt Lovell, a consultant cardiologist who specialises in rhythm disturbances goes on to explain: “Some patients, however, may have abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation, for example, can cause disabling symptoms including fatigue and shortness of breath, and can increase the risk of suffering from a stroke. Correctly identifying and treating patients with atrial fibrillation is vital to improve quality of life and significantly reduce the number of patients suffering a stroke.”

Exeter Heart offer rapid, convenient and affordable treatment at Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital. Facilities include stateof-the-art cardiac MRI, a new catheter lab offering stents, pacemakers, and AF and electrical ablation. Please get in touch with the team on 01392 262175 or find out more at www.nuffieldhealth/hospitals/exeter Director of Nuffield Health’s Exeter Hospital, Paul Taylor, says: “People can be missing out on major events and activities in their later years, because of waiting for medical tests and treatment.

With no waiting lists at our hospital we’re able to help people get on with life as quickly as possible. Even if you don’t have private medical insurance you can access our care by paying for yourself.” ■

ABOUT NUFFIELD HEALTH Nuffield Health is one of the leading not-for-profit UK healthcare organisations, looking after people for more than 60 years. Today, we run a network of hospitals, medical clinics, fitness and wellbeing clubs and diagnostic units across the UK. We also support businesses in looking after their employees by operating their fitness and wellbeing facilities services.

As a trading charity, we do not have investors or shareholders to answer to – our customers and patients come first. We invest all our income back into running and developing our health and wellbeing sites and services, and pioneering new models of care and delivery so that more people can benefit. Just over 94% of our hospitals have been rated good or outstanding by independent regulators.

Exeter Heart at Nuffield Health Exeter, Wonford Road, Exeter EX2 4UG Tel 01392 262175 Fax 01392 262153 www.exeterheart.com www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/exeter www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 37

TOTALLY OUT THERE

Grab your sunglasses! We round up the finest al fresco eating and drinking locales within Exeter – from the premium seats for peoplewatching to the backyard hideaways you didn’t even know existed Words by Anna Britten 38 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Lloyd’s Lounge – before the rush

AL FRESCO

W

hether you’re laden down with shopping bags, taking a break from the office, catching up with the gang or just need a little bit of vitamin D on your brow, there’s a terrace, beer garden or outside bench for you. Yes, there’s fabulous food and drink on offer too although, let’s be honest, they’re secondary to the thrill of just sitting outside in the sunshine in the best city on earth. Without your coat! Well, hopefully…

BEST FOR… Every office worker’s happy place: Chandos Deli

Moor up at Boatyard Bakery

“You’ll feel like you’ve landed in a secret back street in Venice”

FURTHER AFIELD

Shout out to these beautiful out-of-town spots to eat and drink in the open air – each just a little hike or drive from Exeter Note to the new in town: you’ll need a bike or a boat to access the remarkable gastropub The Turf south of Exminster – so romantic you probably shouldn’t take a date unless you aim to marry them at some point. Do check out, also, the small but perfectly formed back garden at award-winning Seven Stars, Kennford – it’s a handful of timber booths surrounding an astroturf ‘village green’ upon which, we’re willing to bet, someone has at some point started vogueing after a few shandies… Few pub gardens come bigger, greener or more idyllic than that at thatched paradise The Five Bells at Clyst Hydon.

And for the ultimate #livingmybestlife social media post, you must, at some point, pose with a glass of champagne while admiring the verdant Dartmoor panorama from the terrace at Gidleigh Park.

POSING AND PEOPLE WATCHING Al fresco eating and drinking brings out the off-duty celebrity in many of us. Admit it.

Some sunny Saturdays you just need to pop your best shades on your face and your most expensive handbag on the table, to see and be seen in a city centre hotspot. And in terms of human traffic no spot is hotter than the busy plaza outside Exeter Central – officially The Crescent – where college and uni students lollop from class to nearby Northernhay Gardens, city workers rub shoulders with daytrippers, old ladies shop for christening presents and little kids drag their buckets and spades to the Exmouth train. Pause to watch them all go by at the sun-blessed tables outside coffee-shop extraordinaire Exploding Bakery, whose home-made traybakes are a thing of local worship, or a cheeky vinho verde at sexy, Paris-style wine bar Tabac Taphouse…

Need a stylish stop-off during a shopping spree? Almost too obvious to mention, we’ve got the High Street-elevating coolness of Arti’s, aka Artigiano, and its on-brand black-and-yellow outdoor seating. Summer in the city doesn’t get much better than a bellini or three on the terrace of Lloyd’s Lounge which always makes us feel like we’re in a really cool part of Tokyo – its sister across the way, Lloyd’s Kitchen, also enjoys the fresh air in its front section. A seat out the front at Coolings will give you an intimate glimpse of Gandy Street life. On a break from work or just want to be where the wealthy and important folks are? Grab a flat white outside Chandos Deli, and watch the suits go by, or repair to the grassy back garden of wine bar/restaurant Rendezvous – ooh, the gossip you’ll hear in the garden here!

Closest thing we’ve got to a German-style urban beer garden? That’ll be the City Gate on the Iron Bridge.

One of the things we love most about Exeter is that, compared to other popular places in Devon, no patches are so tourist-clogged that they’ve become no-go-areas for hungry/ thirsty locals. That is to say, you too can enjoy the loveliness of your Cathedral without being constantly asked to take photos of Americans.

No offense, Americans. Thus, clustered around Exeter’s picturesque and historic heart you’ll

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

AL FRESCO find yourself right at home on the cobbles of Cathedral Green at Tea On The Green (which is deceptively-named these days because it’s very much a restaurant as well as a place for coffee and cake). Across the Green and vying with them for the accolade of having the best view in town, you’ve also got veggie paradise Plant Café and deluxe street food joint South Street Standard and their highly covetable terraces.

PRIVATE MOMENTS And yet. Sometimes, the last thing you want is to be on public display. Bunking off work?

Avoiding an ex? Go furtively fondle a San Pellegrino in one of Exeter’s hidden nooks.

With tables at a premium, though, you’ll have to sharpen those elbows… or do whatever the café equivalent on the towel-on-thesunlounger is. There’s a discreet air about the terrace round the back of the Exeter Phoenix café/bar, with its striking metal unicorn sculpture – we like to think everyone’s working on their screenplays and planning new festivals. There’s a dinky al fresco spot at The Oddfellows, too, and the Mediterraneanstyle, sun-drenched patio at Glorious Art House is one of our personal favourite refuges. And don’t forget the Daisy Café in Heavitree, which has a lovely, walled secret garden with large wooden tables and snazzy shrubbery.

Catch some rays at the Glorious

“Sometimes, the last thing you want is to be on public display”

PRETENDING YOU’RE ON HOLIDAY As the temperatures rise, so does the call of the waterfront. Exeter’s Quay is awash with al fresco settings where you can sip on a cold Corona while watching the sun glint on the rippling river and canal, and seagulls fight over discarded chips. And you do know you’re not actually an Exonian unless you’ve made light work of a pizza and a jug of Pimms outside at On The Waterfront, right? If a staycation’s on the cards this summer, the historic Prospect Inn feels like a fragment of St Ives while, if you dash over the bridge to grab one of Boatyard Bakery’s outdoor seats, you’ll feel like you’ve landed in a secret back street in Venice. Frankly, anywhere on Piazza Terracina feels like a holiday. Trot down the canal path a bit and you’ll reach the legendary Double Locks whose large garden offers legstretching, ball-chasing opportunities for your kids/dogs. n

FOR MORE www.explodingbakery.com www.fatpig-exeter.co.uk www.artigiano.uk.com www.lloydslounge.co.uk www.lloydskitchen.co.uk www.coolingsexeter.co.uk www.chandosdeli.com

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

Daisy Café

www.winebar10.co.uk www.citygatehotel.com www.teaonthegreen.com Facebook: The-Plant-Cafe-Deli www.anythingbutstandard.co.uk www.exeterphoenix.org.uk www.theoddfellowsbar.co.uk www.thegloriousarthouse.com Facebook: TheDaisyCafeHeavitree

www.waterfrontexeter.co.uk www.heavitreebrewery.co.uk/pubs/theprospect-inn www.boatyardbakery.co.uk www.doublelocks.com www.turfpub.net www.sevenstarskennford.co.uk www.fivebells.uk.com www.gidleigh.co.uk

Winners of 2019 Exeter Living Awards Gastro Pub of the Year!

DRINKS - EVENTS - FOOD Cosy Village Pub with a Contemporary Twist.

Mini Pub, Maxi Vibe The Seven Stars, Kennford EX6 7TR www.sevenstarskennford.co.uk 01392 834 887

Gastro Pub & Speakeasy Cocktail Bar

LUNCH, DINNER AND EPIC SUNDAY ROAST

60 New North Road | Exeter Devon | EX4 4EP Tel: 01392 20 90 50. exeter@theoddfellowsbar.co.uk www.theoddfellowsbar.co.uk

food & drink news

The Pig’s new Plot to Plate menu champions the best local ingredients

Otter’s Luke Roberts accepts the latest award

CASK FORCE East Devon brewery Otter has added more gongs to its groaning trophy cabinet. Otter Amber – a mid-gravity beer made with just four natural ingredients – has been named ‘Best Cask British Bitter (up to 4.4%)’ in the South West at the famous Tuckers Maltings Beer Festival in Newton Abbot, run by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA).

Launched a year ago, Otter Amber also went on to win Bronze in the ‘Overall Champion of the Cask’ competition from the 263 cask beers judged this year.

Already this year, Otter’s first pure session lager Tarka Four was named best in the UK after winning Gold in the ‘Session Lagers and Pilsners (up to 4.4%)’ class at SIBA’s 2019 National Independent Beer Awards.

Says Patrick McCaig, MD of the sustainably-minded company, which turns 30 next year: “Two top UK awards for our cask ale and Tarka lager all in two months. We’re very proud to have the brewing heritage that we do and are always looking to the future.

There’s never been a better time to explore the world of Otter, and we still have plenty more left in the tank – another big well done to our head brewer Keith Bennett.”

For more: www.otterbrewery.com

SEASON’S EATINGS Nobody takes the whole local/seasonal shebang more seriously than The Pig at Combe near Honiton and its head chef Daniel Gavriilidis.

Now the country house hotel and restaurant is celebrating spring with the introduction of a new Plot to Plate kitchen garden lunch menu on weekday lunchtimes.

The set lunch menu “celebrates the seasons and only the best, freshest and most local ingredients will play their role in these delicious dishes,” they promise. Think grilled sardines or lamb belly followed by seared gurnard or cauliflower spelt risotto, with English rhubarb mousse or English cider jelly for dessert. And at £22.50 per person it won’t eat into your bikini/flip-flops budget too much either...

For more: www.thepighotel.com/at-combe

ABSOLUTE BANGERS An award-winning sausage has raised £2,000 and counting for local charity Devon Air Ambulance Trust (DAAT).

Last year, sausage fans across Devon shared their inspired sausage flavour combinations with a panel of prestigious judges – including celebrity chef Michael Caines – in the hopes their recipe would be made into the winning banger.

The winner was The Devon Devil – made with local pork, Green Valley Cyder and Quickes mature cheddar.

With £1 from every pound in weight sold – at Dart’s Farm, Topsham, and Fermoys in Newton Abbot – going to Devon Air Ambulance, the delicious Devon Devils have so far raised a staggering £2,000 for the charity.

The popular competition took place again at this year’s recent Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink, with Stuart Elms’ ‘Love DAAT sausage’ (geddit?) – pork, Devon orange marmalade and cracked black pepper – taking home the accolade of 2019 champion banger. Grab a fistful for your next barbecue...

For more: www.daat.org

Bang, bang into the room: the sausage judges

www.mediaclash.co.uk I exeter living I 43

advertising feature

Communicating a passion for science Director of Science, Richard Tear, looks at the benefits of a Science Outreach programme for both the local community and Exeter School pupils

I

n the modern educational climate, teachers can sometimes feel obliged mainly to focus on measuring and recording progress, as well as delivering material efficiently, preparing for future challenges and undertaking examinations, rather than enjoying being in the moment.

Covering all these bases is very important for ensuring that pupils can progress up the educational ladder and, ultimately, gain the careers that they aspire to. However, in the drive to improve performances and increase efficiency, we can easily forget the need to take time to

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reflect on what draws pupils to study demanding subjects and what, or who, influenced them. I still remember my chemistry teachers, Mr Horkan and Mr Bennett, with fondness, and recall the stranger experiments such as making soap and nitrogen triiodide.

At Exeter School, we felt that a Science Outreach programme would benefit both us and local primary schools in a mutually symbiotic manner. The process started three or four years ago with a small number of schools coming and spending a day with us doing lots of fun experiments and watching interesting demonstrations. The pupils and staff seemed to enjoy it, and we had a fabulous time putting it together so we thought we should continue.

The programme has now extended to involve a small group of trained pupil demonstrators visiting other primary schools, that were slightly further afield, to spread their enthusiasm for science.

Our aim was to help our pupils develop their enthusiasm for science, and build stronger connections with our local community, by entertaining and enlightening some of the older primary school pupils who are due to make the daunting step up to the senior school in the next year or two. Science Outreach has allowed Exeter School Sixth Formers to develop their demonstration and communication skills, engage

with their local community and share their passion and wonder in the sciences.

The opportunity to participate in practical experiments can be limited due to a lack of dedicated science facilities in primary schools.

We have all loved their enthusiasm and the searching questions they have generated; there is always a real excitement that has been infectious, and the stories of our shows are told and retold.

Feedback from the primary schools has been positive, while our pupil demonstrators speak of their excitement, of overcoming nerves and the genuine enthusiasm of the pupils we have met. So we raise a beaker to those schools who have allowed us to share an afternoon with them and hope for opportunities to expand our programme... n

Exeter School, Victoria Park Road, Exeter, Devon EX2 4NS 01392 258712 headmaster@exeterschool.org.uk www.exeterschool.org.uk Twitter: @ExeterSchoolUK Instagram: @exeterschooluk

ADVERTISING FEATURE FAMILY LAW

JILL READ-BROWN EXPLAINS WHY SHE’S TOTALLY COMMITTED TO FAMILY LAW...

WHEN DID YOU START WORKING IN FAMILY LAW? I was going through a divorce myself and had three young children so I decided I needed to think about a career. I wanted to work in law and was encouraged to go for it by a local lawyer, Brad Thorpe. I’ve specialised in family law since 1993, qualifying in 1998 as a Chartered Legal Executive. I joined The Family Law Company in 2003 after Jane Chanot convinced me it was the right place for me to be - and I haven’t looked back.

WHAT AREA OF FAMILY LAW DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR INTEREST IN? Many of my clients have suffered domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is prevalent in all social spectrums, it’s a misconception that it only affects people from less privileged backgrounds. I’ve represented many victims who are senior professionals - domestic abuse is unrelated to status. A major priority for me is always to make sure any children involved are safe. In addition, my caseload includes divorce, finances and children work.

IS THERE ANY ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO IS EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC ABUSE? Get in touch with a support service such as SAFE or SPLITZ and a specialist lawyer who has lots of experience, someone who will make sure you get all the support you need. Your lawyer needs to get everything right from the start of the case, otherwise it might take a long time to be resolved.

WHAT DO YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE ABOUT WORKING AT THE FAMILY LAW COMPANY? The company has the same ethos towards staff as it does to clients, based around empathy and looking after people. As lawyers we work independently but there is always support available when we need it. We discuss cases with each other, as sometimes an objective viewpoint is really helpful.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? Understanding and disentangling all the different strands of the ending of a relationship, helping my clients through the mire of separation and divorce and seeing them through the emotional journey, to come out the other end realising there is life after divorce.

YOUR AREA OF LAW CAN BE STRESSFUL. WHAT DO YOU DO TO COPE?

Jill Read-Brown is a Senior Associate Chartered Legal Executive at specialist law firm THE FAMILY LAW COMPANY by HARTNELL CHANOT in Exeter.

Call to make an appointment on 01392 421 777.

Balliol House, Southernhay Gardens Exeter EX1 1NP.

WWW.THEFAMILYLAWCO.CO.UK

Family lawyers can work long hours so it’s important to look after personal wellbeing. I practice yoga a lot; personal sessions and attending classes. I’m aiming to train as a yoga teacher. I also enjoy walking in the East Devon countryside and coastline. One of my favourite walks is at East Hill near Ottery St Mary; the bluebells in May are absolutely stunning. And I love spending time with my family - I have grandchildren now, including two recent additions.

IS THERE SOMETHING YOU’RE ESPECIALLY PROUD OF IN YOUR CAREER? Aside from helping clients to positively move on with their lives, I’m proud to be the first winner of the award for Legal Executive of the Year in the Law Society Excellence Awards back in 2008.

SOCIETY

SOCIETY

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

Harry Wild

Jason Mead Guests sampled The Galley’s new season dishes

Alex Mills, John Harvey and Amanda Stansfield

SOUND BITES

Exquisite Topsham seafood restaurant The Galley recently held a VIP evening for producers, supporters and friends.

Galley Confidential was hosted by head chef Jason Mead and featured some of the South West’s finest food and drink suppliers, among them Brixham Seafish, Richards Greengrocers, Pebblebed Wines, Steevenson Wines, Granny Gothards and Country Cheeses.

Topsham resident and food writer Marc Millon talked about Topsham’s food scene and guests were treated to a sumptuous locally sourced-feast, starting with a glass of rosé brut and closed with a scoop of burnt butter ice cream.

Not your average Thursday night, then...

Photos by Nick Hook

Jayzee Throup

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Marc Millon James Leach

SOCIETY SOCIETY

Gemma and Denny Dormer with Jayney Mahany

Jane Clark with Sheila Skillings Claire Baily, Fliss Shillingford and Dan Cray

Andy and Delphine Jones and family

MOSAIC MAGIC

Dugald MacInnes and Mark Staunton

Artists and art lovers from Exeter and across Devon gathered for a private view of Journeying to Light: The Mosaics of Elaine M Goodwin recently.

Mosaic artist Elaine studied, and had a studio, in Exeter for years before settling in Burgundy, France – so the exhibition was something of a homecoming for the internationallyrenowned artist.

Photos by Karen (Jules) Taylor

Alan Cotton with Bill Hanson Endurance Arthur with husband Aengus

Lise Storm and Catherine Bell

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

advertising feature

Meet the financial advisor

When you’re talking money, you need someone you can trust – these local experts can help Richard Wright

James Dalgleish

What are the qualities required to be a good financial adviser?

1. Listening carefully to a client’s situation and goals – then building a clear, realistic plan to help them get there.

2. Make complex technical information understandable and relatable.

3. To be comfortable in challenging a client’s point of view to ensure they don’t make the wrong choices with their money.

Why did you decide to become a financial adviser?

Growing up I always enjoyed problem solving and working with others, with my academic back ground in Maths, Physics and Business Studies.

My first job was with a High Street bank as a trainee bank manager. It was from my time here that I found out about the role of Financial Advisor which I felt better suited my interests and skills. 20 years later here I am.

Investec Wealth & Investment 01392 204404; Richard.Wright@investecwin.co.uk

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?

When I can tell a client if they just organise their money better, they can retire earlier than they initially thought.

It’s a real lightbulb moment! It’s very rewarding making such a difference to someone’s quality of life.

Premier Financial Planning Ltd 01392 908377 www.pfp-ltd.com

Richard Wright

Tell us something about yourself?

I’ve danced a tango with Flavia Cacace, one of the professional dancers from Strictly! I was absolutely hopeless.

What advice would you give to someone looking for investment opportunities right now?

Getting the right advice can make a huge difference. I know I would say that, but it’s true! It’s not just about which investments to buy, it’s about keeping tax down by finding the best tax wrapper to hold them in.

Lee Harris

Tilney Financial Planning Ltd 01392 260 640 www.tilney.co.uk What are the qualities required to be a good financial adviser?

Financial planning is about putting the client at the centre of everything we do. The end product should complement the client’s plans, goals and aspirations. As such, for me, the key qualities are the ability to listen, ask the right questions and truly understand what my client is looking to achieve. Only once I have that full understanding can I truly start to consider the most appropriate solutions.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?

I love the fact that in my job, every day and every client is different. Each individual client will have their own plans and aspirations and as such I am faced with a

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

What are the qualities of being a good financial adviser?

Money can be a sensitive area for many along with opening up about your goals and dreams and worries.

Therefore, a good financial advisor needs to be able to make people feel comfortable, really listen to your clients and understand what is really important to them.

Why do clients come to you ?

Most of our new clients come from personal referrals after their friends & family have recommended us which we are proud of. The team also have a range of different expertise enabling us to provide a one stop shop for clients.

James Dalgleish

new challenge every day. Once the initial advice journey has concluded, I continue to work closely with my client over the years to ensure that what we have set up is still working for them. I count myself very fortunate that, over time, several of the people I have provided advice to have become a family friend as well as a client.

What would you say to someone who is looking for investment opportunities right now?

We are living in interesting times with interest rates still extremely low, Brexit causing some uncertainty for the UK and a US President who is perhaps a little more volatile than previous incumbents. Some great investment opportunities are out there right now, so my general steer to clients is to seek diversity with their investments, spread the risk and avoid having too many eggs in one basket, and to focus on the medium to longer term rather than current events.

advertising feature

The Final Tax

Starting to think about inheritance tax? THE FRY GROUP have been guiding clients and saving millions for a century

S

o, you have worked hard and saved for your long-term future and, along the way, paid the taxman 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 Wilfred T Fry (PFP) Limited are chartered financial planners, and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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 www.thefrygroup.co.uk

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

Penny Scott of Cartridges Law and the Law Society

Quote of the issue

“Be comfortable with being uncomfortable” Whose career advice? See page 55

The Big Number

68%

Increase in whose customer base?

Find out on page 52

ACCESS GRANTED

Socially responsible Exeter law firm Cartridges address problems caused by legal aid cuts

D

eep cuts to legal aid since 2012 have, according to the Law Society, resulted in “advice deserts” in parts of the country where claimants cannot find experts to consult. The number of people accessing legal aid fell by 82% in an eight-year period between 2010 and 2018.

Now, Exeter solicitors Cartridges Law have taken to the road to offer free legal advice to anyone with a

legal issue, large or small.

The drop-in sessions across Exeter form part of the Law Society’s national campaign to ensure everyone has access to legal advice when they need it, regardless of social background or wealth.

Says Penny Scott, who is chair of the Law Society’s family law committee and partner at Cartridges Law: “At Cartridges Law we have always believed that law must be fair and accessible to people, and should not be restricted by their background or

their ability to pay.

“We welcome the Law Society’s campaign and wanted to demonstrate our support by offering these free advice sessions. Our dropins are intended for anyone who has a legal problem, issue or question, however big or small.”

The free, drop-in sessions will be known as Legally Meeting – a reference to Cartridges’ Friday lunchtime show Legally Speaking on Radio Exe – and offer people the chance to talk to one of the Cartridges Law team to identify

whether their issue is one with a legal remedy, and whether there are options for funding a case.

The Legally Meeting sessions are taking place at St Thomas Church on 29 May and 4 September (1pm to 3pm) and at Pathfinder Village Hall on 24 September (10am to 12pm). n

For more: www.cartridgeslaw.co.uk/legallymeeting www.lawsociety.org.uk

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business insights

The Lodge House, Kennford

MOVING UP A GEAR A local financial services firm has combined a name change and rebrand with a move to new premises on Dix’s Field in Exeter.

MBC Accountants – formerly known as My Business Centre – was started in Okehampton in 2002 by director Fiona Rook.

“The name ‘MBC Accountants’ respects our 17-year history but emphasises that, first and foremost, we are an accountancy practice,” says Fiona. “I am loving working in Exeter, loving the entrepreneurial spirit and all the green spaces for lunchtime walks. It has definitely been the right decision, too – we have won some exciting new clients who really appreciate our bespoke services that we tailor around their business needs.” www.mbcaccountants.co.uk

HOT PROPERTIES Five outstanding Exeter building projects have been shortlisted in the 2019 Michelmores Property Awards.

The annual awards celebrate exceptional property and construction projects located in Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Bristol and Cornwall.

Converted water storage tank The Lodge House, Kennford Court, in Kennford (pictured), has been shortlisted for Project of the Year (under £5m) and for Building of the Year. Holiday cottage complex The Barton in Holcombe Burnell, residential development The Chasse in Topsham, Exeter City Council housing project Chester Long Court and the Orchard View development in Newton St Cyres, are also in the running for top honours.

The awards will be presented by actress and comedian Sally Phillips at Sandy Park on 13 June. www.michelmores.com/property-awards-2019

MIND YOUR HACKS…

Cyber criminals tremble in the face of Securious

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The rise in cyber crime has resulted in 12 months of significant growth for Exeter-based cyber security specialists Securious.

Businesses that operate card payment systems and hold customer information and payment details are particularly vulnerable to cyber crime, says Pete Woodward, director at Securious: “We’ve seen a growth in attacks on websites with databases. For us, this is one of the biggest areas of threat for businesses in our region, and credit card breaches are steadily on the rise.

“Far too many businesses are unaware that it is mandatory to comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) if they accept credit

card payments. This is a huge blind-spot and it is putting businesses in the South West at risk of attack.

“As such, our goal for this year is to ensure that any business that trades online, is aware of their compliance duties. In this case, forewarned is very definitely forearmed.”

Over the past year, Securious, which is based at Exeter Science Park, has grown from a team of seven, to a team of 12, following a 68% increase in its customer base.

It is the first company in the South West to qualify as a certification body for the Government’s Cyber Essentials programme. www.securious.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHTS

EXETER CHIEFS NEWS MARK STEVENS brings you the latest from inside Sandy Park

E XETER RUGBY CLUB/JMP

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

New Hawksmoor CEO Sarah Soar

Hawksmoor Investment Management has announced that Sarah Soar (pictured) will join the company as chief executive officer, based in the Exeter office. The firm has also appointed Brian AshfordRussell as a non-executive director of the company… Richard Baker is the new managing partner of South West law firm Stephens Scown LLP… Stephens Scown LLP’s Exeter family team has also recruited Kai Whicker as a solicitor... Ashley Petrons becomes equity campaigns manager at Crowdcube…

Libraries Unlimited, the charity responsible for running Devon and Torbay libraries, has welcomed new independent trustees Sarah O’Brien and George Lossius to its board… Tim Stone has been appointed as Redrow Homes’ new regional managing director, overseeing projects across the South West, South Wales and the West Country... Amy Langford from The Family Law Company has been appointed as trustee to Citizens Advice Exeter… Juliet Parker and Olivia Forsey have joined Exeter business consultants Momentum South West as head of client solutions and marketing manager respectively…

Tomas Francis: the thighs have it

As Exeter Chiefs head towards the climax of another memorable season at Sandy Park, one in which Rob Baxter’s side has again prospered at the summit of England’s top tier, so attentions will soon switch to the summer and the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Four years on from the last tournament, held here in England – and what included three fixtures here in Exeter – excitement is mounting nicely for what promises to be the mostly keenly-contested competition yet.

Reigning champions New Zealand will head to the Far East as favourites to defend their title, but behind them there will be a host of countries, England included, who will be secretly plotting their quest for glory.

Four years ago, the Chiefs had a splattering of stars competing on rugby’s biggest stage. Club captain Dean Mumm was part of the Australia side that got to the final, Tomas Francis helped Wales to the quarter-final, whilst Michele Campagnaro (Italy) and Elvis Taione and Fetu’u Vainikolo (Tonga) featured for their countries in the group stages.

However, it proved a disappointing campaign for England, who included Chiefs trio Geoff Parling, Jack Nowell and Henry Slade within their ranks.

Lock Parling was a regular for Stuart Lancaster’s side during the tournament, but for Nowell and Slade, their involvement was restricted to an outing against Uruguay in the group stages.

Fast forward to modern-day and both Nowell

and Slade will be hoping to play a more significant role this time round in Japan. Both have established themselves as first-team regulars in Eddie Jones’ plans, whilst club-mates Luke Cowan-Dickie, Alec Hepburn, Ben Moon and Harry Williams will also be hoping to make the plane.

Elsewhere, Francis is again expected to be part of a strong Welsh challenge, while Sam Skinner and Stuart Hogg, the latter of whom will be heading to the Chiefs following the tournament on a two-year deal, will help to spearhead the Scottish threat.

Aussie scrum-half Nic White is another tipped to be making the trip, this after the Wallabies confirmed their interest in the talented 28-year-old following an impressive two-year stint with the Chiefs.

And who knows, Chiefs fans may also get the chance to see the magic feet of Santiago Cordero in action, should he get the nod from his native Argentina. He sparkled at the 2015 tournament and he’s been equally impressive this season for the Chiefs, winning awards and getting himself selected for the Premiership’s Player of the Year accolade.

With such a mix of talent on show, it will certainly make for compelling viewing for Exeter supporters over the summer months, after which we’ll strap ourselves in once more for another season of domestic and European battle.

For more: www.exeterchiefs.co.uk

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business insights Callum’s youth gives his employer a fresh perspective

The Way I See It

SHOULD i GET AN APPRENTICE? Callum Moates, 20, is the business marketing administrator apprentice for an Exeter-based creative agency. Here’s how it works…

H

aving an apprentice gives a company potential talent that they can train up. It’s also a good way for them to get that fresh ‘next generation’ approach – essential in a creative industry as it’s constantly changing and there are

always new trends.

As a 20-year-old, I’m always on social media so on top of what’s happening in the digital world, which helps in my role at Bigwave Media.

As an apprentice, I’m keen to prove myself and come up with new ideas. I’ve been helping look into influencer marketing with the team and gaining an in-depth knowledge, which could be a new arm for the company. I don’t know of any other digital agencies doing this in the South West, so that could be really big for us to be at the forefront and be ahead of the game.

I’ve always wanted to go into this sector, so I applied to go to university to do marketing, but the one I selected didn’t have space so offered me a degree in economics. I’d already done an

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A-level in this subject and wasn’t really a fan!

I don’t regret not going to university because I’m surrounded by highly-skilled people and getting first-hand training on the job, rather than just sitting in a room learning from a lecturer writing on the board. When my apprenticeship is done, I’ll have gotten real experience, and that’s what drove me to be an apprentice, because I want to do physical work.

Honestly, I was trying my luck with a lot of different agencies and there was hardly anything available, then Bigwave cropped up on the Exeter College website and they were big in the marketplace in the South West, so I thought it would be a great place to start my career.

Ahead of my interview I learned all about the company and thought about what I could learn, so at interview I was prepared with what I could offer and they took me on.

Personally, I think when I first started, I was too excited about proving myself and show what I could do, so came across a bit bolshie! I always

rushed to get my work in and then saw I was making mistakes. I soon realised if I took more time it would be a better piece of work. Now I’ve learned that you have to sometimes take a step back and work with other people as a team. I mean, I’m only six months through, so I’ve got a long way to go and am still learning a lot.

Because it’s a digital apprenticeship with Exeter College I’m encouraged to be involved with the digital side, social media, PPC, SEO and all of that stuff. And I’ve taken it upon myself to learn more, so I got Kat, who is the SEO executive, to give me one-onone sessions weekly to gain more insight and a broader knowledge. That’s what’s great about an apprenticeship, you’re not stuck to doing just one thing. And because we have so many skilled people working here who are all so patient and helpful, I’m learning so much.

“Personally, i think when i first started, i was too excited”

For more: www.bigwavemedia.co.uk / www.gkpr.co.uk www.bigwavemedia.co.uk/askcal

BUSINESS INSIGHTS

EXETER LIVING AWARDS 2019 AIR MARKETING GROUP BUSINESS SERVICES WINNER SPONSORED BY

for the last two years and haven’t won so it was great to come away victorious this year. We were determined to party on the night, regardless of the result, but winning made it much more fun. We were in the biggest category and up against some amazing businesses, too.

Booming business development company Air Marketing Group saw off an incredibly strong field to be named winners of their category at the Exeter Living Awards earlier this year. Here, managing director Owen Richards tells us how they think they did it, and what lies ahead…

Why do you think Air Marketing Group won?

We’ve seen amazing growth in the past few years and have created around 60 jobs in Exeter since our launch in 2016, so I’d expect that to have had some impact. We’re proud of our brand reputation and our achievements, and we work hard at everything that we do, including being a great place to work for all our team. So hopefully these things had an influence, too.

So how did it feel to win an Exeter Living Award?

Amazing. We’ve been finalists

Where are you displaying your award?

On our reception desk in our entrance, where everyone can see it.

of culture and ethics and how they play such a critical role in the success of any organisation.

What was the catalyst behind your founding the business in 2016?

I worked for our sister company in Sydney, Australia, for eight years as an employee. My wife and I moved back to the UK in 2015 to start a family and we saw Exeter as a great place to build our home in the UK. The business was a no brainer after our success in Australia. I wanted to build something I could be proud of, and something that provided me with a platform to use my creativity and ambition in a way that wasn’t as restricted as it might be when you work for someone else. But perhaps having a baby, emigrating to another continent and starting a business all at the same time was a bit much, in hindsight.

Who are your inspirations in the Exeter business world?

The likes of Crowdcube and Lightfoot are doing great things, growing quickly and bringing investment into the city, which creates jobs and growth. And who wouldn’t be inspired by Rob Baxter at the Chiefs? He is a great example to everyone on the importance

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

Be comfortable with being uncomfortable, and be comfortable with change.

“WE’RE HOPING FOR OUR FIRST AIR WEDDING SOON” What plans do you have for Air Marketing Group in 2019?

More growth, more jobs being created and more fun. We’re aiming to add close to another £1million in revenue this year and we are investing in the growth of our sister company Roots2Market.

2019 is going to be an exciting year for us. We’re also hoping to win some more big brands as clients and launch our new, bespoke sales CRM technology that we have invested heavily in this year.

What do you love most about running a business in Exeter?

First and foremost, I love the people Exeter has helped us to pull together to build #TeamAir. They inspire me every day with how hard they work, how passionate they are and how much they bring to their roles and our business. Outside of Air, I really enjoy being part of a business community who genuinely care about each other and look to help where they can. It never fails to amaze me how many brilliant businesses and creative people there are in Exeter. For a small city, we punch well above our weight.

Tell us a secret about life at Air...

Air is building a bit of a reputation for being a matchmaker. We’re hoping for our first Air wedding soon.

For more: www.air-marketing.co.uk

Air punch!

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business insights

exeter living awards 2019 APPLE BLOSSOM CAFÉ CAFÉ/COFFEE SHOP WINNER

A vital part of its community since 2014, Apple Blossom Café on Cowick Street will do you everything from a Monday morning latte to a Friday night burger, a wedding buffet to a takeaway, and was a hugely popular winner at the 2019 Exeter Living Awards in March.

We grabbed a few moments with busy chef-owner Jason ‘Jay’ Turton…

So how did it feel to win an Exeter Living Award?

Overwhelming and unexpected! To go from being shortlisted last year, which was an incredible achievement in itself, to actually winning this year was unbelievable. Especially in

such a strong category – we are very proud and grateful.

Why do you think Apple Blossom Café won?

I like to think we have shown that we have established a thriving café that is consistent in the high quality of our food, coffee and service. We have a welcoming and warm atmosphere that we pride ourselves on. We may be small, but we pack a good punch!

What are your most amusing memories of the night?

Ha! The Good Game boys trying to get the crowd to do the Mexican wave!

How did Apple Blossom Café get started?

After working as a chef in Exeter for 15 or so years in a few different areas, I wanted the challenge and pride of running my own business. I wanted to utilise the skills and knowledge I have acquired and put them to the test.

What are the most popular things on your menu?

Oh, the full English breakfast is definitely a hit. We also offer something a bit different, like our

“It’s been great getting to know, and being a part of, such a wonderful community” house favourite bubble ’n’ squeak, and our vibrant seasonal hash.

Tell us what it’s like doing business in St Thomas

It’s fantastic. We have an amazing loyal customer base, but we are also constantly welcoming new faces.

It’s been great getting to know, and being a part of, such a wonderful community.

What’s coming up for you over the rest of 2019, and what are your ambitions for the next couple of years?

We are excitedly working on our Weekend Burger Nights, which are already a huge hit, as well as the occasional Gourmet Bistro Night.

We also have upcoming catering and events this year. Mainly, we will be building on the success of the past year.

Which other cafés do you admire in Exeter?

I have to mention The Exploding Bakery on Queen Street as a personal favourite, and give a shout out to Pink Moon, a great up-andcoming new business.

What do you love most about Exeter in general?

It’s a great place to raise my family.

Exeter has everything we need without being too big a city. The restaurant, bar and café scene is brilliant, and we love being close to the beach.

In a nutshell, why should our readers drop by Apple Blossom Café soon?

We serve delicious coffee and our menu has something to suit everyone, including the kids.

Or leave them at home (with a babysitter, please!) and come down on a Friday or Saturday night when we turn into a burger joint and bar!

Get it down your neck, Jay, you deserve it …

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For more: Facebook: applecafeuk

property

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JUST DO IT (UP) Looking for a project? Five fabulous opportunities await in our pick of the market’s most promising do-er up-ers 58 I exeter living I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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ometimes it just doesn’t feel like a forever home unless you’ve poured your blood, sweat and tears into it. Here are some of the best diamonds-in-the-rough on the market in Exeter right now.

1BURNTHOUSE FARM

If you’ve ever dreamed of transforming a neglected old farmhouse into a des-res, here’s one for you. The Grade II-listed, probably 17th century Burnthouse Farm near Newton Poppleford is currently on the market for the first time in living memory. There’s plenty of period gorgeousness to preserve across its three reception rooms, kitchen, bathroom and four bedrooms – the pretty, six-pane casement windows, beams, thatched roof and an art deco fireplace, for example – but also masses of scope for modernisation and improvement. Two acres of land come included, as do a number of outbuildings including two large barns which, subject to planning, could be converted into extra accommodation. Get Kevin McCloud on the line!

Guide price £700,000; Wilkinson Grant & Co, Exeter The Old City Library, 1 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT 01392 427500; www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

2PINHOE ROAD

Yes, there’s an avocado bathroom suite and the carpets have to go.

But what a bargain, and an opportunity, this cute, red-brick period terraced house near Polsloe Bridge in Mount Pleasant presents. You get two double bedrooms and, on the ground floor, a living room, dining room, and a kitchen. The latter is at the rear, joined to two sheds and an outdoor lavvy, and is thus so ripe for the knock-through-and-bifolddoors treatment we can hear Kirstie Allsopp cantering towards it now.

Retro-enthusiasts will want to keep the two mid-century fireplaces. And it’s being sold with no onward chain so you could have a skip outside within six weeks...

Guide price £210,000; Naomi J Ryan, 23 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PR; 01392 215283; naomijryan.co.uk

3MOOR CREST

Look at the windows on it! Four big bay ones and three leaded light ones. Then there’s the south-facing, walled back garden, four good bedrooms, three receptions, a generous plot for this neck of the

woods, in a great location that’s walking distance from Waitrose and the city centre... Yep, with a bit of time and cash this handsome detached property on Heavitree Road in St Leonards, would make a cracking, modern family home. You’re definitely going to want to get the paint chart out – although that 1950s all-pink bathroom suite is unintentionally very 2019. The Exeter Christadelphian Chrch is next door, so that’s at least one neighbour who won’t keep you up all night with wild parties.

Guide price £450,000; Wilkinson Grant & Co, Exeter The Old City Library, 1 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT 01392 427500; www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

4EXE VALE ROAD

If you’re even thinking of having kids, get a bungalow. You’ll thank us when you can do the hoovering and change nappies without dragging your knackered body up stairs. Just so happens, this three-bedroom detached single storey dwelling in popular Countess Wear is crying out for some TLC. Look around and it’s easy to imagine possible reconfigurations of the internal layout – such as incorporating the garden room into the living area to create a knockout, open plan family room. Well-established front garden, secluded south-east-facing rear garden, detached garage and driveway parking, too, and you’re close to King George Playing Fields and riverside walks.

Guide Price £350,000; Naomi J Ryan, 23 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PR; 01392 215283; naomijryan.co.uk

5PENNSYLVANIA ROAD

Now here’s a project to delight even the most DIY-averse of househunters. A formidable, three-storey, 2,100 square-feet, Edwardian, six-bed semi in leafy Pennsylvania, groaning with charming period features like high ceilings, ornate coving, sash windows and period fireplaces. It needs a complete refurb – although, to be honest, even in its ‘before’ state it’s darned Instagrammable. You could subdivide the space into separate flats (subject to the necessary consents) but we’d be planning to keep the whole thing to ourselves.

The property is offered for sale by informal tender (unless sold prior).

Tenders are to be submitted by noon on 31 May. Contact the agents for more info. n Guide price: £350,000; Stags, 21 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PR; 01392 799076; www.stags.co.uk

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TOPSHAM EXETER

Guide Price £850,000

A stunning Grade II Listed period property, renovated and extended by the current owners to create a fantastic family home.

Arranged over four floors the accommodation comprises open-plan kitchen/dining room with bi-fold doors leading out to the garden, cloakroom, utility room, snug, good sized family room and stairs leading down to a useful cellar, first floor sitting room with wood-burner and attractive exposed brick to one wall, bedroom and bathroom. On the top two floors are 4 further bedrooms. Fully enclosed rear garden with patio, garden shed, and rear access.

For further details telephone Joel Moore on 01392 875000 or email j.moore@wilkinsongrant.co.uk

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

St Leonards EXETER

Guide Price £350,000

A superb riverside apartment modernised to a particularly high standard. Living and dining room, newly fitted kitchen with granite work surfaces, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom and further shower room. Communal gardens with river frontage and direct access to delightful riverside walks and cycle paths. Just over a mile from Exeter city centre. Double glazing, garage and allocated car parking space.

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 LIVING SERVICES GUIDE FUNERAL DIRECTORS

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EXETER LIVES

“Let’s just say things got hot!” our epic coastline – Exmouth to Budleigh and back. I think the toughest part of the challenge is going to be sharing a tent with some smelly blokes that have no washing facilities!

Which celebrities have the best hair, right now, in your view?

NATHAN PLUMRIDGE The local hairdressing supremo is aiming very high this June…

Nathan Plumridge founded Energy Hair in 1997 with his late father. This year, to celebrate its 21st birthday, the salon nestled in the Devon countryside at Darts Farm is throwing itself into a series of exciting events, competitions and charitable endeavours.

In fact, on 7 June, Nathan will begin an ascent of the Atlas Mountains in North Africa to raise money for The Royal Marines Charity. Sponsor him at www.justgiving. com/fundraising/nathanplumridge2 Whereabouts do you live, and what makes it special?

I live on the edge of Topsham, literally five minutes from our amazing hair salon. I love living here as we have great access to not

only one of the best places to live in the country but great railway links and the fantastic River Exe cycle path. Topsham has an array of lovely restaurants and shops that we use on a regular basis as well as stunning views.

How’s life at Energy Hair at the moment?

Life at Energy is hectic in a good way! The salon continues to grow with new clients, thanks to the recommendations from our incredible and loyal existing clients – it’s down to them that we keep wanting to achieve more. They are the catalyst to our next expansion, which will hopefully be starting in July.

How are you planning for your Atlas Mountains ascent?

We’re training locally by using

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Ruby Rose and Justin Timberlake.

Ruby’s hair is a short textured crop with soft ashy tones that is bang on trend for the summer. Justin’s hair is a slightly longer fade with a side parting, a more classic look that a lot of men can wear.

Do you have a nickname?

very, very, very hot curry one night and I picked up one of the chillis.

I forgot to wash my hands and the next morning I went to the bathroom and wham! Let’s just say things got hot! My wife was crying with laughter.

When did you last cry, and why?

A few weeks ago I spent the evening at home listening to music whilst my wife was out and a few songs came on that my dad loved to listen to and that was it, waterworks. I miss my dad every day.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Plumbum! Ever since a skiing trip as a teenager when an instructor called my name out wrong!

Jim Carrey. He’s crazy, very similar to me.

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

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

For something chilled it would be One More Light by Linkin Park.

Something to fire me up would be Hysteria by Muse! Epic song.

What’s been your best fancy dress costume?

The year we had the really heavy snow, myself and my late father dressed up as pregnant nuns.

We made the front page of the paper whilst shovelling snow. The headline was ‘You don’t see that every day.’

Who’s your celebrity crush?

My celebrity crush would be Téa Leoni, but that’s because she looks like my wife and acts like her too.

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

I made a fatal error of having a

I am all about independent businesses that are consistent so, for me, James at The Redwing in Lympstone is a favourite – amazing scotch egg starter. The lovely Marcello’s in Topsham is our family favourite for a good Italian meal – brilliant pizza. And if we are fine dining then it has to be Michael Caines at Lympstone Manor, and Tom and his team at The Salutation in Topsham – both offer amazing taster menus and incredible service.

We’d better let you get on…

What are you doing right after this?

I’m about to sit down with my incredible wife and discuss the day over a beautiful smoked haddock kedgeree. n www.energyhair.com