Exeter Living - Issue 260

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property #ExeterTogether

ISSUE 260 / EXETER WINS / £3

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ISSUE 260 / EXETER TOGETHER

Exeter Living

Awards special

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EDITOR’S LETTER

© SIMON TUT T Y

ABOVE: Buckfast Abbey Gardens, see page 12; BELOW: Exeter Living award winners, see page 25

T

his issue has been a strange one to put together. If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that Exeter Living celebrates the very best of Exeter, it’s what we do. And we do it by sharing with you the exciting events that are happening or are about to happen in the city; things you can do, see, buy, eat, and experience. Except, of course, these things are not currently happening and nobody has a crystal ball on the timeline or scale of events to come. So, firstly this is a note to say that as we go to print events that we have written about in this issue were going ahead but will probably have been cancelled or postponed by the time this issue reaches you. We hope you understand.

But there is plenty of other non time-sensitive content here which we hope you will enjoy – namely a bumper section on our Exeter Living Awards that took place earlier this month.

The awards celebrate the independent businesses in Exeter; they raise a glass to the people that make the city of Exeter the thriving hub that it is. There’s no getting away from the fact that these are tough times for the indies in Exeter so it seems particularly pertinent to give them the all the support and love that we can right now.

We might not be able to enjoy all the pickings of Exeter at present but we will be looking for and writing about the good stuff happening in our community right now. Greg Ingham, CEO of MediaClash, has written a piece on page 11 about how we move forwards during this challenging time and how you can get involved. Got a story about Exeter’s community spirit? Or a feel-good piece about how your local businesses? We want to hear about it!

See you in the next issue, where we’ll continue to celebrate the very best of Exeter and its amazing people. #ExeterTogether

HARRIET NOBLE Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving

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

Issue 260/Exeter Together 2020 COVER Exeter Living ward winners, photos ta en by att ound

UPFRONT

06 SPOTLIGHT ll the good stuff that’s happening 11 GREG INGHAM E of edia lash with a

special message

27 EXETER LIVING AWARDS ll the stories from

the night, including our ama ing winners

COVER FEATURE

12 GARDENS he gorgeous green spaces to visit

55

06

THE ARTS

20 WHAT’S ON he arts and culture round up

SHOPPING

37 INTRO Some ocean inspired spar lers 40 EDITOR’S CHOICE Easter goodies

BUSINESS

42 EXETERWORKS ll the movers and sha ers

in town

PROPERTY

47 NEW BUILDS he latest bric s and mortar 51 SHOWCASE n eco property that could be yours 55 INTERIORS reamy bathrooms

REGULARS

66 SEVEN DEADLY SINS

roc star reveals all

40 Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors Tamara Pitelen Advertising manager Carolyn Southcott carolyn.southcott @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 Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production Designer Gemma Scrine gemma.scrine@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash. co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk 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, and Exeter. 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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Everybody’s talking about…

QUAY TO THE CITY

Good news for literature lovers. Exeter Canal and Quay Trust (ECQT) has just announced the success of its bid to Arts Council England National Lottery Projects to fund a further two years of Quay Words, celebrating words and stories at Exeter Custom House.

A grant of £98,000, with further support of £60,000 from ECQT secures the continued development of this literature hub which is a partnership between ECQT, the charity charged with developing Exeter Quayside, and Literature Works, the literature development charity for South West England.

Not familiar with Quay Words? The initiative involves a series of writing events such as author readings and workshops for the local community, all housed in Exeter Custom House and with the purpose of showcasing literature in an accessible and democratic way. he writing spaces include historic garrets with views and first oor rooms that are wheelchair accessible. uay ords is also one of the initiatives that helped Exeter with its successful bid to gain UNESCO City of Literature status.

“To create a hub for literature at such an accessible and well known location is fantastic,” says Cllr Rachel Sutton, Exeter City Council’s lead Councillor for Culture.

“Culture is so important to Exeter, and I couldn’t be more pleased to see this exciting programme expand and develop in the coming years. This really is great news for the city and I congratulate everyone involved.”

For more: www.exetercustomhouse.co.uk

Good news for the wordsmiths in Exeter

Get your sparkle on

Fundraising

SPARKLE AND SHINE

Brain Tumour Support, a charity that runs monthly support groups in Exeter, is asking for local groups, schools, companies and communities to get involved with Sparkle Day on the 7 May – a fundraising day that involves people bringing a bit of sparkle into their day and donating to Brain Tumour Support.

“Whether it’s edible glitter on some cupcakes, wearing something sparkly to work or sticking glitter in your beard, we want everyone to get involved, get together, and donate,” says CEO Tina Mitchell Skinner, who set up the charity 16 years ago after losing her husband to a brain tumour. “Demand for our services is constantly growing and we urgently need to help more brain tumour patients and their families. To do this we rely on donations and we hope that the people of Devon will get behind our campaign and help us achieve our vision that no-one should feel alone when facing a brain tumour diagnosis.”

The charity hopes that local schools, companies, community groups and individuals will come up with unique ways of sparkling up their day. “Last year, we had teachers, social wor ers, fire fighters, hospital staff, playgroups, friends, families and even pets joining in,” adds Mrs Mitchell Skinner.

For more: www.braintumoursupport.co.uk

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

SPOTLIGHT Arts

THE WINNER IS… YOU DECIDE!

If you haven’t got round to voting for your favourite art group, now is the time! RAMM (Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery) annual Local Art Show has returned, giving art groups and societies from Exeter and the surrounding area the chance to exhibit their work in an exhibition. RAMM has asked local art groups to submit a body of work, this year’s theme is RAMM and its collections. The public – that’s you – vote for the art group that you like the best. The winning group then has their art work exhibited at RAMM. The three Devon art groups competing for the Exeter Living Local Art Show 2020 are: Double Elephant Print Workshop, Magic Carpet and Topsham Art Group.

COMPETITION DETAILS Where can I see the art of the finalists?

Pieces from each finalist will be on RAMM’s website: www.rammuseum.org.uk/exeter-living-local-art-show-2020 How can I vote?

Please send your nomination to localartshow@mediaclash.co.uk Please put the name of the group you would like to win in the subject line.

What is the deadline for voting?

The voting runs from 6 March until 3 April.

When will the winner be announced?

17 April – on RAMM’S website and on their social media platforms.

When can I see the art?

The winning group will display their work at RAMM from 20 May to 17 June.

TOP: Totem Pole Screenprint by Sally Christopher, Double Elephant Print Workshop MIDDLE: Painting the Plants of the Ocean by Roger Bishop, Topsham Art Group BOTTOM: Joey by Matthew Cheriton, Magic Carpet

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#ExeterTogether Share your good news

THIS TOO SHALL PASS

@ExeterLiving

#EXETER TOGETHER GREG INGHAM

It’s tough, but this too shall pass MediaClash CEO Greg Ingham joins us for the first of an occasional series of columns during the current crisis #ExeterTogether

“It’s tough – but this too shall pass #ExeterTogether”

T

here are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen.”

Vladimir Ilyich Lenin hasn’t appeared too often in Exeter Living, oddly. But his quote was made for the week in March where our worlds changed utterly.

Just before 5pm on the Monday, ritain effectively, largely, stopped. ces o be closed. ubs, restaurants, caf s mmm Schools, colleges, nis nly a question of time. hat was barely hours ago for me, writing this; it already feels like aeons ago. For you reading this column in the days and weeks to come, the world will have changed completely.

But just as we all know that these are the toughest of tough times, so we all know that these times shall pass. ow long that ta es, we don’t know. Until then, we stand together in support of each other.

Exeter ogether Look out for each other, look after each other. Check in. We all need help to get through this. he friendships and sheer decency of people in Exeter are such positive forces in good times. n bad times, it is absolutely vital.

We’re sure that we’ll all seek to apply this sort of empathy and thoughtfulness to our family, colleagues, clients and customers. hey will appreciate it. ore than that, it’s the right thing to do.

We can all help. And the businesses have the greatest opportunity to help. hey have the connections. ime to use them.

W

hat are we doing to help at Exeter Living Our approach in every issue here and in our sister magazines in Bath, ristol and ardiff is to continue to find the good stuff to celebrate – always. We’ll be publishing as normal, in these utterly abnormal times. So please: ontact our Editor arry oble harriet.noble@mediaclash.co.uk

with your news. ag or follow us on witter and nsta Exeter iving Exeter iving wd Exeter rop wds and send your messages – we’ll then help promote. se the hashtag Exeter ogether ell us about any new initiatives – new support groups, new food distribution, new charity activities.

Anything which you know about which companies and organisations are doing to help us all through this • Look out for our emails with news of our city. If you are not on the lists, please email liam.jones@ mediaclash.co.uk ur events li e the celebration of our 15 years of publishing and our Summer arty are on hold at the moment. But they will return. We will all celebrate together, just as we did at the Awards earlier this month.

And our plans are full steam ahead for the new Exeter roperty wards in ovember. ommunality matters more than ever

T

here’s a phrase, “A rising tide oats all boats .

As a business strategy, it’s perhaps a tad inert

if true.

But think of it like this. We all have to find a way of hun ering down, of getting through this. f showing love, support and thoughtfulness – always. While just as always supporting our local Exeter businesses where we can.

Because when that rising tide comes owing bac in, as it surely will, there will be such joy, such sense of release, such achievement in getting through it – and such opportunity for all of us.

We face this challenge together.

Stay safe.

#ExeterTogether @ExeterLiving

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 11

Buckfast Abbey in full bloom

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

GARDENS

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Lavender and sensory gardens, meadows, woodlands, even lakes where otters splash about – these are the gorgeous green spaces you can visit nearby BUCKFAST ABBEY, DEVON

Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0EE; www.buckfast.org.uk

We caught up with head gardener, Aaron Southgate...

Tell us a bit about the history

“We have plants and herbs used by the monks in previous centuries to cure everyday ailments

Buckfast Abbey is the home of a working community of Benedictine monks. The Abbey was founded by King Canute in 1018. It fell into ruins after the dissolution of the monasteries in the reign of Henry VIII, before being re-built by a group of exiled French monks 350 years later, a real labour of love. The gardens are visited by thousands of people every year and offer a tran uil haven from the pressures of daily life. We aim to replicate the sense of community among the monks in our approach to the gardens.

Our ethos is to garden organically and as sustainably as possible.

There is an adage: feed the soil to feed the plants, and that approach is central to our work here. We enrich the soil in a variety of ways, which include home-made fertiliser, mulch-mowing and our special homebrewed compost tea.

What can we see or do there?

Set within the 30-acre site there are four display gardens: there is the physic garden, which is home to many of the plants and herbs used by the monks in previous centuries to cure everyday ailments. Then we have the sensory garden, designed to appeal to the five human senses.

This space provides year-round interest, with grasses for movement, a seat made of thyme and the highly scented old English roses, Deep Secret and True Romance. he lavender garden boasts over different varieties of this soothing herb. Buzzing with bees, it’s a wonderful place to sit on a

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 13

summer’s day or in the early evening when the light casts a blue haze over the area.

Around the garden, there are plenty of benches in peaceful pockets, where it’s possible to sit and just be. It’s incredible to think that many of the sounds heard here today, the iver art owing in the bac ground, the bells and the birdsong, are like the background noises the monks would have been familiar with over a thousand years ago.

Anything to eat or drink?

es, the shops here offer unusual food, drin and gift items made by mon s and nuns at different abbeys across the continent, including the famous hand-made fudge in the monastery kitchens.

The Grange Restaurant is open every day of the year, except for hristmas ay, and offers coffee, home made ca es, lunches and cream teas. There is a covered outdoor seating area which gives great views of the gardens and the spectacular Abbey Church.

What should we look out for?

or the first time in , we have planted wild owers on many of the slopes – particularly near the entrances to the Abbey. This provides both biodiversity and a long-lasting splash of colour. In addition, we have planted , spring bulbs this year. e plant evergreen shrubs and plants to provide structure throughout the seasons and we have several special trees, including the Handkerchief Tree and the eyecatching California Redwood, which is a rarely seen deciduous conifer.

Any events coming up?

The gardens department runs a packed programme of tours and wor shops throughout the year. e have a being creative with lavender workshop in June, a behind the scenes tour in July, an upcycling workshop in August and a seeds and cuttings tour in September.

The daffodils are out at Fursdon House & Gardens

RHS GARDEN ROSEMOOR Great Torrington, Devon, EX38 8PH www.rhs.org.uk/rosemoor

We caught up with Richard Mulford...

Tell us a bit about your gardens

e opened to the public in when the osemoor ouse and gardens were donated to the RHS by Lady Anne Berry. At the time, only about eight acres of the now 65 acres were already set out as gardens, the rest was pasture land. he S too it on in and set about creating one of the south west’s iconic gardens with two distinct parts – formal gardens and informal meadows, woodlands and lake / stream. his year is our th anniversary year when we’ll be having various events to celebrate and so hopefully this growth will continue.

What’s changed over the years in your gardens?

n , we opened a . m events building which now hosts craft and plant fairs, exhibitions, conferences, weddings, live music and theatre events with guests such as last year Jason Donovan and Leo Sayer.

Coming up this May we have Showaddywaddy, then T’pau in July and the Three Degrees in October. n we opened a brand new garden, designed by a S helsea Flower Show Gold medal designer Jo Thompson. It’s a contemporary garden with water features that help give ideas for dealing with and harnessing ash oods from climate change.

What special stuff should we look out for?

Aaron Southgate is head honcho of gardens in Buckfast Abbey

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

e have the largest rose gardens in the south west with over , roses. Plus our iconic hot garden with stunning vibrant colours from July through to early autumn complements our brand new cool garden. hen there is the calming la e where otters have been filmed, a fully productive fruit and vegetable garden which supplies the restaurant

GARDENS with produce for the daily menus, and an arboretum with trees from all across the orthern emisphere. atural wild ower meadows change from yellow through to purple and are a haven for wildlife. he pper oodlands also are carpeted in over , English luebells.

Anything unusual or particularly eye-catching?

ur stunning event G , when you really can see the gardens in a new light with high tech winter illuminations lighting up trees, shrubs, sculptures and water features.

What plants should we be purchasing?

How about a cactus, bonsai orchid or terrarium for indoors? For outdoors, in evon you can get away planting a banana tree in a sheltered spot or the more adventurous you could grow chillies.

Any events coming up?

e run or host over different events, courses, wor shops through the course of the year with something on every wee . e even have a holiday panto to lin in with our lower airies theme with a trip to everland with the spectacular Peter Pan from Gary Starr antomimes.

FURSDON HOUSE & GARDENS Fursdon House, Cadbury, Exeter, EX5 5JS www.fursdon.co.uk

We caught up with head gardener Katie Vanstone…

Prettiest flowers aplenty at St Bridget Nurseries

Tell us a bit about your gardens

hey first opened to the public, along with the manor house, in . hese were oined by a tea room, housed in the old oach all, ust a few years later. hen avid and atriona ursdon too over running the house and estate in , the garden had been sadly neglected for many years. ver the last years, wor has been ongoing to restore, redesign, and extend the gardens. any trees and hedges have been planted, and new owerbeds created, which are now generously pac ed with shrubs, roses and herbaceous planting in a relaxed, informal style. ast summer, stewardship of ursdon was passed on to the next generation, and wor continues to develop the gardens further.

What do you love about the gardens?

hen started wor ing as gardener here three years ago, uic ly fell for the magic of ursdon t is such a special place. estled in the heart of the rolling mid evon hills, the peaceful four acre gardens surrounding the ursdon family home offer stunning views across the Exe alley countryside. he gardens aren’t formal and clipped to perfection and that’s exactly how we li e them hey are relaxed and welcoming, full of colour and interest, and hope that they are an inspiring and uplifting place for visitors to en oy.

Anything unusual or particularly eye-catching?

he oach all planters are filled with tulips and wall owers for spring, and this summer, the display includes dahlias, grasses, salvias, gaura and sweet peas inspiration for garden lovers as they en oy tea and a home ba ed treat at the tea room

Katie Vanstone from Fursdon House & Gardens has the clippers at the ready

“The leaves can be used to make an amazing sorbet”

In terms of how you decide what to grow in your garden, who or what inspires you?

ursdon is very much a wildlife friendly garden, and strive to choose

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 15

GARDENS

plants for the garden that will encourage wildlife – hopefully creating a very healthy eco-system. Visitors often comment on how alive the garden is with birdsong, bees and butter ies which is wonderful. take inspiration for my planting schemes from various places – a lot of reading , and visit as many other gardens as possible, too.

What is your favourite garden near Exeter?

avourite garden ough uestion here are so many love to visit.

My favourite near Exeter has to be the wonderful High Garden in Kenton. A true plantsman’s garden, owned by the lovely Chris and Sharon Britton, is packed with interesting plants and trees – so much inspiration!

Any cool plants you recommend growing?

wouldn’t be without a lemon verbena plant it needs a sunny, sheltered spot, planted in the ground or a large pot. t’s brilliant for brushing past to release its amazing lemony scent when a refreshing pick-me-up is needed! A herb with so many uses; to name a few – the leaves can be used to make amazing sorbet, delicious tea, and a sprig of it in a gin and tonic, sipped in the summer sunshine, is just the best!

What events have you got coming up?

Trees & Woods Day on 28 June, 2-5pm. Come and celebrate our amazing, very varied and very beautiful trees.

ST BRIDGET NURSERIES

Two locations: Old Rydon Lane and Clyst St Mary Exeter www.stbridgetnurseries.co.uk

We caught up with managing director Tammy Falloon …

RHS Garden Rosemoor in full bloom

TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

“When you go into a garden centre speak to a member of the plant team and tell them what your lifestyle is like. I strongly believe that people who say they can’t garden – can they just don’t know it yet.

Choosing the right plant and understanding what it does in each season is the first step to becoming a gardener.

Tammy Falloon, St Bridget Nurseries

“The late, great gardener, Beth Chatto, said ‘Right plant, right place’, and it’s excellent advice! Whether it’s a plant you’ve bought or grown yourself, make sure you find out what conditions it needs to grow well and that your garden can provide them – then it will thrive and encourage you to grow more.

Katie Vanstone, Fursdon House & Gardens “Have a watch of gardening programmes and see what inspires you, visit lots of gardens including friends and family and make a note of the bits, the plants you like or don’t like. Decide how much time you want to spend in your garden as this will help you decide what plants to look out for.”

Richard Mulford, RHS Garden Rosemoor “Take your time and think about the primary use of the garden – is it for relaxation, to grow food or outdoor space for family life?

Draw up a plan and be meticulous with measurements. Take a bird’s eye view over the area and be sure to include on your plan only those features unlikely to be changed, such as trees.

Create your ‘desire lines’ – where will the paths run, where is the best place to sit in the sun and the shade?”

Aaron Southgate, Buckfast Abbey

Tell us a bit about your garden centres

We were established in 1925 on an acre of land that my later greatgrandparents used to grow a mar et crop of owers called nemone St rigid. ver the years we started to grow field and container grown crops and evolve into a garden centre business.

How has your garden centre developed?

There have been a lot of changes over the years. Not least during the Second World War when all production had to be halted as the family were involved in the dig for victory campaign instead. The types and uantities of crops we grow have altered over the years too. hen was a child we supplied thousands of trees but as gardens have become smaller so too has the demand for larger plants. This year will see further change as we sadly close our Old Rydon Lane garden centre at the end of May to focus and develop our centre at Clyst St Mary. We will continue to use the Old Rydon Lane site for growing plants.

What is special about your centres?

oth our garden centres have a caf , ma ing us a great day out. ’ve also heard us referred to as ‘an oasis in the city’!

“There is the calming lake where otters have been filmed”

What plants are proving popular?

The top seller in late spring is bedding plants. These are your ouncy, bright, impactful annual plants that are used in pots, hanging baskets and

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 17

Get ready for the summer and enjoy your garden again.

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Landscape Architecture & Design Full Hard & Soft Landscaping Groundworks Garden Maintenance Bespoke Garden Offices Summer Houses & Habitable Sheds Sunrooms / Conservatories & Orangeries Contact us today to discuss your garden project T: 01395 260168 | E: enquiries@urban-earth.co.uk Urban Earth. Unit 17, Dinan Way Trading Estate, Concord Road, Exmouth, Devon, EX8 4RS

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GARDENS NO SPACE?

You can still have a garden…

“A house plant or window box can still bring incredible pleasure.

To see things grow and flower or produce fruit and vegetables is good for mental health – it has been proven how beneficial it is for people’s health and well-being.”

Richard Mulford, RHS Garden Rosemoor “If you don’t have much space, consider making a pond in a small container, such as a barrel. This will help attract wildlife, as will sowing wild flowers and planting garden shrubs like Buddleia.”

Aaron Southgate, Buckfast Abbey “Think of the vertical (use it) and choose slow growing plants to keep things small and manageable.”

Tammy Falloon, St Bridget Nurseries

borders. As we move into summer perennials take the top spot; these are plants you would typically see on a chocolate box picture of a evon ottage. hey offer great value as they die bac after owering and then re-appear year after year.

Any cool plants should we have a go at growing?

Sempervivums also known as succulents or house leeks. They are very trendy and can be grown inside or out. They are very low maintenance and small. The only thing you mustn’t do is get them too wet or freezing. n

Taking a welcome sip of water at Buckfast Abbey

FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS Green Thumb Lawn care www.greenthumb.co.uk/branch/ exeter Otter www.otterhouse.co.uk Bow Aquatics www.bowaquatics.co.uk Homeleigh Garden Centre www.homeleigh.co.uk Radmore Tucker www.radmoretucker.co.uk Mole Avon www.moleavon.co.uk Tuckers country stores www.edwintucker.co.uk/countrystore

Urban and rural plants www.urbanandruralplants.co.uk Kings Garden and leisure www.kingsgardenandleisure.co.uk Bernaville www.bernaville.co.uk A&S Paving www.aspaving.co.uk KJ Stoneman Facebook: @ KJ Stoneman Trago www.trago.co.uk/stores/newtonabbot Shields Buildings www.shieldsbuildings.co.uk Toby’s Garden Festival www.tobygardenfest.co.uk

Beautiful blossom at RHS Rosemoor

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WHAT’S ON

The following information was correct at the time we went to press but due to current events we recommend checking websites and social media for the most recent news

27 March – 24 April

Wind in the Willows is on at Canonteign Falls

EXHIBITION & ART WORKSHOPS Until 12 April

CHERELLE SAPPLETON: AMONG OTHER THINGS Sappleton’s art focusses on feminist agendas and performance using photographic media; she seeks alternative ways to address the problems she identifies with representing ‘blackness’ and the (female) body as an artist.

Her work is grounded in processes of collage and abstraction, which are used to explore and respond to issues of representation, agency and the materiality of photographic imagery.

7.30pm, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Until 10 May

OLD SKILLS NEW WAYS A new exhibition at Devon Guild has school children learning traditional wood craft skills with master craftspeople. The students learnt about sustainable woodland management, nature conservation and the important effect of trees and replanting, on climate change.

Exhibition is free and open daily, 10am - 5.30pm; Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, Devon TQ13 9AF; www.crafts.org.uk

4 April

LIFE DRAWING HALF-DAY WORKSHOP Work from a model and learn the principles of life drawing. Perfect for beginners and those returning to drawing. This course covers a

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

variety of technical and expressive approaches to life drawing.

Materials provided.

10.30am to 1pm, £24, Exeter Phoenix, www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

THEATRE COMEDY & DANCE 27 March

ROB BECKETT: WALLOP! AKA the Mouth of the South, he’s the funny man off the telly with the oppy blonde hair and big teeth and now funny man Rob Beckett is coming to Exeter with his brand-new stand-up show. Laughs aplenty assured.

8pm, Northcott Theatre at The Great Hall; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

1-4 April

EXETER SCOUT AND GANG SHOW 2020 Singing, dancing and sketches from a cast of 80 Cubs, Brownies, Scouts, Guides, Explorers, Rangers and leaders from across Exeter who are swapping camping kit for glamour and glitz. A mix of music, dance and fast-paced comedy, featuring songs from musicals such as The Lord of the Rings and Kinky Boots, as well as hits from American Authors, Ed Sheeran and Nickelback.

7.15 pm with a Saturday matinee at m nfield e e ne n b nfield e e

14 April

A SPORK! SPORKTACULAR Another jam-packed evening of spoken-word poetry featuring

WHAT’S ON depicted the Easter story through the ages. From the triumphant to the savage, the ethereal to the tactile, some of western civilisation’s greatest artworks focus on this pivotal moment.

6pm 8 April and 1pm 12 April; Studio 74, Exeter Phoenix, www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

16 April

ABOVE: The trio will be singing Bee Gees classics at Exeter Corn Exchange LEFT: Rebecca Loebe will be singing in Topsham BELOW: the Scout and Gang Show will be at Barnfield Theatre

two huge headline acts, Carmina Masoliver and Bohdan Piasescki. plus live music and some of the best spoken-word artists and poets from Exeter and Devon. Expect gut wrenching, fist clenching, tear drenching performances from some of the fiercest, funniest and most fabulous spoken-word stars this side of Taunton.

7.30pm, £5, Exeter Phoenix Auditorium, www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

© BRIAN INGR AM

17 April

80S NIGHT AT EXETER RACECOURSE Tonight we’re gonna party like it’s 1984! Spike up your hair, pull on your shoulder pads, and dance like you just don’t care to Madonna, New Order, Prince, David Bowie, and more.

A seven-race card will have the crowds cheering, then it’s on to the dance oor for great music, loud colours, and extreme fashion.

First race 4.55pm, last race 7.55pm; pre-booked tickets from £10; www.exeter-racecourse.co.uk

13 April

DREAM HORSE The true story of a Welsh village who buy and raise a racing horse. With very little money and no experience, the village bartender (played by Toni Collette) convinces her neighbours to chip in their meagre earnings to help raise Dream in the hopes he can compete with the racing elites. The group’s investment pays off as ream rises through the ranks with grit and determination and goes on to race in the Welsh Grand National.

Picturehouse Cinemas, 51 Bartholomew Street West, Exeter EX4 3AJ; www.picturehouses.co.uk

MUSIC & OPERA 2 April

FILM

8 & 12 April

DAVID ATTENBOROUGH: A LIFE ON OUR PLANET In his 93 years, Sir David Attenborough has visited every continent on the globe. Now, for the first time he re ects upon both the defining moments of his lifetime as a naturalist and the devastating changes he has seen. powerful first hand account of humanity’s impact on nature and a message of hope for future generations. he film will be followed by a Q&A with Sir David Attenborough and Sir Michael Palin live from the World Premiere at the Royal Albert Hall. An encore screening is scheduled for 18 April.

7.15pm; £13 or £11 conc.; Studio 74, Exeter Phoenix, www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

EASTER IN ART beautifully crafted film exploring the Easter story as depicted in art, from the time of the early Christians to the present day. Shot on location in Jerusalem, the US and throughout Europe, the film explores the different ways artists have

IMPERIAL BEETHOVEN As part of the #Beethoven250 celebrations, this all-Beethoven programme features former Leeds Piano Competition winner, pianist Sunwook Kim, making his professional conducting debut. Kim has established a reputation as one of the finest pianists of his generation, performing with orchestras all over the world.

The Emperor concerto is the largest in scale of all of Beethoven’s piano concertos. An epic tour de force, pitching soloist and orchestra

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WHAT’S ON

© MARCO BORGGREVE

rock climbing, climbing wall and powerfan descents, artificial caving, improvised raft-building, archery, team-building, bush craft skills and bell-boating. Early morning drop off and late collection options for busy parents.

8am-6pm; Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre, Haven Road, Exeter; www.haven-banks.co.uk

31 March

Sunwook-Kim will be performing at Exeter University

in a musical argument of unprecedented breadth and scale.

7.30pm, Exeter University Great Hall; www.bsolive.com

3 April

AN ORCHESTRAL RENDITION OF DR. DRE: 2001 Not your average orchestral event!

Accompanied by DJs, singers, and lyricists, one of the UK’s leading orchestras performs a complete rendition of Dr. Dre’s 2001 album, followed by Dre’s west coast classics.

Traditional orchestra merges with a modern live hip-hop music event.

7pm - 10pm; £22; standing event at Exeter Phoenix; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

16 April

YOU WIN AGAIN – CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF THE BEE GEES Prepare to experience the distinct sound of one the greatest bands to have ever graced the stage in this unforgettable concert spectacular.

Immerse yourself in the brothers’ music through the sixties, seventies and eighties, including hits they wrote for artists such as Celine Dion, Diana Ross and Dolly Parton.

8pm Exeter Corn Exchange, Market St; www.entertainers.co.uk

17 April

US SINGER SONGWRITER REBECCA LOEBE emember her from the first series of The Voice? Hailing from Atlanta Georgia, award-winning Americana singer-songwriter Rebecca Loebe marries elements of folk, pop, rock, blues and jazz.

7.30pm, St Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham, Exeter, EX3 0HF; www.wegottickets.com

CHARITY 24 April

EXETER CITY COMMUNITY TRUST SHOPPING EVENT An exclusive, ticketed shopping event outside of normal trading hours at John Lewis. All proceeds from ticket sales will be going to the Exeter City Community Trust, Exeter’s largest health and wellbeing charity.

Features style talks from John Lewis fashion and home design stylists, live demonstrations of the latest Google home tech products and the latest espresso coffee machines. eauty houses such as Charlotte Tilbury, Bobbi Brown, Elemis and Sisely, showcase their newest products.

6.30pm-9pm, John Lewis; tickets £5 from John Lewis & Partners Exeter, Waitrose & Partners Exeter, St James Park Stadium and Exeter City Football Club; www.johnlewis.com

FAMILY EVENTS

LOOKING THE PART Fancy dressing up as a Dartmoor shepherd or an Exonian Roman?

Dress up in the style of a bygone era or explore the clothes of different cultures with our selection of costumes. Capture the moment by stepping into the display case, behind

the portrait frame and taking a snap.

Various times; Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery, Queen Street; www.rammuseum.org.uk

4 April

WIND IN THE WILLOWS Grand adventures with Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad. Motorcars, the open road, train chases, mischievous weasels and messing about in boats on the river… with stunning handcrafted puppets and an original score performed live, this classic tale is brought to life, capturing the imaginations of audiences both young and old alike.

The Barn at Canonteign Falls; 4pm-5.30pm; £10 adult, £8 per child (5-16), under 5s free; www.canonteignfalls.co.uk n

LIBRARY LIFE

EMILY MACAULAY shares the latest from Exeter Library In these uncertain times and if you are wondering how you will cope at home if you’re self-isolating, your library can help.

We may not be able to meet all your needs but we can help you access a big range of online books, e-audiobooks and e-magazines? These can all be accessed free of charge, using your library card and PIN (give us a call if you’ve forgotten your number) via apps – Libby, Borrowbox, RB Digital. There’s no late fees either!

Other online library fun includes free access to Naxos, a music catalogue with over 2 million classical tracks and COBRA, a database providing guidance on how to set up a new business.

At the time of writing, Exeter Library and all public libraries across Devon, are open and will remain so until Government advice requires otherwise. Keep an eye on our social media channels (Twitter and Facebook) for up to the minute updates.

Links to all the apps and online resources can be found on our website www.devonlibraries.org.uk

28 March-1 September

THE GREAT BIG BRICK SAFARI Expect over 80 giant wild animal models made from over 1 million LEGO® bricks. From a giant gorilla, a jumbo size elephant and a majestic lion, to marvellous macaws, beautiful butter ies and a cool crocodile, these animals will form the trail for visitors to follow around the zoo.

Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon; www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

30 March-3 April

EASTER HOLIDAY ADVENTURES One day and week long activity courses and sessions for 5-8 and 8-14 year olds. Courses and activity sessions include improver kayaking and sailing courses, canoeing,

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the chef

The local food experts chat inspirations, exciting ingredients and current trends

CHARLOTTE VINCENT

LUKE VANDORE-MACKAY

Where did you train to be a chef?

I trained in the British Army but feel I have learnt way more from experience and working with great chefs.

Why did you decide to become a chef?

My girlfriend in 2003 wanted to go and work on super yachts in the Mediterranean and it sounded fun, so I wrote a ‘creative’ CV and got a job as a chef on a billionaire’s yacht with no experience of cooking professionally.

HEAD CHEF, THE FIVE BELLS INN 01884 277288; www.fivebells.uk.com

What are the qualities of a good chef?

Patience! We fail more times than we succeed; fall down seven, get up eight is my mentality. Trust.... we have to trust ourselves with decisions every day and know they are going to work. Finally, knowing your own self worth – it takes a special someone to take criticism every day and still come out smiling!

HIGH GRANGE DEVON 07814493028; www.highgrangedevon.com

Charlotte Vincent

What do you do to stay on current new trends?

Social media….. it’s where it drops first! Instagram and good bloggers in the know – you can see what’s on trend, grow and adapt.

What is your favourite recipe?

My friend Trish Deseine who is an Irish food writer and TV personality gave me the best recipe ever for a classy chocolate cake. It’s simple, foolproof and easy to commit to memory and has got me out of many a pudding emergency. 200g chocolate, 200g sugar, 200g butter, 5 eggs, 1tbsp plain flour.

Melt the chocolate with the butter then add the flour, sugar and eggs and mix. Pour into cake tin and cook for 22 mins at 180.

Who do you aspire to?

No one – I aspire to be a nice person, respectful, decent and hard working. I aspire to let my food do the talking and help inspire the next generation of young Jedi!

What do you consider to be your speciality dish?

Vegan food – I’ve discovered an insatiable desire to create vegan everything and I’m not vegan myself.

For instance my wild mushroom wellington in vegan pastry and then for dessert, caramelised pineapples with pineapple sorbet and coconut cream.

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

What are the qualities of being a good chef?

Generosity of spirit and a natural desire to ‘feed’ and ‘people please’. I cook because I want to make people happy eating my food.

What type of food excites you most?

In terms of what I cook, anything that is seasonal and/or local – especially game, offal and seafood.

I’m lucky to live in East Devon near Lyme Regis and the local larder is astonishing.

Luke Vandore-Mackay

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

Contact Paula 07563 529772 paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

EXETER LIVING AWARDS 2020

© SIMON TUT T Y

This year as every year, nothing beat being there.

Join us for the highlights of this year’s gong show, and we’ll see you in 2021...

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

MEET 2020’S BEST OF THE BEST

Jane, Greg, Harriet, Carolyn and the Exeter Living team

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

© SIMON TUT T Y

A

s we find ourselves in the current grip of Coronavirus, recognising the achievements of local businesses and showing them support seems more important than ever. And so it was that Exeter Living’s fifth annual Awards showcased a city packed with businesses, organisations and individuals at the top of their game, some of them brand new to the city (a big wave to the many first-timers!) and others long established fixtures and fittings of the place. Inevitably, some categories were more keenly contested than others – though none were a shoo-in for anyone – and though you could perhaps quibble about this winner or that, it’s hard to deny that the overall list of finalists and gong-grabbers shows a city teeming with entrepreneurial spirit.

Highlights from the night included well-deserved, and heartwarming, standing ovations for Jay’s Aim – Helping Young Hearts, who won best charity; and Exeter Respect Festival, the winners of best event and overall Platinum Award. There was also our fantastic host for the evening, the indefatigable Mark Olver, whose energy, warmth, and moves – who could forget the mesmeric dancing with PrincessHay’s Michelle Menezes – set the tone for such a special evening.

Then there were all the inevitable shenanigans with people posing outrageously draped over the big Exeter Living letters or in the Cover Star photo booth – and some slightly less inevitable shenanigans involving the aptly-named human Tinder and a cleanup on aisle stairwell. Finally, a good showing made it to the Pink Moon after party, as messy and as fun as you like – though the morning that followed was, we’re sorry to say, slightly less fun for some of us. At this point in our summing-up of the evening, we’re contractually obliged to include a few key words – ‘uberglam’, ‘nothing beats being there’, ‘Exeter is the winner, always’ – and point out the simple but irrefutable fact that everyone involved (the sponsors, the judges, the partners, and all who fed, entertained, filmed, photographed and supported us) is bloody ace.

Over the years, the Exeter Living Awards have grown exponentially in terms of size and ambition, but retain their key qualities. Inclusive, surprising, good-natured yet competitive, they celebrate a city that does the little things well (creating endless excellent opportunities to grab a coffee or take a yoga class, say) as well as competes, surprisingly often, on the national and international stage.

For all those who attended our event, you made it a truly joyful night. Thank you.

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

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CATEGORY WINNERS

ARTS

WINNER:

EXETER NORTHCOTT THEATRE

PHOTOS BY MAT T ROUND

BAR

WINNER:

THE ODDFELLOWS

BUSINESS SERVICES WINNER:

#NATWEST BOOST

CAFÉ

CHARITY Sponsored by

WINNER:

JAY’S AIM – HELPING YOUNG HEARTS

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

CIVIC

WINNER:

THE DAISY CAFÉ

WINNER:

EXETER CULTURE

– ON BEHALF OF THE EXETER UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE GROUP

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

CREATIVE

EVENT

Sponsored by

WINNER:

BUDDY CREATIVE

WINNER:

EXETER RESPECT FESTIVAL

EDUCATION

FOOD/DRINK PRODUCER Sponsored by

WINNER:

SPARX

WINNER:

BLUE GOOSE COFFEE

HEALTH & WELLBEING Sponsored by

WINNER:

HAIR & BEAUTY

WINNER:

THE HAIR BOUTIQUE

BLUEBIRD CARE EXETER

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

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

HOMES & INTERIORS

WINNER:

PLASTIC SURGEON FINE FINISHERS

LEISURE & TOURISM Sponsored by

PROPERTY Sponsored by

WINNER:

EVENT EXETER

JOINT WINNER:

HILTON BARNFIELD ARCHITECTS AND DHUD

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LEGAL & FINANCIAL

WINNER:

BISHOP FLEMING

Sponsored by

NEW BUSINESS Sponsored by

PROPERTY Sponsored by

WINNER:

PINK MOON

JOINT WINNER:

MI-SPACE UK

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

RESTAURANT Sponsored by

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION Sponsored by

WINNER:

THE CADELEIGH ARMS

WINNER:

SPARX

RETAILER Sponsored by

WINNER:

MOMMA TRUCKER SKATES

SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT

WINNER:

KARIME HASSAN

PLATINUM AWARD Sponsored by

WINNER:

EXETER RESPECT FESTIVAL

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

EXETER LIVING AWARDS MEET THE FINALISTS, WHO LIVE TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY ARTS

• Arts and Culture, University of Exeter • Exeter Corn Exchange Pantomime • Exeter Culture – on behalf of the Exeter UNESCO City of Literature Group • Exeter Northcott Theatre • Theatre Alibi

CAFE

• @143 coffee shop • The Cork and Tile • The Dairy Shop • The Daisy Café • Pink Moon CHARITY

• The Deaf Academy • Estuary League of Friends • Exeter CITY Community Trust • Exeter Pride • Force Cancer BAR Charity • Barnova presents • Jay’s AIM – Helping The Exeter Young Hearts Christmas Market • The Reading List Bar Foundation • John Gandy’s (South Devon Inns) • The West Country 100 • The Bowling Green • The NoBody Inn • The Oddfellows CIVIC • The Stand Off • Exeter Culture – on behalf of the Exeter UNESCO City of BUSINESS SERVICES Literature Group • BCR Associates • Exeter Library • Cathedral • Exeter Northcott Appointments Theatre • Edson Tiger • Hilton Barnfield • Granted Architects and Consultancy DHUD • Land Rover • Phonic FM Experience West • The Ted Wragg Country Multi Academy • #NatWestBoost Trust • Onelife Training • Tribe by Air • Optix Solutions Marketing Group • The Organic • Wilkinson Grant Agency • RGB Recruitment Ltd CREATIVE • RyderSlade • AB The Creative • Triangle Networks Agency • The Belt Makers

• Buddy Creative • Dirty Martini Marketing • Erin Cox Jewellery • Exeter Phoenix Digital • Luminous Show Technology

FOOD & DRINK PRODUCER

• Ben’s Farm Shop • Blue Goose Coffee • The Dairy Shop • Figgy’s Christmas Puddings • Ground Up Cookery School

EDUCATION

• Arts and Culture, University of Exeter • Exeter Cathedral Education Department • Exeter Phoenix Digital • The Maynard School • Rebecca Dowell Tuition • Sparx • The Ted Wragg Multi Academy Trust • Theatretrain Exeter

HAIR & BEAUTY

• The Hair Boutique • Luka’s Barbers • Nutters Hairdressers • The Treatment Loft

Jabo Butera Founder and managing director, Diversity Business Incubator

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

Circle • Hilton Barnfield Architects and DHUD • JMT Wood Build • Mi-space UK • The Mortgage Quarter • Plastic Surgeon Fine Finishers • RGB Recruitment • Wilkinson Grant

LEISURE & TOURISM

RESTAURANT

• Crealy Theme Park & Resort • Devon County Show HEALTH & WELLBEING • Event Exeter • Bluebird Care • Exeter Cathedral Exeter • Froginwell Vineyard • Chrysalis Care • Land Rover Innovations Experience West • Exeter Advanced Country Dentistry • The Pig – at Combe • Horizon Academy • Powderham Castle BJJ • Meridian Raw CIC • OrganicARTS EVENT NEW BUSINESS • Osteo & Physio • Devon County • Coreus Group Events Show • Horizon Academy • Exeter Festival 2019 • Sol Energies BJJ • Exeter Pride • Luxury Coastal • Exeter Respect HOMES & INTERIORS • Notworking Festival Networking • Ashton House • Like Minds Nudge • Pink Moon Design Ideas Festival • Colette Liebenberg • Rockfish Seafood • NatWest Business Restaurant Design Banking – • Plastic Surgeon Fine • Tribe by Air #NatWestBoost Marketing Group Finishers • No. 3 Topsham Gin • Space Festival • Touch Design PROPERTY • Powderham Food Group • BARC Architects Festival • Zero Exeter • Burrington Estates • Powderham Live!

New Homes • Coreus Group LEGAL & FINANCIAL • Exeter Property • Bishop Fleming

ALL HAIL THE JUDGES! Alan Quick Emily Macaulay Equalities and Centre manager, diversity campaigner, Exeter Library Exeter Pride

• Charles Stanley • GX Accountancy & Bookkeeping Services • Marsh Commercial • Peplows Chartered Accountants • Premier Financial Planning • Root2growth • Seabrook Clark • Wollens

Jaye Cowle Founder, Launch Online

Jessica Waller Marketing director, Martin Frobisher’s

• The Cadeleigh Arms • The Five Bells Inn • The Oddfellows • On The Waterfront • The Pig – at Combe • Rockfish Seafood Restaurant • Rodean Restaurant RETAILER

• Busby & Fox • Erin Cox Jewellery • Exeter Vegan Market • Hot Smoked • La Boutique • Momma Trucker Skates • Zero Exeter TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

• Appen • City Science • Krowdthink • Rezcomm • Software Solved • Sparx

All decisions about these Awards are made by a panel of impeccably independent judges, chosen afresh each year from every area of Exeter business life. Many different businesses types and sizes are represented, and individual judges leave the room if a category directly relevant to them is discussed. With a record number of nominations, the decisions each year are harder than ever.

Louise Edwards Marketing director, Michelmores

Cllr Phil Bialyk Council leader

Sarah Turner Author, The Unmumsy Mum

Simon Girling Director, Girling Jones

Will Harvey Professor and associate dean, University of Exeter

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

G EE

E

ive to the bottom of the river Exe and you’ll find these spar ling sea green tourmaline stones, gripped by gold arms of coral nestled among smooth shells, swirling seaweed and enigmatic, beautiful and unattainable mermaids. ot really, unfortunately. ut one can dream. he ma er of this ewelled oceanic pair is uth omlinson her inspiration comes from the idea of lifecycles and changes in nature, from birth to decay. uth hopes to evo e a sense of wonder around her wor that leads people to uestion the idea of preciousness, often finding hidden beauties sometimes overloo ed in a finished ob ect.

These green tourmaline studs with diamonds, 18ct yellow gold, £1,520, are available from Polka Dot Gallery, 12 Martins Lane, Exeter; www.polkadotgallery.com

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EGGSTRA SPECIAL, £19 Independent chocolatiers Salcombe Dairy have released a range of luxurious Easter treats: a collection of bean-to-bar Easter eggs handcrafted from single origin Peruvian chocolate, all gussied up in compostable packaging. Available in milk, white or dark chocolate with a choice of two avours of he ar. for g with two g he ar chocolates.

From www.salcombedairy.co.uk and west country retailers

SOME BUNNY LOVES YOU, £5.99 Who doesn’t need a little more love around the house his lightly ribbed white porcelain s uare shaped coaster

by East of India is a gorgeous gift or decoration for the home.

From Darts Farm, Topsham, Exeter, Devon, EX3 0QH; www.dartsfarm.co.uk

SPRING FORWARD

Indulge in these sweet, tasty and life a rming Easter goodies

CRAFTY CHICKS, £7 For Easter eggs without the calories, this Chick In Egg felt craft kit by Corinne Lapierre is a fun alternative. All materials are ethically sourced and eco friendly.

From Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3R; www.rammuseum.org.uk

KEEP YOUR HARE ON, £55 he gorgeous wor of textile artist and nature lover, iona Gill, has been screen-printed onto a heavy brushed suede fabric to create sumptuous cushions that mimic the real life beauty of her original felted artwor . armalade ose ushions, cm s uare with ip opening.

From Wool On The Exe, 2 Okehampton St, Exeter, EX4 1DW; www.woolontheexe.com

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

CRACKING GOOD! £2.95 Handcrafted to echo a real soft-boiled egg, the fancy Italian named for these sweet indulgences is Uovo Gianduja, no pri es for guessing that it translates as ‘chocolate egg’.

From Carluccio’s Exeter, 30 Bedford Street, Princesshay, Exeter EX1 1GJ; www.carluccios.com

ED’S CHOICE HARE EGG CUP, £14 Get your buttered toast soldiers on duty for some hare-raising adventures at breakfast time with a boiled egg in this oh-so-cute hare egg cup.

From John Beswick; www.johnbeswick.co.uk

VEGAN CUBIST BUNNY, £10 Three words we didn’t imagine using in the same sentence. Choccy bunnies ust went fine art with these cubist bunnies developed by the Chococo team. Three versions: dairy milk chocolate, cashew milk, and vegan dark chocolate.

Hide these cute cubist chaps all over the house on Easter morning (hide them too well, then eat them yourself later).

From Chococo, 22 Gandy St, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3LS; www.chococo.co.uk

UPLIFTING SPRING EMMA BRIDGEWATER BUTTERCUP TIN, £8.99 Adding new life to your kitchen for spring is easy with this beautiful collection by Emma Bridgewater.

From Darts Farm, Topsham, Exeter, Devon, EX3 0QH; www.dartsfarm.co.uk

I’M ALL EARS, £23 Danish company Maileg specialise in lovingly crafted, felt whimsical characters like this charming chap, as well as handmade clothing for toys and nostalgic accessories with innocent charm. All natural materials such as linen and cotton. Maileg Plush Floppy Eared Bunny £23 and Baby Bunny with Heart Dummy £9.50.

From Nest, 60 Fore Street, Topsham, Devon, EX3 0HL; www.nestliving.net

FLAMING BEAUTY, £3 These beautiful Egg Candles With Yolk are a tasteful way to illuminate your home this Easter.

From Busby & Fox, 21 Cathedral Yard, Exeter, Devon EX1 1HB; 01392 276 764; exeter@busbyandfox.com

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MAKING WAVES IN BUSINESS

The Bigwave Business Games are back for 2020. The biggest event of its kind in the South West, Exeter’s Bigwave Business Games will launch on 18 May and run through to July. The games consist of five fun events that are suitable for all physical abilities including a bubble football tournament, treasure hunt around the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, something called Clip ‘n Climb, bell boat racing on the Quay and a lively pub quiz.

The Bigwave Business Games attract a diverse range of businesses from across the region and will this year be raising money for local charity WESC Foundation – The Specialist Centre for Visual Impairment on Topsham Road, Exeter. To date, the event has raised £45,000 for charity.

These are the dates to block out in your diary: Monday 18 May: Launch event Thursday 11 June: Team leaders meeting Wednesday 17 June: Bubble Football Tournament Tuesday 23 June: Treasure hunt Monday 29 June: Clip N Climb Thursday 9 and Friday 10 July: Bell Boats Thursday 16 July: Pub quiz / awards Shiny happy boaty people

Register your team now, or enquire about sponsorship opportunities: www.bigwavebusinessgames.co.uk/Exeter

This talented fella can play anything from Bach to Billy Joel

This one’s got his eyes on us

I ROBOT rtificial ntelligence is the most widely anticipated business tech trend of 2020, according to a recent survey of South West tech companies.

Looking at technological innovations that will have the most impact on shaping business strategies over the coming year, rtificial ntelligence was by far the most popular response, with 44.7 per cent of the vote, revealed the survey of over 100 tech businesses by Tech South West.

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

Anthony Peake, CEO of Exeter-based data science and artificial intelligence specialists Agile Datum says,“It is really interesting to see AI coming out on top. That aligns with our own finding from a recent national survey we have run. Businesses have been spending far too long dealing with low value, high volume administrative tasks and not focusing enough on productivity and customer engagement.

“Companies large and small are looking at ways to automate admin, develop new

products and improve customer service, and we are seeing AI as a powerful tool to achieve these aims. For a few years now people have said that every business needs to become a digital business. I would go one step further and say that every business will need to become an AI enabled business to thrive, compete and meet customer expectations.”

The full results can be viewed at www.techsouthwest.co.uk

EXETERWORKS

LOOK AFTER YOUR PENNIES n ongoing fundraising initiative by ourish ero aste has raised , for ospiscare from simply encouraging to donate ust a few pence in each transaction. he money will fund visits to a patient in their own home by one of the charity’s clinical nurse specialists enabling patients to stay at home with their loved ones. ourish, a ero waste groceries store, has shops in opsham and agdalen oad. t’s been running this voluntary charity round up’ since opening in arch . t’s a simple idea giving customers the option to round up their totals to the nearest ero with a few extra pence, says owner Sarah artin. ourish then matches that amount. or example, if the bill is . a customer can round it up to . and we also put pence into the pot. he initiative initially attracted around of donations each month, but after the second ourish shop opened in pril , this increased meaning , was raised in under two years of the round up being introduced.

Say hello to Emily Gibbon

Cheque out the money they raised

ospiscare provides expert support, resources and personalised specialist care for people in Exeter, id and East evon who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. m e

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NEW FACE AT INEXETER new interim manager at nExeter has ust been announced. Emily Gibbon is stepping into the role, which is temporarily vacated by nn unter, who’s on maternity leave.

Emily is relocating to the city from Gloucester and brings with her a wealth of nowledge. ast roles include head of business engagement and support for Gloucester and director for igital etail nnovation entre. ’m thrilled to be leading the nExeter team and relocating to evon, says Emily. Exeter is an incredible city with a huge amount to offer businesses, employees, residents and visitors. his next year is the first of the new term, following successful renewal, so there are plenty of pro ects and services to deliver to support the businesses across the city. intend to build on nn’s wor and continue to drive further benefits for our member businesses over the coming months. nExeter offers free of charge support schemes for the businesses within the nExeter area. his includes services such as management and financial support for local area events, free training courses and and mar eting for the city as a whole and for business. m e

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The trio are bringing ultrafast broadband to Exeter

FAST AND FURIOUS urassic ibre, a local full fibre ultrafast broadband provider, is rolling its services out across East evon following a successful test phase near Exeter. ffering speeds of up to Gbps, the communities to receive the full fibre ultrafast broadband include ylesbeare, ishop’s ourt, lac horse, lyst oniton, lyst St George, lyst St ary including at and iddle, Ebford, Exton, arringdon, ympstone, il ill ane, er ins illage, Sowton illage, oodbury and oodbury Salterton. or businesses, coverage includes Exeter irport ndustrial Estate, ill arton usiness ar , Greendale usiness ar and Sowton

ndustrial Estate. y early summer, the networ will have reached Exmouth, the first large town set to have access to the new networ .

Exmouth ouncilor auline Stott says, e desperately need better broadband in Exmouth and so it is very positive that urassic ibre is bringing their networ to the town. am really pleased that we are finally getting better connected in this part of the world, as this area has previously been overloo ed. am certain that it will help businesses and residents enormously. m e

fib e m

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Self-administered pension schemes

S

Steve Woodham of OLD MILL tells us more...

mall self-administered pension schemes (SSAS) continue to be a popular planning vehicle for business owners. A SSAS has the ability to pool together individuals’ pension savings to purchase investment assets they may not be able to acquire individually.

This can help if you wish to set up a pension arrangement for a small group of co-directors and key employees. A SSAS offers businesses a wide range of potential investments including stocks and shares, unit trusts, investment trusts, Open-Ended Investment Companies (OEICs), deposit accounts, loan backs and commercial property. This provides greater flexibility and investment control over your pension arrangements. It gives you the ability to purchase commercial property from any party, rent it to the business and lend money from

the SSAS to the business. A SSAS also offers favourable tax benefits including: Company contributions qualify for Corporation Tax Relief Contributions by members are free from Income Tax Investments growth is free from Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax (CGT) A tax-free pension commencement lump sum of 25% of a members’ fund can be taken from age 55 Lump sum death benefits are free from Inheritance Tax (IHT) If you already have a SSAS but you’re unhappy with your provider’s costs and services, you have the option to appoint new professionals to run your scheme instead. So there’s no need to break-up these schemes.

To avoid tax penalties, registered pension schemes should comply with the new regulations and reporting requirements. We can assist you and ensure that your pension complies with the updated legislation, no matter how complex your scheme is.

Old Mill act as the scheme practitioner and can deal with the responsibilities of a scheme administrator on your behalf. The scheme administrator has a highly responsible role and protects the member trustees from falling foul of making unauthorised payments or breaching tax regulations which would result in potential penal tax charges. n Our expert advisers are here to help you.

Contact Steve Woodham on 01749 335027 or email steve.woodham@om.uk

HOMES ON THE HORIZON NEW BUILDS

We take a peek inside the residential new builds on Exeter’s property scene

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

NEW BUILDS

T

here’s a lot to be said for new builds, decent heating and plumbing for starters. But they are sometimes lacking in that all important thing – character. With sensitive and imaginative development though, not to mention the beautiful surroundings of luscious Devon countryside, these buildings can breathe new life into the landscape whilst offering functionality and a bit of soul.

THE RADBOURNE

The Green, Holland Park, Old Rydon Lane, Exeter In a nutshell:

A 3-bedroom detached town house with integral garage and parking. he ground oor features a glorious itchen diner and separate utility room with glazed doors opening on to a private terrace and garden. n the first oor, a fabulous light filled sitting room, two bedrooms and luxurious family bathroom, whilst the second oor provides a breath ta ing master suite stretching across the whole top oor, with a luxurious en suite, walk in wardrobe.

Anything a bit special?

es, under oor heating, solar panels, energy e cient S appliances, meaning a significant saving on energy bills and a spacious terrace from the master en suite that provides a beautiful outlook over the green and additional outside space.

What about the location?

The Green at Holland Park sits on the edge of the city; there are road links, with direct routes by car or bus into the city, along the Exe Estuary to the South evon coast and the motorway ust a five minute drive away, whilst Newcourt station provides easy access into the city. or a golf lover, the development overloo s Exeter Golf and ountry lub and for those who en oy cycling, the start of the Exe rail is very close by.

Perfect for?

Families and those downsizing, looking for spacious accommodation without compromising on luxury.

Jackson-Stops. 10 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1JG; www.jackson-stops.co.uk

“There’s a spacious roof terrace overlooking the green”

The Radbourne new builds boast terraces with views

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

The barn conversions are just 10 miles from Exeter

BARN 2, MOUNT PLEASANT FARM

Clyst St. Lawrence, Nr. Cullompton, Devon In a nutshell:

Not quite a new build but a pretty impressive renovated barn conversion with three en suite bedrooms, a ground oor bedroom and loads of parking. It used to be a working farm but has been freshly spruced up; think light bright rooms with beams and other character features galore.

MORE NEW BUILDS ON THE HORIZON

From Redrow Homes: Saxon brook, Manley Meadow, Exeter EX1 3UW The Copse, Shutterton Lane, Dawlish EX7 0FT Potters Lea, Exeter Road, Newton Abbot TQ12 3FF www.redrow.co.uk

From Cavanna Homes: Equinox, Tithebarn Road Exeter EX1 3TS Barley Meadow Marketing Suite Off, Secmaton Lane, Dawlish EX7 0FF www.cavannahomes.co.uk From Jackson -Stops New Homes Exeter: Clyst View, Hollow Lane Pinhoe Exeter EX1 3PH www.jackson-stops.co.uk

Anything a bit different?

he barn has a round room which is uir y and offers fantastic views over the gardens to the fields beyond.

What about the location?

It’s an idyllic, peaceful rural area but in a hugely accessible spot. Clyst St Lawrence is a small village just four miles from Broadclyst and 10 miles from Exeter. Just the job for ramblers and dog-walkers alike, Ashclyst Forest and the Killerton estate are both nearby, as is the excellent Five Bells Inn just two miles away.

Perfect for?

Families in need of easy access North and/or South, or a couple looking for a piece of the good life. n Wilkinson Grant & Company, 72/73 Fore Street, Topsham, EX3 0HQ; www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

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

Showcase

SOLAR FLAIR A futuristic wonder in the private woodlands of rural Devon, Woodstock is an avant-garde, energy e cient property combining stylish seclusion and contemporary eco luxury

By Tamara Pitelen www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 51

PROPERTY

W

hat’s that you say? You want wow factor? Well, look no further…

Like a futuristic eco home from a 21st Century James Bond movie, Woodstock is the kind of contemporary, energy e cient home you could imagine a star like Leonardo Dicaprio or Daniel Craig retreating to for rest and recuperation between shooting action movies.

Because when your average Hollywood A-lister with environmental leanings needs to get away from the hectic hustle of California and paparazzi, where better than a private and secluded woodland in rural Devon? In this, Woodstock combines the best of both worlds – privacy and stylish eco luxury, all within easy reach of Ottery Saint Mary.

Approached via a private, no-through road, our star could land their private jet at the nearby Exeter International Airport then discreetly arrive in their sleek, solar-powered Tesla. Once safely ensconced in their rural hideaway, it would simply be a matter of pouring a crystal tumbler of organic single malt Scotch whiskey, filling a bowl with posh crisps, and settling down in the plush cinema room to watch the unedited showreel of their latest blockbuster.

Should a friendly billionaire such as Sir Richard Branson, or an inquisitive alien, come a-calling, then the

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

property’s large, at roof could perhaps be a landing pad for a light spacecraft. This, though, has not been tested.

As far as we know.

LIGHT FANTASTIC Built in 2016, Woodstock is an impressively designed and energy e cient home built with slavish attention to detail and quality of materials. Situated in the heart of the historic and picturesque West Hill village, East Devon, Woodstock has been designed to maximise light, space and energy.

As soon as you step through the front door, the welcoming avant-garde design and sense of space and light ushers you inside, silently willing you to sit down, relax, and leave your troubles at the door.

From there, the double height entrance hallway leads through to a beautifully laid-out and striking open plan living space featuring a kitchen straight from the dreams of Nigella or Jamie, with a dining and sitting area. his wonderful space is ooded with light and has two sets of full height, sliding doors opening onto wrap-around terraces that overlook the gardens beyond. he magnificent itchen offers a large central island, an array of sleek integrated appliances and contemporary lighting. There is also a fully equipped utility and cloakroom as well as access onto the parking area and into the double garage. urther ground oor rooms are laid out

to offer the exibility of self contained accommodation sub ect to the necessary consents if re uired. large living room has been adapted to offer a cinema library with study area and shower room.

STAR-GAZING Should eo or aniel want to entertain or bring the family, the first oor layout has created five well proportioned bedrooms, three en suite, and a family bathroom. our of these beautiful rooms overloo the rear gardens with the two guest en suite bedrooms en oying their own balconies. he master bedroom, naturellement, has a luxurious en suite bathroom and dressing area, and corner sliding doors with a uliet balcony overloo ing the gardens. or star ga ing on a warm summer’s evening with a round of sundowners, there is also a large roof terrace, which sites the cleverly hidden solar panels.

Surrounded by woodland, the setting for oodstoc is magical. here is a great sense of privacy and seclusion. he immediate areas around the house have been paved and beyond this, the lawns gently slope down to a small copse. substantial garden pod’ with terrace would be perfect for use as a home o ce or gym. s well, there are generous paved par ing areas to the front and side of the house and an integral double garage. ll essential for par ing the eslas, electric entleys, and spacecraft of visiting pals. n

HOUSE NUMBERS Guide price Bedrooms Grounds

£1.75 million 5 0.75 acres

For more: Savills Exeter, Sterling Court, 17 Dix’s Field, Exeter, EX1 1QA; 01392 455 755, exeter@savills.com; www.savills.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 53

BATHROOMS

FRESH OUTLOOK Fancy sprucing up your bathroom? Ditch the magnolia and opt for eyecatching materials, rich colours and detailed textures

By Imogen Wilde

Bathrooms from Fired Earth

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 55

ABOVE: Devon Tiles offer a summery look;

LEFT: Mandarin Stone bathrooms go green

GO GELATO

astel shades are light, bright, and give off great spring and summer vibes. hin ice cream colours for accessories and bathroom tiling or for those feeling a little braver, shades such as pin , lemon and pistachio green which will pac a positive, and pretty, punch in your bathroom.

LIGHT UP

nother way to ma e an impact with your bathroom is through some stri ing lighting pieces. So, what to go for here has been a greater move towards bathroom pendants hanging either side if a mirror, as well wall lights, says amie oxey, at us ighting.

GET CREATIVE

eople normally save their interesting bits of furniture for their sitting or dining room but if you want to ma e your bathroom more than ust a functional room, get creative. hat does this mean e brave and put up a painting, sculpture piece, or chandelier. he ey to ma ing it wor is not to go overboard but stic to a few stand out pieces. n

“There has been a greater move towards pendant lighting” 56 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BATHROOMS TINY BATHROOM? NO PROBLEM…

“Wall hung, floating vanities are great as they keep the floor space open.

A wall mounted mixer tap will also keep a small space open and clutter free. Clever use of glass and mirrors can reflect light and make a room feel bigger than it really is.”

David Aspinall, bathroom director of Sapphire spaces “Keep your lighting simple and effective, keep the light fittings in proportion to the bathroom furniture. Always think about functionality with bathroom lighting as it’s where you will shave, put on make up and so on. Additional ambient lighting is a good idea when having a soak in the bath!”

Jamie Moxey, Dusk Lighting LEFT: Pendant lighting from Dusk Lighting;

BELOW: Bathroom designs by Sapphire Spaces

HELPFUL HANDS…

Devon Bathroom Centre www.devonbathroomcentre.co.uk Sapphire Spaces www.sapphirespaces.co.uk Touch design group www.touchdesigngroup.com Mandarin Stone Tile & Flooring www.mandarinstone.com

SW Home & Garden www.westpointexeter.co.uk

Just Shutters www.justshutters.co.uk

Dusk Lighting www.dusklights.co.uk

Chunky Monkey www.chunkymonkeyfurniture.co.uk

Bang & Oluften www.stores.bang-olufsen.com

Exeter Stoves & Chimneys www.exeterstoves.co.uk

Devon Tiles and Bathrooms www.devontiles.co.uk

Toby’s www.tobysreclamation.com

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

The Devon Shutter Company Ltd British Made Shutters Since 2007 01395 578506 | www.devonshutters.co.uk

BUILDING PLANS

EXETER CARPET COMPANY LTD A world of flooring at your feet

92A Old Tiverton Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 6LQ Open: Mon - Fri 9.00 - 5, Sat 9.00 - 1.00 01392 493084 www.exetercarpet.co.uk

• Extensions, loft conversions & new build • Building design & specification • Planning & building regulations • Over 25 years local experience Call for a FREE initial consultation

01392 666410

bob@woods-design.com www.woods-design.com

PROPERTY

Redevelopment

BUILD ME UP

A rooftop bar will be part of the development

Exeter’s House of Fraser building on the High Street has been purchased and construction work is about to begin. ocal wealth performance management firm, rydis have finalised the purchasing of the , s ft, currently closed, building and will redevelop it into a complex to include high street shops, caf s, hotel and a restaurant, with a rooftop bar offering a unobstructed view of Exeter Cathedral. he pro ect, which mar s the finalisation of Exeter’s Princesshay development as part of the wider aesthetic and economic redevelopment of the city, is forecast to produce an investment return in line with Prydis’s recent . million sale of Senate ourt in mid .

“Exeter has a rich culture which we wanted to highlight and help revitalise says oe riday, managing director of Prydis.

“The redevelopment has been thought out to make the most of the beauty of the nearby cathedral, the city centre and all it has to offer.

“A particularly complex component of this transaction was Exeter Cathedral’s listed status and historic reputation, meaning that any proposal had to be watertight and clearly enhance the existing infrastructure. Managing and overcoming all of the sensitivities that this entails re uires an internal networ of professionals, all pulling in the same direction. istoric England an executive non departmental public body of the British Government which protects historic sites through listing – supported the council’s decision.

For more: www.prydis.com

The building will offer clear views of the cathedral

Fresh start

RELOCATION, RELOCATION, RELOCATION ndependent tailoring specialists ebel espo e, have relocated from ore Street, Exeter to the heart of the city. he three storey premises based on aterbeer Street, formerly home to the an ee andle store, has had a ma or internal and external fit out using local contractors with a significant investment of , . ore than a clothes and tailoring shop, upstairs you’ll find a lavish ’s rt eco style private studio where you can en oy a tipple from the bar, while the top oor houses a barber’s shop and waxing studio.

“The expansion of the business and relocating to the heart of the city in the Guildhall Shopping entre is very rewarding, says Keyvan Nosrati. “It’s the start of an exciting new era for us and will ma e us more visible and accessible, and believe there is nothing else li e it in evon or across the region.

For more: www.zebel.co.uk

All smiles and tape measures at the ready

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 61

SHILLINGFORD ST. GEORGE EXETER Price £650,000 A very impressive barn conversion three miles south west of Exeter. Enjoying a peaceful countryside back drop with beautiful gardens. This lovely barn converted in 2010 has a high specification, 30ft bespoke kitchen/breakfast/living room. Three double bedrooms plus home/ work office, off road parking and 75ft barn/ workshop.

For more information please call Giles Hann on 01392 427500 or email g.hann@wilkinsongrant.co.uk

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

EXETER Guide Price £570,000 A superb four bedroom detached house built in 2014 on the edge of a sought-after development, close to city centre and riverside walks. This attractive, quality detached home has a spacious dual aspect sitting room and a stylish open-plan kitchen / dining room with integrated appliances.

Four bedrooms with a master en suite shower room. Parking for two cars, and a lawned rear garden.

For more information please call Kevin Luxton on 01392 427500 or email k.luxton@wilkinsongrant.co.uk

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

EXETER Guide Price £695,000 A fabulous Georgian townhouse located on the edge of the city centre within walking distance of all major amenities.

The high quality, spacious accommodation has many period features and offers two large reception rooms, stunning kitchen/ breakfast room, five double bedrooms and contemporary bathroom and shower room.

Pretty rear garden and residents permit parking.

For more information please call James Mold on 01392 427500 or email j.mold@wilkinsongrant.co.uk

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

EXETER Guide Price £575,000 State-of-the-art lower ground floor apartment in a luxurious Grade II Listed development with concierge service and gym, right in the heart of Exeter’s ‘Mayfair’ and within walking distance of the cathedral and city, high street and Princesshay shopping centre.

For more information please call Mike 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

© NICK COLLINS

SEVEN DEADLY SINS

In our regular Q&A with visiting and local performers, The Right Reverend Michael Alabama Jackson of Oh My God It’s The Church – the mischievous live musical comedy act – chats about his wicked ways ahead of the band’s gig at Exeter Phoenix on 1 May LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after today, and why?

In our Church we worship a man called Sexy Jesus – and he wants everyone to feel sexy and feel good about themselves. But for me, as a typical merican, still find the beautiful, classy British ladies the most alluring – we’re talking Helen Mirren, Keira Knightley, Elizabeth Hurley-Wurly, Stacy from Eastenders.

Ah Stacy. Why don’t you return my calls no more?!

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

I spend a lot of money on looking good. First rule of Preaching: Look better than any of your oc . ’m tal ing fine assed designer suits.

Silk shirts. Great hat, and most importantly kick-ass shoes.

Sometimes I feel pangs of guilt about taking money from the ‘Church Roof Fund’ to supplement my clothing allowance but then I’m like, hell, people ain’t gonna be worrying about a hole in the goddamn roof when their preacher looks this good! I mean

damn, they probably think they already died and went to heaven! Amen.

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

Best thing I’ve had since I’ve been over here. British gravy. Mmm! Back home, gravy is kinda like the gravy you get from KFC, indecipherable, bland, and a brand new colour between grey and brown. But here, goddamn! Your gravy is like sweet, biblical nectar, I have it on everything: fries, bacon, panca es, corn a es. ass me the gravy boat coz I’m going sailing.

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

o celebrate the release of our first record, my band, Oh My God! It’s The Church, are winding up to head out on a huge tour of the UK. We’re hitting up as many places as we can, to party with our parishioners, and convert some brand new missionaries. If you ain’t been before, come along and prepare yourself for the most fun you can have with your pants on.

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

“It’s the most fun you can have with your pants on”

WRATH: What/who makes you angry, and why?

England soccer coach Gareth Southgate – nothing to do with his coaching style. But when he started parading himself around in his waistcoats, claiming to be some kind of waistcoat warrior king – I was like ‘hell no Southgate’. There ain’t been no waistcoat wearing contest and if there is then I want in. Coz I’d take him down town, to Waistcoatville Tennessee, which is where I keep my extensive waistcoat collection. Til then pipe down Southgate. Pipe down.

ENVY: Who are you jealous of, and why?

My keyboard player in the band – Morgan the Organ. He’s a strange little dude who lives in his own little world. No worries or cares, except where his next sandwich is coming

from, and enjoying the simple pleasures in life, like eating his sandwiches and playing with his organ. Sometimes I’ll admit, I’m jealous of that weird little idiot.

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

I’m so proud of the crazy church we’ve created and the wild band we’ve put together. The fact we can travel halfway across the world and you guys go nuts for what we’re doing is the biggest thrill there is. And despite the insanity and profanity and occasional illegality of what we do, I’m proud of our overall messages of hope, humour and togetherness resonates deeply with the people of this great country. See y’all in church this spring! n For more: www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

It’s all about joy with crazy band