Exeter Living - Issue 279

ISSUE 279 / MAY 2021 / £3

THE ONLY WAY IS EXMOUTH THE SEASIDE TOWN THAT’S MAKING A SPLASH

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

TIME FOR AL FRESCO FUN ISSUE 279 / MAY 2021 / WE + EXMOUTH

SPOT ON

GO POTTY FOR POLKA DOTS

I GOTTA FEELING

EXETER’S MENTAL HEALTH FESTIVAL RETURNS

HOT PROPERTY INSIDE!

CITIZEN CAINES GET A TASTE OF THE HOTTEST NEW OPENING OF THE SUMMER

© ELLIOT T WHITE

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE Exmouth’s new Sideshore development, page 27; BELOW Super sunglasses, page 19

D

o we ever make the most of what’s on our doorstep? With international travel restrictions being what they are, surely now there is no excuse for not journeying to the fantastic areas surrounding Exeter. One place definitely worth exploring is Exmouth. Yes, you know it’s got a nice long sandy beach but have you been there since the Sideshore development emerged?

This spot sees local chef extraordinaire Michael Caines launch his new restaurant – Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant – this month. Think laidback beachy vibes with cocktails out on the terrace watching the sun go down.

Sounds pretty good, eh? Turn to page 22 for our interview with Michael to find out more about this fun new spot; trust us, it’s going to be absolutely buzzing this summer.

The love affair with Exmouth continues on page 27, where we chat to all the other business owners on the new beachfront development; there’s everything from patisseries to watersports centres, cafés to art galleries.

And, of course, we couldn’t not do an al fresco feature, see page 44, because, yes, our lovely cafés, pubs and restaurants are open now and we want to celebrate them and their lovely outdoor spaces. There are old ones, new ones, city ones, rural ones – and they’ve all had a big sprucing up. Let’s give them a hero’s welcome.

Enjoy!

HARRIET NOBLE Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving

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Issue 279/May 2021 COVER Chef Michael Caines, turn to page 22 for the interview/image by Elliott White

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT Newsy snippets to whet your appetite 11 JP HEDGE ...is getting inspired by the kids 66 LIVES Get to know our new Exeter Library columnist

THE BIG READS

22 MICHAEL CAINES Exeter’s top chef spills the beans on

his new Exmouth restaurant

27 EXMOUTH Oh, we do love to be beside the seaside

THE ARTS

8 INSTAGRAM Pretty pics from Exmouth 13 ARTS Upcycling gets arty 14 WHAT’S ON Art, film, family days out and more

SHOPPING

19 INTRO Time to get the sunnies on

HEALTH & WELLBEING

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38 MIND, BODY & SPIRIT Festivals, yoga, running,

chatting and a new store on Cathedral Close

FOOD & DRINK

44 LIFE ON THE TERRACES Where to wine and dine

al fresco this summer

51 NEWS A culinary round-up

EDUCATION

53 TOP OF THE CLASS All the positive stories from local

students and teachers

BUSINESS

54 EXETERWORKS The city’s movers and shakers

PROPERTY

61 NEWS Hot property, promotions and a new cultural hub

for the city

64 SHOWCASE A dreamy pink thatched cottage is up

for grabs

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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 JP Hedge, Callum Elliott-Archer, Advertising 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. 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…

SUMMER LOVIN

The upcoming events include: • Re-opening ‘Social-Disco’ party on 17 May. An evening with DJ’s, dinner and drinks in Pink Moon Underground.

• Piano jukebox live sessions in Pink Moon restaurant every other Friday night, starting 28 May. • RnB DJ bottomless brunch on 30 May – Bank Holiday weekend.

• You’ve been served! 11 June – Drag cabaret night including dinner, drinks and the ultimate show from Arina Fox, Exeter’s finest Drag Queen.

For more: www.pinkmooncafe.co.uk

CREDIT @LIK ACHIT T YPHOTOGR APHY

Exeter restaurant Pink Moon has certainly got the fun started in the city. To announce their line-up of summer events, the Queen Street eaterie enlisted Exeter’s favourite Rugby chaps in a summer photoshoot that brought the sunshine, and a few smiles, to Exeter.

“Major planning is underway to ensure the coming months are brimming with fun events so the people of Exeter can make the most of their summer, post-lockdown” says Josh Tilt, general manager at Pink Moon.

“What better way than to team up with our very own rugby legends including Jack Nowell, Olly Woodburn, Dave Ewers, Don Armand, Jacques Vermeulan and Elvis Taione. We had so much fun with them, creating our very own summer on Pink Moon’s doorstep.”

Service with a smile

Environment

Art

ON YER BIKE

Princesshay has been welcoming back shoppers with some eye-catching displays, including five bikes donated by Ride on Cycling Exeter. Spray painted in bold, bright colours and laden with planted flowers the bikes have been placed throughout Princesshay.

The centre is also now home to a newly installed Co-Bikes station, connecting Princesshay directly to the city’s network of Co Bikes, meaning shoppers now have more sustainable travel options when coming to town for a spot of shopping.

For more: www.princesshay.co.uk The bikes are wheelie pretty

LINE OF BEAUTY

Award-winning Devon artist Becky Bettesworth has collaborated with local transport networks to use her Dartmoor Travel poster to launch the reopening of The Dartmoor Line from Okehampton to Exeter.

Network Rail, GWR and partners are working closely to achieve the common aim of restoring passenger rail services to Okehampton by the end of 2021. This year is the 150th anniversary of the railway that first arrived in Okehampton in 1871. It is also the 70th anniversary of the creation of Dartmoor National Park.

Becky’s artwork was considered the perfect fit for the re-opening as it is inspired by the railway and travel posters from the 1930s.

“I am delighted to be involved with this wonderful project,” says Becky.

“Seeing my artwork used to promote the re-opening of the railway is very special.”

For more: www.beckybettesworth.co.uk

Becky’s art is inspired by travel posters of the 1930s

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SPOTLIGHT It’s beginning to look a lot like...of course it’s not, we’re only in spring

Festive

OPEN MARKET

© TIM PESTRIDGE

While most of us are looking ahead to thoughts of a (hopefully) warm summer, event organisers at Exeter Cathedral are planning for Christmas; the team are currently inviting applications from traders for this year’s Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market.

Following the cancellation of last year’s Market due to lockdown restrictions, the team are determined to make 2021 the best Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market yet.

“We’re particularly keen to hear from small, local and independent traders and craftspeople who offer truly unique gifts for Christmas,” says administrator Catherine Escott.

Interested parties can apply on the Exeter cathedral website.

For more: www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

Charity

PUTTIN ON THE GLITZ

This year’s Hospiscare’s Twilight Walk will take place on Saturday 10 July and the team are inviting everyone to get glammed up and join in on the fun.

There are two ways to take part in Twilight with a Twist: participants can join the Hospiscare team and fellow Twilighters in Exmouth to walk either the 13- or six-mile route or they can choose to walk a route of their choice in their local area.

“Covid has hit hard, but Hospiscare hasn’t stopped providing awardwinning care to local people facing terminal illness,” says Michael Maltby, CEO of local company Jurassic Fibre, which is sponsoring the event.

“I’m sure this year’s special event will be the perfect example of how people can come together to make a real difference in their local community.”

For more: www.hospiscare.co.uk/twilight That’s one way to do a 13-mile walk

Have you herd the Devon County Show is back this year?

Devon County Show

BEST IN SHOW

The Devon County Show team is thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for Devon County Show 2021, with the three-day weekend event to take place on 2-4 July.

“It’s a great relief to be able to now plan with confidence for our 125th show and to ensure, after its absence last year, it will be truly one to remember,” says Devon County Show manager Sam Mackenzie Green.

“More of the show will be staged outdoors this year including food and drink and crafts and gardens. Food outlets will be dispersed around the showground, rather than concentrated in one place, to enable more space for socially distanced queuing and seating.

For more: www.devoncountyshow.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

POSURE

Some of our favourite pics of Exmouth and the surrounding areas

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These images of Exmouth and the surrounding areas were taken by Laura Waddell.

“I’ve lived in Exmouth all my life,” says Laura.

“I love it here, I really do feel lucky to have the beach in walking distance but also the variety of walks nearby – Woodbury common, river walks, coast paths, cycle paths to Budleigh and to the Exe trail.

“I’m not a full-time photographer, I enjoy it as a hobby and love sharing photos of Devon which is one of the reasons why I started writing up local walks on my website for everyone to discover and enjoy.”

You can find more of Laura’s pics on her Instagram page: @laura.discovering.devon or on her website: www.discoveringdevon.com

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OPINION JP HEDGE

Status simple

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support Manchester United and Tottenham” my eight-year-old blurted out to me during a walk this week. “I like them both” he said cheerfully.

Alarm bells and fireworks went off in my head.

Harry was committing sporting adultery.

The fracturing of the holy covenant of the beautiful game was happening in front of my own eyes.

My instant reaction was to share all of my wisdom as to why this just isn’t possible – unless of course you pick yourself a secondary South Devon based sympathy team.

I was going to learn him good.

At last, my politics of sport module from university would kick in. I’ve totally got this.

Ten points of the Dad impact on life calculator.

The only question was which angle to take. Should I start with

Whether it’s parenting or coming out of lockdown, JP’s going to follow his son’s example and keep it simple tribalism and loyalty, or perhaps the infrastructure set up behind the Football Association as to why this couldn’t happen?

Or should I talk about family history, who we support, sticking with your team through thick or thin, or geographic basis for support.

Luckily I caught myself before I responded. But the innocence of the logic has been on my mind ever since.

Why shouldn’t he want to support two teams? Really – why shouldn’t he?

The innocence of his reasoning was both pure and sound. He thought they were equally good.

He also likes some of the players from both teams.

My first thought was to surround him in worldly barriers.

I should tell him how the REAL world works. Isn’t that my job as a dad?

For these reasons it can’t be done – you’ll thank me in the playground.

“I should tell him how the REAL world works. Isn’t that my job as a Dad?”

The thing is, I love the innocence of this rationality.

There is a huge amount of power in it. And it is not just football where this can be applied to problem solve.

There are so many instances where the innocence of a child’s view can bring order, precision and focus on some of the biggest challenges we face.

This often happens while adults are getting wrapped up in real world issues. We are so immersed that we can’t see the woods for the trees. Have a chat with Greta Thunberg.

Since my chat with Harry I’ve been thinking about how I can focus on the tasks at hand, both at home and at work, with simplicity and clarity. Simplicity and clarity I would have if I didn’t know all the issues involved.

We have the US Navy to thank for the KISS acronym – Keep It Simple Stupid. It’s based on the premise that most systems and solutions work best if they are kept simple, rather than made complicated.

Of course we’ve all just had an enforced dose of celebrating the simple. Being allowed to exercise for more than an hour, hug your nan, see friends, have a pint, travel to the Moors. Pure joy in relatively simple mindful acts.

On top of that, as Exeter opens up, we have a huge

amount of challenges to solve in order to move the city in the right direction.

I think holding onto simplicity with dear life seems to be a good card to have in your back pocket.

There are a lot of people working on a lot of complex issues in the city that are almost impossible to resolve.

But these times are special. This is a new journey for all of us. We share common ground that we didn’t have before.

We’ve all had a big dose of reality and we have been forced to have a look at the things that are important to us. We’ve all taken joy from the simple.

I certainly have had some clarity around things that are important to me. I think there’s a short but hugely powerful window of a lifetime to see the clout of simplicity in action. We’ll see how the rest of the year pans out.

Harry has also asked me this week if he can have two girlfriends!

Perhaps we all need some occasional worldly barriers after all. ■ Jon-Paul Hedge is a director at Exeter City Council where he currently looks after leisure. 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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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

LIVING WEDGE

“My work looks at mankind’s impact on the planet and how we can live more ecologically,” says local artist and designer John Cowen.

“While everything I do is motivated by concern about climate breakdown, the works aim to be beautiful, positive and encourage people to embrace a resurgence of nature into their lives.”

And this bright, happy piece came into fruition in a rather unconventional fashion.

“A lot of my work is done on canvas,” says John.

“Most canvases come with a set of wooden wedges

you can tap into the corners to keep the canvas tight.

I have never used them and found myself with a bag of unused blocks in the studio. I don’t like to waste things, so asked my followers on Instagram what I should do with them. One of the suggestions that came back was to paint the blocks and assemble them into a piece of artwork. It’s quite different to my other work, but has been a really fun piece to produce.”

Reclaimed Fragments (33 x 27cm, Acrylic and wood, 2021); all John’s work is available to buy through his website www.johncowen.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 13

What a view! Canonteign Falls is open for visitors

WHAT’S ON 30 April onwards

ART

Until 15 May

TOM HUGHES: DARTMOOR Tom Hughes is a plein air painter who has got under the skin of Dartmoor, creating striking pieces that catch the fleeting light as the weather changes on this iconic landscape.

Hybrid Gallery, 51 High Street, Honiton, Devon; www.hybrid-devon.co.uk

17 May – 12 July

FLOOD & PULL This exhibition showcases the work of four Double Elephant Print Workshop screenprinters: Sarah Foque, Chris Laver, Rachel Jaques and Jeremy Speck. The range of work serves to highlight the versatility of this popular printmaking medium.

Double Elephant Gallery at Café Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/ www.doubleelephant.org.uk

18 – 21 May

ANIMAL PORTRAIT COURSE Learn how to create a beautifully balanced and convincing portrait of your chosen animal with one of the world’s top award-winning figurative sculptors, Andrew Sinclair. This inspiring four-day sculpture course is suitable for beginners and those who are more experienced; you will learn skills that will revolutionise the way you sculpt and breathe life and energy into your work.

Burnswood Studios, Bondleigh, North Tawton, Devon; www.thesculptureschool.co.uk

18 May – 6 June

EARTH This exhibition will celebrate and cherish this planet; expect a collection of work by local artists to remind us of the beauty, and fragility, of the earth.

The Glorious Art House, 120 Fore Street, Exeter; www.thegloriousarthouse.com

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

20 May – 14 August

MIKE PERRY LAND/SEA Mike Perry’s work engages with environmental issues; this ongoing body of work classifies objects washed up by the sea into groupings – bottles, shoes, grids – capturing their intriguing surface detail using a high-resolution camera.

This exhibition will be at two sites: Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Honiton; thelmahulbert.com and at Ocean, Queens Drive, Exmouth; www.oceanexmouth. co.uk from 8 June – 1 August

19 June – 2 July

MARTIN PROCTER Leading contemporary South West artist Martin Proctor will be exhibiting a range of new mixed media paintings highlighting his distinctive approach to form and structure. With an individual eye for landscape, the work reflects his academic background in human and physical geography and his lifelong passion for remote hill-country

and wild places.

10am – 5pm daily, Marine House at Beer, Fore Street, Beer Near Seaton, Devon; www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk

19 June – 9 July

BOB CROOKS As one of Britain’s most recognised leading glassmakers, Bob Crooks is highly regarded internationally for his original and highly challenging dynamic forms and surfaces. Bob’s new exhibition showcases his exceptional talent for exploiting the properties of glass.

10am – 5pm daily, Steam Gallery, Fore Street Beer Near Seaton Devon; www.steamgallery.co.uk

THEATRE Until 2 May

PRIVATE PEACEFUL This is the story of Private Tommo Peaceful, who looks back on his Devon upbringing, his romance

WHAT’S ON top: Part of Mike Perry’s Land/ Sea exhibiton, Thelma Hulbert Gallery; below: Jeremy Speck’s work is part of the Flood & Pull exhibition at the Exeter Phoenix’s Café

a chorus of students from The University of Exeter Drama Department, this production is being made exclusively for a digital audience.

Exeter Northcott theatre, available as a stream-on demand service; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk;

3 – 17 June

with childhood sweetheart, Molly, and the terrible events that saw him taken from this idyllic setting and into the horrors of war.

Exeter Northcott Theatre, available as a stream-on demand service; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

Until 22 May

LOCKDOWN WONDERLAND Created as a reflection on the past year; an exploration into the ‘rabbit holes’ our minds wandered down during lockdown. What happens to us when we are forced to step off the hamster wheel?

Taking inspiration from Lewis Carroll, the production is a visual, playful and reflective piece.

7.30pm, Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter; www.cygnettheatre.co.uk

27 – 29 May

ANTIGONE Exeter Northcott Theatre is creating a filmed production of Bertolt Brecht’s celebrated play. Staged in the theatre with a full professional cast alongside

FILM

Until 7 May

HORRIBLE HISTORIES – BARMY BRITAIN It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in – to entertain the whole family. Meet rogues and heroes from history; prepare to laugh and learn.

Morning and afternoon times, Exeter Northcott Theatre; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

26 –29 May

A SEASON OF POWERFUL WOMEN This June, Cygnet theatre will be putting on three plays with a focus on women. The Players (by Nick Whitby) takes a intriguing, mysterious, and funny look at where power truly lay in the Elizabethan age; Meek (by Penelope Skinner) is a haunting vision of ruthless state control, tense friendships and one woman’s determination not to be broken; and Boy Actor (by Caroline Monk) reveals the most personal history of Elizabeth 1.

7.30pm, Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter; www.cygnettheatre.co.uk

SISTERS WITH TRANSISTORS This film charts the remarkable untold story of electronic music’s female pioneers, composers who embraced machines and their liberating technologies to utterly transform how we produce and listen to music today.

The film maps a new history of electronic music through the visionary women whose radical experimentations with machines redefined the boundaries of music.

Exeter Phoenix’s virtual cinema; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Until 9 May

TRUMAN & TENNESSEE: AN INTIMATE CONVERSATION Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams – writers, celebrities, geniuses – catapulted to fame in the 1950s, sparking a friendship and rivalry spanning nearly 40 years until their deaths within a year of each other.

This film brings the two forces together in a unique and fascinating tête-à-tête Exeter Phoenix’s virtual cinema; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

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© ELLIOT T MORGAN

Until 14 May

WOMEN OVER FIFTY FILM FESTIVAL Now in its seventh year, WOFF creates a film community centred around older women and inspires younger people to re-think ageing and see creative potential in an often-invisible demographic.

The virtual Best of the Fest is packed with award-winning films of witches, warriors and women who roar! Exeter Phoenix’s virtual cinema; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

FOOD

Every Thursday

EXETER FARMERS MARKET Sample West Country produce at this vibrant market. Expect local producers offering meat, fish, preserves, organic fruit and vegetables, freshly baked cakes, bread, pies and brownies.

Every Thursday from 9am-2pm on Fore Street and South Street; www.exeterfarmersmarket.org

17 May

SOCIAL DISCO The ultimate socially distanced welcome back party. Sink your teeth into Californian burgers, wings and tacos, mouth-watering cocktails, draft beer, feel good DJ and all round fun times until late.

Pink Moon, 44 Queen Street, Exeter; www.pinkmooncafe.co.uk

FAMILY FUN 17 May onwards

DONKEY SANCTUARY Spend time with the resident donkeys, and enjoy the family attractions, such as the play area, trails and activities, gift shop and open kitchen.

The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, Devon; www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

Ongoing

PAIGNTON ZOO Hoorah, zoos are open! Chat freely with the orang-utans, rhinos and flamingos or hang out with the friendly gang down at the crocodile swamp or reptile nursery.

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

Ongoing

CANONTEIGN FALLS Explore the gardens, waterfalls, adventure playground, walking trails for a fun day in the outdoors.

The (outdoor) snack bar and café will be open for refreshments.

Canonteign Falls, Christow; www.canonteignfalls.co.uk

Ongoing

OPEN GARDENS AT POWDERHAM CASTLE The beautiful gardens have sprung to life and visitors can enjoy a walk around the grounds, visiting the animals in the Secret Garden and

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grabbing takeaway drinks and food from the café.

Open daily, Powderham castle, Exeter; www.powderham.co.uk

OTHER 5 May

THE IMPACT OF WOMEN This panel discussion with Q&A will explore the impact of women on the history of the theatre, focussing on trailblazing, challenging and innovative women and how they were viewed, understood and represented at the time of

their work. 6pm, Exeter Northcott Theatre; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

10 –16 MAY

BLOOM: EXETER’S FESTIVAL OF MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS The online festival will feature music, workshops, poetry, storytelling, resources, family events and more – all aiming to raise awareness for mental health and help you feel part of the Exeter community. For more see page 38.

Various events throughout the week; Exeter Phoenix; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

WHAT’S ON opposite page top:

The Players, Cygnet Theatre; Women Over Fifty Film Festival can be viewed through Exeter Phoenix; this page: The Sidmouth Fox by Cherry Ferris can be seen at The Glorious Art House; opposite page bottom:

11–12 June

TOBY’S GARDEN FESTIVAL Join Gardeners’ World presenter and all-round horticultural whizz Toby Buckland as he celebrates the wonders of the great outdoors at Powderham Castle. Expect specialist nurseries, quality plants, artisan food, crafts, live music, talks and demo’s.

Powderham Castle, Exeter; www.powderham.co.uk

AND LOOKING AHEAD….

6 July

BRYAN ADAMS The Canadian rocker will be belting out all the hits, including Summer of 69’, Please forgive me, Everything I Do and Heaven. Sure to be a big singalong feel-good gig.

Powderham Castle, Exeter; www.powderham.co.uk

23 July

AMADEUS ORCHESTRA AT EXETER CATHEDRAL

Principal conductor Philip Mackenzie says, “As an orchestra, we have been silent since February 2020 when we performed in the House of Commons and we are very excited by the prospect of performing once again. It is very fitting that our first post-Covid concert will be held in Exeter Cathedral as this is the city where the orchestra was founded in 1990.” The orchestra is well known in Exeter and performs in the Cathedral every summer.

Exeter Cathedral; www.exetercathedral.org.uk / tickets from Exeter Northcott Theatre; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

9 August –14 Aug

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG The award-winning smash hit comedy returns to Exeter, telling the story of a farcical 1920s murder mystery where, inevitably, everything goes wrong. Expect to leave the theatre with your cheeks hurting from excessive laughter.

Exeter Northcott theatre, Stocker road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk n

LIBRARY LIFE CALLUM ELLIOTT-ARCHER shares the latest from Exeter Library Exeter Library is officially open to the public. You can now come inside, browse our books, use our computers, sit down in our study area, and enjoy the children’s library. It has been a difficult third lockdown, but we are finally ready to welcome you back.

I write this after two days of being open. We have experienced a very positive reception from our customers, glad to be able to grab a much-needed story from our shelves. There is something so very exciting about seeing people walking by our bookshelves.

It feels like a huge step back to normality.

But we are under no illusions that this pandemic is over. We are still taking things very seriously: building capacity, book quarantining on return, track and trace, and a large array of other precautions. We want you to be safe and comfortable when visiting.

Book loans have been temporarily increased to 10 weeks rather than three, meaning you can relax without having to worry about bringing the items back. We also do over the phone renewals for those who still don’t feel comfortable coming into town.

We hope to bring you more and more services as time goes on. Live events such as Toddler Bounce and Rhyme are not too far into our future! Stay tuned for more updates. www.exeter.ac.uk

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

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EYE FOR DESIGN

It’s time. The sun is out and we are basking in it like never before. Catching our eye at the moment is this crop of stylish designer eye-wear from the new-ish Acuitis on Exeter’s High Street…but what kind of cool will you opt for? 1950s movie star? Bohemian artist? International jet-setter? C’mon, get choosing, cool cats of Exeter…

1.Charity, £130; 2. 1950, £90; 3. Pablo, £180; 4. Jet Star, £150; 5. Coco Bella, £130; 6. Fanatic, £150; All sunglasses from Acuitis Opticians & Hearing Care, 193 High Street, Exeter; www.acuitis.uk

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EMMA BRIDGEWATER POLKA DOT HANDLED TRAY, £33.49 Nail pretty rural chic with this tray, perfect for serving breakfast in bed on lazy Sundays or a Devonshire afternoon tea in the garden.

From Darts Farm, Topsham, Exeter; www.dartsfarm.co.uk

BEAUTY SPOT

Get playful with polka dots that really hit the spot

SHIRTMAKER DRESS FROM JULIA'S COLLECTION BOUTIQUE, £240 You are finally going out. Like out out.

Voilà! Your trés chic outfit sorted.

From Julia’s Collection Boutique, 6 Roman Walk, Princesshay Exeter; www.juliascollection.co.uk GREY AND BLACK POLKA DOT SOCKS, £8.95 Wriggle those tootsies into these super soft and super comforting bed and house socks.

From Hyde and Seek, Unit 1, Harlequins, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk

INDOOR BEGONIA PLANT, £9.99 Polka dot plant you say? Yes please! Do they comes in checks, tartans and leopard print too?

From Urban & Rural Plants, Powderham Estate, Exeter; www.urbanandruralplants.co.uk 20 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BRIGHT CIRCLES BAMBOO GO CUP, £14 This eco-friendly travel mug is crafted from renewable bamboo; just the thing for when you’re having a cuppa on the quay.

From Toot Garouk, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; www.tootgarook.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE DALMATION CARD, £2.99 Gorgeous card to gift a dog lover. Just keep it away from Cruella…

From Insideout Exeter, 1 Bampfylde Lane, Princesshay, Exeter; www.insideouthome.co.uk

CLARICE BLOUSE IN NAVY POLKA DOT, £42 Rock the vintage look with this pretty as you like blouse. The classic 40’s collar and front tie fastening, finished with cute little dome buttons and gorgeous puff sleeves will have you feeling all swirly and twirly.

From Frocks in Swing Time, 151-152 Fore Street, Exeter; www.frocksinswingtime.com REVERSIBLE POLKA DOT THROW, £39.95 This throw with fringe is all softness and light, working to cover your knees in front of the telly or as a pretty decorative homeware staple.

From Leaf Street, 53 Magdalen Street, Exeter www.leafstreet.co.uk DOLLYDROPS BY DOLLYDROPS ACCESSORIES, £5.75 These individually hand painted wooden beads will jolly up any accessory; try attaching to your keys, handbag or rucksack.

From Dollydrop Accessories, Facebook: @dollydropsaccessories

HANDKERCHIEF SET, £9 Dapper gent of Devon seeks two gorgeous 100 per cent cotton handkerchiefs in a luxurious drawer style gift box. Perfect pair.

From TBM - The Belt Makers, 119 Fore Street, Exeter; www.thebeltmakers.com

VINTAGE DR MARTENS, £58 Step into these fun spotty DMS and off you go.

From The Real McCoy, 21 McCoy’s Arcade, Fore Street, Exeter; www.therealmccoy.co.uk

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ONE TO ONE

TAKING THE MICKEY

Michael Caines opens his hotly anticipated Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant in Exmouth this May – expect laid-back, beachy vibes.

Michael tells us more...

By Harriet Noble Photos by Elliott White

T

here’s a need to come up with something for local people; it’s going to be very informal, very beach-friendly, very fun,” says Michael. “It’s definitely a place for people to come and have fun.”

The word ‘fun’ features heavily in my chat with Michael Caines as he talks me through his new eaterie, Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant, on Exmouth’s beachfront.

It does sound, and indeed look, great – the glasshouse restaurant boasts outdoor terraces with sweeping views across the Exe so visitors can enjoy a blissful cocktail sundowner. The ground floor bar, complete with seascape décor, will feature a resident weekend DJ and for the Instagrammers there’s even a swing for taking pics – look right for the jolly picture of Michael Caines and pastry chef Sylvain Peltier (Sylvain is heading up the neighbouring Café Patisserie Glacerie, see page 27 for more).

Mickeys will be open all day for coffee, drinks and casual foods, then turn into a going out spot in the evening offering informal après Mickeys will be an informal spot beach dining, with music, take-out meals and Mickey’s midnight pizza.

There’s even a dance floor.

The beautiful Exmouth seafront location is the obvious draw here, catching locals out for walks and holiday makers out for a day on the beach.

“I think Exmouth has been under the radar for a while but it’s considered one of the best beaches on the south coast,” says Michael.

“And its location is perfect, with its connections to Exeter. It’s certainly not a sleeping beauty, it’s quite a thriving community. Certainly, there is a lot of excitement in Exmouth at the moment.”

The restaurant is all part of the Sideshore development, the brainchild of Mark Dixon (one of the founders of Exeter’s venture

capital and private equity company Oxygen House) and developed by Grenadier Estates.

“They came up with the idea of putting a world-class watersports centre right on the seafront and an experience where people can dine,” adds Michael.

“We wanted to create somewhere completely different to Lympstone Manor; a place that is more about relaxed, informal dining.

“I’ve proved through my work at Royal Clarence Hotel, where I had a pub, café, and restaurant – they’re very much focused on the locals – and now that’s the same for this restaurant in Exmouth. And it’s all to do with working with local food, for low impact sustainability – which is what Sideshore is all about.”

Of course, the restaurant was supposed to open earlier but Covid put a halt to that. As we know, hospitality has been one of hardest hit industries, which had a huge impact on Michael’s other restaurants.

“Yes, initially it was awful for everybody,” says Michael, “but once we got past the first lockdown, and opened up the restaurants, there was a lot of demand. We actually had an incredible summer last year – that summer helped us get through the second crisis. We’re now looking at our bookings, Lympstone Manor in particular, and we don’t have any rooms available for the summer. It’s phenomenal the amount of demand there is for holidaying in the South West. There’s a huge amount of opportunity to be had this summer – and we’re ready for it.

“There’s always an opportunity in the economic cycle where turmoil is for people to expand their businesses and that’s something I’ve been able to do.

“It’s been such a difficult time, with so much uncertainty.

Obviously the government helped get us through this crisis, but we’re not through it yet. Businesses have had to take on extra debt to get through it.

“There’s a huge amount of opportunity to be had this summer – and we’re ready for it”

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Nautical interior vibes at Mickeys

ONE TO ONE

Michael enjoying a cuppa

“But the uncertainty around travel is keeping people in the UK – which is fabulous.”

This powerhouse positivity has no doubt been a source of strength for Michael Caines throughout his career. The Exeter-born chef is one of the most celebrated and adorned people in the industry – he’s got an MBE, and two Michelin stars under his belt – and is perhaps best known these days for Lympstone Manor, the crumbling historic Grade II Georgian mansion he transformed into a luxury country house hotel and restaurant (“My legacy, something I’m very proud of ”).

He’s also been busy building up his Michael Caines Collection with the purchase of The Harbourside Refuge (Rick Stein’s old restaurant in Porthleven) and, previously, The Cove Bar Restaurant and Bar at Maenporth. Did he always have this ambition of building up an empire of restaurants?

“The two properties that come up last year in Cornwall were not planned, but I always see an opportunity. If it feels right, I’ll go for it. I’m not adverse to growing the collection, adding more hotels or restaurants, but it’s got to be for the right reasons – and with the right economic conditions.

“For now, we’ve certainly got our hands full. I think we’ll look to do more Patisserie Glaceries – we’re looking to do three or four in the next year or two around the UK, that’s an exciting prospect.”

Purchasing restaurants and launching Mickeys means Michael certainly didn’t have any down time over lockdown.

“No, I was busy making sure the business survived, doing all the management decisions that needed to be done. That’s not a problem though, the pace has been different.

“The uncertainty around travel is keeping people in the UK – which is fabulous”

Mickeys is right on the beach and has a terrace overlooking Exmouth’s waters

“I’ve not had the intensity of cheffing in the hotel but I was coming into the hotel every day, and then going home and having a bit more time with the family.

“Chefs are quite hardworking people; it’s a hardworking industry.

But I’ve got a great team, people who really share my passion and drive and they all play their part. It doesn’t feel like work because I enjoy it.”

Reflecting on the last year and where we are now Michael adds, “It’s exciting times. I think people have realised they enjoy being social, going out, meeting over coffee and a croissant before taking the dog for a walk. People have missed that social interaction and it’s good to see people appreciating those liberties now.”

This freedom we’ve all been longing for and this desire to get out and be social will no doubt mean that Exmouth residents will be flocking to Michael’s new restaurant.

“You can tell just by the name of it,’ says Michael, “it’s going to be fun, isn’t it?” n Mickeys Bar and Restaurant, Unit 1, Sideshore, Queen’s Drive, Exmouth; www.mickeysbeach.co.uk

QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS Hardest thing to cook? Cooking for the missus Guilty food pleasure? Chinese or Thai takeaway Guilty music pleasure? Classical Something you ate a lot of in lockdown? Chocolate The dish that you’d like to banish from all restaurants? Bad sushi Something we should all be eating more of: Vegetables A chef you admire? Raymond Blanc Favourite TV lockdown programme? Bridgerton Most surprising thing about you? I’m quite private Best thing about you that’s got nothing to do with your cooking skills? Being a good father

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The interiors of Mickeys are bright and light

Pastry chef Sylvain Peltier and Michael Caines opened up Cafe Patisserie Glacerie on Exmouth’s seafront

OUT OF TOWN

THE ONLY WAY IS EXMOUTH The Sideshore development is revolutionising the seaside town, making Exmouth the ultimate go-to destination in Devon.

We went for a stroll...

By Harriet Noble

Michael Caines is opening Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant here

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

© ELLIOT T WHITE

T

he pretty town of Exmouth has always been a lovely spot. Two miles of golden sandy beach with a promenade fringed with palm trees make it a great place to live in or visit for a sunny day by the sea, while the town centre offers a healthy crop of independent businesses.

However the new Sideshore development on Queen’s Drive, courtesy of Grenadier Estates, is a total gamechanger and set to make Exmouth the destination place for those in search of, well, sundown cocktails overlooking the beach, kitesurfing lessons from world champions, artisan pastries and gelato, and beautiful art. Oh, and did we mention Michelin star chef Michael Caines is opening up a restaurant there?

His eaterie, Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant (opening this May) is causing a lot of buzz in town. Next door to it is Michael’s Café Patisserie Glacerie (already open), which has French pastry wizard Sylvain Peltier at the helm. Elsewhere, there is Edge Watersports, offering every kind of watersport fun you can imagine; plus there’s the Hangtime Café and Ella Slade’s art gallery. We chatted to this entrepreneurial bunch to find out more.

© ELLIOT T WHITE

© ELLIOT T WHITE

© ELLIOT T WHITE

CAFÉ PATISSERIE GLACERIE REVIEWED!

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ON ARRIVAL, MICHAEL CAINES bounds over enthusiastically, “Let me show you Sylvain’s pastries! Don’t be shy, try some!” He continues, “Look at our different flavoured gelatos, look at that bright blue bubblegum one!”

They are indeed an eye-popping and glorious display. The pastries, quite frankly, need their own gallery space; they really are works of art. There are delicate French ones with quiffy tops, plump Yorkshire pudding-shaped ones with blush pink icing, ‘fingers’ with glazed strawberries, voluptuous mahogany-coloured mouthfuls with powdered icing and whipped hats – all sitting in this new café on Exmouth beachfront. It’s Willy Wonka meets Devon chic via a stop-off in Paris.

This dreamboat of a café comes from the partnership between Sylvain Peltier and Michael Caines. The duo have worked closely together over two decades, in former Michael Caines restaurants and café bars, including Michael’s flagship Lympstone Manor which holds a Michelin star.

Together they’ve created a place that is set up for this season. Outside, you can sit on the terrace eating your sweet treat and gazing out at the Exmouth waters.

Inside, there is pretty, imaginative detail running through the interiors.

The pastel hues of blue, pink and green make for a serene space but there are fun bits dotted all over the place too. There’s a little step which kids (or adults) can stand on and peer through a kitchen port hole to glimpse the artisan making the gelato.

Shooting out of the kitchen and running along the walls of the café is brass piping. It’s the Willy Wonker vibes again – it looks like the gelato is travelling along the piping and will shoot out at any moment!

Amongst these fun bits, the real stars are Sylvain’s pastries which are absolutely beautiful; I had an apricot pistachio one which I’m still thinking about.

“Café Patisserie Glacerie is a celebration of Sylvain’s artisan skill, creativity and originality,” says Michael. “His modern French pastries are totally unique: you simply won’t be able to find or taste them anywhere else.”

I bet.

OUT OF TOWN

“It’s Willy Wonka meets Devon chic via a stop-off in Paris”

© ELLIOT T WHITE

© ELLIOT T WHITE

clockwise: The Café Patisserie Glacerie boasts dreamy pastel shades; Cheers! Sylvain and Michael at their Café launch

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Edge Watersports offers kitesurfing lessons and even has hot showers

EDGE WATERSPORTS IF YOU’VE SPENT any time over the last few decades on the beach in Exmouth, chances are you’ll have seen Steph, Eric and their three sons Guy, Tom and Olly, running in and out of the ocean, board or kite in hand.

Exmouth born-and-bred, the Bridge family have been teaching watersports in Exmouth for over 30 years helping make the town one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the UK. They’re passionate about making watersports accessible to all, regardless of age or experience – and the new bigger and better site at the Sideshore development marks a new chapter for the aquatically leaning family.

“The big thing is how much great community the new development has created by eliminating the road and giving lots of outdoor space, as well as a making a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the water,” says Steph.

“The area has an ‘après’ ski feel and this is created by the people that are running the local businesses.

“The marriage of watersports and people passing with their bikes and skates gives this incredible lively, electric feel with people chilling on the steps, grass or beach just enjoying the day whatever the weather.”

The new centre offers activities both in the water and along the beachfront, including kitesurfing, paddleboarding and wingboarding, with plans to provide wellness, paddle yoga, endurance sea swimming and nutritional advice too. They’ve even got hot showers! www.edgewatersports.com

WHAT’S GOING ON AT EDGE WATERSPORTS THIS SUMMER?

“Our wingsurf Intro is really getting some numbers on it, as are our youth activity weeks during half term and the summer holidays. Another big one for us is our exclusive family paddleboarding session where you get a coach for the duration to focus on the family needs.”

Steph Bridge Edge Watersports is also hosting: • A mass paddleboard River Exe clean up for June / July • The RYA Youth Nationals in August

• The annual Exe Hammer Paddleboarding event in September • The Redbull King of the Exe is scheduled for the fall

WHAT A FAMILY!

Steph has been the Kite Race World champion five times and holds multiple world records, while husband and business partner Eric is described as the ‘powerhouse behind all operations’. The sons all kitesurf internationally as ‘Team Bridge’ and hold many World and European titles between them.

“The boys are athletes,” says Steph. “I always put them first and it’s been a joy to help nurture their love for the water since they were tiny.”

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© L AUR A WADDELL

OUT OF TOWN

“There’s this lively, electric feel with people chilling on the steps, grass or beach just enjoying the day”

© EDGE WATERSPORTS

OUT OF TOWN Steph Bridge teaches watersports on the beach at Exmouth

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Hanging out at Hangtime are co-owners Olly Bridge and Megan Barnatt

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“We love the community that has been created here”

OUT OF TOWN HANGTIME CAFÉ NEXT TO EDGE WATERSPORTS are a couple of sweet chalets. One such is Hangtime Café, which serves hot drinks and snacks to locals, passers-by and those who’ve just returned from watersports activities.

The business is run and owned by Megan Barnett and Olly Bridge (son of Steph and Eric of Edge Watersports next door). They opened in mid-October of last year, remaining open as a takeaway during lockdown.

“We are very lucky that we were able to open when we did and remain open as a takeaway,” says Megan.

“It’s actually been so amazing to have been able to provide a hot coffee and a smile to the locals under lockdown this winter, something which we feel many have really appreciated during the tough times.

“Our menu is very much grab-and-go enjoy yourself on the water/ beach, and we love to support local Devon suppliers. We’ve got freshly ground barista-style coffee from Sunday Collab. We’ve got hot and hearty pasties from Chunk of Devon and delicious cakes from the Exploding Bakery in Exeter. But we also want to bring some healthy options to the seafront, so we also have healthy fruit-topped Acai bowls and granola bowls as well as many fresh fruit smoothies. We are hoping to get some salad bowls on the menu for this summer too.

“Edge will be hosting some watersports events this summer which we are excited to work in partnership with. We are also hoping to be open on weekend evenings in the summer with special food evenings so watch this space.

“We love that our little space surrounding Edge and ourselves has become a hub for people hanging out after being on the water or meeting friends while on the seafront. We love the community that has been created down here, and we can’t wait to see how the watersports events bring the place to life further.” www.hangtimecafe.com

LOCALS LOVE EXMOUTH

“Our beachfront is incredible, particularly if you come at low tide and walk round the cliffs at Orcombe point. The walks around Exmouth are stunning but I think where Exmouth really comes into its own is the people, there is a real sense of friendship, caring and community here with people and businesses looking out and supporting each other.”

Harriet Bates, Art Infusion Café “One of my favourite places that not many people know about is Bystock Pools nature reserve on the outskirts of Exmouth, it’s a haven for wildlife and such a quiet peaceful place to enjoy. I also love the old railway line that’s now a footpath/cycle path that leads to Budleigh Salterton, there are so many little paths that lead off of it which the non-locals don’t seem to be aware of, one leads to the coastpath with gorgeous views from the golf course.”

Laura Waddell, photographer (see page 8 for Exmouth pics)

SECOND WAVE CLOTHING The final tenant at Sideshore will be a store reselling quality surf clothing, accessories and watersports equipment.

Owner Jenna Haws and manager Sharon Davies hope to open Second Wave Clothing this May. For the past seven years, Jenna has run My Ex Wardrobe in Exeter’s Gandy Street which sells second hand designer clothing and she’s excited about expanding her slow fashion ethos at Sideshore. www.sideshore.co.uk

© L AUR A WADDELL

Sunset views from the Sideshore development

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Ella outside her gallery space

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“The warmth of East Devon is what I love the most”

© TOBY BUTLER

OUT OF TOWN

Ella’s art is inspired by the coastline

ELLA’S LOCAL ARTIST ELLA SLADE runs Ella’s, a gallery space (in the chalet near Hangtime Café) where she sells her coastline-inspired art, as well as other locally sourced homeware lifestyle products. She opened the doors in December, briefly, before lockdown happened.

Tell us a bit about your studio…

Since I was little girl it’s been a dream of mine to turn my art into a full-time career. I started my journey at Exeter School of Art, opting to study art full time instead of A levels. Closely followed were three years at Manchester School of Art before being awarded a 1st in BA Textiles.

I wanted to graduate making use of my art degree.

Sideshore gave me the opportunity to create my very own studio situated in the most heavenly situation, right alongside my biggest inspiration, the sea. Unable to travel to seek fresh ideas for my art, my savings pot was now part of the biggest new business venture I could have imagined. Artisan makers and local artists, as well as start-up businesses, are all people I wanted to support by selling in the studio, especially during the pandemic.

How did you prepare yourself for this venture?

Opening Ella’s Studio was a huge leap of faith during the pandemic.

Attending as an exhibitor to events such as New Designers made me aware of how utterly competitive the arts industry was, showing what a drop of water in the sea you are.

Throughout my studies I embarked on a long stint of shifts at various jobs in the retail and hospitality sector including Darts farm. I grew to save, learn and understand that I wanted to fully push to being a fulltime artist. My dad helped me with the physical jobs such as sorting out upcycled materials and resources for things I would have overlooked in the time I had. This was a massive help with all my focus on painting and sourcing artists.

My business knowledge grew from him and without his belief in my art, I wouldn’t have had the push to open the studio.

As a confident go-getter I have always been highly motivated. I love being a maker and I want other people to enjoy my art too, so having the studio to immerse and inspire all ages is staggering.

Who or what inspires you in your painting?

Fawning over the powerful influence of nature, the energy of the breath-taking South West coastline drives my inspiration to create

compelling art. Cornish artist Kurt Jackson has always been my biggest influence. His bold and abstract wildness, and extensive techniques with mixed media, is what inspires the way I work. After living in Manchester, L.S Lowry’s work inspired me to look further into the human interaction that takes place in public spaces.

Has the past year been fertile ground for creating art?

I have found myself so utterly immersed with the energy of the sea.

Each season brings me something gripping and I never ignore a season due to its darker colours. I like the paintings to pull the viewers into the power and emotion of my larger very real seascapes.

What have been the challenges for you?

The environment holds great importance to me, so making the studio almost completely environmentally friendly was a challenge.

Everything in the studio is plastic free, upcycled and upholstered. Even my card machine is made from recycled sea waste!

How would you describe your art in a nutshell?

Powerful, energetic, playful and moving. An enticing abstract escape for any mind no matter the weather.

What advice would you give other artists who are wanting to set up a gallery and/or make art their bread and butter?

Every job is a step closer to your goals, so never let your goals fall below your expectations. Working hard and perseverance will make your bread and butter.

What do you like about the area?

The warmth of East Devon is what I love the most. Sitting and absorbing the rays with good food and a beautiful view.

Any plans for later in the year?

During September I am taking part in this year’s Devon Open Studios.

A trip to the Isles of Scilly will be a burst of inspiration for a new collection at the end of summer.

Instagram: @ellas.devon

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OUT OF TOWN

above: Hop aboard a Stuart Line Cruise;

left: Catch some art and a coffee at Infusion Art Café

NOT A BEACHY PERSON? There is plenty in town to amuse the sand-adverse.

Here is a glance at a few other options…

INFUSION ART CAFE The lovely spot showcases local art and serves up drinks, smoothies, cakes and salads. Currently the café is serving takeaways options only but visitors can enjoy a walk-through experience of the gallery space.

“We are really excited to be planning some ‘meet the artist ‘ and mini exhibitions late summer,” says owner Harriet Bates.

Infusion Art Café, Beacon Hill, Exmouth; www.infusionartcafe.co.uk

ELSEWHERE IN EXMOUTH… The outdoor seafront attraction Queen’s Drive Space will be hosting water rides, a fun fair and miniature railway over various dates throughout the summer.

Bubble of Fun will be bringing two water-based rides; water walking balls that allow riders to walk, run and crawl on water in a transparent bubble ball and bumper boats allowing children to independently sail in the safety of an inflatable pool.

Exmouth Miniature Railway will be bringing their train named Exmouth Express to the space.

Devey Funfair will also be bringing a selection of children’s rides, including dodgems and the twister ride to be enjoyed by the whole family.

People can enjoy the Jurassic-themed play area and the giant sand pit at all times. www.queensdrivespace.co.uk

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STUART LINE CRUISES The company offer a wide range of cruises including sunset trips, guided bird-watching cruises, with events including their fish & fizz, summer bbqs, live band nights and geology day trips.

“During the summer months, we sail into the heart of Exeter along Europe’s oldest working chip canal and venture out along Devon’s magnificent coastlines, offering Jurassic Coast Cruises and day trips to the English Riviera,” says Lauren Clark, director of marketing.

“There is so much to discover along Devon’s coastlines which can only be viewed from the water – from marine wildlife including birds, dolphins and seals, to fascinating geological formations, hidden coves and dramatic landscapes.”

During their regular, daytime sailings the team serve Devon Cream Teas and Chunk of Devon pasties too.

Marina, Pier Head, Exmouth; www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk BODYFIRST WOMEN’S GYM The gym runs kettlebells, zumba, fighting fit, circuits and indoor cycles classes but their most popular class is franchise Bounce, the mini trampoline fitness class. Check out their Instagram page, and be inspired. Gym owner Chelsea Perry says, “To sum up the feel of us...I would say we’re fun, friendly and empowering.”

Unit 1, Liverton Business Park, Exmouth; www.bodyfirstexmouth.co.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING B R I N G I N G YO U A L L T H E G O O D S T U FF F O R T H E M I N D, B O DY A N D S O U L

left: Lewys Holt will be performing contemporary dance works; below: Spokenword artist Harula Ladd will be hosting a writing for your wellbeing session

IN FULL BLOOM Bloom, Exeter’s Festival Of Mental Health Awareness is returning for a second year this May The free virtual festival, organised by Exeter Phoenix’s Dettie Ellerby, runs from 10-16 May and aims to raise awareness for mental health within Exeter, helping people feel part of the local community at this time.

The festival will feature music, workshops, poetry, storytelling, resources, family events and more with a mixture of live, online

events alongside a host of resources and activities available on-demand throughout the week.

And if you’ve got creative bones in you, there are lots of opportunities to get involved.

The festival organisers are inviting people to submit works of art with a theme of nature and the environment as part of their Bloom

Community Exhibition 2021; last year saw a broad array of paintings, drawings, digital art, photography, sculptures, sketches and children’s artistic creations.

Exeter Phoenix; www.exeterphoenix.co.uk; Facebook: @Bloom: Exeter’s Online Festival Of Mental Health Awareness

GOOD MOVE

The store sells products like rose facial moisturiser and frangipani body cream; inset: Gift packages are also available

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New to Exeter’s Cathedral Green is Apothespa, a boutique store specialising in natural skin care products and spa treatments.

The business is not new – you may remember the store in Queen Street. “We had a bit of a gap due to Covid hunting for just the right premises which we have now on the Cathedral Green,” says owner Lisa Hosking. “We will be shortly begin offering spa packages and treatments in our brand new boutique day spa.

“We use all our own products in our treatments and spa packages, which makes it a unique experience. Everything is organic, natural and mostly vegan.”

The company’s sister business is Devon Soap Company and they have stores all across Devon, including Honiton, Teignmouth and Totnes. www.apothespa.co.uk

CREDIT @SADECK Y_ ART

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HOME RUN

The Run Talk Run group go on a weekly 5km run around Exeter

ONES FOR THE DIARY!

YOGA AT THE CASTLE Twice weekly, ongoing Yoga at the Castle is back! Open to all levels, this class offers a unique opportunity to practice yoga in the historic grounds of Powderham Castle. The Hatha Flow inspired classes aim to help you find the balance between building strength and relaxation.

Classes run on Monday 6.30-7.30pm and Wednesday 6.30-7.30pm Powderham Castle, Exeter; www.powderham.co.uk CONQUER 24 5 – 6 June If you’re after something with a bit more get-up-and-go, this event could be more your jam. The new 24-hour race takes place across the castle grounds; you run solo or as part of a relay team.

You don’t have to run for a whole day – it’s a five-mile course which will take you around the castle’s trails, after which you’ll run through the castle itself and onto a cheering crowd of supporters!

Along the route, motivational speeches will be booming out at you from their woodland section, egging you on as you race to cross the finishing line – the event organisers have described it as a surreal, spirited, magical experience.

You can choose to stay overnight and camp onsite, where there will be entertainment for all the family. And you can opt to do the run at nighttime – bring your headtorch!

Powderham Castle, Exeter; www.powderham.co.uk

A branch of Run Talk Run, the peer mental health and running initiative, has arrived in Exeter.

The group will provide a safe and supportive space to talk about how you’re feeling while also getting some fresh air and doing some exercise.

The group will meet every Thursday evening outside the front entrance to Puerto Lounge on Commercial WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT? Road at 6.20pm, before Run Talk Run is a global mental heading out for an health support community which all-abilities 5km run. aims to use weekly, volunteer-led There will also be some runs to create a safe, confidential time before each run for and compassionate space for people to open up about their people to meet the rest mental health whilst exercising. of the group and chat to After starting out in 2017, they the run leader. Everyone now have over 100 runs across is welcome. You can sign the world; a global community all up through the My crew supporting each other, running App / Instagram: @ together and reminding each other runtalkrunexeter that it’s okay not to be okay. www.runtalkrun.com

Yoga and running fun at Powderham Castle

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SPONSORED CONTENT

MEET THE

PHYSIOTHERAPIST Exeter’s experts discuss common health problems, key bits of advice, and what to expect from your treatment programme

TANYA OWEN

ANDY LARMOUR & DAVE MACLELLAN

NEURO PHYSIO WORKS 07912 606504; www.neurophysioworks.co.uk Tell us a bit about what you do...

I specialise in neuro-physiotherapy and rehabilitation and work with people with injuries and conditions associated with the brain and spinal cord. I also provide assistance to Court as an expert witness in specialist neurological physiotherapy.

What are the most common health problems you treat?

There are many conditions and injuries that affect the neurological system and benefit from neurophysiotherapy, such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke and multiple sclerosis.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I work in people’s homes, local areas, gyms, pools and outdoors on ‘real life’ goals. Many people are treading a different life path from the one they had been prior to their injury/diagnosis. I love the sense of achievement someone experiences when they make great progress.

When should someone consider getting professional help from a physiotherapist?

I offer the best approach for you – whether it’s improving your movement and ability, walking with better balance, managing symptoms from a progressive condition or understanding which splint/ equipment best meets your needs.

What should a patient expect on their first visit?

Assessment of their physical presentation, questions about what they want to achieve, a plan of action and advice to get started.

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

OCEAN PHYSIO & REHAB 01395 239455; www.oceanphysio.com

Tanya Owen

Andy Larmour and Dave MacLellan

What is your favourite part of the job?

Definitely working with and helping our patients.

We are very fortunate to work with highly motivated patients who are keen to improve, achieve their goals and do exceptionally well with our support.

What makes you different from others in the industry?

We have a fantastic team at Ocean Physio, with hundreds of years of collective experience. The team genuinely want to help each other to enable the best outcome for our patients; everyone benefits from our collaborative approach. Our number one goal is to help everyone as much as we can.

When should someone consider getting professional help from a physiotherapist?

We are always happy to offer honest and straightforward advice about whether physio would help. If we can’t help, we’ll point you in the right direction to someone who can.

What key bit of advice would you give to a patient ?

Understanding what’s going on is very important. Then, determining the best way to improve the situation, with a simple philosophy that works. People that come to our clinic find our approach really refreshing and effective.

What currently are the most common health problems you are treating ?

The challenges of last year have brought their own issues, often with too little or too much activity, too quickly. We have lots of free videos on Instagram and Facebook, including regimes to help with sitting at a desk for too long and warm ups for a variety of sports, such as running.

SPONSORED CONTENT NICK CRITCHLEY

JENNIFER SEARLE MSC

THE GOOD PHYSIO 01392 982198; www.thegoodphysio.co.uk Why did you decide to become a physiotherapist?

I barely knew what a physiotherapist was until I had my first real injury aged 20. I remember hobbling into a physio clinic with a painful back and left an hour later feeling so much better and amazed at what he had done. I started my training the following year.

What makes you different from others in the industry?

I would say I’m pretty good at listening to people. When you really listen properly you get all the clues you need to fully understand patients problems from a clinical perspective but also from a broader framework of how their physical problems relate to the psychological and social pressures of life.

What key bit of advice would you give to a patient?

We don’t slow down because we get old, we get old because we slow down – learn how to move well, then move lots.

What currently are the most common health problems you are treating?

Over the years I have developed a specialist interest in treating patients with more persistent pains, often complex spinal conditions and widespread pain syndromes including various types of headache and fibromyalgia.

Tell us something about yourself...

I moved to Devon three years ago wanting a better work life balance. I have more time now with my family and enjoy activities including trail running, cycling and camping. It’s one of the best places to live and I feel lucky to be here.

QUAY KINETICS PHYSIO 07920 068655; www.quaykineticsphysio.co.uk Why did you decide to become a physiotherapist?

I was inspired by an amazing paediatric physio who treated me as a seven-year-old in South Africa. The session was so fun that it really stuck with me and I decided I wanted to be a physio!

What do you like best about the job?

My favourite part of the job is interacting with and helping people every single day. Hearing about how they have been able to return to the activities they love because of my treatment is so special and rewarding.

What makes you different from others in the industry?

My passion and drive to get the best results for my patients. We build communities through our workshops and Pilates, so you’re not just a number, you’re part of our tribe. It saddens me when I hear about people being fobbed off with outdated and poor physio treatment.

When should someone consider getting professional help from a Physiotherapist?

We are trained to assess and diagnose as autonomous practitioners; you can skip the GP and come straight to us if you have an ache, pain or injury impacting your quality of life. We can also do injury prevention work with you to reduce your risk of developing problems.

Nick Critchley

Jennifer Searle MSc

NEIL DAVEY

JO AVERY

What do you love about the job?

When patients are surprised at how quickly they can return to normal and how little treatment it involves!

Tell us a bit about your area of expertise...

I have been fortunate to work with Exeter Chiefs and the European PGA and have played professional sport, so I have a clear understanding of the difference between an injury and pain and what is involved to perform at whatever level suits the individual. I aim to quickly identify if there is an injury or just a pain and what is really driving the symptoms. This allows the quickest recovery with the least amount of treatment.

People don’t need repeated check-ups or many treatments, so when I work with someone I make sure they fully understand the cause of their issue, offering guidance on how they can resolve it and what to do to prevent it from returning.

What should a patient expect on their first visit?

To be listened to, understood, and supported through the process of fixing themselves.

What bit of key advice would you give to a patient?

It is harder to injure ourselves than we think but easy to cause ourselves pain. Don’t assume that because you have a pain that you’re injured. Manage your sleep, stress, and exercise regularly. This will give you the best foundation for being pain-free and healthy.

We can also get too preoccupied with “doing it correctly” by imposing movements, postures and techniques that aren’t suitable for the individual.

What is the favourite part of your job?

Meeting, helping and guiding a wide variety of patients to manage and recover from an injury or physical issue to achieve their desired goal or aim is really rewarding.

When should someone consider getting professional help from a physiotherapist?

If pain limits you in your movement or activity then physiotherapy could certainly be useful. Physiotherapy is for everyone, there is no barrier to who can benefit from specialist input. It certainly is not just for ‘sporty people’.

What should you expect on their first visit?

All patients speak with a physiotherapist before they attend. Often, there are simple things that can be done there and then to reduce pain or risk of further injury but it also means that when patients attend, I already have background knowledge. At an appointment, hands-on treatment is given together with exercises or movements and advice – which is all summarised in writing after.

What key bit of advice would you give a patient?

My key piece of advice would be to keep active and keep moving. This is different for everyone and can be as simple as a walk around the garden or stretching for a few minutes. Find something you enjoy, set achievable goals for yourself and pace yourself.

Tell us something about yourself...

I have been a physio since 2003 and have worked with Exeter Chiefs and most recently England Netball. I have also worked in NHS hospitals. Now I have a young family I focus my physio work closer to home. In my spare time I play netball and try to go running regularly.

NEIL DAVEY PHYSIO 01392 949032; www.neildaveyphysio.co.uk

FIRST PHYSIO 07977 012725; www.firstphysio.com

Neil Davey

Jo Avery

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Pretty verandas at Southernhay House

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AL FRESCO

THE GREAT OUTDOORS All hail the pub garden, the riverside dining spot, the sunny terrace! Exeter’s cafés, bars and restaurants have flung open their doors and spruced up their al fresco areas so that we can get out and have some fun. Here’s a look at what’s on offer…

By Harriet Noble

W

e won’t bother going over why eating and drinking outside at a pub, café or restaurant is so exciting right now. We all know why. What is even more exciting, though, is that these establishments haven’t just rolled out the same tables and chairs – they’ve undergone major refurbishments, created new menus, organised evening events. In short, everything is better, brighter and ready and waiting for us to visit….

SOUTHERNHAY HOUSE HOTEL

36 Southernhay E, Exeter Outdoor space: The original Georgian townhouse boasts a very pretty veranda; alongside this, the wide terrace offers a plethora of comfortable tables and chairs.

What’s the vibe? Relaxed, glam but unpretentious.

Any exciting events in the pipeline? “Lockdown three saw the

design and introduction of our new self-contained luxury apartment, in our second Georgian building just opposite the hotel,” says owner Deborah Clark.

“Oh, and it’s our 10th birthday party on 1 June this year.” www.southernhayhouse.com

RENDEZVOUS WINE BAR

38-40 Southernhay E, Exeter Outdoor space: “We are so lucky to have two beautiful walled gardens which enjoy sunshine for most of the day,” says owner Jemma Mitchell. www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 45

above: All smiles at Southernhay House; right: Leafy lovliness at Rendevouz;

“And there are still people who come into the wine bar regularly who don’t even know the garden is there!

“It feels like a little oasis in the heart of the city. Families can get together, or you can simply while away a sunny afternoon with a cool beer or a lovely chilled bottle of rosé! It’s a grown-up, al fresco getawayfrom-the-world kind of place!”

What’s on the menu? Current offerings include crispy pressed pork belly with chipotle mayonnaise, honey, and sesame; whole roast megrim sole and seared scallop with spiced polenta.

What’s new? During the pandemic the team spruced up the garden and built a cosy garden bar.

What’s the vibe? “A relaxed home from home, it’s a little like a walled cottage garden,”says Jemma.

Anything a bit different? “It’s all pretty quirky being a very old listed building of which the wine bar occupies the whole basement, and the garden bar building looks like an old Chapel yet it’s actually on the deeds as a morgue would you believe?” www.winebar10.co.uk

NEW! WINSLADE MANOR RESTAURANT AND BAR

Clyst St Mary, Exeter Winslade Manor Park has undergone a huge refurbishment and transformation and part of that is the brand new restaurant, headed up by local chef Matt Mason (formerly of The Jack in the Green). The indoor restaurant will open for the first time in May but they are all set up to serve people outside from their gorgeous terrace now.

“It feels like a little oasis in the heart of the city” 46 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Outdoor space: “Our outdoor space is nothing short of spectacular,”

say co-founders Joe Hammond and Tom Johnson. “We’re surrounded by 85 acres of stunning parkland, with far reaching views of East Devon and Exeter. Our covered terrace is an idyllic spot to watch the setting sun with a glass of fizz or warming cocktail.”

What’s on the menu? Expect everything from Thai green curry to St Austell Bay mussels, succulent rump steak with black garlic ketchup to a handmade woodfired pizza. They are open for brunch, lunch, early dinner, drinks, teas and some fabulous cocktails. www.winsladepark.com

THE CORK & TILE PORTUGUESE

15 Gandy Street, Exeter Outdoor space: Tables for two, four or six on Exeter’s pedestrianised cobbled Gandy Street, with fado music playing. First come first served (until 17 May when you’ll have to book).

AL FRESCO GREENDALE FARM SHOP, CAFÉ & RESTAURANT

Sidmouth Road, Farringdon, Exeter Outdoor space: 24 tables located outside on their patio – with heaters – plus cute, spacey looking pods.

What’s on the menu? The team will be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner outdoors on their patio. All the ingredients come from either the farm or local Devon producers.

What’s the vibe? Set in a stunning rural location in the heart of the East Devon Countryside, expect a relaxed, casual and family-friendly atmosphere.

“Customers come to us to meet up for a quick coffee while their children let off steam in our play area, to enjoy a relaxed lunch with friends or an informal evening meal watching the sun set behind the hills, or even a fish and chip take-away,” says marketing director John Williams.

Anything a bit different? The team here are

hosting street food stalls on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

You can bring the family and make a day of it by heading out to the family farm trail after lunch – potter over to feed the friendly chickens and ducks and visit Oscar the curious Ostrich! www.greendale.com

top: Briliantly blue,The Cork and Tile on Gandy Street; middle: Winslade Manor Bar and restaurant is; bottom: Greendale Farm Shop restaurant is open

What’s on the menu? This is a great spot for seafood lovers. Expect octopus, clams, prawns and cod – there are mixed grill options too.

What’s the vibe? Relaxed Lisbon side-street café-bar with coffee, cakes, tapas, beer and wine.

Anything cool to watch out for? “Vinho Verde (green wine) is a Portuguese speciality,” says manager Neil Perry. “It goes great with our octopus dish, also red and white Sangria.”

Any exciting events in the pipeline? Yes, they’ll be hosting a

live fado lunch and evening on Sunday 25 July to celebrate their 2nd Anniversary; expect singing with wine tasting and pairing.

Facebook @ thecorkandtile

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AL FRESCO COOLINGS

Gandy Street, Exeter Outdoor space: Seating outside their bar on Gandy Street – perfect for a mid-shopping spree pause.

What’s on the menu? Expect full ploughman’s, continental salad bowls, pizza and burgers, graze boxes and an extensive cocktail menu.

Anything new? “During the national lockdown we had to get creative,” says owner Kris Hewings.

“We launched a new company called Gandy Graze, graze boxes delivered across Devon. It has literally saved Coolings and given us the best chance possible of keeping our doors open.”

Any exciting events in the pipeline? When the indoors

opens up, the team will be hosting loads of regular nights with live bands, DJs, open mic nights and the fabulous host Mrs Arina Fox. “Our team cannot wait to get back to work throwing cocktail shakers around the bar!” says Kris. www.coolingsexeter.co.uk

KINGS ARMS OTTERTON

Fore Street, Otterton, Budleigh Salterton Outdoor space: There are three outdoor seating areas; a brick-paved terrace on the eastern side of the pub, a larger terrace on the western side and a beer garden to the rear.

What’s on the menu? The lunch and dinner menu will both feature fresh lobster and crab dishes (their own fishing vessel, the Becci of Ladram, is based nearby in Exmouth and regularly lands a fresh catch for them).

What’s the vibe? Relaxed and dog-friendly. Because of its countryside setting, The Kings Arms is always popular with dog walkers – dogs can even enjoy a treat from their special ‘À La Bark’ menu. top: Mill on the Exe boasts quite the view;

left: An Exeter favourite, On the Waterfront

Anything a bit different? “Did you know you can see wild Beavers

on the River Otter?” says manager Adrian Lazarus. “Handily, the riverside here in Otterton is one of the best areas to spot them; we recommend spending a quiet evening stroll by the river to look for them, followed of course by a fantastic, locally sourced meal at the Kings Arms!” www.kingsarmsotterton.co.uk

MILL ON THE EXE

Bonhay Road, Exeter Outdoor space: Substantial – 80 tables overlooking the River Exe. You can hire the space for events and weddings too.

What’s new? “While our guests have been away, our pub as had a mini refurb,” says general manager Andrew Dain.

“Expect a new lick of paint and all new furniture, menu and a fantastic new team that are ready to go.”

What’s the vibe? Chilled and scenic, with a vibrant garden.

Any exciting events in the pipeline? Live music on the weekends

throughout the summer. www.millontheexe.co.uk

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MANGO’S CAFE & BAR

Exeter Quayside, Exeter Outdoor space: The picturesque quayside spot is sporting a newly refurbished outdoor area, with benches for larger group dining and new parasols. They also do takeaway options if you’re out for a walk.

What’s on the menu? Breakfast, lunch, evening drinks and nibbles. Very popular is their brunch menu where you’ll find everything from the smashed avocado and poached eggs kind of brekkie to the full English shebang.

What’s the vibe? “We have always believed in a relaxed

dining atmosphere where you can grab a light lunch with friends and a bottle of wine in the sunshine,” says owner Faye Bland.

“It’s the perfect spot to watch the world go by or to have a bite to eat before setting of for a walk around the quayside.”

Anything else? In Sidmouth for the day? They have a newish sister café called Milsons Point Cafe & Bar which also has a banging outdoor eating area. www.cafemangos.co.uk

Cor, doesn’t that look refreshing!

Cocktails at Mango’s

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AL FRESCO NEW! POP UP BEER GARDEN AT POWDERHAM CASTLE Kenton, Exeter

Outdoor space: The expansive grounds of

Powderham Castle welcome a brand-new beer garden this spring. Expect undercover and outdoor seating on the pretty rose terrace overlooking the deer park and estuary. Pooches are welcome.

What’s on the menu? The beer garden will be open from lunchtime to dinnertime; expect BBQ nosh and beer.

What’s the vibe? Relaxed and happy. Take the chance to walk around the grounds of Powderham Castle while you’re there.

Anything a bit different? “How many beer gardens back onto 200-acres of deer park?” says events and hospitality executive Kez Paget.

The beer garden is a limited time event finishing on 29 May; www.powderham.co.uk

ON THE WATERFRONT

Exeter Quayside, Exeter Outdoor space: The terrace overlooks the River Exe and is a hugely popular spot in the summer.

“You can bask in the sun during the day and when it gets a little chillier in the evenings you can cosy up under our heated parasols or in our marquee,” says general manager Kelly Hacker.

“As the sun starts to set our terrace is illuminated by lights hidden in our foliage which gives it a botanical and almost magical feel.”

What’s on the menu? Pizzas with unique toppings are a speciality, and they go big (they have a 30” pizza!). There’s a good mix of your normal restaurant grub (burgers, mac and cheese) plus more unusual choices, (sticky miso glazed ribs, crab and papaya roll) so everyone in your gang should be pleased.

Any exciting events in the pipeline?

“We are supporting Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust as one of our charities this year so expect to see some ponies gracing our terrace in the not-too-distant future,” says Kelly. www.waterfrontexeter.co.uk

SACRED GROUNDS

McCoys Arcade, Fore Street, Exeter Outdoor space: The light, bright and airy café is tucked inside The Real McCoy Arcade so their ‘outdoor’ space is inside. This weatherproof option also has the advantage of being a stone’s throw from the independent shops there.

What’s on the menu? All sorts – but look out for their Northern

Thailand inspired menu and their sweet waffles topped with warm blueberry sauce, homemade lemon butter, ginger crumble and candied lemon.

What’s new? “We opened as a brunch café but are now dipping our

toes into regular evening dining on Friday and Saturday, under the atrium,” says co-owner Hayley Maker. “We’ve partnered with Exeter’s

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Sacred Grounds sits in McCoys Arcade; it’s a warm, green space

natural wine merchants Pullo who have curated a small list of wines to match the evening menu alongside our drinks menu.

What’s the vibe? “Sacred Grounds has been described as WesAnderson-esque quite a few times,” adds Hayley. “We pay particular attention the detail of everything we do, the flavours and presentation pleasantly take people by surprise when they visit us!”

Any exciting plans in the pipeline? The team are working on

launching a collection of Sacred Grounds nut-butters and jams; they will be available to pick up in zero waste stores and markets shortly. n www.sacredgrounds.co

FOOD & DRINK ONE FOR THE DIARY!

BIG GREEN EGG SUMMER MASTERCLASS AND TASTINGS LUNCH Join Darts Farm ’Eggspert’ SallyAnn and discover everything you need to know about the Big Green Egg (that’s the fancy BBQ pictured below!); from how to light and set it up, to cooking mouth-watering meals and delicious snacks.

The team will be running these foodie events on Saturdays and Sundays throughout May; £20 per person will get you a Big Green Egg tasting lunch and a soft drink.

Darts Farm, Topsham; www.dartsfarm.co.uk Sally-Ann will be cooking up a storm on the barbie

The cook and collect service runs every Tuesday

CRUMBS TAKEAWAY CONFERENCE The first online Crumbs Takeaway Conference took place on 19 April, bringing together an array of business owners from Exeter, Bristol, Bath, and Cardiff areas who all work in the hospitality sector.

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

And the conference saw examples in each city of great work during the pandemic – from Exeter we heard from chef Matt Mason from Winslade Park, who teamed up with up with Exeter charity St Petrocks (the non-profit charity for helping the homeless or vulnerable) to provide 50 lunches to the homeless every week during lockdown; and Summer Varley from The Real Food Store, who partnered up with Exeter Foodbank to support vulnerable and low-income Exeter residents to access high quality, local food.

Faye and Yvan Williams from The Oddfellows were also on hand to chat about how their business has diversified over the past year, with the introduction of their supper clubs and Sunday lunch takeaways.

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

Faye Williams, co-owner at The Oddfellows

Matt Mason, head chef at Winslade Park

NEW PROJECT TO SERVE FREE MEALS TO THE COMMUNITY FoodCycle, the charity that fights food poverty and loneliness has just launched a new project serving free meals to the community of Exeter, via a cook and collect service.

“We are thrilled to be opening up our Exeter project to provide free takeaway meals for the local community,” says regional manager of Foodcycle Exeter, Alex Hatherly.

“We look forward to forging new partnerships with local businesses, welcoming new faces into the FoodCycle volunteer family as well as welcoming back long-term Exeter volunteers and most importantly providing a nutritious meal and friendly chat to anyone in the community who needs it.”

The meals are open to all, no questions asked, you can just turn up and collect. The FoodCycle team will be serving up the takeaway meals every Tuesday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at the Mint Methodist Church on Fore Street.

For more: www.foodcycle.org.uk

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EDUCATION H I G H L I G H T S F R O M E X E T E R ’ S E D U C AT I O N S E C T O R

SUM KIND OF WONDERFUL Young players at Exeter City FC’s Academy will be able to tackle their simultaneous equations, as well as practice their set pieces, thanks to the club’s brand new sponsors.

Numerise, the online maths platform from Exeter-based Sparx, has become the new front of shirt sponsor of the Academy’s under 10 and 11 teams.

And the company has agreed to provide access to the platform to all the members of the ECFC Academy – a total of 112 boys, aged between 10 and 16.

“We all know that consistent practice is what will make a good footballer become outstanding and it is no different when it comes to maths,” says Dan Sandhu, CEO of Sparx.

“We know maths is hard and can fill a lot of learners with fear. So, we have designed Numerise in a way that breaks down tricky questions into simple-to-follow steps meaning that every learner can succeed. We are so excited to support the Exeter City Academy players and cannot wait to see their confidence in maths go through the roof.”

For more: www.numerise.com

SOUND OF SUCCESS Mitzi Irish, a Year 11 pupil at Shebbear College in North Devon, has just released her debut single, Trivial.

Mitzi, who describes her music as “somewhere between acoustic and pop”, wrote the song over Zoom during lockdown with London-based producer and writer Andy Gilbert, who she has been working with over the last six months, along with her Manager, Haydn Williams.

The 16-year-old is currently studying for her GCSEs and successfully manages to juggle her school work and music.

“I just play when I feel like it,” says Mitzi.

“It’s important to find a balance, so I don’t do song writing sessions in term time. If I have loads of homework or a really important test the next day, I’ll make sure I study first and then pick up the guitar. Music is a brilliant way to procrastinate though…”

Mitzi’s song Trivial is available to stream on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and iTunes.

For more: www.shebbearcollege.co.uk

Singer Mitzi is studying for her GCSEs

COURSE YOU CAN

Julian Tagg, from ECFC; Louise Mayor, from Sparx; and Arran Pugh, from ECFC

A new course has launched in Devon for adults working outdoors with autistic children.

The Autism Outdoors course from The Outdoors Group is designed to encourage best practice for teachers, teaching assistants and outdoor educationalists working outdoors with children and young adults with autism and neurodiversity.

Taking place over four days, topics range from sensory and play rich environments to guidance on ways of taking learners with autism outdoors in a safe, engaging and beneficial manner.

The course will be held at the Exmouth Forest School.

For more: www.outdoorsgroup.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF JOINING THE TEAM

Former teacher and youth worker Andy Mulcock has been appointed as the new Chair of Trust at the Ted Wragg Trust, the not for profit organisation that works with schools in Exeter and the local community to raise the aspirations of Andy Mulcock young people.

Andy has been a school governor for 23 years in both primary and secondary education and takes on the position from the current chair, Rob Bosworth, who has been at the helm for the last five years. www.tedwraggtrust.co.uk

WORLD CLASS

Travel may not be possible at the moment but people can learn more about the incredible cultures and languages around the world at the University of Exeter’s evening classes.

The new online courses, open to all, include modern Greek, Swedish, Polish, Arabic, Russian and Korean, French, Spanish, German, and Italian. www.humanities.exeter.ac.uk/flc/evening/languages

The course topics include sensory and play-rich environments

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It’s the city’s business

EXETERWORKS Tanya Rodgers

Kalkidan Legesse

ONES TO WATCH

The panellists from our Exeter Living Business Club all launched their own start-ups recently KALKIDAN LEGESSE, founder of Shwap, an AI enabled circular resale platform, that makes resale of clothes super easy (launches this May). www.shwap.co.uk JUDE CORAM, owner and designer of Apparel of Laughs, the company that sells funny and retro t-shirts and gifts to the UK and all across the globe. appareloflaughs.co.uk ERICA FARMER, founder and director of Welcome Two Learning Ltd, supporting organisations to design and deliver highly engaging and interactive virtual learning, coaching and engagement. www.WelcomeTwo.co.uk

Erica Farmer

Join the club!

O

n 13 April we hosted a virtual Exeter Living Business Club New Businesses Special.

Joining us were a group of entrepreneurs from a range of sectors including retail, property, hospitality, construction, media and digital. All panellists shared their stories of starting up a business during the pandemic: the challenges, the positives and the importance of community and collaboration in Exeter.

“We’ve been coming together with other individuals in the sector because together is stronger,” says Erica Farmer, founder and director of Welcome Two Learning Ltd. “Collaborating with people that share similar mindsets can bring out the best of you and challenge you to be your own best business owner.”

You can watch the conference on our YouTube channel: Exeter Living. The theme for our next Business Club is Events and it’s on 17 May – please join us.

For more: www.mediaclash.co.uk

BUSINESS CLUB

TANYA RODGERS from Me & Spirit, a boutique branding studio that specialises in crafting meaningful and authentic brand identities rooted in strategy and psychology. www.meandspirit.co.uk ANDREW CLANCY, managing director of Coreus Group, the Construction and Development professional consultancy. www.coreusgroup.com PHIL BEATTIE, managing director of Luxury Coastal Luxury Self catering agency with properties across the West Country. www.luxurycoastal.co.uk

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

EXETERWORKS

WELCOME ABOARD Rob Bosworth

Conrad Gillespie

Exeter Chamber of Commerce and Industry has appointed Rob Bosworth as a board director. As deputy CEO and vice principal at Exeter College, and chair of the Ted Wragg Multi Academy Trust, Rob brings a wealth of experience from the education sector.

“We’re delighted to welcome Rob to our team,” says Clodagh Murphy, chair at Exeter Chamber.

“His deep understanding of the education sector in the region will add further strength to the Chamber as we continue to evolve. Young people are central to the growth of Greater Exeter’s business landscape, so this link is both vital and exciting.”

Elsewhere, Exeter Initiative for Science and Technology (EXIST), the innovation and tech arm of Exeter Chamber, has announced Conrad Gillespie as its new chairperson.

Conrad takes the helm as the group

ONE FOR THE DIARY!

re-launches activity with a new brand and a focus to drive regional STEMM success.

“I’m excited to take on this new leadership role,” says Conrad.

“EXIST aims to drive STEMM success.

My focus will be to ensure the network brings opportunities through collaboration to business and organisations across Exeter and the South West, and to raise the profile of our region as a centre for STEMM.” The network has also launched a new virtual event, which will explore the Future of Clean Mobility. Taking place on 13 May, the knowledge sharing and business engagement session will run from 10am – 12pm, focusing on the challenges, innovations and opportunities for zero emission transport, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and regional carbon neutral ambitions.

For more: www.exeterchamber.co.uk

Visitors can expect techy demonstrations at Innovation Expo

The technology and business event SW Innovation Expo will be held at Sandy Park on 14 October 2021 and organisers have just announced that Dhiraj Mukherjee, co-founder of Shazam (the world’s first Dhiraj Mukherjee mobile phone-based music recognition service) and experienced investor in tech start-ups, as the keynote speaker.

The event is focused on demonstrating the cutting edge technical and intellectual innovations that could be transformative for any business.

Visitors can expect innovators, entrepreneurs and investors for panel discussions, an interactive technology expo, Pitchfest competition and networking opportunities.

For more: www.swinnovationexpo.co.uk

RAMM has received funding

FUNDING FOR THE FUTURE

Many of Exeter’s cultural organisations including DMF Music, Exeter Northcott Theatre, Exeter Phoenix, Le Navet Bete, Kaleider and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM), Double Elephant Print Workshop and Savoy Cinema in Exmouth will receive support from the Cultural Recovery Fund to help them recover and reopen in the wake of the Covid pandemic.

This second round of awards are crucial as Exeter’s arts and heritage organisations look ahead to the spring and summer and make plans for their output.

‘We are delighted to be receiving this much-needed funding, which will enable us to invest in getting visitors back into the museum, and re-engaging with local people when we open our doors again,” says Camilla Hampshire, museums manager and cultural lead of RAMM. “We will be able to use this funding to establish RAMM as a place of healing and recovery, re-connecting people with their history, their city and each other.’

For more: www.rammuseum.org.uk

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EXETERWORKS © MAT T ROUND

EXETER LIVING AWARDS 2020 Maths education providers Sparx won two awards at last year’s awards ceremony.

Here, director of marketing and consumer Louise Mayor chats about their mission to provide maths to millions all over the world Hoorah! Team Sparx celebrate their win

How did it feel to win not one but two Exeter Living awards?

We were absolutely amazed to not only win the Education award but also the Technology and Innovation award too. We were founded in Exeter with the majority of our staff being based locally and we’ve been lucky enough to work really closely with some amazing schools here in Exeter, so recognition of that work is as much for them as it is for us.

Why do you think you won?

Our progress over the last 10 years is testament to our amazing team and also to the partnerships we’ve been lucky enough to have with other local educational organisations like the Ted Wragg Trust, Exeter College and the University of Exeter. We’ve been working with schools in Exeter for over 10 years now, looking at how maths is taught and learned and improving outcomes for students.

Those local partnerships have been absolutely fundamental to that success.

EDUCATION

WINNER

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION WINNER

Tell us a bit about how business has been in this challenging period?

As the pandemic hit, we quickly realised there were things we could do to adapt to the new environment and support schools, teachers, students and parents.

In 10 days, we built a brand new product called Sparx Maths Virtual Classroom and made it available completely free to any school around the world for the duration of their closure. Over 8,000 lessons were created by schools in 80 different countries.

“IN 10 DAYS, WE BUILT A NEW MATHS VIRTUAL CLASSROOM AND MADE IT AVAILABLE COMPLETELY FREE TO ANY SCHOOL AROUND THE WORLD” 56 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Education has been under the spotlight during lockdown, challenging parents and schools alike. What have been the learning opportunities?

There are so many lessons learnt that will fundamentally affect the world of education technology for the future, but we have been constantly amazed by everyone’s ability to be flexible, to adapt to constantly changing circumstances and to support each other through some tough times.

What have been the problem areas in how maths has been traditionally taught? How do you do it differently?

Our focus has been on supporting teachers in school and finding a way to engage and motivate students enough to do one hour of truly personalised homework a week.

Great EdTech is absolutely not about replacing teachers – it’s about collaboration. Combining teachers’ knowledge, expertise and experience with sophisticated technology to provide high-quality education to every single learner and free up teachers’ time to focus on what they really want to do, which is teach. And that is exactly what we have done – worked with schools, teachers, students and parents to reimagine maths.

Research undertaken by Rand

Europe and Cambridge University shows that time using Sparx Maths is associated with significantly better outcomes for students and improved GCSE grades.

Have there been any positives from this time?

As a result of the pandemic the effective use of technology in education has been in much greater focus and it’s exciting to think about how we can be part of shaping its future.

What can we look forward to this year from your business?

We are on a mission to improve the life chances of five million learners by 2030. Sparx Learning companies already provide maths to more than 1.6 million children in the UK so we’ve still got a way to go but we are definitely up for the challenge!

What have you learnt about Exeter and its people during this pandemic?

Exeter has an amazing community and the pandemic has reinforced a strong culture of mutual support that exists in our city.

For more: www.sparx.co.uk

EXETERWORKS

Time to get nominating…

Sponsors gain close association with the most prestigious event in Exeter

© MATT ROUND

© DAVID PULLUM

The deadline for nominating your business for an Exeter Living Award is 20 May, so what are you waiting for…

Win and bring that Award back home!

It’s completely free to nominate your company or organisation, and you can enter as many categories as are relevant

TESTIMONIAL

“What a brilliant night – the power of Exeter! The event has become a ‘must go to’ event, a real credit to you.”

Rob Bosworth Vice-principal of Exeter College

T

he Awards celebrate all aspects of Exeter – from areas of business to culture, arts and charity. And anyone can enter.

“Write your nomination, share your story and then you, your team and your business might be a finalist or even winner at the Exeter Living Awards,” says Annie Miekus, events and brand manager at MediaClash. “There are massive benefits in being associated with the Awards – but please don’t leave it too late.”

“Everyone plays their part in shaping this city: from the smallest of indies to the largest of corporates. And uniquely, they all come together in the Awards.”

Winners receive coverage in Exeter Living, a hand-crafted trophy and window stickers to proudly display – plus the long-lasting remembrance of an award-winning moment.

There’s also the special invitation to watch the Exeter Living Awards Grand Reveal Day, Wednesday SPONSORSHIPS For remaining options, please contact harriette.dixon@ mediaclash.co.uk or paula. miller@mediaclash.co.uk.

NOMINATIONS Open now via our website; the deadline is 20 May. TICKETS ELA: updates when on sale.

Limited number of silver sponsorships including table.

26 May via Zoom. It’s free to attend, registration is on the Awards Twitter and website and you’ll hear all the latest updates on the Awards.

For more: www.exeterlivingawards.co.uk; @exeterlivingawds Awards’ strategic partnership with Triangle Networks As the Exeter Living Awards momentum builds, MediaClash has agreed a new strategic partnership with Clevedon-based internet service provider and distributor, Triangle Networks.

Triangle will be the Connectivity Partner across Exeter Living Awards and Exeter Property Awards and will be prominent in all the comms, especially on awards days.

“We’re delighted to be the official Connectivity Partner for the MediaClash Awards as we continue to deliver next-generation gigabit-capable internet connectivity to businesses across the South West,”says Triangle’s CEO Paul Anslow.

For more: www.trianglenetworks.co.uk; www.mediaclash.co.uk

Please note: we sell out every year with many on the waiting list.

AWARDS The uberglam Exeter Living Awards will be held on 2 September 2021 at The University of Exeter. Nothing beats being there…

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

SPONSORS: We thank our Sponsors so far on board for 2021, led from the front by our Platinum Sponsor, Marsh Commercial. And then also our other Category Sponsors: Exeter Science Park, Powderham Food Festival, Regus, Warwick Event Services, Yellowtail Financial Planning; and of course, Exeter Living itself. Also including our Feature Sponsor Triangle Networks.

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

COMING SOON…

Building work has started on the development of the Positive Light Projects Creative Hub, Exeter’s newest community arts space.

The building on Sidwell Street (next to Eat the Bird) is being transformed into a community arts space, gallery, library, darkroom and artist studios with a focus on community engagement and collaborative practice.

This community space is the brainchild of local photographer, educator and founder of the Positive Lights Project, Brendan Barry, who dreamt up the idea and set up the fundraising.

“I had the idea over a year ago to create a creative arts hub in the city centre that could provide a space for artists to work and to work with those artists to create opportunities and experiences for the broader community,” says Brendan.

“We aim to create a warm, welcoming, accessible and inclusive place for creativity where local charities and individuals of all abilities will be able to converge and engage in workshops, activities and events.

“The building has been empty for about five years so needs a lot of work. The money we have raised will go towards essential electrical and plumbing works, ensuring wheelchair access and the installation of a disabled loo, renovation of communal work spaces and artist studios, cleaning, painting and decorating, fire safety precautions and a heating system, all to make the building safe and accessible for all at which point we will be able to begin delivering an exciting range of activities, events and workshops.

“We plan to show South African-born, Exeter-based photographer Michelle Sank’s Breath series at the launch in September along with the results of all the workshops and events we plan to do over the summer.”

Instagram: @positivelightprojects / Twitter: @positivelightp

The hub is the brainchild of local photographer Brendan Barry

QUEEN OF THE KNIGHT

Property consultancy Knight Frank has appointed Louise Glanville as head of the firm’s residential sales office in Exeter.

In her new role, Louise will continue Congratulations Louise! to look after the city sales market, in addition to being responsible for building upon Knight Frank’s established brand, market share in the local area, and leading the team based in the Exeter office. www.knightfrank.co.uk This glam beach front property is on the market

POSITIVE LIGHT PROJECTS CREATIVE HUB IN NUMBERS AMOUNT OF MONEY RAISED £50,000 HOW THE MONEY WAS RAISED £35,000 through the Crowdfunder (after fees) £14,500 from Devon County Council £500 from Exeter City Council

WHAT’S THE TIMELINE FOR OPENING? “The Exeter College Art & Design Students end of year show is going in on the ground floor end of May. We hope to soft open the rest of the building in June and then have a proper launch party in September.” Brendan Barry

SPOTTED!

Sitting pretty adjacent to Exmouth’s beach front is this spacious contemporary waterside home. The luxury five-bedroom property includes two sun terraces with outstanding views of the sea and Devon Coastline.

Where? Spindrift, Maer Road, Exmouth, Devon How much? £1,100,000 Bradleys Estate Agents. Exmouth; www.bradleys-estate-agents.co.uk

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DEERSLAKE Three miles outside of Exeter lies this secluded thatched cottage. We explore…

By Rupert Ardington

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PROPERTY

I

magine a beautiful 17th Century thatched house in its own peaceful valley with glorious views of the surrounding countryside. A happy home with six decent-sized bedrooms, reception rooms that are light and airy in the summer and snug in the winter plus a very large modern kitchen.

Imagine the plot of almost 20 acres which includes a well-established garden, double garage, five loose boxes, pasture and woodland. The hamlet of Nadderwater with a decent pub just a mile away and the centre of Exeter less than three miles.

It sounds like heaven.

The reality is Deerslake, a stunning Grade-II listed house which has been sensitively enlarged and modernised, retaining the character of a house that was built the thick end of 400 hundred years ago and yet provides all the amenities for contemporary living. The ground floor is accessed via a double height entrance hall with a handsome quarry tiled floor and a galleried landing where you can perform your own version of Romeo and Juliet. The spacious drawing room oozes

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A PLACE TO CALL HOME PROPERTY

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character and has a wood-burning stove in a large inglenook which provides a focal point for a room which, despite its size, shouts out to be cosy. Also on the ground floor are a decent-sized sitting room, dining room, study as well as a utility room and loo.

Upstairs there are four bedrooms on the first floor, with two bathrooms. The main bedroom is almost 25 feet long, has windows on three sides giving marvellous views of the surrounding countryside and has a staircase leading to a mezzanine room which could be a dressing room or a second study if you need to escape your other half from time to time.

One of the great features of Deerslake is its seclusion.

The house is approached by a private driveway providing ample parking space, and is surrounded by a mature garden mainly laid to lawns. Immediately outside is a large paved terrace ideal for relaxing, glass in hand, on a summer’s evening while enjoying the sensational views over the surrounding countryside which include the wellfenced paddock, fields of pasture and well-established woodland which form part of the property.

This rural abode is waiting for its new owners – while the surrounding unspoilt countryside is on standby, ready to be explored. Let the adventures begin. n

HOUSE NUMBERS Where?

Deerslake, Nadderwater, Devon, EX4 2LD Bedrooms 6 Bathrooms 3 Outside Approximately 19.35 acres of

land which includes stables, paddocks, woodland, log store, lawn and terrace Guide price £1,125,000 For more Strutt & Parker, 24 Southernhay West, Exeter; www.struttandparker.com

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EXETER LIVES Callum and his daughter Winifred out for walk

“Librarians get a little bit funny about the “Shhhh” stereotype we sometimes get brushed with”

CALLUM ELLIOTT-ARCHER Callum is Exeter Library’s new general manager (and our new columnist, see page 14). Here he chats about getting a bigger desk, favourite books and loving a bit of peace and quiet Congratulations on the new job, Callum! What were you doing before?

Thank you! It’s very exciting.

Before getting this job, I worked in various library service roles, such as centre manager for the Hayridge Centre in Cullompton, and operations supervisor here at Exeter Library. But, before my life in libraries started, I worked mainly in the service and hospitality industry.

What exactly does your job involve?

As centre manager I oversee the staff here at Exeter Library and help them provide an amazing service to the people of Exeter.

We are focused on creating a

Community and Cultural Hub in the centre of town and working with local partners to ensure the maximum amount of people can access the service.

What’s the best thing so far about your new job?

My new desk! It’s very similar to my old one, but it is slightly bigger.

What’s the book that you return to time and time again?

I really enjoy The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

“So this is it,” said Arthur, “we are going to die.”

“Yes,” said Ford, “except... no!

Wait a minute!”

He suddenly lunged across

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the chamber at something behind Arthur’s line of vision.

“What’s this switch?” he cried.

“What? Where?” cried Arthur, twisting round.

“No, I was only fooling,” said Ford, “we are going to die after all.”

Where is your favourite place in the library?

My new desk. But I already used that for an answer, so I’ll say, the children’s library. It’s massive, bright, and very exciting.

Having a huge group of children playing and reading in the library is something I’m really looking forward to seeing again post lockdown.

Does working in a library mean you have to be quiet a lot of the time? And, if so, is that something you struggle with?

We have a “quiet area” in the library, and you have to be quiet there. But you can really do what you like in the rest of the library.

Librarians get a little bit funny about the “Shhhh” stereotype we sometimes get brushed with.

But, I do not struggle with being quiet. I have two kids that are under three, so quiet is a rare thing and much celebrated when I find it.

Whereabouts do you live?

Cranbrook. I’m from Coventry originally but moved here for University in 2007. I loved the place, so decided to stay.

Who or what makes you laugh?

My partner Sam is very funny.

But I won’t admit that to her, otherwise she will get a big head.

You’ve got a free hour in Exeter – where do you go?

I like to stare at the video games in Game or CEX and fantasise about having enough free time to be able to play my PlayStation more.

Favourite bar, café or restaurant in Exeter?

Love The Monkey Suit. Great cocktails and music. I do miss that place, and look forward to being able to go back.

What’s the most surprising thing about you?

I’m not actually bald. I could grow my hair whenever I want, I just don’t want to. This is a choice, so stop asking me about it. n

www.exeter.ac.uk/library

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