Exeter Living - Issue 297

TAKE ME

ISSUE 297 / MAY 2022 / £3

ROLL UP! ROLL UP!

THE CIRCUS IS COMING TO TOWN

CHARACTER BUILDING

CHATTING WITH JIM PARKYN, MODEL MAKER AT AARDMAN ANIMATIONS ISSUE 297 / MAY 2022 / QUAY TO HAPPINESS

MEET THE STYLIST CHANTELLE ZNIDERIC TALKS LOOKING GOOD, FEELING YOUR BEST

HARRY’S GAME

DINING AT EXETER’S GORGEOUS GOTHIC RESTAURANT

WATER VIEW ALL PRAISE EXETER QUAYSIDE, THE CITY’S SUMMER HAVEN

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE Pretty Veg Box, down on the Quay, turn to page 26; BELOW Top notch book recommendations from Charlie Richards, turn to page 21

W

e make a habit of featuring the latest, newest, just out-of-itsbox additions to the city, whether it be a new restaurant, bar or indie shop – and rightly so. We love to champion the start-ups in the city and spread the news about what they’re bringing to the mix.

It’s also, however, great to celebrate the old-timers, the businesses that have been part of the Exeter landscape for decades, the ones that have weathered every storm, motored on through recessions, rising costs and are still thriving. Two such businesses who’ve done just that are Harry’s Restaurant and The Jack in the Green, both of whom are about to celebrate 30 years in business. Turn to our food section on page 35 to read about their epic business journeys and why they are still at the top of their game.

For diary-filling action, turn to our arts section, beginning on page 10, where we interview members of Extraordinary Bodies. They’re bringing a groundbreaking circus

performance to Exeter Northcott Theatre this June; we also chat with the brilliant Jim Parkyn, the genius model maker behind creatures like Wallace and Gromit, ahead of his visit to Craft Festival Bovey Tracey.

Elsewhere we look to the longer, warmer months ahead and what lies in store, see page 26. We couldn’t not feature Exeter Quayside for this; it is the place that springs to life in the summer with watersports, live music, gin masterclasses and so much more.

Talking of Exeter Quayside, it was while I was walking there recently that I saw a group of people gathered holding a banner for someone called Mollie. I enquired as to who Mollie was and was told she was doing a triathlon to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West. Mollie was just four years old.

She wanted to help children less fortunate than herself and so she decided to train for a triathlon. Turn to page six to read our interview with Mollie – what an inspiration!

Enjoy! #ExeterTogether

HARRIET NOBLE

Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving Instagram @exeterlivingmag

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Issue 297 / May 2022 COVER Exeter Quayside, image by Damian Charles Kennedy; www.damiancharlesphoto.com. Turn to page 26 for more.

THE BIG FEATURE

26 EXETER QUAYSIDE All the fun and frolics happening over the next

few months

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT Positive news and a heart-warming interview 9 JP HEDGE on the mammoth journey of St Sidwell’s Point 51 EDUCATION How to nail extra curricular activities for the kids 66 LIVES Two Exeter doctors, one epic ocean challenge

THE ARTS

10 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, art, and a sprinkling of comedy 15 JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS Where the parties are happening 16 JIM PARKYN Chatting with the Aardman Animations model maker

ahead of his visit to Craft Festival Bovey Tracey 21 BOOKS Charlie Richards has the lowdown on the literature we need to dive into 23 EXTRAORDINARY BODIES Interview with the circus company behind Human, coming to Exeter Northcott Theatre this June

16

23

FOOD & DRINK

35 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Delicious events for the diary 36 RESTAURANT Dining at one of Exeter’s oldest restaurants 39 INTERVIEW The Jack in the Green turns 30!

LIFESTYLE

44 MEET THE STYLIST Chantelle Znideric on her passion for helping

to give people confidence

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

48 MIND, BODY & SOUL Yoga, running, and socials – get stuck in 49 REVIEW We try a luxury treatment at the new St Sidwell’s Point 52 STAYCATIONS A heavenly stay, less than two hours away

BUSINESS

55 EXETERWORKS All the latest from the movers and shakers 56 JOURNEY TO THE JOB Ever wondered how you become

a zookeeper?

59 NEWS Top stories from the property sector 64 NEW BUILDS A spotlight on three new local developments

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 Charlie Richards, JP Hedge Commercial manager Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk Production/ Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Production Manager/ Production Designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Exeter Living MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 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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© ALI WRIGHT

PROPERTY

SPOTLIGHT Charity

GO MOLLIE!

Five-year-old Mollie Simms recently completed a triathlon in Exeter to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West.

Here, she tells us about the big challenge…

Hello Mollie! Congratulations on completing your triathlon – how did you feel when you ran through the finishing line?

I was tired but I was very happy to have completed my triathlon. I liked that everyone cheered for me and I helped the children.

You did running, swimming and cycling. Which part was the hardest?

Running was the hardest, because my legs were tired from the swim and cycle and it was really windy so I was getting blown backwards.

Which part did you enjoy the most?

I enjoyed the swim, and having my family watching me finish the run and getting my medal.

Whereabouts in Exeter did you do the swimming, cycling and running?

I swam 25m in the Riverside Leisure Centre, and I cycled and ran from the Quay.

When you got home after you finished, did you have a nice treat?

I shared a pizza with my daddy after the triathlon and then my mummy and daddy bought me some sweets on the way home.

Did you do any training or preparation for your triathlon?

My daddy takes me swimming on a Sunday morning, and for bike rides by the canal. My daddy does lots of running and we practised running on the running track at Exeter Arena.

What inspired you to do this run?

I saw an advert on TV for a Children’s hospital. I went upstairs to get some toys from my bedroom to give to the children and wanted to help them by giving them some money. It’s sad that some children are poorly and don’t have toys.

You raised an impressive £780 for the Children’s Hospice, where exactly will the money go to?

The money will help poorly children and their mummies and daddies to be able to do nice things at the hospice and have nice days out.

Has the experience of doing the triathlon inspired you to do any more challenges for charity?

Next year I want to do another challenge to help children and maybe get a world record too.

Can people still give money to your Just Giving page?

Yes please, www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ mollie-mimms.

Mollie has recently turned five, but she was just four when she completed her triathlon

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Lastly, has your sporting success made you want to be an athlete when you’re older?

I want to be a hairdresser when I’m older and also go to the Olympics and win a gold medal.

Darts and axe-throwing are just some of the activities at Boom Battle Bar

Entertainment

BOOM BOOM BOOM

A new venue combining a bar, eaterie and an entertainment battleground full of competitive gaming has just opened in Exeter’s Guildhall Shopping Centre.

At Boom Battle Bar, the UK’s first and only Battle Bar, the spirit of competitive play casts you away from the mundane everyday and immerses you in a night out to remember.

The Battleground at Exeter consists of augmented reality darts booths, crazier golf, axe throwing lanes, beer pong tables and much more. Visitors can enjoy street food style mouthfuls including chicken wings and fries, while the BOOM bar will offer a selection of wines, spirits, draught beers and Battleground themed cocktails.

This Exeter location also houses the latest site for global escape room operator Escape Hunt. Players will be able to choose from a host of indoor escape games and virtual reality adventures and delve into new worlds as they race against the clock to crack the clues and solve their mission.

For more: www.boombattlebar.co.uk

The DCW Polymers team

Environment

ALL RAISE

DCW Polymers, the South West’s specialist plastics recycling and reprocessing plant, has raised over five and a half thousand pounds for local charities by recycling plastic tubs and bottle tops.

The funds, which have been split equally between Dartmoor Zoological Park and mental health charity Mind, were raised through the appeal which asked the general public to donate plastic tubs and bottle tops

for recycling which DCW Polymers then shredded into granules.

The granules have been used in manufacturing DCW’s recycled plastic furniture range which has raised approximately eight pence per tub recycled for Dartmoor Zoo and Mind.

Over 85 businesses, schools and organisations across the South West volunteered as collection points for the tubs, bottle tops and takeaway containers, with the general public donating 1,925kg of tubs and 673kg of bottle tops in a bid to support

the charities. The weight of the tubs equates to 64,166 tubs recycled through this year’s Recycle and Raise campaign.

Thanks to the enthusiasm of the public and the success of the appeal, DCW Polymers is now collecting plastic tubs and bottle tops all year round.

Clean plastic tubs and bottle tops can be taken to the recycle and raise drop-off point outside Princesshay’s Bee Hive Information Centre, The Hive, located in Bampfylde Lane in Exeter.

For more: www.dcw.co.uk

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OPINION JP HEDGE

“At times I wasn’t sure the project would cross the line”

We’ve only just begun…

It’s been a long, rocky, road to get to this point but St Sidwell’s Point is now open to the public.

Its working life now starts…

S

t Sidwella is said to have come to an untimely sticky end to her Exeter days when her stepmum paid a couple of guys to lop off her head with a scythe.

The murder was about her looks and wealth and born out of power, jealousy, rage.

Even in that context, St Sidwell’s Point sounded an attractive new title compared to some of the names being thrown around when I first joined the council.

I’m writing this column during a moment of tired reflection some 72 hours after we opened the doors of the country’s first Passivhaus leisure complex.

I took over the baton for leisure on the last leg of the journey. For much of the time I was an observer, and at times I wasn’t sure the project would cross the line.

Politics very much aside, SSP is an audacious project for any district Council to do and one fraught with bear traps.

Create one of the world’s best public leisure complexes? Sure.

There was the cost of the building, when you could have had so many cheaper alternatives. And also, why build a pool in the first place? There was the design, and not

being double the size for elite swimmers. And then there was the location. The pressure to build something out of town with free parking was huge. Then there was the news that the building wouldn’t be part of a wider complex, and the costs went up again.

Then there was Brexit (remember that) where every part of the building had to be shipped over in advance for fear of catastrophe Millennium Bug style.

Then there was a pandemic, and actual plague where every delay means additional costs and a lack of income.

And then there was the collapse of the leisure sector, the rise in energy costs and cost of living crisis, staff shortages, Pyramids finally giving up the ghost ahead of schedule, and the decision to run all of the leisure services and sites across Exeter in house.

And for all of that journey the benefits of St Sidwell’s Point have just been theoretical.

Working on it every day I must admit that I too got lost in the conceptual notion of it all.

That journey is now in the past and with the doors open, it’s just the tangible benefits to enjoy.

The quality is just outstanding. People smarter than me sowed seeds in the designs a decade ago to bring real joy today. The

moveable floors and combination of ladders, steps and submersible wheelchair are game changers for those who couldn’t access facilities before.

From accessible toilets on each floor, changing places facilities to Room Mate audio descriptions for visually impaired users, SSP is a step in change in what council run facilities should be. We’ve done local and Fair Trade food and supplies wherever we can and the centre itself will be a strong anchor for other businesses for years to come.

Without discounting, all costs are low on purpose despite paying Living Wage as a minimum...and where finances are still a barrier for people to exercise, we are working with communities to help them be active with a new 12-week programme.

For me though it was seeing my nine-yearold, Harry, swim for the first time without a reaction to his atopic eczema. It wasn’t until he was bobbing around and I noticed the WHO drinking quality water meant he wasn’t scratching like a DJ possessed. For the first time in his life he can have an inclusive swim and be like the other children.

There’s now everything to do for my team to live up to the high standards by the building.

It’s early days but it looks like SSP will be the Brilliant Alternative for residents for years to come. ■ 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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WHAT’S ON

The Golden Cockeral is on at Exeter Northcott Theatre

13 May onwards

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

THEATRE/ OPERA/ DANCE Until 15 May

FANTASTICALLY GREAT WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD This new kick-asspirational pop musical sees the inquisitive heroine Jade go on a journey to meet the original and incredible wonder women: Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, and Emmeline Pankhurst to name just a few.

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

22-28 May

LA BOHÉME The English Touring Company’s much-praised production, in period dress and with inventive designs, sung in Italian, promises to break every heart and breathe joy into the spirit of everyone who has ever wanted love.

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

27 May

THE GOLDEN COCKERAL A daring satire on the last days of the Romanov empire, and in particular the debacle of the RussoJapanese War. It is as explosive as it is charming.

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

3 June

UPLIFT Richard Chappell Dance returns with a programme of transformative dance including a new version of the seminal work Silence Between Waves, a mesmerising duet inspired by Chappell’s memories and experiences of growing up on the South Devon coast.

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

4 June

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Set in post-war 1945, enjoy a summer’s day or evening with a joyous and vibrant open-air production of one of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies, featuring wit, romance, confrontations, and live music. Suitable for all ages, Sun & Moon Theatre specialise in creating entertaining and accessible Shakespearean performances.

Poltimore House and Grounds, Poltimore, Exeter; www.poltimore.org

COMEDY 19 May

CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD: THE ALL BALLS AND GLITTER TOUR Join Craig as he talks about his life from Australia to the West End to Strictly, reveals a wealth of backstage gossip with his trademark

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wit and candour, and gives a very special performance of some of the music which has been the soundtrack to his career.

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

29 May

SIMON AMSTELL: SPIRIT HOLE It’s been described as a blissful, spiritual, sensational exploration of love, sex, shame, mushrooms and more. If you yearn for a night of unprecedented joy and laughter book now and avoid regret.

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

MUSIC 18 May

THE SOUL OF A NATION RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of the great composers with a talk by Raymond Calcraft and live music from Hilary Boxer and David Davies.

The illustrated talk with recorded musical excerpts looks at Vaughan Williams’ interest in folksong and its importance to his music, his contribution to this country’s cultural history and his remarkable musical legacy.

Gallery 20, RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeterramm.admit-one.eu

28 May

21ST CENTURY ABBA The group faithfully recreates all the greatest hits of one of the world’s most famous pop sensations.

Guests can enjoy preshow drinks, and are encouraged to dress up and sing along!

Exeter Cathedral, Exeter; www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

4 June

BROTHER STRUT After a two-year break, Brother Strut make a much-anticipated return to the stage, with the addition of Jamiroquai’s guitarist Rob Harris.

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

11 June

THE EXETER BIG NOISE CHORUS CHOIRS The group of local community choirs, up to 100 performers, are performing as part of the Exeter Respect Festival and will showcase both new material and a few old favourites.

Belmont Park, Exeter; www.bignoisechorus.co.uk

FILM

Until 19 May

WILD MEN An unusual midlife crisis unfolds in this absurdist Scandi comedy. A sharply observed, drolly amusing

WHAT’S ON comedy of errors with a madcap narrative, blending deadpan wit and outbursts of violence to great effect, Wild Men explores 21st Century man, his insecurities and modes of being through a satirical yet affectionate lens.

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

14 and 15 May

EXETER PRIDE: CABARET To celebrate its 50th year Exeter Pride presents Cabaret, bringing1931 Berlin to life inside and outside the Kit Kat Klub, documenting the exploits of naive but irrepressible American singer Sally Bowles and her friends, set amongst the moral decadence and sexual ambiguity of pre-war Berlin.

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

20 May

© JACK THOMSON PHOTOGR APHY

OUTDOOR CINEMA AT POWDERHAM CASTLE Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy one of a multitude of fantastic films including Moana, Fantastic Mr Fox, The Great Gatsby, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Pride, Jojo Rabbit, and Clueless. Films are being shown on specific dates throughout May and June.

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

ART

Until 29 May

top:

Richard Chappell dance ensemble; above: Much Ado About Nothing

IN PLAIN SIGHT: TRANSATLANTIC SLAVERY AND DEVON This exhibition traces the local industries that relied on the trade and the lives of the people who benefitted from its profits.

It features a film which reflects on RAMM’s iconic painting Portrait of an African and a new commission by the acclaimed artist Joy Gregory.

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

COLOUR FOR THE SOUL Sophie creates signature ‘doodles’ inspired by the world around her and likes to create different characters to make people smile.

Many of these characters have featured in murals on children’s bedrooms walls and on the streets of Exeter.

Heavitree ParkLife Café, Whipton Lane, Heavitree, Exeter; www.parklifeheavitree.org.uk

Until 2 July

A-HA: THE MOVIE This documentary follows the band over a period of four years, sharing the full story of how three young men followed their impossible dream of making it big. This is a story of great music, big ambitions, broken friendship – and maybe forgiveness.

Exeter Picture House, 51 Bartholomew St W, Exeter; www.picturehouses.com

31 May, 1 June, 5 June

Until 30 June

ARTFUL CRAFT This exhibition focuses on the nature of craft, art and design in the 21st Century, addressing the labels, status and boundaries associated with craft and fine art as well as the impact of new technologies such as digital design and rapid prototyping.

MAKE Southwest, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey; www.crafts.org.uk

28 May-5 June

A PASSION FOR BEAUTY A new joint show exhibiting the work of Ian Parker and Neil Cox that will feature birds of nature and still life paintings that complement each other.

Marine House at Beer, Fore Street, Beer, Devon; www.marinehouseatbeer.co.uk

28 May-23 July

FRESH! DEVON ARTIST NETWORK This exhibition brings together key works by leading Devon artists such as Karen Nicholls, Ella Slade and Martin Staniforth.

Expect painting, sculpture, pottery, glass work, textile and mark making – with all pieces for sale.

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

30 May-5 June

ART IN THE STUDIO Bovey Tracey Society of Artists is holding a special exhibition this year as part of The Queen’s Jubilee celebrations. Expect a wide range of work by local artists including sketches, watercolours, pastels, acrylics and oil paintings.

The Studio (the old library building), Abbey Road, Bovey Tracey; @Bovey Tracey Society of Artists

6-12 June

ART WEEK EXETER 2022 Art Week Exeter returns, after a three-year hiatus, to showcase work from emerging talent,

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The Devon Shutter Company Ltd British Made Shutters Since 2007 info@devonshutters.co.uk www.devonshutters.co.uk

faradaystoves@gmail.com www.faradaystoves.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

14 May

EXETER PRIDE The day will feature a colourful rainbow flag march through Exeter, including a fire engine, an ambulance, dancers, music and much more.

Northernhay Gardens, Exeter; www.exeterpride.co.uk

15 May

LIV TORC: HAIFLU EVER AFTER Through multimedia, live music and spoken-word, Liv tells the lifeaffirming story of two lockdowns and 10,000 haiku; an idea that started as a Facebook status and ended up on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme. A story that engaged thousands of people around the world and changed Liv’s life forever.

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

18 May

above: The Scribes will be performing at Exmouth Festival; left: Ian Parker’s Liquorice Allsorts will be on display at Marine House

BOOK THE BABYSITTER – MUM POET CLUB OPEN MIC NIGHT Exeter independent book shop Bookbag will host an evening filled with readings from members of Devon-based Mum Poem Press, plus poet Flora Cruft who will be reading from her first published poetry collection I am a Spider Mother.

Limited spaces, book tickets via website; www.themumpoempress.com; www.bookbag.shop n

walkabout entertainers, a fairground plus crafts and clothing traders, food and a bar tent. Acts performing include local band Pattern Pusher.

Imperial Recreation Ground, Exmouth; www.exmouthfestival.co.uk

11-12 June

longstanding professionals and people just doing their thing!

Art Work Exeter, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street; www.artworkexeter.org.uk

FESTIVALS Until 2 July

CYGNET THEATRE’S DREAM FESTIVAL To celebrate their 40th birthday, Cygnet Theatre is hosting over 162 cultural events over a 10-week period. Expect theatre, art, street

performances, workshops, comedy and lots more in unexpected venues all over the city. Watch out for the dazzling multi-story orchestra and Isca Academy performance on 1 July in Exeter’s IKEA car park!

All over the city; www.cygnettheatre.co.uk

2-5 June

EXMOUTH FESTIVAL This community festival of the arts features music, art and audio installations, circus workshops,

EXETER RESPECT FESTIVAL The city’s annual celebration of diversity returns using the performing and creative arts to engage the wider community in saying no to racism and all forms of prejudice. Headliner act on the Saturday night has been confirmed as Donegal trio, The Henry Girls.

Belmont Park, Exeter; www.exeter-respect.org

AND WATCH OUT FOR...

30 June 2022

OTHER 14 May

THE POETRY MACHINE This is your chance to experience poetry created in response to your thoughts, feelings, ideas, and discoveries. Co-create a poem with poet Beth Calverley, distilling your words into a poem to take home with you.

Exeter Custom House, 46 The Quay, Exeter; www.exetercustomhouse.org.uk

ENTRECONF Inspirational, practical conference for start-ups, scaleups, entrepreneurial thinkers; advisors (financial, legal, tech, management, marketing, premises and more); thinkers (academics); all interested in new ways of doing business. To register your interest please get in touch.www.entreconf.com

21 October 2022

EXETER PROPERTY AWARDS Following a successful first year, we are once again holding the Exeter Property Awards. For more, see page 59. www.exeterpropertyawards.com

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JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS IN EXETER IN THE CITY CENTRE...

A huge street party is happening on the High Street in Exeter between 11am and 3pm on 2 June. There will be tables and benches for people to enjoy eating together and live music will be provided by the Liberty Sisters and Chris Pope.

On Cathedral Green, expect plenty of family fun from the Royal British Legion, SSAFA the Armed Forces charity, 13 Squadron Air Training Corps, Exeter Academy of Dance, Visit Exeter, CEDA, Exeter Live Better and Exeter City Community Trust.

Princesshay Shopping Centre will have a Mojito Beach Bar and Exeter Jazz

Orchestra will be performing.

The Guildhall Shopping Centre and Queen Street Dining is also getting jazzed up for The Queen’s Jubilee. With decorations up from the 30 May, expect live music, picnic spaces and ample great places to eat.

Also don’t miss the National Beacon Lighting event on Exeter Quayside on 2 June.

Slightly out of the city on Exeter’s ship canal, Double Locks will have face painting, scones, tea, Jubilee ale, live music and decorations. Book your table for a place at their stretch tent on their website.

For more: www.news.exeter.gov.uk; www.visitexeter.com; www.queensjubileebeacons.com

Lots of family fun going on throughout the weekend at Cathedral Green

© RHS/ LUKE MACGREGOR

JUBILEE PARTY WEEKEND AT RHS ROSEMOOR

Celebrating 70 years of service, the Queen; above right: Happy drummers at RHS Rosemoor

RHS Garden Rosemoor is hosting a weekend of music and celebration in their stream field.

From 11am – 3pm on 3 June, visitors can enjoy Tano Taiko Drummers, a performing art originating in Japan involving big drums and choreography. There will be a chance to have a go for anyone wanting to play these beautiful drums, or you can just sit back and enjoy the upbeat performances of the talented drummers.

Other events during the long weekend include Darren Sturgess Handpan Drumming (2 June), Appledore Town Band (4 June) and Hatherleigh Town Band (5 June).

For more: RHS Rosemoor, Great Torrington; www.rhs.org.uk

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“I manage to keep a bit of cheekiness in there”

MEET… JIM PARKYN

Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, numerous chickens from Chicken Run – renowned character designer and model maker Jim Parkyn has made some of the most adored characters in animation.

Ahead of his visit to Craft Festival Bovey Tracey this June, Jim tells us about his passion for bringing model-making to the masses, designing tricky pirates and teaching the royals how to wang a welly

By Harriet Noble 16 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

CRAFT FESTIVAL You’re coming to Craft Festival Bovey Tracey!

Yes. This will be my first visit to Bovey Tracey, I’m really looking forward to the Festival – I’m there for the whole of the weekend, 17-19 June.

You’ll be creating your plasticine “Amazing Scene Machine” at the event, tell us more…

It’s an interactive art piece that’s developed throughout the weekend by visitors, from a blank canvas to a finished plaster painting. It relies upon the public getting involved, so it’s a truly interactive thing. We encourage people to make things they’ve seen at the festival or of each other. It becomes a big celebration of the event.

Everyone can get involved – it’s for children of all ages really, from five to 95 years!

As the weekend progresses, I add all the creations people have made, the picture takes shape, and alongside this I create a live animation that’s revealed throughout the weekend.

Every time I add a piece of clay I take a frame, so the picture comes to life. And the more that are created, the bigger the film will be and the bigger “the Scene” will be.

You have a fantastic portfolio and career in model making. Can you tell us about the process of creating some of the characters that you’ve worked upon?

When did you first get into animating and making?

I had an early fascination with anything art based, but particularly 3D modelling – plasticine, playdough, ceramic clay – anything I could get my hands on. Even Lego helps the 2D to 3D transition. I left school, went to study Art and Design, and got into toy design and developed a kind of portfolio career – it’s all about character. Things like Creature Comforts were a real joy to work on because that combined all my greatest loves of nature and animal life.

What advice would you give to any aspiring model makers?

The joy of technology today is that we can use phones and tablets to create a mobile animation studio.

There’s no barrier to getting your hands on shooting using Lego, plasticine or cut outs. It’s so simple to make an animation and do some filmmaking anywhere today. So just let your creativity go and have a go! You discover so much through experimenting. Just get in there and get your hands dirty.

Have you taught some famous faces in your career? Who was a natural?

I’ve worked with a few.

I had the great fortune of working at a charity film premiere at BAFTA headquarters in London.

I got to guide Kate, with my new colleagues William and Harry, to make their own Shaun the Sheep. I can’t quite say I’m model maker by royal appointment, but yes, I did teach them how to how one should “wang a welly” as well, which was quite an interesting experience!

I’ve a 25-year history working in stop motion animation and have been lucky enough to work with a lot of different companies but primarily with the BBC and with Aardman Jim, surrounded by some of his creatures; opposite page: Jim and his pal, Shaun the Sheep Animations. I’m one of the people that’s made a lot of famous characters. I’ve made plenty of Wallaces, Gromits, Sean the Lastly, what’s been your proudest moment?

Sheep, chickens for Chicken Run and pirates – all sorts of things! My job I think it’s just that moment every time you do a production and see is to create them, and typically pass on to the animators to breathe life your character on screen. There’s something still very exciting about into them. that. Working on Wallace and Gromit was probably a childhood dream, working with Nick Park. That’s probably when I thought that I’d really finally made it and doing that thing that you really wanted to do as a How are you involved in the creative process? child. There are so many moments you know, working with different It’s a really collaborative process. Where I think I excel is keeping the teams on different films that I’m immensely proud to have been life in what we’re creating. Animation is often such a lengthy process, so associated with. I’m a cog in a wheel, but that wheel, that machine, is it’s very easy to engineer the life out of a character. I manage to keep a quite exciting and produces really beautiful things. I’m still working with bit of cheekiness in there and some humour in whatever I’m doing.

Aardman as an Ambassador and run a lot of outreach work teaching at schools, universities and in the community.

Which of your characters where particularly tricky to create and why?

I think having a hand in developing the Pirate captain for Pirates in an Adventure with Scientists was a challenge. Making an animated beard is probably the most difficult task. How do you hide a dodo in a pirate’s beard?!

Jim Parkyn will be hosting his “Amazing Scene Machine” activity at Craft Festival Bovey Tracey from 17-19 June. The activity is free with your entry tickets: www.craftfestival.co.uk/Bovey-Tracey

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CRAFT FESTIVAL

CRAFT FESTIVAL BOVEY TRACEY

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osted in the parkland setting of Mill Marsh Park, Bovey Tracey, on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park, this festival returns on 17-19 June. It is the go-to event for anyone interested in crafts, with over 200 designer makers exhibiting their work and a multitude of workshops, demonstrations and talks, both for children and adults. Here are some highlights from the weekend of activities.

17 June

An Audience with Keith Brymer-Jones Potter and judge from The Great Pottery Throwdown, Keith BrymerJones will host a seated pottery masterclass and Q&A session.

Keith will also be sharing stories from his new autobiography, Boy in a China Shop.

18 June

Craft Festival Yoga in the Park Join Anna White from Pretzel Yoga Studio in a morning yoga session in the beautiful surroundings of Mill Marsh Park.

Potter Keith Brymer-Jones will host a masterclass

ALL THE WEEKEND Out of the Woods A tent of dreamy woodland crafts and an opportunity to sit, watch and make, curated by basketmaker Hilary Burns MBE. Hilary will be joined by a range of other makers.

Craft Cinema Meet Audrey, the Vintage Mobile Cinema. Audrey is the only survivor of seven vehicles that were custom built for the Ministry of Technology in the 60s.

Tony Benn, the Minister of Technology at the time, commissioned the buses and they travelled the country visiting factories showing short films about the new and upcoming technologies for British businesses to use.

This piece of cinematic and transport history will be home to the Craft Cinema and each day there’ll be a full programme of short films about contemporary makers together with historical news clips from Pathé News.

Music and feasting Tuck into wood-fired pizza, vegan burgers and kebabs, Carribbean delicacies, buritos, salads and ice cream while you listen to the likes of Cosgrave & Soph contemporary folk, Griselda Sanderson, Annika Skoogh Latin duo, Becky Brine and Saff Juno.

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clockwise from top left: Mill Marsh Park; RAMP, the ceramics professionals, will be at the festival; ’Into the woods’ demonstrators

AND NEW THIS YEAR… In Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Year, the festival welcomes The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) for the first time to Bovey Tracey. QEST supports the training and education for aspiring crafts people and will be presenting past scholars in a spectacular giant hat tipi.

“Craft Festival brings makers and customers together. We value the personal face-to-face connection more than ever,” says Sarah James, craft festival director.

“This June, we’re celebrating Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee by planting 200 trees for each of our exhibitors as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.

Craft Festival’s aim is to offer designer makers a platform to showcase their craft, connect with customers, and grow their business. Trees will be planted to celebrate the Jubilee and our collective growth.”

Tickets can be bought at www.craftfestival.co.uk/Bovey-Tracey

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BOOKS CHARLIE RICHARDS

© KILL A FR AMEZ

H Perfect pairings Radical literature, the history of the Soviet Union, futuristic stories, and some sublime book and music pairings on Bookbag’s very own Spotify page

ello, and welcome back to the column that veers clumsily from book recommendation to book recommendation as it tries to fit many, many brilliant books into one small column.

To business. Nick Hayes’ The Book of Trespass was hugely popular upon its release a couple of years ago.

In it, the author travelled through England, journeying through country, rivers and over the walls that divide us and discovering that due to the law of trespass we are banned from much (92 per cent to be precise) of this countries land. The Book of Trespass was a radical, political nature book which made us want to wild hike illegally, immediately.

New in is the follow up, The Trespasser’s Companion, a rallying cry for greater public access and how we can take action to try and change things. Nick talks to farmers, landworkers, activists and authors about nature, land, ownership and what it means to them.

There is a demand for Russian and Ukrainian non-fiction (and fiction) at Bookbag as we all try to make sense of what’s happening there. Non-fiction books like The Border, by Erika Fatland, is a journey around Russia through each of its bordering countries, from North Korea and China to Ukraine, Poland and Finland, and is a mix of ‘history, reportage and travel memoir’. Exeter-based Old Street Publishing recently published a timely The Shortest History of the Soviet Union by Sheila Fitzpatrick. An ‘immensely readable overview

of the entire history of the Soviet Union’, with anecdotes about people and the culture of the times as well as historical fact. East West Street is part memoir, part historical detective story. Author Phillippe Sands delivers a lecture on law in Lviv, Ukraine, and unexpectedly begins to trail a secret family history. A devastating and personal journey through crime and guilt, the law and genocide.

To the future, and The Memory Librarian, a collection of futuristic stories from Janelle Monáe’s world of Dirty Computer, the ground breaking album, motion picture and future-verse created by the artist.

The five short stories, each created with a different writer, explores a totalitarian vision of the future, through AfroFuturism and ‘threads of liberation – queerness, race, gender plurality and love’. Sci-fi writing that is expansive, dystopian, high-tech and beautifully human.

Of course we had to make this Book and Music Pairing 008 (where have you been?) so made a playlist filled with Janelle Monáe tracks and artists that inspired them like Prince, Grace Jones, Bowie, Erykah Badu and more. Head over to our Spotify page to listen. (Usually our playlists are strictly PG, this is instead quite swear-y, so please keep this in mind if this isn’t your thing.)

“There is a demand for Russian and Ukranian nonfiction (and fiction) as we all try to make sense of what’s happening there”

Charlie Richards is the co-owner of Bookbag, 7-10, McCoy’s Arcade, Exeter; uk.bookshop.org/shop/bookbag

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THEATRE

“We are working to ensure disability is seen and not hidden”

Human features trapeze performences

© ALI WRIGHT

Extraordinary Bodies is a groundbreaking circus company with inclusivity at its core. They’re headed to Exeter this June – prepare to be wowed

By Harriet Noble

FOLLOW THE MOVEMENT www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 23

THEATRE

C

circus company Extraordinary Bodies creates powerful performances, drawing on a vibrant mix of circus, dance, theatre and music, giving a voice to those who are often silenced. The company’s performers are made up of the talent of D/deaf, disabled and non-disabled artists, creating a unique space where boundaries are broken and inclusivity is championed. The company brings Human to Exeter Northcott Theatre on 17 and 18 June.

Here we chat to co-founder of Extraordinary Bodies, CLAIRE HODGSON MBE…

After working on the Olympics opening ceremony together with Billy Alwen of Cirque Bijou we decided to set up an inclusive circus company together of disabled and non-disabled artists. We wanted to challenge what circus could be – who might be on stage and in the audience. We wanted to show stories using circus that meant something to audiences.

© ALI WRIGHT

Claire, what inspired you to set up Extraordinary Bodies?

above: Extraordinary Bodies is an ensemble group; below left: Claire Hodgson wants to challenge what circus can be

What kind of stories are you interested in telling?

We tell stories about the experience of being human in all its strangeness and diversity.

Our current work Human is autobiographical, telling the life stories of the cast onstage.

Tell us more...what can we expect from this performance? Live drumming,

© DOM MOORE

beautiful singing, amazing aerial performances, film sequences on a large screen that take us further into the performers’ lives. A performer providing British Sign Language interpretation, live captions. Immersive sound heard through a pair of silent disco headphones for each audience member.

What kind of feedback do you typically get from your audiences?

Audiences want to stay and talk and feed back about what they saw and felt. We travel with a big pink heart into which audience members can post messages. People are amazed by the performances and the inclusion of all audience members (every performance is

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

relaxed). Audiences have been touched by the truthfulness of what they see, and they seem to feel very connected to the artists on stage.

Can you tell us about some professional moments in your role where you have felt that you have aced your mantra – to break boundaries and champion inclusivity?

Extraordinary Bodies performing on large platforms such as outside the National Theatre in London. Seeing artists come from our youth company into their first professional engagement with the company. Watching artists develop themselves through the work and go on to make shows in collaboration with each other, such as Jonny and Tilly who are currently performing in Human.

What is the best thing about your job?

I work with people who stretch my brain about the possibilities of circus. Everyone is talented in different ways and so I learn more about their world of rope, hoop, silks or live music. I am part of a big team who are all working to ensure that disability is seen and not hidden.

We are working to make the world better. It is easy to show up when that is your task each day.

Hello Rosie! What circus skills will you be wowing us with when you come to Exeter?

I will be performing two aerial acts in this show.

The first is aerial hammock and the second is aerial. I have a degree in circus. I trained at the National Center for Circus Arts in London, formerly known as the Circus Space, and I’m very fond it. It was a great place to train.

Can you tell us a bit about your professional journey?

© ALICE CARFR AE

Some of the most memorable jobs I’ve done are working at the Royal Opera House, performing in Anna Nicole, which is a really modern opera. We were pole dancing and playing lots of different characters, it was really fun because it’s such an iconic building and stage.

I did a circus musical, The Little Mermaid, where I role shared the main part, and it was very demanding. We did lots of acrobatics, group acrobatics, and we toured the country with that. And I did the CBeebies Christmas

Show one year, Thumbelina, that was really exciting; a big production.

I also performed in India with Lady Gaga.

I got to meet her, that was fun!

What do you love most about being a part of this company and performing?

I really love the directors, Billy and Claire. They are wonderful, funny, and really genuine. They’re really kind and the whole atmosphere is very, very supportive as a company. They really do look after the performers and the crew. I think every company should be like that.

What do you hope people feel coming away from seeing you perform?

© ALICE CARFR AE

ROSIE ROLLINS is a professional circus artist who specialises in aerial hoop. She is coming to Exeter to perform Human with Extraordinary Bodies

I think people will come away with different things, but I hope there’ll be a sense of joy and wonder and be inspired. I think it’s a lovely, lovely show. It’s quite moving. I find myself being moved at times, especially the stuff about being a mother.

Human comes to Exeter Northcott Theatre on 17 and 18 June; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk / www.extraordinarybodies.org.uk

above: Rosie’s forte is aerial hoop; below:

Rosie has a degree in circus performing

“There’ll be a sense of joy and wonder” www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 25

QUAY TO HAPPINESS Outdoor gigs, gin masterclasses, paddleboarding to the pub, family-friendly activities – here’s what’s happening on Exeter Quayside over the next few months

By Harriet Noble

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

© DAMIAN CHARLES PHOTOGR APHY

QUAYSIDE

E

xeter Quayside comes into its own in the warmer months. It’s where we hang out with friends, sit by the water’s edge with an ice cream in hand and soak up the sun. This summer sees a flurry of activity happening here, from Quayside longtimers to new businesses on the block. Here’s a little taster of what’s in store…

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MAKE THE MOST OF THIS SUMMER AND SHOWCASE YOUR ALFRESCO VENUE TO OUR READERS...

If your venue offers Alfresco dining facilities in and around the local area, our next edition offers the perfect marketing opportunity for you.

Booking Deadline: 18th May

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© VEGBOX

QUAYSIDE Veg Box, pretty in pink

FOOD AND DRINK VEGBOX Ibiza-meets-California-meets-Bali in the walls of this pinky, dreamy café. The foodie offering is veggie and vegan – think wraps, pancakes and great coffee. They have a sunny al fresco seating area and are extremely dog-friendly.

Anything on this summer? Yes, they’re hosting monthly live music nights, keep an eye on their social media for more.

Veg Box, Unit 7 , Piazza Terracina, Haven Banks, The Quay, Exeter; www.vegboxcafe.com ON THE WATERFRONT With a prime position on the Quay and a strong reputation as pizza maestros of the city, On the Waterfront is always a popular spot for drinkers and eaters.

Anything on this summer? Acoustic live music evenings from 7– 9pm every Tuesday and Thursday evening, running until 15 September.

When the weather gets warmer and the evenings get lighter, the singers will be performing outside.

On the Waterfront, Southern Warehouse, 4-9, The Quay, Exeter; www.waterfrontexeter.co.uk MANGO’S CAFÉ AND BAR Lovely brunch and lunch spot with eggs, waffles, interesting salads and paninis on the menu. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays it stays open until 10.30pm, so makes for a good bar option if you’re in the mood for somewhere a bit more intimate.

Anything on this summer? On 3 June (Friday of the Queen’s Jubilee weekend), the team at Mango’s are teaming up with On the Waterfront to host live music from 12pm – 8pm. Expect a variety of music with a solo sax player from 6pm who will play chillout sunset songs.

Mango’s Café and Bar, Kings Wharf, The Quay, Exeter; www.cafemangos.co.uk

“Mid-week bliss will feature local bands and bao buns on the terrace” WABI-SABI Wabi-Sabi opened its door in March of this year, offering fusion street food dishes from a variety of Southeast Asian countries – think Bao buns and beers, yakatori grills and Japanese iced coffee The word Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic concept that means to find beauty and serenity in objects that are simple, imperfect, and impermanent – they are perfectly permanent.

NEW THIS YEAR!

Anything on this summer?

Wabi-Sabi will be hosting intimate terrace parties featuring live talent from Harbour, Emma Pick, Ollie Stevens and Shoreside. Saturdays will feature local DJs playing some chillout classics during the day and the cocktails will be flowing come the evening.

Mid-week Bliss on Wednesdays will see local bands and bao buns on the terrace if you can’t wait for the weekend.

Wabi-Sabi Bay Exeter, 38A Commercial Road, Exeter; www.wabisabibay.co.uk

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QUAYSIDE NEW QUAYSIDE The distillery, restaurant and bar THIS YEAR! opened in April and serves up

colourful Mediterranean tapas plates. It’s also a great place to drop in for a pint or cocktail after a day’s walk along the Quay.

Anything on this summer?

Their Gin School launches on 4 June. Visitors can learn how gin is made, have a go at making their own using locally sourced botanicals – you’ll even get to name the gin!

Quayside, 60a Haven Road, Exeter; www.quaysidedistillery.co.uk

DOCTOR INK’S CURIOSITIES This bar may be small but it’s big on character and wit. Bar manager Kieran Harrison describes the boutiquey cocktail bar in three

© QUAYSIDE DISTILLERY

TOPSHAM BREWARY The beautiful warehouse buildings house the microbrewery and taproom – a great spot for trying out new and local craft beers. It’s usually jammers in here for a good reason – it’s fun, atmospheric, with a great beer garden and has the popular pizza portal outside.

Anything on this summer? They host regular open mic nights and gigs, check out their Instagram page for more.

Topsham Brewery, Maclaines Warehouse, Topsham Brewery - 1, Haven Road, Exeter; @topshambrewery

ABOVE: Quayside at night-time; BELOW: Disco cocktails from Doctor Ink’s Curiosities

words: tropical, twisted and curious.

Currently they are hosting Our Disco Hours which pays homage to the over saccharined drinks of the disco era, the drinks that modern bartenders hate but customers dance on the table to – think Long Island Ice Tea, Woo woo, Tequila Sunrise, the Godfather, Blue Hawaiian and a White Russian.

Anything on this summer? All year round they run cocktail masterclasses which can be focused on modern classics or on a specific spirit category, like gin, rum or even absinthe. Great for a group activity with your chums.

Doctor inks Curiosities, Customs House, 43 The Quay, Exeter; www.doctorinks.com

© DOCTOR INKS

SHOPPING ON THE QUAY

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For homeware pieces, accessories, jewellery: head to the row of warehouses and cellars along the Quay where you’ll find the likes of Quay Presents, Brit Locker, Spangles and Eclectique.

If you’re a fan of chunky wood, check out the homemade cheese boards, tables and frames at The Fire Trees. All great shops for picking up birthday gifts.

For antiques: The Antiques Centre and Riverside Café is a fantastic place to find preloved things from yesteryear. A proper treasure trove. The café attached is also a great outdoor spot for tea and scones. Also, head into the gorgeous Exeter Antique Lighting Co which sells an eclectic range of antique lighting.

© AS WATERSPORTS

“Visitors can learn how gin is made and have a go at making their own”

Paddleboarding to the pub with AS Watersports

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QUAYSIDE ACTIVITIES EXETER CRUISES The boat trip takes you from Exeter Quay to Double Locks aboard Southern Comfort. Richie O’Connell has been doing trips along the Exeter Ship Canal for 20 years so you’re in good hands here; he can point out the birdlife on the trip – grey herons, and kingfishers and occasionally grass snakes – while giving you a bit of history along the way about Exeter Ship Canal, the oldest pound lock canal in Britain.

Once arrived at Double Locks pub, passengers can disembark for a tipple, some food and return on a later boat.

Exeter Cruises; www.exetercruises.com AS WATERSPORTS

Established in 1982, AS Watersports is a one-stop shop for all water activities. You can buy equipment here (paddleboards etc.), hire out SUPs, canoes and kayaks or opt for tuition with their in house instructors.

“In May we kick start the season and look forward to getting on the water with all those that want to start canoeing and kayaking, improve their skills, learn to roll or just have a fun day on the water,” says Dan Bewsey of AS Watersports.

“We always work on a small student-to-instructor ratio so that courses and sessions are tailored to your aims, needs and pace.”

Anything on this summer? Throughout the summer months the team run regular paddle to the pub social evenings where you can paddleboard down to the Double Locks with a gang enjoying the late summer sun. You can bring your own equipment for this, or you can hire from them.

AS Watersports, 1 Terracina Court, Haven Road, Exeter; www.aswatersports.co.uk

© AS WATERSPORTS

HAVEN BANKS As well as watersports, the outdoor education centre offers mountain biking, dragon boating, rock climbing, archery, sailing, bell-boating and lots more. Of particular note is the replicated climbing wall and artificial caving system located on-site. In addition, the iconic 23-metre stainless steel tower provides thrill seekers with a 20-metre climbing and abseiling experience as well as the ‘freefall experience of your life’ when stepping off the platform for an adrenaline fuelled descent.

Anything on this summer? The team here is hosting summer holiday adventure activities for kids. These can be one-day, two-days or weeklong courses with activity sessions for five to 14-year-olds. Courses and activity sessions include: kayaking, white-water kayaking, canoeing, canoe camping expeditions, sailing, rock climbing, coasteering, improvised raft-building, mountain biking, orienteering, team-building, and bush craft skills. Early morning drop off and late collection options for busy parents.

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

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© ON THE WATERFRONT

“This summer the season theme will be maritime”

above: Drinks outside, by On the Waterfront; left: All lined up and ready to go:

Watersports at AS Watersports

LOOK OUT FOR

SUMMER AT THE QUAYSIDE 26 July – 2 September

This Summer, Exeter Canal and Quay Trust are hosting Summer at the Quayside, a series of free, family activities every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday of the summer holidays. From performance, to craft activities to walkabout acts and music, there will be plenty to keep you busy. No booking required.

A full programme will be available in June. Head to the Facebook page (@ExeterQuay) for more details, or pop into Custom House.

Also happening is Rockin on the Quay, from 1 – 5pm on 29 August.

Expect a great afternoon of live 1950s style music on the Quay.

CULTURE QUAY WORDS AT EXETER CUSTOM HOUSE Quay Words is a live literature programme based at Exeter Custom House. The team here run three jam-packed seasons a year, with writer residencies, monthly author events, writing workshops and masterclasses and activities for young people and schools.

Anything on this summer?

This summer their season theme will be Maritime, and they’ll be welcoming a new writer-in-residence who will be exploring the topic.

On 2 July, there is a creative writing masterclass for mums, and their babies under one called Writing Motherhood: Inspiration Session.

On 13 July, Quay Words will be launching Wyl Menmuir’s new book The Draw of the Sea with an author event. On 23 July, expect a live literature show In Transit, created by London publishers Penned in the Margins. n Exeter Custom House, 46 The Quay, Exeter; www.extercustomhouse.org.uk

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re sto t . st we tree ne h S ur Hig it o er Vis Exet

on

www.leonidasexeter.com 01392 322458

At Leonidas Chocolates Cafe, chocolate magic happens every day.

Discover beautiful gift ideas with exquisite flavours that are sure to delight.

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FOOD & DRINK NIBBLES FROM EXETER’S FOOD SCENE

GARDEN TREATS

The Pig-at Combe is hosting two workshops in May designed to unearth passion for plot-toplate cooking. Food writer, grower and cook Mark Diacono will be joining the Pig’s head chef, Ollie Hutson, to host the ‘grow your own’ workshops for aspiring, experienced, and anyone in-between, gardeners. First up is The Perfect Kitchen Garden on 25 May, followed

by A Taste of the Unexpected on 26 May. Visitors will spend time in the kitchen gardens rediscovering forgotten food and exploring imaginative ways of cooking with the familiar; Mark and Ollie will be sharing all their knowledge of sowing, growing and cooking. There’ll be homegrown nibbles to eat throughout the day.

For more: www.thepighotel.com

Get your hands full of tasty delights at Sidmouth Eats Boutique

BOUTIQUE BITES The popular street food market Sidmouth Eats Boutique makes a return this year bringing global cuisine made by local people to the Jurassic Coast.

Sidmouth Eats Boutique will be held on the second Friday of the summer months, on the lawn and under the trees at Kennaway House, just a stone’s throw from the beach – 4pm until sunset on 13 May, 10 June, 8 July, 12 August and 9 September.

Later on in the year, the team will be launching their pop-up pub, The Salty Arms, and taking part in the Taste East Devon festival on 9 September.

For more: www.uniqueboutiqueevents.co.uk

Al fresco eating at Sidmouth Eats boutique

DEAR DAIRY The Folly at the Pig-at Combe

Visitors will spend time in the kitchen gardens at the Pig-at Combe

Devon-based Sharpham Dairy has successfully achieved certification as a B Corporation (B Corp) making it the first cheese dairy in the country to achieve this globally recognised accreditation.

What does B Corp status mean? It’s a signal that a business has outstanding social and environmental responsibility, having met rigorous judging criteria. The externally audited process requires applicants to demonstrate best practice in five impact areas: governance, workers, community, environment and customers.

Greg Parsons, owner of the dairy which produces Sharpham Cheese, says, “After a year of external scrutiny over our business practices, we are thrilled to have received B Corp’s prestigious recognition.

“When we took over the dairy in 2019, my wife Nicky and I set out to use cheese as

Say cheese!

a force for good – cultivating a business that our team, suppliers, customers and retailers are proud to be associated with. Leading with our family values, we’ve created a culture of caring deeply for our business environment – putting profit for purpose at the heart of everything we do.”

For more: www.sharphamcheese.co.uk

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© MAT T AUSTIN

HARRY’S RESTAURANT

Classic, gorgeous, and adored by many – it’s no surprise that Harry’s remains one of the most popular restaurants in the city

By Harriet Noble

I

f this place made a noise, it would be jazzy,” says my dining buddy, as she sips on her prosecco, surveying the room and smiling. I would have to agree with her. Inside this old gothic building, you can almost tap your feet to the imaginary plucks from a double bass. The décor is elegant and welcoming with old-style leather booths, black and white pictures of Exeter, dark green walls and exposed brick walls. It is classic but not boring, self-assured but not garish; and there’s a warmth and ease about this place. You feel you’re in safe hands, that’s for sure.

But if you’re an Exeter long-timer, you will already know this because Harry’s Restaurant has been around for forever. It opened in 1993, and chef proprietor Samantha Pounds took over the business from her parents in 2004.

Now into the third generation, daughters Phoebe, Zoe, Tigerlily and India play their part in the running of the restaurant from managing front of house to cheffing alongside Mum. Just shy of its 30th birthday, how has the restaurant come of age? Well, in many ways it hasn’t

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changed dramatically, its mission is still to ‘feed the soul’ and that’s part of the reason why people return to it.

It did have a big refurb in 2018 – if you haven’t been since then it features a brand new bar area and banquet seating along with updated touches around the restaurant using marble, stained glass, wood, brick and brass.

Other changes over the years have been subtle but meaningful. The menu has been refined, trimmed a bit, they’ve reduced the number of tables – at one time they did 160 covers while it has settled comfortably into doing 60 now. Samantha tells us this is all part of wanting to give everyone a bit more space and make it feel more relaxed.

This it certainly achieves; on our visit we were very tempted to scrap all scheduled meetings for the rest of the day and hole up in Harry’s drinking, eating, laughing and chatting until closing time. It’s just that kind of place.

Sadly, we resisted but did indulge in a three-course meal.

It’s a succinct menu here, with a strong farm-to-table focus, with plenty of seafood and steak dishes. Much like the interiors, the dishes are classic, elegant and inviting.

DINING DETAILS Harry’s Restaurant, Longbrook Street, Exeter; www.harrysrestaurants.co.uk Opening times Tuesday – Friday lunch 12pm – 2.30pm | Dinner 5.45pm – 9.30pm; Saturday brunch 9.30am – 11.30am | lunch 12.30pm – 2.30pm | dinner 5.45pm – 9.30pm; Sunday brunch 9.30am – 11.30am | Lunch 12.30pm – 2.30pm; closed Mondays Menu Brunch, lunch and dinner menus.

Lunch and dinner menus have plenty of seafood, steak, burgers and and vegan dishes.

© HARRIET NOBLE

My friend kicks off with the calamari, a crunchy plate of beauty with a chilli dipping sauce. For mains, she gets stuck into a steak (sourced from Darts Farm) that comes with fries, handfuls of watercress and grilled tomato.

I have the beef carpaccio for starters, which comes with crispy rounded shallots, truffle mayo and rocket. I follow with the spinach and ricotta ravioli, a light spring dish that comes with parmesan and pine nuts. These are no-fuss dishes, all beautifully executed.

For dessert, I opt for the lemon and prosecco posset with shortbread which is soft, delicate and utterly beautiful. My friend has the the lime sorbet, a bright, zesty and refreshing dessert.

All the dishes are so well balanced, well thought out and have a touch of lightness about them. You can feel the care and attention to details that has been put into them.

As editor of this mag, I am always curious to get a feel for the places that locals hold dear. As such, I make a habit of asking people what their favourite restaurant in the city is. Harry’s remains one of the most popular answers. It is the place people return to time and time again. In fact, my dining buddy comes here every year for her wedding anniversary and can almost quote the menu by heart. It’s a place that does big business on graduation week or when mum and dads come to visit or drop off their offspring at uni. Every city has their ‘special occasion’ place; Harry’s restaurant is ours. n

© MAT T AUSTIN

“There’s a warmth and ease about this place”

© HARRIET NOBLE

© HARRIET NOBLE

© MAT T AUSTIN

RESTAURANT

Prices Starters: calamari with sweet chilli sauce £9; beef carpaccio with crispy shallots, truffle mayonnaise, rocket and parmesan £11. Mains: spinach and ricotta ravioli £17; sirloin steak with chips £27. Desserts: lime sorbet £6; lemon and Prosecco posset with almond shortbread £9.

Drinks Prosecco Spumante, £5.70 a glass.

Atmosphere Warm and inviting.

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FOOD AND DRINK The dream team: Sophie Kennard, Paul and Judy Parnell, Craig Griffin and Miranda Burton

STANDING JACK

When Paul Parnell took over a dilapidated, run-down drinking pub on the old A30, people had their doubts. Paul’s having the last laugh though, The Jack in the Green celebrates its 30th anniversary this year – with no sign of slowing down

By Harriet Noble www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 39

T

he pub and restaurant in Rockbeare, seven-odd miles outside of Exeter, has long been a favourite to locals who warm to both its unpretentious atmosphere and it’s inventive, top-notch food offering.

Hospitality is notoriously a challenging sector, yet founder Paul Parnell and his team have found a winning formula for this thriving business. Here, we chat to Paul about their epic journey...

First of all, lots of good food! Then there’s a fun run for Force Cancer (the main charity we support) and Cranbrook Running Club on the 2 June followed by a party with a BBQ for staff and customers. After that it’s a brief closure from the 3-6 June so our staff can enjoy the Queen’s Jubilee weekend in style. There’s also a £30 three-course menu featuring an array of local seasonal produce running throughout May and June before we host a big charity dinner for Force in September – our suppliers are donating the food and drink meaning that 100 per cent of the proceeds will go to the charity.

Let’s go back to the beginning. What was the building like when you took it over in 1992?

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Happy 30th birthday on the business, Paul! How are you celebrating?

Basically it was a dilapidated, run-down drinking pub on the old A30 which was due to be by-passed. It was on one of the two original main arteries into the South West – the M5 being the other. Can you believe it used to take over an hour to get to us from Exeter?! People probably thought I was crazy investing here!

our own cook book and added a function room, plus a state-of-the-art kitchen to create better working conditions. The business is now also a proud sponsor of Cranbrook FC and Sidmouth Rugby Club.

What’s been your business mantra throughout the years?

Tell us about some memorable times from over the years – any famous guests?

It’s all about people. Don’t compromise on hospitality and the quality of produce that you serve; keep it local and support each other. It’s important to give back to the community – so far we’ve raised over £50,000 for the Wooden Spoon helping disadvantaged children locally, another £7,400 for Force Cancer and I foolishly ran the London Marathon at the age of 50! We try to ensure that all the money we raise stays in the area.

What have been the major changes to your restaurant over the 30 years?

Since 1992 we’ve quadrupled the size of the pub and invested over one million into the fabric of the business. We’ve also published

“I was gobsmacked when Roger Moore walked in for lunch” 40 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

above: The Jack in the Green, at present;

below: Blast from the past: Paul and Judy Parnell

I’ve never been one to get excited about celebrities but I was gobsmacked when Roger Moore walked in for lunch – I had a photo with him which made my eldest son (a huge Bond fan) madly envious. The Exeter Chiefs players are regulars, Harry Redknapp, Gordon Ramsay and Marco Pierre White have all been in to eat, and Bradley Cooper wanted exclusive use of the pub for a week in 2017.

Over the years we’ve shared some fantastic parties with guests wanting to celebrate occasions with us – one that springs to mind is an Irish wedding that partied on to 4am… I’ve never witnessed a bride drink so many pints of Guinness and stay upright!

What do you think has ensured your longevity?

A positive attitude, attention to detail, integrity in what we do and employing the right staff – you’re only as good as the people around you, so find (and then retain) a team who care as much as you do; never compromise on your core values. Many of our local suppliers have © THE JACK IN THE GREEN

above: The Jack in its dilapidated state back in the early 90s; right: Colourful dishes straight out of the kitchen

Hospitality is a tough old business – when have you felt like you’ve been successful?

“For those that live to eat” – that’s been our motto since day one. I always feel happy seeing contented customers leave us, it’s an amazing feeling being part of and contributing to someone’s special occasion. I’ve always said I’ll get out of the business when I stop enjoying seeing people have a good time. We’re in the entertainment business – good food and drink are just a part of it. People remember the small things; a warm welcome on the way in and a goodbye and a smile on the way out can make all the difference to someone’s day.

Tell us a little bit about the team…

It’s amazing how many employees have become an extended part of the Jack family, some have even established very strong relationships at work – head chef Craig and manageress Miranda have put in a combined

When you look back on these 30 years, what has been a surprise to you?

Just how many lovely people we’ve met over the years and who still frequent the Jack. With another tough year ahead their support is paramount and it’s something we never take for granted.

© WELL SEASONED PR

15 years here and are getting married in July. They’re both lovely people with a great management style that encourages and nurtures passion throughout the whole team.

Then there’s Sophie, a farmer’s daughter and true Exmoor girl, who at just 23 is our now our second chef. Rugby-mad Callum, gym obsessed Lester, Che, Connor, the list goes on. I’m just there to encourage, host and support. Over the years our kitchen has trained six finalists of ‘South West Chef of the Year’ including three winners, as well as the ‘International Pastry Chef of the Year’.

And what advice would you give to your younger self, setting up the business from scratch?

Don’t compromise, have a clear identity and push on with the right people around you.

What lies ahead for the Jack’s future?

Having survived the pandemic whilst retaining our entire team we are now concentrating on staff wellbeing. Looking to change industry negatives we have introduced a four-day week, always paid well above the industry norm and are constantly looking to improve on that by involving the team and recruiting more good people who care.

30 years running the Jack must have been quite the ride. Can you sum up the experience in three words?

NOT OVER YET!

The Jack in the Green, Rockbeare, London Road, Exeter; www.jackinthegreen.uk.com

© WELL SEASONED PR

become friends over the years – Country Farm Butchers and Christopher Piper Wines in Ottery St Mary, Darts Farm and Dart Fresh in Topsham, Forest Produce, Sandford Orchards, the Devon Blueberry Company a few miles away, James at Creedy Carver Duck, Liz and Marcus at Westcountry Asparagus and Four Elms Fruit Farm near Sidmouth.

Several of them have been with us since the very beginning.

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FOOD AND DRINK

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

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

Cllr Caroline Mott (West Devon Mayor) and Andrew Sinclair MRSS SWAc

Benjamin and Dirk Roth The Graduates: Natasha Watson, Louis Bailey, Ani Buckland, Sarah Goodfellow, Chrystella McCabe and Nicola Rigby

Directors of The Sculpture School: Diane Coates-Sinclair and Andrew Sinclair MRSS SWAc

Liz Miall and Chris Chapman

COURSE YOU CAN

The Sculpture School in Bondleigh recently held a final show private view exhibition to celebrate students graduating from their intensive one-year realist sculpture course.

The exhibition was entitled Form & Void and was a culmination of the students’ work from across the year. www.thesculptureschool.co.uk Photos by The Sculpture School

Giles and Natacha Du Pont de Bie Madalen Dixon and Sam Goodwin

Julie Duff, Brian and Wendy Froud Celestine McCabe, Felix and Chrystella McCabe, Ani and Oriana Buckland and Brian McCabe

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

Chantelle helps people unlock their individuality

CHANTELLE ZNIDERIC The local personal stylist is on a mission to help people feel happy and confident in their skin. Here’s how…

Photos by Rosie Parsons Photography

FASHION STYLING

F

or many of us, whatever our age, we still aren’t sure what clothes to buy or what our ‘style’ is – uncertain, we opt for safe, boring choices that don’t reflect how dazzling we really are underneath. This is where stylist and personal shopper Chantelle Znideric comes in. She advises on key styles and wearable trends, creating stylish outfits and a capsule wardrobe.

More than that, though, she helps people feel more confident than they have in years so they can walk into any room feeling the best version of themselves. Who doesn’t want that?

Guardian angels come in many guises, for many Chantelle is theirs...

Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a stylist...

When I was younger I spent hours designing shoes and clothes in a sketch book and making my own clothes. I have always loved fashion, followed trends and had a distinctive style.

After launching a successful fashion blog in 2005, which was dedicated to giving women style inspiration and solving their fashion dilemmas, I was keen to explore taking the next steps to become a personal stylist. I enrolled on a professional training course to learn all the essential colour, body and style theory and in 2006 my style consultancy baby was born.

Who are your fashion icons?

I have really enjoyed Victoria Beckham’s style journey and I love Iris Apfel, for her quirky, colourful style. I also admire Mary Portas, in terms of what she has contributed to the fashion/retail industry and particularly her Kindness Economy initiative. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to film Mary Queen of Shops with her and just before shooting she asked me to take her personal shopping at Westfield London. I’ll never forget this random monumental moment!

For anyone that doesn’t know, what exactly does a stylist do?

I help men and women rediscover their unique personal style or establish an authentic brand image, incorporating colour and body analysis and style theory. Wearing complementary

“Empowering individuals to be the best versions of themselves is incredibly rewarding”

colours for your natural colouring and clothes that suit your body shape can make you appear healthier, happier and more confident.

Empowering individuals to be the best versions of themselves is incredibly rewarding.

What can you tell us about the process when working with a client?

It’s brilliant to have an initial chat to find out the individual’s requirements and objectives, as these differ for each person. I also send them a client form to complete and it’s useful to see a variety of recent photos of them in different outfits, so I can assess their colouring, style and body shape. Once I’ve gathered this information, I like to create a mood board conveying my initial style and outfit ideas.

This is a valuable part of the process and a fantastic way for us to collaborate visually and determine a theme before we even go shopping. It’s a tried and tested method, which works incredibly well for both parties.

When you are finished helping a client, what will they have in place?

I hope clients are armed with colour and style knowledge, which will ultimately save them time and money. They’ll also, of course, possess a stylish, practical and manageable wardrobe! However, seeing them walk away

Chantelle helps her clients choose key pieces that can be dressed up or down

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 45

FASHION STYLING with a confidence boost and smiles on their faces is just the best feeling.

What are the most commonly asked questions from your clients?

Most ask how much budget they will need for shopping. I enjoy the challenge of finding the best pieces in terms of quality, fit and style for everyone regardless of their budget.

Working with a few hundred pounds to many tens of thousands of pounds makes no difference to me.

What are the common worries?

A common worry is that I won’t find them anything to wear in their size! Knowing which styles and fabrics will suit different shapes and acknowledging the retailers sizing inconsistencies are some of the reasons why my skills are so valuable.

People’s dress sense is tied up with how they feel about their bodies. Are there mental obstacles that your clients need to overcome when working on their wardrobe?

Focus on your good bits – we ALL have them!

For example, you’ve always had a small waist but after lockdown, it’s not as defined. Give yourself a break and continue to focus on showing it off! You may have to adjust your outfit to create a better balance, but it will be the most flattering way to look your best and feel good about yourself. Wearing oversized clothing or opting for black because you think it’s more slimming won’t help long term.

What are your observations from helping people – do we all need to be a bit braver? Are we negatively impacted by societal pressures to look at a certain way?

There are usually a lot of repeated styles, tagged unworn items and way too many clothes! Getting yourself out of a style rut requires confidence and some time investment.

Being braver can come with costly mistakes so my advice is to buy only pieces that you can pair with at least four other items.

To book your wardrobe styling and management session or personal shopping day in Exeter with Chantelle, visit personal-stylist.co.uk. Insta: @chantelleznideric

Chantelle creates a mood board for her clients

SPRING CLEAN THAT WARDROBE! Chantelle’s top tips for creating and maintaining a capsule wardrobe For those of us who have too many clothes, where do you we start? Do you have a system for getting rid of unwanted clothes?

Firstly, try everything on to establish whether it fits or not. Create a pile of clothes to keep (items that fit), another of charity donations (items that are dated and don’t fit), and clothing to alter or repurpose. Finally, from your ‘keep’ pile, start with a pair of trousers or a skirt and try to pair a different top with it that you haven’t worn before. Build up the outfit with knitwear or a jacket, shoes and accessories – this is how to create new and exciting outfits!

What clothes should be hung up and which should be in drawers?

Hang all your separates if you can, apart from knitwear. Seeing all your clothing means you will be more inclined to wear them. It’s easy to forget about items if they are stuffed in a drawer somewhere, plus it’s not a good way to look after them.

Part of the process is going shopping with the client

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

Do you have any tips for saving space?

Flock hangers and SKUBB drawer organisers from Ikea – they are a must!

How do you suggest we store our clothes in a wardrobe?

Organise your wardrobe into garment types, then from smart to casual and finally colour code clothing within these categories. Voilà, a nice tidy wardrobe, which is enticing to look at and wear!

Is there a magic number of jeans a person needs?

It really depends on the individual, their lifestyle and preferences. However, I would start off with two very different pairs for casual and smart occasions. Try not to replicate the same styles, think about leg and waist styles, denim washes or colours and interesting details to introduce a variety into your wardrobe.

Capsule wardrobe. Fashion myth or doable? Discuss!

A capsule wardrobe is totally doable!

Eliminate having too many clothes by owning fewer pieces and investing in better quality items which will last you longer. It’s better for your pocket and the environment. It is time to be more conscious about what we buy and reduce the amount we buy. For the past few years, I have been buying from preloved sites and boutiques, as much of the clothing is new, nearly new or hardly worn.

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

EVENTS FOR THE MIND, BODY AND SOUL Wellness Mondays

© LUK A CHIT T Y PHOTOGR APHY

Every week, Queen Street restaurant Pink Moon hosts Wellness Mondays. There’s pilates at 10am, yoga at 11am and they’ve just introduced life coaching at 12pm.

The yoga and pilates sessions suit all levels, classes cost £6.63 which includes a fresh healthy smoothie to go – what a way to start the week! Tickets are available on the FIXR website.

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

7 July

HOW SELF CARE CAN IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES TO DATE Pi Society will be hosting an evening with Paola Royal at No 5, to understand how self care can improve your chances in the world of dating.

Paola has over 30 years of medical and psychological experience working as a physiotherapist, studying energy psychology, the scientific approach to nutrition and trained as a teacher for EFT (Emotional Freedom technique). She has been a facilitator for seven years and brings a wealth of experience to her work with clients.

7.30-9.30pm, No 5, Cathedral Close, Exeter; www.pisociety.co.uk

Self care top tips at No 5

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

22 May

EXETER’S GREAT WEST RUN The 10km run takes you through the city centre, pretty country lanes and stunning views across Exeter with a fantastic stadium finish at Exeter Arena. Roads are fully closed, with entertainment and water and energy stations along the way.

This year, instead of race T-shirts a tree will be planted for every participant. The run kicks off at 9am. You can sign up to do the run or volunteer. www.thegreatwestrun.co.uk

LEFT: And stretch...yoga and pilates classes at Pink Moon

ALL PHOTOS © E XETER CIT Y COUNCIL

HEALTH & WELLBEING

GAIA TREATMENTS AT ST SIDWELL’S POINT

top left and above: The general spa areas at St Sidwell’s Point; below: The massage room

Harriet Noble heads to the newly opened leisure centre for a luxe spa treatment

T

he excitement surrounding the opening of St Sidwell’s Point was clear to see on the day I went for my treatment.

It had opened on the Friday (29 April), I was there on the Sunday and there was a long queue of people eagerly waiting to sign up for membership. SSP were ready for us though, great numbers of smiley, helpful people were helping out, giving tours and guiding people around the vast building.

I got chatting to a retired lady in the queue who had never been a member of a gym but was enticed because of how central SSP is and also how amazingly cheap the monthly membership is. So on point was she with all the main aims of SPP, she could have been their hired PR spokesperson!

I was not there to try the gym or go to a class but to have one of their massage treatments. Like many Exeter residents, I’ve followed the journey of this leisure centre keenly, and know that the Council’s mission has been to create somewhere that is inclusive, affordable and family-friendly. I have to admit, therefore, that I thought the treatments would be a bit, well, basic. I’m just not used to leisure centres being fancy you see. If, growing up, you were lucky enough to have a leisure centre in your town it was usually a bit down-at-heel, with missing tiles on the pool floor, freezing changing rooms; it all just felt a bit disinfectant-y. But Swedish designs, a groundbreaking eco-friendly Passivhaus status

and a boutiquey spa? This is not what we grew up with.

Anyway, I couldn’t have been more wrong about the treatments, they are anything but basic. Think crystal therapy to help unblock your chakras, raindrop therapy, hot stone massages – these are progressive and imaginative options. I opt for the GAIA total holistic ritual, a two-hour therapeutic treatment which incorporates lots of different techniques – all to help release tension and stress.

The very lovely spa masseuse starts off stimulating circulation and removing dead skin cells with a body brush. I’m then exfoliated head to toe with body scrubs and warming muslin cloths are placed on my body.

She massages mud all over and I then enjoy a hot rain shower to scrub it off (note: I am by myself in the shower!). All washed with the mud gone, she gives me a full body massage with an array of body oils. There is a lot of attention to detail in this session, no part of my body is left unturned! For example, my lips are given a hydrating lip balm treatment, eye serum containing retinol (that’s the jobby that keeps you young) and vitamin C is applied, and crystal everglow serums are pummelled in. I feel like it’s the most thorough spring clean my bod has ever had. Every centimetre of my skin has been cleansed, massaged and brought back to life. Thank you SSP, I’ll be back! n St Sidwell’s Point, Paris Street, Exeter; www.exeterleisure.com

ALL THE DETAILS...

What I had: GAIA Total Holistic Ritual 120min / £130 A deeply therapeutic ritual to release tension and stress, bringing the mind and body into harmonious balance.

Using advanced GAIA and Lomi Lomi techniques, originating from Hawaii, the body is exfoliated followed by an application of nourishing GAIA mud.

Once showered, a GAIA blend of your choice is poured warmly onto the body for a muscle easing massage. The GAIA rejuvenating face treatment will complete this ritual leaving a natural feeling of wellbeing, whilst skin is left smooth and replenished.

Other treatments include: Hot stone massages, deep tissue massages, Indian head massage, mum to be massage, raindrop therapy and crystal therapy.

Price: Treatment costs range from £45 £130. Lots of the 30-minute treatments are £45, with 60-minute treatments being £60.

St Sidwell’s Point, Paris Street, Exeter; www.exeterleisure.com

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SCHOOL GUIDE VICTORIA BOND Fun holiday activities can help a university application hit its target

Proactive Approach

A

How to help boost your child’s CV this summer rming your child with a flourishing CV is becoming increasingly important, and school holidays are perfect for upping the extracurricular oomph. If termtime over-scheduling fills you with dread, the idea of booking an activity holiday with a bunch of overachievers in Lycra may not sound much like a break. There’s also the challenge of getting surly children on board with the idea.

My older son was 13 when we first sampled a week away with an all-inclusive activity timetable. His reaction: “I’m not doing things.

I’m definitely not doing things with other kids.”

We switched over to a different kind of family break a few years ago and the result was the best kind of switching off. Choose a resort with an accredited kids’ club – usually wrongly named as they go right up to age 17 – and instructors who will introduce them to sailing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, tennis or mountain biking, and there’s a high probability that they will give a new skill a go. Why? Because

there are other kids there, and they are all in the same boat – often quite literally. Mark Warner resorts are brilliant at offering these options.

There is also re-wilding resorts such as Camp Wilderness that offer the opportunity to learn bushcraft skills with safari-style accommodation, and even good old PGL – now classified as a veteran outdoor activity provider – can teach whole families to fence.

For my boys, messing about with mates on the beach turned into CV-worthy RYA sailing qualifications.

I can’t imagine spending weeks by a muddy grey lake in Britain to get them to do the same level.

They swapped a few hours on the Aegean for a few less hours on a sun lounger listening to Spotify.

Total result.

Summertime CVs don’t just sparkle with ‘posh’ sports either.

In fact, it doesn’t have to be any sport. I spoke to one parent who decided to use the six-week break to enrol her son on an art course to make sure he had a portfolio ready for an art scholarship interview in the autumn. “Better than a tutor,” she said when he gained a sought-after place over peers who’d focused purely on academics.

Nor do you have to jump on a plane to find a brilliant activity centre. Trying something like dry-slope tobogganing or archery might just turn into something that becomes a stand-out extra line on a job application in years to come.

Any activity outside the classroom will help build what psychologists call self-concept. It enables us to recognise ourselves as a good team player, punctual, adaptable, or resilient. These may be soft skills but they are as valuable to future employers

“Any activity outside the classroom will help build what psychologists call self-concept”

as being good at maths. Plus, in an educational world that is increasingly super focused on assessments, self-assessment is an important skill in itself. It’s the difference between ‘do this’ and ‘how am I doing?’.

If your child is thinking about a university application, there’s also plenty of personal statement summer lovin’ to be had. UCAS forms are centred on the super-curricular rather than the extracurricular (sorry, Duke of Edinburgh die-hards): enrichment activities that show you have taken the subject that you want to study, further than what you have learnt in school.

Podcasts, documentaries, and online competitions all add value, and again, no travel required.

Victoria Bond is founder and CEO of School Guide, an easy-to-use website that helps parents discover exam results, catchment maps and parent reviews for all their local schools.

For more: www.schoolguide.co.uk

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STAYCATION

WHATLEY MANOR HOTEL AND SPA

Just two hours from Exeter, in the heart of the Cotswolds, Sarah Moolla discovers expressions, chakras and the most exquisite of stays at the Malmesbury country hotel

Y

ou know that part of the fairytale when the heavy wooden doors slowly swing open to reveal an enchanted magical space? In this case an adjoining curve of picturesque and statuesque 19th century farmhouses – all handsome honey-stone flanked by lavender borders, trailing wisteria and soft walls of ivy – this is the Whatley Manor welcome. The walled courtyard instantly enfolds you in a luxe meets rustic Cotswold hug (we’re in Wiltshire, about two miles west of Malmesbury) and invites, no actually insists, you leave behind whatever pressures and stresses you’ve brought with you on the two-hour-drive from Exeter.

We’ve stepped into another world and there’s an instant vibe – not just that we’re staying in an upmarket 23-bedroom, Michelin-starred, country hotel – but we’re actually staying with friends. It’s a gorgeous feeling. Even the décor feels like it’s been crafted through love and not some anonymous glossy mag cut and paste of what a country manor should look like – yes there’s the Chesterfield leather sofas, wide sweeping staircases, the wood panelled walls, the huge sunlight flooded mullion windows – but also sculptural art, traditional antiques, amusing knick knacks of woodland animals, floral displays, walls of black and white photos telling the story of the once named Twatley Manor – wherever you look there’s something different to absorb and intrigue.

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

Ready for further restoration we head to the spacious spa complete with a large hydropool which flows to the outside bubble pool, a tepidarium, calidarium, a steam grotto, and large sauna. It’s quietly soothing, and reassuringly grown-up – if we did nothing else during our stay, this alone will have been worth it. There is also a gym and airy studio space if you wanted to take it up a notch but I’m slipping down a gear with a Gaia Equilibrium facial. Like most things at Whatley Manor, this is something else, something quite special.

My therapist Beth moves like a ghost around me – confidently and tenderly – as she starts with a gentle foot massage, before moving onto a specialised facial treatment incorporating aromatherapy oils, rhythmic massage and advanced massage techniques whilst applying pressure points. I realise later the sinus issues and irritating cough I’ve had for about a week (yes, it was that cold we all got – the one that wasn’t Covid) has subsided and I am breathing clearly and deeply for the first time in ages. Beth ends the treatment on a Chakra stone reading which is utterly fascinating, and whether you believe in such spiritual things or not, it doesn’t matter – allowing time for a little self-reflection can never be a bad thing and certainly suits the Whatley experience.

This evening we are on a culinary journey with Ricki Weston, the young executive chef who stepped up to the Whatley Manor plate in December 2021.We are invited to the drawing room for a glass of

“If you want to come away feeling rejuvenated then Whatley is the way to go”

Gusbourne Brut Reserve Twenty Eighteen – a peachy and deep berry flavour with a toasted, perfumed finish, which we enjoy with nibbles of fat green olives and roasted broadbeans, before heading through to the kitchen. Here we stand watching the slick team of 13 at work like the coolest rock’n’roll ever, before Ricki then takes a few minutes out to present us first with a softly steaming light suet pudding of fermented beetroot with pine, thyme, and juniper, followed by a cup of caviar custard layered with shreds of chicken, tiny cubes of parsnip and dressed in sherry vinegar which is eaten with a small spoon like a trifle. It’s a powerhouse of flavours, aromas, and textures. The seafood salty richness of the caviar pops against the creamy, luxe sweetness of the custard, and the substantial chew of the succulent chicken. “These little dishes are called ‘expressions’,” explains Ricki. “We feel they introduce the menu in the style that we want to achieve, they are an expression of the menu. The inspiration behind the dishes was wanting to go back to English heritage dishes and traditional British ingredients – trying as much as possible to use local produce and understanding the provenance of the ingredients. And we use classic techniques within the cooking of the menu but finished in more of a modern style.”

An enthusiastic, imaginative and thoughtful approach is evident in every single dish from the aged duck rolled with duck and date mousse, served with slivers of carrot and roasted fennel, fennel pollen, plump dates and a berry duck sauce to the fresh pickled cockles, served with sweet shallots and crunchy cucumber, along with a smooth trout roe on an oyster leaf bed – to name just a few of the many highlights. There’s some really clever touches too – my companion’s vegetarian dishes often aesthetically mirror the meat option. The potato filled with halibut mousse, marinated halibut skirt, lemon zest, lightly powdered with scallop roe and vinegar powder is echoed in her thinly stacked artichoke drizzled with a mustardy and buttery hollandaise sauce. This a well-conceived theatrical event as well as a sensationally well thought-out tasting feast.

Sleep in the sumptuous all-amenities suite comes easy that night, and following a hearty, locally-sourced breakfast, it’s a leisurely stroll around just a few of the 26 landscaped gardens in the 12-acre site. There’s something good for the soul in this place – maybe it’s the fact the owners insist it’s shut every Monday to allow staff to recharge, maybe it’s their commitment to net zero carbon emissions (toiletries here come in reusable jars and there’s no shrink-wrapped plastic), or maybe it’s the team’s obvious dedication to putting guests first – whatever it is, if you want to switch off, relax, feel indulged, and come away feeling rejuvenated then Whatley is the way to go. n

STAY DETAILS Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Easton Grey, Malmesbury SN16 0RB. tel: 01666 822888; www.whatleymanor.com Established July 2003 Owned by Christian Landolt and Alix Landolt Rooms 23 bedrooms, classic rooms start at £279 and the deluxe suite is £804 Gardens 12 acres Chef Ricki Weston Grey’s Brasserie 70 covers and serves modern British dishes from Wednesday to Sunday, and lunch on a Sunday. Starters £11 - £13, mains £24 - £28, desserts £11 - 16 The Dining Room 40 covers serving creative contemporary cuisine Wednesday to Sunday. Chef’s Menu is £175 per person.

Aquarias Spa A range of luxurious spa treatments for the face and body; a gym and studio; underwater recliners in the hydrotherapy pool and light refreshments served in the spa lounge with views to the spa garden and countryside beyond. Treatments from £105 for a sixty-minute treatment; float Pod – 60 mins £56, £140 Essential Escape Half Day Spa (Mon/Fri) and £215 (Sat/Sun) Hire of the cinema £40 Activities Vélosophy bikes are available to hire from reception – for every Vélosophy sold, they donate another bicycle to a schoolgirl in a developing country. Wild Carrot is an electric bicycle hire company that also offer biking tours.

Good to know The team at Whatley are committed to creating a business that delivers a luxury guest experience whilst reducing its impact on the planet and are working towards the goal of scope 1 & 2 net zero by 2028.

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It’s the city’s business

EXETERWORKS A SPOTLIGHT ON SETSQUARED EXETER

SETsquared Exeter is a member of an enterprise partnership between five leading research-led UK universities: Exeter, Bath, Bristol, Southampton and Surrey. Their work sees them provide business support to help turn ideas into flourishing ventures. They run a number of initiatives and programmes to help students explore entrepreneurial ideas, help researchers work more innovatively and enable external businesses to utilise the resources and expertise available at the University of Exeter.

This year they scooped the Business Services Award at our Exeter Living Awards, with the judges commenting, “SETsquared has been superb for students and graduates, with its scale up and business acceleration programmes securing millions in funding.

Great effort nurturing Exeter’s workforce of the future.”

TERRIFIC TRIO

1- 2 July SETsquared Exeter present: Immersive technologies: innovations, applications and opportunities This two-day workshop at Exeter Phoenix is designed for innovators and creatives, bridging the gap between groundbreaking new ideas and the value those ideas can create.

Based on established problem-solving and prototyping methodologies, day one focuses on using design thinking as a base for creating viable solutions to a real-world problem. Day two switches gears towards focusing on how your solution can create value for a market.

There is an opportunity to present your solution and the value it creates to an expert panel, allowing for constructive feedback and a steer towards your next steps.

The SETsquared team

For more: www.setsquared.exeter.ac.uk

Tiverton-based textile manufacturer Heathcoat Fabrics has been recognised with a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation.

The company The dream team of developed a highdevelopment engineers performance parachute fabric that has contributed to outstanding commercial success, including delivery of NASA’s Perseverance Rover onto the surface of Mars in February 2021.

Peter Hill, director of woven fabrics at Heathcoat, and Richard Crane, technical director, have steered a team that centred around three female development engineers – Eleanor Newsome, Lotte De Leeuw and Nicola Willey.

“The Heathcoat brand has historically been recognised for highest quality in textiles,” says Heathcoat Fabric’s managing director, Cameron Harvie.

“This includes providing the veiling fabric for Queen Elizabeth’s royal wedding in 1947, and it’s fitting in her Jubilee year that she has personally approved our Queen’s Award for Innovation.”

For more: www.heathcoat.co.uk

Their work seems them support up-and-coming entrepreneurs

OPEN CONVERSATION Exeter Chamber has launched a new series of events for senior leaders, board level directors and managing directors of the business community, aptly named: Boardroom Conversations. This series of events is an invite only event where guests can enjoy the company and conversation of their contemporaries away from the stresses of the day job.

During the the first event, back in March, invitees heard from guest speaker Dan Gould of DeGould,the Exeter-based software company.

The next in the series of Boardroom Conversations will take place at the Devon and Exeter Institution on Cathedral Close, on 26 May, with a special talk from guest speaker Rob Haward, managing director of Riverford Organics.

From humble beginnings to the employee-owned business it is today, Rob will be sharing some insights into how Riverford continues to thrive and grow year on year.

“The pilot for Boardroom Conversations in March was a huge success,” says Clodagh Murphy, chair of Exeter Chamber. “It can be lonely

© GARETH WILLIAMS

EXETER LIVING AWARD WINNERS 2022

Boardroom Conversations events feature local guest speakers

at the top, there are plenty of events across our wonderful city for members of the business community, which is fantastic. At the Chamber, we want to be inclusive of those at all levels. Boardroom Conversations allows those at board level to engage with their peers away from the pressures of the office, in an intimate and informal setting, with great food, and even better conversation.”

For those that would like to be considered for the guest list, simply contact Clodagh@exeterchamber. co.uk; www.exetercahmaber.co.uk

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What qualities or personality traits do you think a person needs to work with animals?

Empathy, resilience, a good work ethic and attention to detail are all key to the job. It really helps if you’re a positive person and have a sense of humour – it will help you get through the challenging times. Physical fitness is a must as there’s a lot of manual labour involved, and you will most likely end up talking to zoo visitors, so being good with people is a great help.

The thing that really sets great keepers apart is their thirst for knowledge about the animals they look after and their true passion for zoo keeping.

JOURNEY TO THE JOB

Stuart Parr How do you become a zookeeper? What personality traits and qualifications do you need? Which are the friendliest (and naughtiest) animals? We chat to Stuart Parr, zoo keeper at Paignton Zoo, to find out…

What did you want to be when you were little?

I’ve always wanted to be a zookeeper. It was never really a decision for me – I always knew that was what I wanted to do so I pursued it from an early age.

What subjects did you love at school?

Biology, English and French were my favourites.

What inspired you to follow a career working with animals?

It’s just what I’ve always wanted!

One of my teachers from primary school recently told me that I’m the only person they know who’s grown up to do what they dreamt of as a child. My inspiration has really developed over the years into not just caring about the animals, but also caring about conservation on the whole.

Can you tell us a little bit about the journey of your

career and where it all started...

When I left school I went to college for two years to study animal care and science. I was really lucky to start working in a zoo straight out of college – I first worked at Colchester Zoo with bears and big cats. I’ve worked at various zoos throughout my career, and I’ve tried to work with a different species in each role, gaining qualifications as I progressed.

The end goal was always to end up working at Paignton Zoo, so I was glad to get a job here in 2017 and I became senior keeper of large mammals in 2018.

Talk us through a typical working day...

Every day I work from 8am until 5pm.

My working days include weekends, bank holidays and Christmas. A large part of my day-to-day work is animal husbandry – cleaning up after the animals, preparing their diet and feeding them. I also frequently help with veterinary procedures and attend various team meetings.

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For someone wanting to start a career as a zookeeper, are there qualifications or certain experience that people need?

The Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) is one of the more standard qualifications, and you can do this either voluntarily or once you’ve got a job as a keeper.

Lots of zoo keeping jobs require experience, so getting voluntary experience is very beneficial. It also gives a good indication of whether you want to do the job – there are lots of parts of the job that would be challenging to cope with unless you love what you do (I smell of animal wee quite a lot!).

I’ve found that having both qualifications and experience is the best way to do things – it’s such a competitive industry, so sometimes having work experience behind you gives you an edge above other candidates.

For someone embarking on a career in a zoo, what should they expect – the good, the bad and everything in-between!

There are lots of good and bad things to expect when looking at a career in zoo keeping! Starting with the bad: you’ll most likely work outside in all weathers, cleaning up after animals and dealing with lots of poo! You’ll also have to deal with sick or injured animals, so you need to be resilient.

There are some real challenges to face, but the rewards far outweigh the negatives for me. I stop and smell the roses regularly because I work in a beautiful environment with absolutely incredible animals that are a privilege to spend time with, let alone care for.

Can you tell us some of your favourite memories working at Paignton Zoo? Some of the best bits have been zebra births: we had two foals born in the past year and it was really special to be a part of that. I helped to move the father of the foals, Jabali, down to Paignton Zoo a little while ago, so it’s been great to see how well he’s settled in.

“IT REALLY HELPS IF YOU’RE A POSITIVE PERSON AND HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOUR”

EXETERWORKS It’s a team effort with Stuart Parr and the gang at Paignton Zoo

I love working with the giraffes, too, and having so much contact with them is one of the best parts of my job. It’s a real privilege to get to know them and for them to start to recognise you – one of our giraffes, Joanna, is quite standoffish, so it was amazing when she started to approach me for the first time.

Do you have any favourite animals there?

Tilly the giraffe is the obvious choice – she’s probably the most interactive animal at the zoo and is really interested in people. Anybody that’s fed the giraffes here in the past few years will know Tilly – she’s a real character and a pleasure to work with.

Another favourite of mine is Luna the spider monkey. She is really inquisitive and likes to lift up your shirt to investigate your belly button – a strange but sweet habit!

Which animals are the naughtiest?

I would say the primates! Orang-utans can be pretty sneaky!

What are the challenges with your job?

Sometimes you have to deal with animals you see every day moving to other zoos or becoming unwell or dying, and that’s quite mentally challenging, but it’s all worth it for the relationships you build with them along the way. The hardest bit is the unsociable hours which means I unfortunately work most weekends and miss out on family time and a social life.

What have been the things you are most proud of professionally?

The entire thing – I’m immensely proud of what I do!

When you’re not working, what do you like to get up to?

I’m a very outdoorsy person – I like paddle-boarding, caravan trips with my family and generally spending time outside. I also read a lot!

What is the most surprising thing about you?

I’m quite accident prone and currently have 17 scars!

For more: Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton; www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

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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

Charlie and AJ, plus pooch, welcome the new building

GET READY…

A WARM WELCOME Powderham Castle has just completed a new building on its premises. The Welcome Centre is the first new building on the site in over 100 years and was dreamt up by AJ Langer and Charlie Courtenay, the Countess and Earl of Devon, back when they arrived at Powderham Castle in 2016.

It will be the first thing visitors see when they visit Powderham, where they can buy tickets; there’ll also be a coffee ‘nook’ and loo. Crucially, the building is designed to be able to flood and drain, due to Powderham being on a flood plain.

For more: www.powderham.co.uk

SPOTTED!

Fancy living in Topsham?

What: A three-/fourbedroomed grade-1 listed townhouse.

Where: On the Strand in Topsham, offering estuary views.

Proximity to Exeter: Approx 5.1 miles.

Price: £895,000.

Inside: On the ground floor is a cosy study/ reception room. The rear of the house opens up into an entertaining space with an extended kitchen/ dining room complete with Aga. Elsewhere on the ground floor is a utility room and loo; steps lead up to a private rear garden and a terrace.

The living room is situated on the first floor and has a working fireplace.

For more: Wilkinson Grant, 72-73 Fore Street, Topsham, Exeter; www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

Following a successful first year, we are once again hosting the Exeter Property Awards.

21 October will see Exeter’s property professionals come together to celebrate the very best of the industry, from residential to commercial, from lettings to new builds, from civic buildings to bold re-imaginings.

Nominations open on 8 June and the Awards are free to enter and can be won by any company which fits the criteria. If you’re in the area and have had a strong performance in one of our categories, then you can win.

The categories are: Architecture, Civic Development, Commercial Development, Consultancy, Contractor, Developer, Employer, Financial, Green Initiative, Interior Designer, Property Agent, Residential Development, One to Watch, Suppliers and Services, and Transformations.

For more: www.exeterpropertyawards.co.uk

EXETER PROPERTY AWARDS AT A GLANCE

What: Prestigious Awards in celebration of the best of Exeter property and property companies.

Why: Because this is a stunning, vibrant sector that deserves to be celebrated.

How: Companies enter via www.exeterpropertyawards. co.uk (check out the top tips on the website); independent Judges then decide.

Format: Lunchtime event, afternoon Awards. Begins from 12pm, ends around 4pm.

Tickets: Available soon.

When: Friday 21 October 2022.

Where: Sandy Park, Exeter.

Nominations for the Exeter Property Awards open on 8 June

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ON THE HORIZON Interested in moving to a new build in or near Exeter? Here’s a look at three developments in the area...

THE ONLY WAY IS EXMOUTH

3West, a South West property developer, has announced dates for its preview event for Goodmores, its scheme in Exmouth.

Transforming a large section of the former agricultural site known as Goodmores Farm, the developer will create a selection of homes on the 12-acre plot located off Hulham Road and Dinan Way. A site for a new school, a football pitch and five acres of mixed employment land for the community will also be included in the new development, along with woodland walks and open spaces for residents to enjoy.

Set to reveal details for the first time of its new homes scheme in Exmouth, the event will be hosted over two days on 22 and 23 June at Ocean, located on Queens Drive, between 9am and 8pm.

“Demand for Goodmores has been strong from the outset, with interest growing day by day as work has now started on site,” says Colin Palmer, co-founder of 3West.

“We cannot wait to share our vision for this scheme with prospective purchasers and look forward to meeting those interested in securing their dream home at Goodmores.”

Attendees at the grand reveal event will have the chance to view visuals for the scheme which is situated just minutes from miles of golden coastline and the rugged beauty of Woodbury Common.

Prices for the two-, three- and four-bedroom homes will also be announced as well as showcasing house types and visuals for the interiors. 3West’s team will also be on hand to answer any questions, along with independent financial advisors to offer professional advice.

For more: www.3-west.com

Gosford showroom, part of the Ivy Grange development; below: Light, bright bedrooms on the Ivy Grange development

The preview event for Goodmores will take place at Ocean in Exmouth

IVY LEAGUE

Ivy Grange is a new community of 57 high quality new homes, on the outskirts of the market town of Newton Abbot, about 18 miles from Exeter.

The development features a range of two-, three- and four-bedroom houses, with eco-friendly materials making them, on average, 65 per cent more energy efficient than older properties.

Located just off Ashburton Road, there will be managed areas of green open spaces for residents to explore, as well as pedestrian and cycle links running throughout the development.

For more: www.taylorwimpey.co.uk

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NEW BUILDS

HEAD FOR THE HILLS

Highwood Gardens sits on Post Hill on the north-eastern edge of Tiverton, about 30 minutes from Exeter, and features a collection of 18 luxurious new homes built by property developer Burrington Estates.

Outdoor space features landscaped front gardens and double garages, while the rear gardens are fully turfed with a patio area. Inside, kitchen design features include quartz worktops, white LED downlights as standard and USB-C Ports.

Burrington Estates also have a Key Workers scheme, whereby if you’re an essential employee working within but not limited to the NHS, teaching or are a member of the Emergency Services, they can offer a saving of £250 for every £25,000 paid of the purchase price, which works out as up to a maximum of £5,000 discount on a new Burrington Estates new home. n For more: www.burringtonestates.com

The properties at Post Hill are on the edge of Tiverton; top right: The Post Hill properties vary in size and design

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EXETER LIVES

© ATL ANTIC CAMPAIGNS

“We had a shark nudge the back of the boat and follow us for around 30 minutes” ADAM BAKER AND CHARLIE FLEURY The award-winning ‘Emergensea Duo’ talk sharks, wet wipes and shooting stars...

Exeter doctors Adam and Charlie, AKA the Emergensea Duo, recently received the Lord Mayor’s Commendation Award for their frontline work in A&E throughout the pandemic whilst simultaneously fundraising for frontline medical charities. In 2021, they were the first married couple to complete the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge raising over £25,000.

Congratulations on your award! Tell us, what exactly is the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge?

A: It’s a 3000-mile unsupported

ocean rowing race across the Atlantic from La Gomera, in the Canaries to Antigua.

This involves rowing 24/7 in alternating shifts of two hours on two hours off.

Were you both serious rowers before you did the challenge?

C: Neither of us had ever rowed

before entering the race so our training was intense. We had an ocean rowing coach and an ocean

rowing specific personal trainer.

We had workouts six days a week, focusing a lot on trunk strength and hip mobility. We also spent around 140 hours on our boat training round the South West coast.

What were some of the highlights of the challenge?

A: The nature we saw was

definitely one of the highlights, including dolphins, a turtle and two storm petrels that stayed with us from day two of the row up to the penultimate day. We also had two pods of orcas which came alongside the boat, one of which had a calf with them. There was also a couple of standout days where we had no wind or waves and at times not even a ripple in the water which was like glass. There was just complete silence accompanied by one of the most incredible sunsets we have ever seen, which turned the whole sky pink.

Any hairy moments?

C: Spotting a shark just before

Adam jumped in to clean the hull of the boat was a little nervewracking. We also had another shark nudge the back of the boat

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and follow us for around 30 minutes. Our steering broke a couple of times in some of the bigger swells which caused the boat to swing into the waves in the pitch black.

it was freeze-dried meals and a lot of chocolate and biltong to keep the calories up.

What was night-time like on the ocean?

A: The shooting stars were

Emergency Medicine doctors, it was incredibly important to us that we chose charities that represent saving lives by air, land and sea. We chose two local charities, the Devon Air Ambulance and the RD&E Charity with whom we both have a close working relationship. We also chose two amazing national charities, the RNLI and Mind.

51 days together on a boat is quite the challenge for any couple, how did you keep things harmonious?!

A: We bickered far less on the

We’re in a different phase of Covid now but your work means it is still very present...

C: It’s been incredibly hard and

incredible, we literally saw hundreds of them, and the oars would have a bright green bioluminescence around them.

Other nights were pitch black, so it felt like you were in a sensory deprivation tank which was very disorientating and nauseating!

boat than at home, which I think in part was due to the shared experience of undertaking something so challenging together. We had to be a team to get through it. With the alternating shift patterns you were able to have your own space, even in a cabin around the third of the volume of a red phone box.

What did you eat and how did you wash?

C: Our en suite consisted of two

buckets, one to wash with and one to use as a toilet. We were careful not to confuse them! We used biodegradable wet wipes to clean each day and had a full body and hair wash once a week. Food wise

What did it mean to raise money for medical charities?

A: With our backgrounds as

there have been heartbreaking moments. It’s certainly taken a toll on our own mental health. It has also been very frustrating wanting to provide a certain level of care that just isn’t possible with the lack of resources we have.

Have there been any silver linings during this time?

We couldn’t have asked for a better, more supportive team than everyone working in RD&E Emergency Department. We have also been blown away by the support and kind words from our sponsors and members of the public in Devon and beyond about the work we do and the challenge we have just completed. n www.emergenseaduo.com