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Complete fitting service by fully qualified employed fitters, including floors, ceilings & all electrical & plumbing work.
Our ranges cover both free standing & fitted units, standard baths, corner, period & contemporary baths, showers & shower cubicles, WC’s, bidets & basins, mirrors, radiators, tiles & accessories.
With over 130 displays we’re sure we have something for everyone!
ENSURE FIRE SAFETY IN YOUR PROPERTY
Fire Extinguisher Servicing & sales: Plymouth and surrounding areas. Please contact us for a tailored quote.
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SELLING/RENTING YOUR HOME REMORTGAGING YOUR HOME BUILDING A NEW PROPERTY
May is here and that can only mean one thing, good weather and some valuable time in the garden. If thats not your thing there is pleanty more in this issue for you, I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did making it.
With each issue I want to be putting my own spin on things and thins month if I could point you towards one thing it would certainly be the recipies page. Each one is delicious and well worth trying out.
If you have any ideas how we can make the magazien better then please email: editor@ oracle.uk.net and I will get back to as many of you as possible.
Our trade directory is one of my favourite parts of the magazine and is definatly worth checking out.
@omplymouthmagazine
www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk
Creative direCtor
Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net
design editor
Dylan Thain editor@oracle.uk.net
07365610463
sales manager
Tyler Cussen sales@oracle.uk.net 07535417264
graphiC design
Dylan Thain
editorial
Dylan Thain & Myles Lockwood
stoCk images
Pexels | Freepik
sister magazine
The Plympton Community Magazine
OM Plymouth is a proud sponsor of Gables Farm Dogs & Cats Home
dylan thain
Couple’s ‘perfect’ kitchen was love at first sight!
It was a case of third time lucky for local couple Dave and Pam, when they were searching for a new kitchen for their home.
after visiting two national brands without success, they decided to pop into the showroom of Plymouth family firm kF kitchens, run by experienced designers nathan and Derinda Damarell and their son, connor: “the displays were 100% better than anything we’d seen, and the attitude was so different to the others,” said pam. “We didn’t realise that visits should be booked by prior appointment, but they were very welcoming. the showroom was lovely, and straight away, we saw this design which we really liked.”
By the time they left the Faraday mill showroom at the end of that first visit, they’d found their ‘perfect’ kitchen and had an accurate idea of how much it would cost: “nathan outlined what each individual element was likely to cost and provided an overall ballpark figure,” said Dave. “His estimate was pretty much spot on, almost to the pound.”
early in the design process, nathan visited Dave and pam’s home to discuss what they wanted for their new kitchen and to make suggestions on how best to use the space: “We had two separate rooms before, with a serving hatch between the kitchen and the dining room,” Dave explained. “it had been like that since we built the house 40 years ago. But with the children grown up and moved out, we weren’t using the dining room, so we wanted to open it all up.
“We had our own ideas and nathan and Derinda listened to us. But they also suggested ideas that improved our ideas. they know what they’re doing, they’re the experts, and we trusted them. they advised us not to make any quick decisions, to take our time and to have a look at other designs, but we really liked the first one we saw. And when you come in here now, it’s perfect.”
pam was clear that she wanted the kitchen sink to be at the window overlooking the garden, and that the far wall should be clear of units: “that created room for us to have a big island with stools where we can sit and have coffee with family and friends. at the same time, we can still move around the kitchen nice and easily. the island also gives us lots of extra storage space.”
Their ’love at first sight’ kitchen is made by German firm nolte. the couple chose concrete grey for the island and concrete white for the other cupboards and drawers: “the quality of the nolte kitchen is so superior,” said Dave.
“The drawers, the cupboards, the way they’re built to fit perfectly, they’re better than anything else.”
The heat and stain resistant Dekton worktops and splashback were supplied and fitted by local company Mayflower Stone, adding to the stylish contemporary look. Dave and Pam kept their existing fridge freezer, but all the other integrated NEFF appliances are new – a combi microwave and conventional oven with slide and hide door, induction hob, dishwasher and washing machine. The finishing touches include a Blanco sink with a rack for hot pots and pans, Quooker instant boiling water tap, and a concealed extractor hood which is tucked away behind a cupboard used as a spice rack. Pam said: “I love all the new appliances, and everything about the kitchen is so convenient because of how it has been expertly designed.”
Using their experienced contractors of many years, KF Kitchens project managed everything – the kitchen and appliance installation, underfloor heating, electrics, lighting, plumbing, building work including the wall removal, decorating, and Karndean flooring. As with the design process, Dave said the installation went like clockwork: “The way that all the KF Kitchens contractors worked together was absolutely fantastic, it made the project totally stressfree. I can’t fault anything about it. Every one of the guys worked to perfection, they all took such pride in their work.
“The other thing we really liked was that KF Kitchens only ask for a £500 deposit until the kitchen arrives,” added Dave, “and you pay the workmen separately as they go along.”
So, how much difference has the new kitchen and dining space made? “Oh, it’s fantastic,” said Pam. “Removing the separating wall has made a big difference. Now that the dining area is part of one big room, we’re using it much more often for our evening meals. And the whole room is much lighter, and much more people friendly.”
Asked which three words best describe their kitchen, Dave answered: “Three words aren’t enough!” But, added Pam: “How about ‘perfectly-planned, well-executed, and wowfactor’. Because everyone who’s seen it has said ‘wow’!”
“Three words aren’t enough!” But, added Pam: “How about ‘perfectly-planned, well-executed, and wow factor”. Because everyone who’s seen it has said ‘wow’!”
Book a consultation in the KF Kitchens studio, by email (enquiries@kfkitchens.co.uk) or phone (01752 255022). You can also visit their website (www.kfkitchens.co.uk), and social media on Instagram (@kfkitchens) or Facebook.
We have cats and dogs of all ages, sizes, breeds and temperaments looking for new loving homes
a world without bees
If one day bees significantly decline or go extinct, this will have a drastic impact on our lifestyles, whether we want it or not.
The bee population has decreased steadily over the past years, this decline could result in a huge impact on our food supply and therefore, our health.
The vast majority of plants that we need for food rely on pollination, and with bees being one of the most prominent pollinating insects over any others (pollinating around one-third of food crops!), they are the most important pollinator of food crops. Loss of these pollinators could lead to lower availability of crops and wild plants that provide essential micro-nutrients for human diets.
There are at least 1500 species of insect pollinators in the UK, including the honeybee that normally lives in hives managed by beekeepers. Others, like many species of bumblebees, solitary bees, moths, butterflies and hoverflies live in the wild.
A world without honeybees would also mean a world without fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Nearly one-third of the world’s crops are dependent on honeybees for pollination.
Without bees, we may lose all of the plants that they pollinate. This would then mean that all of the animals that eat those plants and so on up the food chain. This means that a world without bees could struggle to keep up with the demands of the global human population of 7 billion. This would also mean that our supermarkets would have half the amount of fruit and vegetables!
Bee populations are in decline, over one-third of the UK’s bee population has disappeared over the past decade and 24% of Europe’s bumblebees are now threatened with extinction. With unusually high rates of decline in various bee colonies, why are we seeing such a drop in these crucial pollinators?
According to Green Peace, the main reasons for global bee-decline are linked to industrial agriculture, parasites/ pathogens and climate change. Pesticides, disease, parasites, poor weather, and the stress of being trucked from orchard-to-orchard to pollinate different crops all play a role in the decline of managed honeybee populations.
A world without bees would mean that we would see a cease in production of many crops that depend entirely on pollinators.
According to the Organic Soil Association, it is estimated that it would cost UK farmers £1.8 billion a year to pollinate their crops manually if wild bees disappeared. Although there are other pollinators, their primary focus is to collect the nectar from the plant and move on - any pollen collected is usually a happy accident.
You can help the bee population in a number of ways and you don’t have to be a beekeeper to do so!
Plant flowers in your garden so the bees can collect their nectar - they especially love cottage garden flowers and native wildflowers! Provide shelters for them, they need them in order to nest and hibernate: different bees need different homes, so make sure to research before you buy or make a bee shelter.
These additions to your garden will help the bees thrive, and it’s a great touch to brighten up your outdoor space!
National Museum Day
More Than JusT DusT anD Display: reDiscovering The Magic of MuseuMs This May 18Th
Imagine waking up in a world where there are no museums, no way to appreciate history with our own eyes. Every May, National Museum Day invites us to step through the doors of our local galleries, heritage centres, and cultural spaces—and into a deeper understanding of ourselves. For many women between the ages of 35 and 55, life rarely slows down enough to indulge in quiet reflection. But perhaps this month is the perfect opportunity to rediscover the power and purpose of museums—not just as educational institutions, but as places of connection, creativity, and calm.
Museums are far more than dusty cabinets and old artefacts. They are living, breathing spaces that tell the stories of who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re going. They preserve the past, yes—but they also challenge the present and shape the future. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or someone simply in search of inspiration, museums offer something profound: perspective.
In an age of digital overload and fast-paced living, museums offer a rare sanctuary—a chance to slow down and engage the senses. A quiet gallery can be as restorative as a countryside walk. Wandering
through an exhibit with no deadlines or demands offers something we all crave: space to think, to feel, to simply be.
National Museum Day is also a great opportunity to look beyond the grand institutions and into the heart of our own communities. Local museums often punch well above their weight in terms of relevance and heart. From regional folklore to working-class histories, from immigrant voices to industrial triumphs, these spaces reflect the unique tapestry of local life—and they deserve our support.
And it’s not just about what we see in museums, but what we do. More and more museums across the UK are offering hands-on workshops, family-friendly events, and evening talks. For those of us who grew up seeing museums as “do-not-touch” zones, this shift is refreshing. It opens the door to multi-generational visits— whether it’s bringing the kids for a Saturday workshop or taking elderly parents on a nostalgic trip through time.
Evolution of musEum’s
In many ways, museums are evolving in line with the people who visit them. Curators are increasingly embracing inclusion and diverse narratives, challenging long-held assumptions, and giving voice to those previously left out of the picture. Whether it’s a major exhibition on women’s suffrage, a celebration of Black British culture, or an exploration of LGBTQ+ histories, museums are showing us that heritage is not fixed—it’s constantly being rewritten, and we all have a part to play.
opEn Your EYEs
This May, why not make a plan to visit a museum you’ve never been to? Or return to an old favourite with fresh eyes? If travel isn’t possible, many museums now offer virtual tours and online collections—accessible ways to connect with culture from the comfort of home.
And for those looking to give back, consider becoming a member, volunteering, or simply sharing your love of museums with others. These institutions, many of which operate on limited funding, rely on community support to thrive. crucial weeks.
CElEbratE loCal and national
National Museum Day isn’t just about celebrating the places themselves— it’s about celebrating what they represent: curiosity, identity, and belonging. Museums are not relics of the past—they are vital spaces for present-day learning, reflection, and dialogue.
Maybe going into London to see some of our countries finest musuems is your style, maybe youre more about the local artwork and history and want to deepen your knowledge of what surrounds you. Maybe it’s been a while since you went to a musuem and from reading this you think you might go out and give one a try, Plymouth has some of the best museums in the south west with on going events and interesting exhibets.
So go out and explore what the nation has to offer and induldge in the history of our country!
LET’S REMEMBER TOGETHER FRIDAY 11 JULY 2025
What’s On
MUrDer MYsTerY nighTs aT BOringDOn hall
Boringdon Hall Hotel, Plymouth
Friday 30th May
The first in a series of Murder Mystery evening’s - Boringdon hall’s ‘Back to the 80’s’ is set to be an evening of fun. Daniel and ali seem to be the perfect couple and have invited friends and family to this celebration, but no one is that perfect and will everyone at the party still be alive by the end or is there a lethal Weapon in the room.
PaPer DragOns –UnDer The sea
The Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth Monday 3-4th May
Stiltskin theatre company invites you to dive into an immersive, paper-crafted undersea world at the Soapbox. unleash your creativity by drawing, writing, and solving puzzles to help the elusive paper Dragons thrive. enjoy interactive storytelling brought to life by our performers as you set sail on a magical adventure beneath the waves!
PiraTes WeekenD
The Hoe, Plymouth 17, 18th May
MaY 2025
South Devon
PaPer DragOns –UnDer The sea
The Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth
Monday 3-4th May
enjoy a swashbuckling weekend of fun and entertainment on 17 & 18 may. explore a treasure trove of free piratethemed activities across the Barbican, Sutton harbour, Royal William yard and Waterfront.
COMiC COn PlYMOUTh
Marjon Sports Centre Sunday 18th May
For those that like cosplay, there will be a wide array of cosplayers on arrival, you are invited to dress up as your favourite TV, Film or other fictional character and be ready to compete in our cosplay competitions!
Cash - JOhnnY Cash TriBUTe
Marjon, Plymouth Saturday 31st May
as is so often the case with unique artists, it takes another one to fully appreciate them. having lived the life and music of Johnny cash and other country heroes who came before and since, Ben, aka caSh, has effortlessly recreated the sound, vibe and appeal of the master himself.
Stiltskin theatre company invites you to dive into an immersive, papercrafted undersea world at the Soapbox. unleash your creativity by drawing, writing, and solving puzzles to help the elusive paper Dragons thrive. enjoy interactive storytelling brought to life by our performers as you set sail on a magical adventure beneath the waves!
liTTle sPriTe’s Faerie FOrage
The Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth
Monday 5th June
a magical mix of storytelling and nature play for early years. Step into the enchanted Spellbound Wood with Fairy Forage - a nature-inspired adventure led by Jacqueline, Stiltskin’s creative Director. little ones explore through arts, drama, and interactive storytelling, gathering mystical ingredients and clues to help bring fairy tale characters to life. this parent-and-child activity sparks imagination and builds confidence, rain or shine. Recommended for ages 18 months to 4 years.
HOW TO ATTRACT
WILDLIFE TO YOUR GARDEN
From the 31st May to the 6th June, it is Garden Wildlife Week here in the UK, so what better time to embrace the natural world than right now. Whether you have a spacious garden, small balcony or a window ledge, there are plenty of ways to be a part of the larger network connecting urban green spaces with the unrefined countryside; enriching a wilder future.
Bird Feeders
Hanging bird feeders or fat balls around your garden or balcony not only helps the birds to gain easy access to nutritious food but also allows you to see the birds up close and you may even be lucky enough to see breeds of birds that you haven’t seen before. Make sure you place the bird feed as far away from the house as possible to encourage the birds to feel comfortable eating in your garden.
Birdbaths
Having a source of water is critical for birds, especially in the summer. Streams and puddles have dried up and if it has been an extremely hot summer, ponds can also dry up which means birds are left with a very rationed water source. Birds not only use water to drink out of but they also wash themselves to cool off and keep their feathers in good condition. There are many birdbaths on the market to choose from or you can make your own! Use a shallow, watertight dish that has sloping sides and no bigger than 10cm in depth.
Bee’s favourite flowers
In the summer months, the best flowers to attract bees are Allium’s, borage, catmint, Cirsium rivulare, lavender, poppies, foxglove and most herbs. You can buy all of these plants, already grown in most garden centres or nurseries or you can get greenfingered and sow seeds.
“Bees like a banquet, not a snack” – RSPB. So, make sure to plant the flowers close together and lots of them! Don’t forget to plant them in a sunny spot and water them frequently in hot weather.
Best window box flowers for bees & butterflies
Herbs such as basil thyme and mint thrive in window boxes however, if you leave them be after a while they will begin to bloom flowers. Bees and butterflies love these flowers! You can buy the herbs from your local
Together, our gardens are a vast living landscape. With an estimated 24 million gardens in the UK, the way they are cared for can make a big difference to the natural world.
- Wildlifetrusts.org
winter tidy up
With
James
the highly anticipated Plymouth Summer
Sessions kicking off this June, what better time to “sit down” for an exclusive OM interview with Jim Glennie - the iconic bassist from the legendary band ‘James’
Having sold over 25 million albums worldwide, James are currently lighting up stages across the UK — from Ayr in Scotland all the way down to their upcoming stop at the Plymouth Summer Sessions on Thursday, 12th June. In our exclusive interview, bassist Jim Glennie reflects on the band’s early days, the journey they’ve taken together, and why making mistakes is all part of the magic.
Q: Jim, I’m going to go out on a limb and ask the obvious — is the band actually named after you? We’ve always had one or two band members named James - just to confuse people, i supposebut theoretically, yes, it was named after me. not for any fantastic reason, like i’m the most talented or gifted or anything, unfortunately. We just wanted to name the band - We liked the idea of a person’s name representing the band, with all the personality, character traits, and the good and bad bits of being human.
We didn’t want to name the band tim after our lead singer, as that would’ve made it all about him. our drummer was called gavan, which we thought sounded a bit too “heavy metal,” and the other one was paul - so it was either James or paul. We went with James. it didn’t seem like a big deal at the time; we just thought, “cool, let’s call the band ‘James. We quite liked that, so we did what we set out to do and used the name of somebody in the band.
Q: Is it 41 or 42 years since you formed the band in Manchester are you the bands longest stating member??
i think you’re right. yes, it was a long while ago back in the 1980s when we started in manchester. i believe it’s 18 albums ago, which is crazy when you think about it. i guess i am the longest-standing member. tim and i have been together for 40 years, but even the new boys have been in the band for over 30 years.
Q: Is it true you played your first gig in the Eccles Royal British Legion Club and the manager pulled the plug halfway through your second song?
Interview by Myles Lockwood
yeah, that’s right, i mean we were terrible there’s no shame in saying that. if i’m honest it was a truly bizzarre experience we were a very cobbled together band and i think of this as our pre -James era before we really morphed into James as a band. But i cannot exaggerate how bad the whole gig was, everyone in there was just puzzled. the crowd of British legion members were there sat with a pint of bitter looking completely shocked and stunned by the cacophony that was coming out around them. By the end of that gig the manager came on and said “thank you very much, i think we will get the DJ back on” and even though i buzz and the bizarreness of playing
I knew it was terrible, but I still loved the fear. That risk of ‘it could all go wrong’ was addictive and I knew I wanted more. That sounds wrong, but I absolutely loved it, even though I knew it was terrible. I just, loved the fear. I’m not a natural performer. I’m not some person who would thrust themself on the stage in front of the world, but I still absolutely loved it. There was something about it that was just addictive. It was like, I want more of that.
Q: Tim booth the Lead Singer was originally brought is as a dancer is that correct?
Yeah, that’s how we first spotted him, he was dancing at a Manchester university disco in the cellar bar, and we thought he danced really well so we draged him down and hoped that he would help us with some lyrics at the same time. Initially he would shake the tambourine a bit and do some backup vocals but he developed from that point. Bringing Tim in was a sliding door moment where the band changed forever, not at first, of course that happened later, but it happened naturally.
It’s one of those strange things really, where you look back and think things could have been so different if
everything hadn’t happened exactly the way it did. It’s not like at the time we knew how bringing Tim in to join the band would be big for us - and for himbut clearly, it was a massive moment for the band. It’s these moments that make a successful band or artist. Something you didn’t think would be that pivotal turns out to be a sliding door moment.
Q: You guys are performing in Plymouth June 12th as part of your new tour what can we expect?
A good spread of “James” through the ages to some degree. Obviously we had the album “Yummy” out last year so we will be playing a few tunes from that but a real mixture bringing in some ‘new oldies’ if you like, by adding in some deep cuts to bring some variety to the songs from the past. But we have a massive pool of songs, like 100’s - literally so many, but big tunes people know - like “Sit Down” “She’s a Star” “Laid” and we always get together before the show and piece it together, where we think we’re at, where we think the crowd’s at but inherently there is always going to be loads of big bangers in there. We want to take people on a musical journey, what we leave people with is knackered, sweaty and hot from all the dancing and singing. What we want people to feel is a celebration and uplift from their experience, so we aim to give the best buzz - the best buzz for us and the best buzz for the crowd is always our goal.
Q: Plymouth has a great music scene, What advice would you give to young up and coming artist looking to start out?
The main thing, really, is don’t thrust yourself into the spotlight too soon. Something that’s become more difficult as the years have gone by is just keeping your head down and doing what you do for a while. I think it’s important that a band spends time developing what they’re going to do together musically, and figuring out who they are musically.
But it’s also important to develop strength within the band so there are no issues before you enter the limelight and start to grow. You also have to be resilient and able to take the knocks—bad reviews, refusals, people ignoring you. You need some kind of strength to get through that.
And finally, you need to be in it for the right reasons. You’re not in this for the success and the fame— you’re in this to be creative, just like writing a book or painting a picture. You’re doing it because it’s an important thing to do in its own right, and for the joy and the pleasure you get from doing it. If you get the fame and success as well, that’s great and well done - but what’s important is putting your heart on the line, doing what matters to you, and taking it to the world. Don’t be afraid to make it yours whether the world likes it or not.
Catch James, on Thursday 12th June 2025, headlining at Plymouth Summer Sessions, The Hoe. Tickets for the 4-day festival can be found on www.smmrsessions.com with other headlining acts such as Natalie Imbruglia and Snow child.
world mental health month
May Bank Holiday Local Outdoor Activities
This May, as we mark National Mental Health Month, many of us find ourselves reflecting—not just on the wellbeing of others, but on our own inner lives. For women aged 35 to 55, life can feel like an intricate balancing act: careers, relationships, parenting, ageing parents, health, and the ever-present hum of responsibility. We’re often the glue holding families, communities, and workplaces together. But in the process, our own mental health can quietly slip down the list of priorities.
national mental health month serves as a timely reminder that our emotional wellbeing isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. now more than ever, we need to give ourselves permission to pause, to check in, and to speak openly about how we’re really feeling.
Why is world mental Health day important?
according to the mental health Foundation, one in six people in the uk experience a common mental health issue—like anxiety or depression—each week. and while awareness of mental health has grown in recent years, support systems are still stretched. the challenges many of us face— menopausal symptoms, career shifts, the pressures of caregiving, or just the
mental load of modern life—aren’t always visible, but they are deeply felt.
We’ve come a long way in breaking down stigma, but there’s more to do. too often, people carry an invisible burden of expectation—to be strong, to cope, to put others first. This month is an opportunity to challenge that narrative. it’s okay not to be okay. and it’s more than okay to seek help, to slow down, or to simply say, “i need a break.”
it’s not just about crisis points. mental health is about everyday resilience, emotional balance, and maintaining a sense of self in a world that can be overwhelming. Whether it’s juggling work and home life, navigating the complexities of relationships, or managing hormonal changes, mental wellbeing underpins everything. it deserves time, attention, and care.
this is also a conversation that belongs in every space we inhabit— our homes, our workplaces, our social circles. employers, for instance, must do more than pay lip service to mental health. Flexible working, supportive policies, and open, empathetic leadership make a world of difference. a quick check-in, a shared story, or the reassurance that someone’s listening can change a colleague’s day—or life.
Young people
in schools and universities, younger generations are already beginning to talk more openly about mental health. But as parents, mentors, and role models, we need to support those conversations and be honest about our own experiences. By doing so, we show younger people that vulnerability is not weakness—it’s strength in its truest form.
Doing it Together
Let’s not forget that mental health isn’t a solo pursuit. Community and connection are powerful tools. Whether it’s a coffee with a friend, joining a walking group, attending a local support circle, or even just exchanging a smile with a neighbour—these small acts foster belonging. They remind us we’re not alone.
NHS and the broader medical world
Government and healthcare systems have their part to play too. Promises of increased mental health funding are welcome, but they must translate into tangible improvements—more counsellors, shorter waiting times, and services that regognise the specific needs of people around the world.
The Most Important Steps
But above all, the most important step is the one we take for ourselves. Prioritising mental health doesn’t always mean radical change. Sometimes, it’s as simple as setting boundaries, saying no without guilt, or carving out ten minutes for quiet each day. It’s about self-compassion, not perfection.
National Mental Health Month isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about creating lasting change. Let this be the moment we make mental wellbeing a regular part of the conversation, not a one-off headline. Let’s talk about the hard days, the joyful days, and everything in between.
Because when we look after our minds, we strengthen our families, our workplaces, our communities—and ourselves.
So this May, take a breath. Take stock. And most importantly, take care.
HEALTHY SPRING RECIPE’S
HEALTHY SPRING QUICHE
Step 1
To make the pastry, sift the flour and a good pinch of sea salt into a bowl, then cube and rub in the butter with your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Gradually add 90ml of cold water, continuously mixing until it comes together to form a rough dough, adding a splash more water, if needed. Bring it together with your hands, wrap in cling film and place in the fridge to rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2
Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF/gas 4. Snap off and discard the woody ends from the asparagus, then slice the stalks into 1cm chunks, reserving the tips. Blanch the asparagus (including the tips) and peas in a pan of boiling salted water for 1 minute, then drain. Roughly chop and stir in the spinach so it wilts slightly, then refresh the veg under cold running water. Drain well and place into a large bowl. Trim, finely slice and add the spring onions.
STeP 3
Finely slice the bacon (if using), then place in a frying pan ona medium-high heat and fry for 5 minutes, or until golden, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, crack the eggs into a large bowl and whisk in the cream, milk and a good pinch of black pepper. Chop and stir in the chives.
Step 4
On a flour-dusted surface, roll out the rested dough to roughly ½cm thick. Roll the pastry up around the rolling pin, then carefully unroll it to cover a pie dish. Gently press the pastry into the dish, moulding it to the tin as you go.
Step 5
Trim away any overhanging pastry, line your pastry case with a large sheet of scrunched-up damp grease proof paper, pushing it right into the sides. Fill nearly to the top with uncooked rice or beans, then bake in the oven for 12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove the rice or beans and greaseproof, then return the tart case to the oven for a further 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Step 6
Spoon the greens into the pastry case, scatter over the crispy bacon (if using), then pour in the cream mixture and crumble over the goat’s cheese. Bake the quiche in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until just set. Leave to cool slightly, then serve with a crisp green salad.
IngredIents:
6 large free-range eggs
200ml double cream
200ml semi-skimmed milk
1 bunch of fresh chives (20g)
300g asparagus
100g frozen peas
150g baby spinach
4 spring onions
150g goat’s cheese
PASTRY
300g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
150g unsalted butter, at room temperature
RASBERRY & PASSIONFRUIT MUFFINS
Method:
Step 1
Heat the oven to 200°C, fan 180°C, gas 6. Put 12 paper cases in a muffin tray or line the muffin moulds with scrunched squares of baking paper.
Step 2
Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs. Sieve the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt into the bowl and fold in lightly until only just combined - do not overwork. Fold in the passionfruit until just combined.
Step 3
Divide half the mixture between the paper cases, then distribute half the raspberries among them. Top with the remaining muffin mix and stud the tops with the remaining raspberries.
Step 4
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the muffins are golden and spring back when gently pressed. Kitchen secret: the trick to a good muffin is not to overmix when you add the flour; it’s better to undermix for a light, crumbly texture.
IngredIents:
200 g soft unsalted butter
150 g caster sugar
4 medium eggs 200 g strong white bread flour
1.5 tsp baking powder
175 g raspberries
125 g passionfruit pulp and seeds
SAUSAGE, TOMATO AND ROCKET GNOCCI BAKE
IngredIents:
1 tbsp olive oil
4 sausages, 2 cloves garlic, crushed
400g chopped tomatoes
500g ready-made gnocchi
60g rocket
125g mozzarella, torn into small pieces
Method:
Step 1
Bring a large pan of water to the boil. Heat the oil in a large pan and cook the crumbled sausages for 5-8 minutes, until brown all over.
Step 2
Add the crushed garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the chopped tomatoes with a splash of water and season to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3
Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi, then drain. Add the gnocchi to the sauce, then remove from the heat and stir through the rocket.
Step 4
Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella over the top, then place under a hot grill for a minute or two until the mozzarella is melted and golden.
