CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net
DESIGN EDITOR
Dylan Thain editor@oracle.uk.net 07365610463
ACCOUNTS
Emma-Jane Corry BS (Hons) emma@oracle.uk.net
SALES MANAGERS
Tyler Cussen sales@oracle.uk.net 07535417264
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Dylan Thain
PHOTOGRAPHY
Front Cover -Pixabay | Pexels | Freepik
SISTER MAGAZINE
OM Plymouth www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk
May is here and as the weather is starting to get that little bit wqarmer we can all start to embrace the coming summer.
In this issue I really wanted to focus on certain elements such as the recipies and editorials. As I continue to put together these magazines I want to constitantly put my own spin on elements of it each month, I’m really proud of this issue and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I loved making it.
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.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS £60.00 A MONTH IN THE PLYMPTON COMMUNITY MAGAZINE please call sales on
Howard & Over, a successful South West law firm, is making waves with their impressive growth, strategic expansion, and a series of key promotions that solidify their position as a leader in the legal sector.
Four outstanding professionals have recently been promoted, reinforcing Howard & Over’s reputation for fostering career growth and maintaining the highest standards in legal expertise: Sam Ellis – Partner, Office Manager and Head of Accounts, Natalie Couling – Partner and Licensed Conveyancer, Claire Waldren – Partner and Solicitor, and Jacob Cunningham – Associate and Head of Commercial.
Howard and Over’s continued growth is driven by their talented team and unwavering commitment to excellence, well-positioning the firm for further success in the years ahead.
With decades of experience in the catering industry between them, Plymouth couple Nick and Tina Garcia know a thing or two about what makes a great kitchen.
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 stress-free. 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, wellexecuted, and wow-factor’. Because everyone who’s seen it has said ‘wow’!”
Pam: “How about ‘perfectly-planned, wellexecuted, 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.
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Mental Health Awareness Month
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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!
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.
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 natureinspired 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.
The Hoe, Plymouth 17, 18th 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.
Marjon Sports Centre Sunday 18th May
For those that like cosplay, there will be a wide array of cosplayers on arrival, fans attending are invited to dress up as your favourite TV, Film or other fictional character and be ready to compete in our cosplay competitions!
The Hoe, Plymouth Sunday 11th may
Spread the word, tag your running buddies, and let’s make this the most unforgettable Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival yet! Together, we’ll celebrate the vibrant atmosphere of Plymouth, push our limits, and achieve incredible feats.
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 green-fingered 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 supermarket in pots or you can plant them yourself from seed.
Hedgehog Homes
Create a safe home for hedgehogs in your garden can be relatively simple and you may only need to adjust a few things in your garden as it is. By all means, you can purchase a hedgehog house however, the hedgehogs’ surroundings must be safe and accessible first.
Firstly, clear away litter and tie up any netting and make sure it is stored correctly away from reach of wild animals. Ponds are a great attribute to a garden home to hedgehogs however, although they are capable swimmers, if the sides of the pond are too steep, the hedgehog won’t be able to get out. Think about installing a ramp or add in some stones around the edge of the pond.
Allow a section of grass to grow wild! This is not only beneficial to hedgehogs but all kinds of wild animals, bugs and insects. Welcome hedgehogs into your garden by cutting a 13cm square hole for them to pass easily from garden to garden. If your fence backs onto your neighbours, make sure you ask them first!
Plant some fruit trees such as cherry trees as this will give the hedgehog something to forage when the cherries drop to the floor. If you already have a veg patch and are having trouble getting rid of those pesky slugs, have no fear because hedgehogs love to eat all kinds of slugs, beetles and caterpillars.
“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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 on a 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 scrunchedup damp greaseproof 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 grease proof, 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
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
4 medium eggs
1.5 tsp baking powder
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
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.
g raspberries
125 g passionfruit pulp and seeds
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