Area 3
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net
DESIGN EDITOR
Dylan Thain editor@oracle.uk.net
07365610463
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
October has arrived, and with it a shift into the heart of autumn. The air carries a crisp edge, leaves scatter the pavements in shades of amber and gold, and the nights draw in a little earlier each day. There’s a sense of anticipation in the season for some cosy evenings, comforting food, and of course, a touch of Halloween magic.
In this issue, we’ve embraced everything October has to offer. You’ll find recipes perfect for warming suppers and sweet seasonal treats, alongside ideas to help you make the most of autumn’s rich colours and traditions. Our Halloween-themed cover sets the tone, but inside there’s plenty to inspire, whether you’re decorating, cooking, or simply enjoying the beauty of this time of year.
I’ve loved curating this month’s pages and hope they bring you the same excitement I feel as autumn settles in.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS £60.00 A MONTH IN THE PLYMPTON COMMUNITY MAGAZINE please call sales on 01752 691007 plympton@oracle.uk.net Copyright © 2025 The Plympton Community Magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oracle Publications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in The Plympton Magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts, stories, and suggestions are what keep this magazine rooted in our Plymouth community. You can reach me at editor@oracle.uk.net, and I’ll do my best to reply
SHORTLISTED FOR
(£25K-£50K)
The Furses selected a Burbidge Chartwell kitchen in Putty, complemented by oak shelving and a bespoke black island for contrast. A Luna Linear brass pull handle was used on the island to create a bold statement. Silestone worktops, sourced from Mayflower Stone, were chosen for durability and elegance. To achieve the high-end look of an in-frame kitchen without exceeding their budget, we used a false in-frame construction, providing a luxury aesthetic while remaining costeffective. The kitchen was designed to balance practicality and visual appeal, ensuring longevity.
Use of Space & Functionality
Despite the kitchen’s large footprint, the layout was carefully zoned for efficiency and sociability. The island became the central hub, offering seating, prep space, and storage, breaking up the long open-plan area. A standout feature is the bespoke drinks cabinet, integrated into the kitchen with Häfele folding cabinet doors for sleek access. The utility room was seamlessly incorporated into the kitchen’s aesthetic, using Häfele Victoria knobs for stylish yet cost-effective hardware.
Häfele Products & Custom Details
Häfele products played a pivotal role in enhancing both functionality and aesthetics:
• Folding cabinet doors in the drinks cabinet for easy access.
• Rangemaster Belfast Sink, sourced from Häfele, for a classic, practical feature.
• A 400mm-wide bin for efficient waste management.
• Victoria knobs in the utility room for an elegant, budget-friendly option.
• Luna Linear brass pull handle on the island, creating a bold contrast.
• Overlighting on units to enhance brightness and warmth in a large space.
Bespoke Features & Installation Challenges
The design included a lit alcove for the range area, glass cabinetry near the bar, and bespoke oak shelving created by Lewis. A challenge was integrating the kitchen design with the vaulted ceilings of the bungalow, but through careful planning, the team ensured the kitchen complemented the architecture while remaining functional and bright.
Project Management & Collaboration
We collaborated closely with the Furses over many months, adjusting the design as needed to be both ergonomic and aesthetic. Installer Kevin worked with external contractors, ensuring a smooth installation process and a highquality result.
Conclusion
The Furses’ kitchen combines classic British design with modern convenience, creating a beautiful, practical space tailored to their lifestyle. Through thoughtful use of Häfele products, bespoke craftsmanship, and a well-considered layout, we delivered a kitchen that meets the clients’ needs and makes a striking visual impact.
“We wouldn’t change anything,” Kylie reflected. “[They] went above and beyond our expectations.”
Ashleigh Way
We are here for you to put plans in place for you a next generation. From passing on your wishes and wealth to assisting your loved ones with theirs.
Equally we're here for you when life doesn’t go according to plan with relationship breakdowns and financial difficulties.
kitsonboyce.co.uk
advice@kitsonboyce.co.uk
Langage Business Park Plympton, Plymouth Devon PL7 5JX
T +44(0)1752 603040
Minerva House
Orchard Way
Edginswell Park Torquay Devon TQ2 7FA
T +44(0)1803 202020
The world’s rst 4D hearing aid sensor technology doesn’t just lter and amplify sounds like traditional hearing aids; groundbreaking head & body movement sensors help the user to hear & communicate better in background noise. Against a leading premium hearing aid - Oticon Intent delivers a remarkable 35% speech improvement score in social situations.
Sensors gather 360º sound picture & monitors environmental changes
Sensors monitor how our head moves during conversations
Body Movement
Physical sensors anticipate our spatial awareness and how we move when listening & talking
The new Oticon Intent, with its latest computer chip and communication sensors combine all the information it receives to now help users engage & hear in the world around them like never before.
Take the stress out of the festive season and consider dining out at your favourite restaurants for Christmas and New Year
While the Christmas period is considered the best and merriest time of year, it certainly doesn’t go without stress. Preparing Christmas dinner and Boxing Day or New Year feasts can, without doubt, be one of the most stressful parts of the festive period; so why not take away the unnecessary stress and consider an alternative to home cooking over the Christmas holidays?
Dining out on Christmas Day is like eating marmite, you’ll either love it or hate it. There are so many reasons why eating out over the festive period is worth considering.
Christmas should be all about spending quality time together as a family or with friends but often the stress, rush and hype of Christmas gets in the way of what it’s all about and therefore more of us are turning to alternatives such as dining out.
Some people argue that it’s not Christmas if you don’t have a home-cooked family Christmas dinner, but how many of us actually enjoy every aspect of the traditional Christmas dinner?
Getting together with friends and family is more common than ever over the holiday period, with most of us taking the time out to meet up with loved ones for dinner and drinks.
And whilst it’s the happiest time of year for most of us; cooking Christmas dinner always tends to cause tension in the family with one person usually slaving away in the kitchen for hours on end to serve up a feast for all and let’s face it, it isn’t always appreciated.
There’s always that one family member that doesn’t like turkey because it’s ‘too dry’ or isn’t the biggest fan of vegetables so more food goes to waste than is necessary. Or you didn’t make enough pigs in blankets for that greedy member of the family to have 10 on their plate. It’s an endless cycle of not being able to please everyone.
Nobody wants to get up at 5 am on Christmas morning to turn the oven on, prepare the turkey and the twelve other components that are served up with Christmas dinner and then set the table for the ten family members coming over.
And if you get past dinner without any family arguments then one part of the day that really will cause some family tension is the washing up after dinner. Nobody is keen to help because Nan and Grandad are too pre-occupied with the Queen’s speech, mum wants to watch the Eastenders Christmas special or the children are too focused on their brand new iPhone or PlayStation that must be set up right away.
The real downside to cooking at home for Christmas is the mess that’s caused in the kitchen with various pots, pans, plates, cutlery, baking trays and about
every utensil in the kitchen needing to be cleaned up ready for the remaining holiday festivities. Take that stress away and make it a relaxing and washing up free experience by dining out.
Although the idea of dining out at Christmas might seem strange and very non-traditional to most of us, it can take the stress off all the family with an array of menu options to choose from and a merry atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Dining out doesn’t have to be dramatic, most restaurants can cater to every diet out there so dining out is becoming easier and more convenient than ever before.
We all want to enjoy Christmas dinner, but when you’re the host it can be hard to really take it all in, enjoy the day and make the most of the festive celebrations.
Dining out will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the entirety of the day without having to worry about if everyone is happy and enjoying the meal you spent hours preparing.
According to statistics from Bookatable, over the festive period in the UK, we spend on average £500 on Christmas food for the entire period and most of it goes to waste due to overbuying.
Depending on how many you’re dining with it may actually turn out to be cheaper to dine out than eat in at home. It might seem more expensive to dine out over Christmas but if you add up all you would normally spend on the Christmas dinner, Boxing Day feasts as well as the New Year buffet and drinks then it’ll work out a lot more wallet-friendly to dine out.
Staying home often sees us overspend on food items that we won’t necessarily need or even eat. Dining out means we are less likely to waste food and we get to enjoy exactly what we chose from the menu.
The great thing about dining out over the entire festive period is that everybody is catered for. From vegetarians, vegans, coeliacs, children, and those that hate to eat their greens! You could break away from the traditional Christmas dinner and head to your favourite Italian restaurant to enjoy some pizza, or you could even opt for more exotic and try Mexican cuisine.
The possibilities are endless when dining out over the festive period. If you prefer a family Christmas at home and enjoy the chaos that it involves then maybe dining out on Boxing Day or over New Year would be better suited to you. Boxing Day is usually a day for lounging around in pyjamas, cleaning up the copious amounts of wrapping paper and watching rubbish TV.
But why not break tradition this year and get out with your family and friends for an afternoon or evening of delicious food at your favourite restaurant?
If a traditional Christmas Day dinner isn’t your thing then why not head to Plymouth’s favourite Indian Restaurant - Shapla Balti Cuisine for their Christmas Day lunch! Whether you’re a korma lover or like to spice things up with a steaming hot Vindaloo Mr Ali and his wonderful team have got you covered with their wonderful menu to help you break tradition this Christmas!
You can make the festive grocery shop much cheaper but missing out the cheeseboard you think will get gobbled up on Boxing Day but never does as everyone is still full from the huge Christmas dinner!
Plymouth has a huge array of eateries to take advantage of and the festive period is without no doubt the best time of year to catch up with friends and family you’ve not seen throughout the year.
Make the most of what our amazing city has to offer over the festive period, take the unnecessary stress away and spend the much-needed quality time with family out of the home and into your local restaurants.
The heart of Plympton can breathe a collective sigh of relief. Thanks to a monumental, last-minute effort from residents, local businesses, and councillors, the Light Up Plympton 2025 event and Christmas lights have been officially saved.
Just weeks ago, the future of this cherished tradition hung precariously in the balance due to a critical funding gap and lack of organisers. However, when the call for help went out, Plympton answered. The community rallied, demonstrating an overwhelming commitment to preserving the magic that defines the festive season on the Ridgeway.
We are delighted to confirm that the annual celebration will now go ahead on Sunday 30th November 2025, starting at 12:00 and finishing at 18:00. The event will be coordinated by Diverse Events CIC and Event Tech SW, powered by the essential support of dedicated local volunteers.
This success story is a powerful reminder that our community is at its best when we work together. Every donation, every shared link, and every sponsorship commitment ensured that Plympton will not only avoid a dark Christmas but will instead celebrate with extra pride this year.
This year’s Light Switch-On promises to be one of the most memorable yet. The Ridgeway will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with festive stalls, live music, and children’s entertainment. Visitors can enjoy performances from local schools, choirs, and community groups throughout the afternoon, bringing the spirit of the season to life. The highlight of the day will be the official light switch-on at 5:30 pm, when thousands of sparkling bulbs will illuminate the town centre, creating a magical backdrop for families and friends to celebrate together.
Father Christmas will make a special appearance to greet children and help press the big red button, officially marking the start of the festive season in Plympton. There will also be a variety of street food vendors, handmade craft stalls, and late-night shopping opportunities from Ridgeway’s independent traders. With festive treats, cheerful performances, and plenty of seasonal surprises, the 2025 Light Up Plympton event promises to capture the warmth, pride, and togetherness that make this community so special.
Get ready to mark your calendars. The Ridgeway will shine brightly this November, and it’s all thanks to you.
PlymPtON ChRistmas light sWitCh ON
The ridge way Plmpton, Plymouth Sunday 17th November
Join the festive cheer at the annual Light Up Plympton 2025 on Sunday 30 November 2025, when the lights go on at the heart of Plympton in Plymouth. The event takes over the Ridgeway in the village, running from midday through to early evening, with the official switch-on around 5:15 pm.
Expect a lively mix of community entertainment: local school performances, cozy stalls lining the street, a Christmas market feel, and the sparkle of festive lights bathing the Ridgeway.
This year’s gathering is especially significant — the event rallied essential crowdfunding to keep going and has become a brilliant way to support local shops, bring families together and celebrate the start of the festive season in Plympton.
It’s free to attend, family-friendly, and a wonderful way to kick off December with the community in full sparkle.
the Fast shOW
Quiz Night iN aid OF
Moments Cafe, 69a New George Street, Plymouth, Wednesday 19th November
Fans of the The Fast Show are in for a real treat as Simon Day, Charlie Higson, John Thomson, Paul Whitehouse, Mark Williams and Arabella Weir reunite to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic TV programme.
The original cast members are taking to the stage to give audiences a unique behind-the-scenes insight into much loved characters including Suits You Sir, Ted and Ralph, Does My Bum Look Big In This, Competitive Dad and so many more. Find out how they came up with the characters and the catchphrases and witness a recreation of some of your favourite moments - without the need for old age make up!
The tour is not just a performance; it's a celebration of the enduring appeal of The Fast Show and the laughter it has brought into the lives of millions.
Get ready to laugh, sing, reminisce, and create new memories.
Get ready for an evening of brain-teasing fun and friendly competition in celebration of the Plymouth Social Enterprise City Festival 2025, with proceeds supporting Memory Matters!
This event is all about celebration, innovation, community, and collaboration. Join us for a fun night out that helps a great cause.
After the winners' prize, every penny raised will go directly to our charity and will help to fund vital services like dementia advisors, Memory Cafes, and other vital support services for individuals and families navigating the challenges of dementia.
You will need:
• A Clean Pot
• Fragrance oils
• Coconut candle wax
• Festive decorations such as sprigs, orange, cinnamon sticks
• Candle wicks & Wick holders
• Clean heat proof jars
• Double sided tape or wick stickums
• A butter knife
• Sharp scissors
• Long spout pouring jug
• Thermometer
• Isopropyl alcohol for the clean-up
Stick the wicks to the bottom of the jar, make sure they are centered. A very small amount of doublesided tape works well. Ensure the tape is not larger than the wick as this may cause a fire risk. Press down with a butter knife to ensure good adhesion.
Step 1: Melt the wax slowly at a low heat, stir to help it melt. Heat range of 65° - 70° degrees Celsius. Set up your making area, lay down clean newspaper to catch any spills. Ensure all jars are ready with centered wicks, placed on top of the paper.
When the wax has melted, test with a thermometer to make sure wax is between 48° - 52° degrees Celsius and add your fragrance. If the wax is too hot it will burn off the fragrance, leaving you with a subtle scent, rather than a candle with an amazing scent throw. Add fragrance oils, between 8-10% of total wax weight or essential oils, I recommend 5% for essential oils. Mix well to ensure fragrance goes through all the wax.
Step 2: Test with a thermometer to make sure wax is between 40° - 46° degrees Celsius and carefully pour the melted coconut wax into your jar. Pour the jar
80% full, let cool to semi-solid, centre the wick and complete final pour. This is when you can add your festive decorations with a pair of tweezers and gentle place them into the candle.
Step 3: The wax will begin hardening right away, so do not move or adjust your candle until it has set solid. Leave to sit for at least three hours before moving. I find it best to trim the wick 5 to 6 hours later to avoid the wick disturbing the top of the candle. Trim the wick, using sharp scissors. Generally, you should trim the wick 1 - 1.5cm above the level of your wax.
Make sure you allow 3 days for the candle fragrances to cure before burning. Otherwise, the full spectrum of fragrance notes will not be appreciated. Method from New Zealand Candle Supplies.
• Air-dry clay
• Yarn or twine
• Fishing line or clear sewing thread
• Wax paper
• Toothpick
• Small branch
• Rolling pin
• X-acto knife, or small paring knife
• Scissors
• Stars template, or small star cookie cutter
Step 1: On a layer of wax paper, roll clay 1/8” to 1/4” thick. Cut out the star templates, lay them on the clay, printed side up, then cut around the stars with a knife. Remove excess clay. Repeat until you’ve cut out at least 20 stars.
Step 2: Carefully remove the clay stars from the wax paper, and poke a hole for hanging with a toothpick. Set the stars aside to dry on a piece of wax paper. Drying time will be at least 24 hours.
Step 3: After the stars have dried, tie lengths of thread or string to them. Tie a piece of yarn or twine to either end of the branch to hang it up, then tie the stars to it at varying heights. Adjust the thread lengths, and trim excess thread. Hang up your new decoration, and enjoy the Christmas holidays! Method by DIY in PDX
It’s officially woolly jumper and log burner season therefore, we have found the best recipes to warm you up.
Serves - 4
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 200g pack cherry or sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 tbsp pesto
• 3 tbsp crème fraîche (half fat is fine)
• fresh basil, if you have it
ONE Heat the oil in a frying pan, preferably nonstick. Add the chicken and fry without moving it until it takes on a bit of colour. Turn the chicken and cook on the other side. Continue cooking for 12-15 mins until the chicken is cooked through. Season all over with a little salt and pepper.
TWO Halve the tomatoes and throw them into the pan, stirring them around for a couple of minutes until they start to soften. Reduce the heat and stir in the pesto and crème fraîche until it makes a sauce. Scatter with a few basil leaves if you have them, then serve with rice and salad or mash and broccoli.
Serves - 4
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 500g butternut squash (about 1 small squash), peeled and chopped into bite-sized chunks (or buy a pack of ready-prepared to save time), see tip, below left
• 100g frozen chopped onions
• 4 heaped tbsp mild curry paste (we used korma)
• 400g can chopped tomatoes
• 400g can light coconut milk
• mini naan bread, to serve
• 400g can lentils, drained
• 200g bag baby spinach
• 150ml coconut yogurt, plus extra to serve
ONE Heat the oil in a large pan. Put the squash in a bowl with a splash of water. Cover with cling film and microwave on High for 10 mins or until tender. Meanwhile, add the onions to the hot oil and cook for a few mins until soft. Add the curry paste, tomatoes and coconut milk, and simmer for 10 mins until thickened to a rich sauce.
TWO Warm the naan breads in a low oven or in the toaster. Drain any liquid from the squash, then add to the sauce with the lentils, spinach and some seasoning. Simmer for a further 2-3 mins to wilt the spinach, then stir in the coconut yogurt. Serve with the warm naan and a dollop of extra yogurt.
Serves - 6
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 butternut squash, peeled, deseeded & diced
• 200g carrot, diced
• 1 tbsp curry powder containing turmeric
• 100g red lentil
• 700ml low-sodium vegetable stock
• 1 can reduced-fat coconut milk
• coriander and naan bread, to serve
ONE Heat the oil in a large saucepan, add the squash and carrots, sizzle for 1 min, then stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 min more. Tip in the lentils, the vegetable stock and coconut milk and give everything a good stir. Bring to the boil, then turn the heat down and simmer for 15-18 mins until everything is tender.
TWO Using a hand blender or in a food processor, blitz until as smooth as you like. Season and serve scattered with roughly chopped coriander and some naan bread alongside.
• 125g cold coconut oil
• 100g golden caster sugar
• 150g light muscavdo sugar
• 125ml coconut milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 275g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp bicarb
• 200g vegan chocolate chips or vegan chocolate, chopped into small chunks
ONE Tip the coconut oil and sugars into a bowl and whisk until completely combined, then whisk in the coconut milk and vanilla. Tip the flour, baking powder, bicarb and a good pinch of flaky sea salt into the mix to make a thick batter, then fold through the chocolate chips. Chill the batter for at least 1hr. Can be made two days ahead.
TWO Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Line a couple of baking sheets with baking parchment, then scoop or roll plum-sized balls of the dough and place them on the baking sheets about 2cm apart. Flatten ever so slightly and sprinkle with a bit more flaky salt if you want. Cook on the middle shelf for 12-15 mins, turning the tray once, until the cookies have spread and are golden but still soft in the middle. Leave to cool slightly, then lift the cookies onto a cooling rack while you bake another batch. Will keep in a biscuit jar for up to three days.
At Howard & Over, we do things differently. Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take, and our private client team is here to guide you with clarity, care, and understanding. We deliver expert advice with a personal touch, ensuring your wishes are respected and your legacy protected.
Based at our Marsh Mills office, Sonia Ganney leads the private client team (with a smile on most days!)
She advises clients on all aspects of trusts and estates, with particular focus on wealth protection and asset preservation.
Sonia is recognised for her knowledge in estate administration, including preparing documentation to claim Business and Agricultural Property Relief to minimise or eliminate the tax burden of estates. She also does much work surrounding lifetime gifting and inheritance planning.
A fully accredited member of Lifetime Lawyers, Sonia has also served on its committee and was a board member of the Devon and Somerset Law Society, representing the region internationally. In 2023, she achieved her Higher Rights of Audience, cementing her reputation as a trusted authority in private client law.
With Sonia and her team by your side, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your future is secure and your legacy protected. Contact Sonia today at sonia.ganney@howard-over.co.uk or 01752 556606, or visit her at our Marsh Mills office.
Across
Across
5. Given as a gift to a baby
5. Has many healing properties 7. The Christmas Season 9. An ice crystal 11. Kiss a loved one under it
7. The Christmas Season 9. An ice crystal
Kiss a loved one underneath 13. A 1957 Horror film
13. A 1957 Horror film 14. A root vegetable 17. Has a famous birthday 18. Traditionally hung by a fireplace
A root vegetable 17. Has a famous birthday in December 18. Traditionally hung by a fireplace
19. Comes from a conifer 20. A milky punch with nutmeg and vanilla 22. Also known as a caribou
Comes from a conifer
A milky punch with nutmeg
Also known as a caribou
Down
Down
1. A fictional character
2. Origin is traced back to a Monk 3. Pointed ears, very helpful at Christmas 4. Evolved from Roman's using fruit
Festive table decoration
To crack shells
From a Boswellia tree
A good conductor of heat and electricity
1. A Charles Dickens character 2. Origin of name is traced back to a monk 3. Pointed ears, very helpful at Christmas 4. Evolved from Roman’s hanging fruit 6. Makes a noise when pulled 8. Used to crack shells 10. From a Boswellia tree 12. A precious metal
Month of Christmas
Decoration that mimics ice
Month of Christmas
Given without payment
Given without payment
Call us out for:
● UPVC & Aluminium Door & Window Repairs
● Patio Door Repairs
● Replacement/Misted/ Broken Double Glazed Sealed Units
● Security & PVC Door Lock Upgrades
● Garage Door Repairs
● FREE ESTIMATES & NO CALL OUT CHARGE
● Spares for PVC & Aluminium Doors & Windows
● Wide Range of Locks & Mechanisms
● Handles & Hinges
● Anti-Jemmy Devices
● Security Bolts
● Patio Door Wheels
● Maintenance Oil ● PVC and Glass Cleaners ● Special Screws for PVC and Aluminium
Silicone Sealants
