Plympton Magazine - October 2023

Admission

SPOOKY STAYS

Dare to spend a night?

TECH SURVEY’S

Meet the newest member

BEACON ELECTRICAL

Sharing some very exciting news

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

Staying aware and hearing Mary’s story

Spooky Season is finally here which means it’s now acceptable to drape our homes in cobwebs, ghouls and pumpkins. If you’re wanting to practice some magic yourself, we’ve got some brilliant do-it-yourself (or, as I’ve renamed it - boo-ityourself) Halloween decorations for all the family. And if you’re wanting to experience some bone-chilling paranormal stays, we’ve recommended some of the most haunted hotels in Devon and Cornwall.

Whilst October is a month of Halloween and autumnal leaves, it’s also the month of Breast Cancer Awareness. We’ve done something a little different this year by hearing about Mary Jones’ (my mum) experience with breast cancer and the importance of booking your screening!

We also had the wonderful opportunity to have a good catch-up with two local businesses who you, the readers, are very fond of. Mark Higgins from Beacon Electrical, talks us through their extremely exciting news which involves the one, the only, Plymouth Argyle. And Mick from Tech Surveys introduces his newest member to the team who, at just 16 years old, is already on the way to building a fantastic future.

Of course, in true form, we’ve got some deadly delectable recipes for you and some spooky local history to sink your teeth into. It was such a joy putting this issue together and from myself and the team, Happy Halloween

AbigAil Jones Plympton Magazine Editor

BOO-IT-YOURSELF HALLOWEEN

Enhance and spookify your home with some easy DIY Halloween decorations to get you in the spirit!

Let’s be honest, the price of Halloween decorations can be a little bit scary and I hate to say it, a bit tacky - I’m a certified Halloween lover so I feel like I can say this with conviction.

This year let’s get witch crafty and create some unique, cost friendly decor that matches your vibe, better yet, it doesn’t require abseiling off your roof top to hang decorations (the Americans don’t mess around) or conveniantly have an art workshop in your home.

BAT’S ALL FOLKS!

Starting off with simple and versatile bat decorations. You can purchase or find free printable bat templates online, or simply use black paper or card and cut out bat-like shapes.

Using glue dots, create a spooky bat lamp but sticking them inside your lampshade. Or create a feature wall in your entrance hall or around your fireplace by sticking them to the wall.

Pop down to Hobbycraft or The Range and select your chosen birdhouses (they are only a few £’s) and paint with your desired spooky colour or opt for black acrylic paint. Once the birdhouses are completely dry you can fill them with paper ghosts or ghouls you’ve drawn or anything that takes residence in your new spooky house. Finish off by stretching over fake spider webs and place them on your fireplace or sideboard and showcase your unique creations.

Tip: Choose a couple of different sizes to create a variety.

SPOOKY BIRD HOUSES

A great activity to get the kids involved and let their creativity shine with halloweenifying a birdhouse.

WINGARDIUM LEVIOSA

With the flick of the wrist and the right words spoken, levitate your witch hats this year and create some magic in your home.

All you need is four ingrediants; a broom, fishing line, comand hooks and fairy lights

Simply attached the command hooks to the ceiling once you’ve decided where you’d like the brrom to hang, cut your desired lengeth of fishing line, tie and secure around the broom stick. Finanlly, tie a loop at the end of the fishing line on top and hang it from your hooks.

Image from countryliving.com

Instagram @cotty_lee

Tip: Why not try with some Witch’s Hat (inexpensive ones can be found on amazon).

BLEEDING CANDLES

A killer addition to any centre piece, coffee table, windowsill, front door steps and beyond are these gory bleeding candles.

Simply light the red candle and allow to melt and drip onto the white or black candles.

Tip: Give your candle a real sinister kick by pressing pins and nails into the wax giving the illusion they are bleeding. Creepy!

STARRY SKY

Think the dinning hall in Harry Potter, but it’s your dinning room.

To create this blanket of stars in your home, follow the same steps as previous but swap the witch hats for LED Candle Sticks and voila.

If you’d like to get really crafty then this is one to sink your teeth into and create your own LED Candles.

All you’ll need is empty toliet or kitchen rolls, hot glue gun, fishing line, a needle, acrylioc white paint, LED or battery powered tea lights and command hooks.

Using the hot glue gun around the top of the empy roll and create drips flowing down from the top to create melted candle wax. Once dry, paint the rolls and dried glue white. Leave to dry and then glue the bottom of each roll and glue a small piece of white paper at the base. Cut off the extra paper once all has dried.

Using a needle, thread the fishing wire an inch or two from the top, through to the opposite side and then tie the ends in a knot to the desired length you’d like them to hang. Repeat this step so you have four holes in total, all the same level. This will then create a handle to hang on the command hook and support for your faux tealight which yuo can now slot into place.

Halloween is undeniably an enchanting season that invites our inner child to emerge, to indulge in a playful and creative spirit. It’s the time when we transform our homes, adorning them with dark and alluring decorations that transport us to the realms of witches, ghosts, and ghouls.

One of the greatest things about Halloween is it encourages us to create costumes that blur the line between reality and fantasy, leaving others to wonder if it’s “really you in there?” The possibilities for creativity are endless, as we can draw inspiration from a vast array of sources, from classic horror films to spooky folklore.

Creating Halloween home decor and costumes doesn’t have to break the bank. There’s a wealth of cost-friendly ideas and DIY projects at our fingertips allowing us to transform our homes from peaceful sanctuaries into mystical manors, all while staying within budget.

So, embrace the magic of Halloween, let your imagination run wild, and embark on a journey of crafting and creativity that will leave your home and costume standing out in the moonlight. Happy crafting, and may your Halloween be filled with enchantment and excitement!

Instagram @cotty_lee

Image by hunker.com

The Low Maintenance Garden

Time to cut down on your gardening chores.

With careful choice of a few clever products it is possible to spend less time working in your garden and more time relaxing in it. Arti cial grass means no mowing, no mud and gives you the perfect lawn to use all year round. As well as looking incredibly realistic, it is pet and child friendly.

Why not install the latest generation wood-free composite decking to create the perfect area for relaxing and socialising. It is anti-slip, rot proof, maintenance free and comes with a 25 yr guarantee. From a vintage weathered look to chic modern golden oak, the decking comes in a range of nishes to complement your garden.

Seven years later, we’re sitting back down with the formidable Mick Quick of Tech Surveys, whose enthusiasm and laugh could put a smile on anyone’s face. With him, his new protégé, the charismatic Elliott Griffiths. Together, they have very big plans for the business and their shared passion and values make for an exciting future.

Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of Mick Quick, who went from a career in the building merchant industry to becoming the owner of a thriving knitting business and ultimately establishing Tech Surveys, a highly regarded EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) company.

Back in 2012, Mick was at the dawn of an exciting venture known as Quick Knits. He embraced the art of knitting, crafting scarves, and offering them for sale through online marketplaces, bustling car boots and the stalls of Plymouth Market. But sometimes, life has a way of weaving unexpected opportunities.

Within this creative knitting period, Mick’s life took an intriguing twist when his brother, Ben, came into the picture. Ben was the proud owner of a plumbing and heating business with a strong commitment to renewable and eco-friendly energy solutions. Recognising Mick’s potential, Ben extended an offer that would redefine Mick’s path. He proposed to enrol Mick in a comprehensive training course that would equip him with the skills to conduct Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for properties - a crucial facet of the business.

Fast forward to 2015, and the narrative took an unforeseen turn. Ben made a pivotal call to Mick, who had ascended to the role of director within the company by this point. The startling news was that the business was being dissolved, and the reins of Tech Surveys were handed over to Mick, who suddenly found himself in the midst of a limited company. It was a juncture where he had to make a life-altering decision: Should he throw in the towel or take the plunge into this new endeavour? In classic fashion, Mick chose to dive headfirst into the uncharted waters.

“I could literally talk about it all the time, I love my job.” The story unfolds further as Mick’s friend, Mike Mann

of Plymouth Estates, comes to the rescue with sage advice. Mike recommended that Mick join the Plymouth Business Network, a platform that would help him expand his reach and establish essential connections. Determined to make his mark, Mick hit the streets, distributing hundreds of leaflets to the doorsteps of estate agents in Plymouth and South Hams. He not only offered top-notch EPC services but also did so at competitive rates, outshining other providers in the field. As he began conducting EPC assessments for Plymouth Estates, word began to spread like wildfire, and his journey to success gained momentum.

Tech Surveys has evolved into a multifaceted enterprise. Beyond EPC assessments and floorplans for both residential and commercial properties, the company extends its services to Legionella Risk Assessments. Legionnaires’ disease, a pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, can lurk in all sorts of man-made water systems. Under specific conditions - such as the right temperature, the presence of airborne water droplets, and the existence of contaminants like rust or sludge - Legionella can multiply, posing serious health risks. This underscores the critical importance of meticulous management for both large and small water systems, a duty that falls upon landlords, business owners, and anyone entrusted with the care of tenants and staff.

On average, an EPC assessment takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. However, properties with extensions or unique construction features may require additional time. With Tech Surveys being in such high demand, they emphasise the importance of booking well in advance and not waiting until the last minute.

Geographically speaking, Tech Surveys caters to a diverse range of clientele. For domestic inquiries, their services span across Plymouth, Liskeard, Looe, Tavistock, Ivybridge, South Brent, and Plymstock. But when it comes to commercial needs, Mick’s commitment knows no bounds, as he’s willing to journey to any corner of the UK to ensure that the requirements are met with the utmost professionalism and care.

Always one to seek improvement and expand his expertise, Mick saw an opportunity to enhance his skill set. He decided to undergo a course to attain a Commercial accreditation. But what does that entail,

Left to right; Mick Quick and Elliott Griffiths

you ask? Well, it’s all about new homes or properties undergoing transformation from commercial units to domestic dwellings. To ensure compliance with building regulations, a specific type of EPC called SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) EPC is required. Unlike a standard EPC, which relies on a software program to assess properties based on their year of construction, a SAP EPC scrutinizes every single detail. I’m talking about the type of plaster used, the specifics of plasterboards, insulation materials, lighting systems, glazing thickness, glazing filler, screed thickness, and so much more. It’s like examining every nook and cranny of a property with a magnifying glass. Each element is assigned a U-Value and a KappaValue, representing thermal resistance and thermal retention. Once all this data is fed into the system, it spits out precise recommendations to meet building regulations. And this is where Elliott steps in.

Meet Elliott Griffiths, a remarkable individual who embarked on this journey at the young age of 16, just after completing school. His adventure began with a week of work experience, and it’s a path he never anticipated taking. Unsure of where to do his work experience, Elliott’s uncle, Andy, reached out to his good friend Mick Quick, who kindly agreed to mentor Elliott for a week and introduce him to the world of EPCs. Elliott recalls;

“I really enjoyed it... surprisingly. You don’t expect to be doing EPC’s at 16, I didn’t even know what it was. The more I’m doing it the more I’m enjoying it”

Within the week, there were some ups and downs and a lot to get his head around. But even when the work experience week was over, Elliott still picked up shifts between his schooling as the best part of the job for him was the social aspect but the chance to represent the company.

“My goal is to help Mick succeed in his business.”

As soon as Elliott completed his GCSEs, he wasted no time and reached out to Mick, expressing his desire for a full-time position. Sadly, there aren’t apprenticeships

readily available for EPCs. However, there is a course one can undertake to become qualified. Mick and Elliott explored their options, and they both visited Plymouth College to chart a path forward. The plan involves Elliott taking a Level-2 course in Customer Service for the first 15 months, followed by a Level-3 course in Business Administration for the following 15 months. Once he turns 17, he’ll start his driving lessons and tests. After obtaining his driver’s license, Elliott can enrol at the college to continue his studies which is all part of the grand design for Tech Surveys’ future.

Over the next five years, the plan is for Elliott to complete his studies and become proficient in conducting domestic EPCs and SAP EPCs. This will enable Mick to dedicate more attention to the commercial side of the business. The team also dreams of finding an office space where Mick, his wife Jasmine, and Elliott can work together.

Their next goal, once they’ve secured their base of operations, is to bring in an apprentice for Elliott and hire an admin assistant for the office to ease Jasmine’s workload.

Looking ahead over the next decade, Mick envisions splitting the business while keeping it under the same umbrella. Tech Surveys would be dedicated to serving Estate Agents, The Dockyard, SAP EPCs, and the commercial sector. Simultaneously, a new entity called Plymouth EPCs would focus on one-to-one domestic needs. Of course, every business owner’s dream is for their company to become self-sufficient, allowing Mick to take a well-deserved step back.

So, do you need an EPC? In short, yes. If you’re a landlord, your property must have a rating of E or higher to be rented out. For those looking to sell a property, you can advertise online for 28 days without an EPC as long as a survey has been commissioned, but one is required to complete the sale (and remember, an EPC is valid for 10 years). If you have any questions about EPCs and Legionella, don’t hesitate to reach out. Mick, Elliott, and the team are here to help!

Plympton, PL7 4AD

It’s been a long-awaited six years since we last sat down with Mark Higgins and learnt about all things Beacon Electrical, so it’s fantastic to have the chance once again to see what Mark and the team have been up to. A lot can happen in six years from seeing the increasing demand for eco-friendly appliances to the very exciting news involving Plymouth Argyle’s Mayflower Grandstand. Beacon Electrical has been one of our longest supporters and has been advertising with us since 2006! So we’re honoured to share this fantastic milestone for the business.

Let’s start from the beginning, Beacon Electrical is a second-generation family business which is currently run by Sales Director, Mark Higgins and his brother, Managing Director, Nick Higgins. The empire has been trading for 47 years and kept its first shop in Beacon Park, Plymouth. Since 1976, the business has expanded, opening further shops in Plymstock, and then in Totnes and Kingsbridge in the South Hams.

Offering an impressive range of electrical goods, from electrical wiring accessories and light bulbs, to range cookers and American fridge freezers. These days they are best known for their great prices on large kitchen appliances like washing machines and cookers, and their very successful website www.beaconelectrical. co.uk.

So what have Mark and the team been up to over the last six years when we met? “Wow - I cannot believe it has been that long! - The world seems to have changed so much in those years” says Mark, “but we have worked tirelessly to become even stronger in these difficult times, investing in the showrooms, warehousing and distribution, extending our stock holding and reach, and staffing.” Of course, there were, and are, many challenges they face currently, but Mark went on to say;

“I have to thank our amazing team of managers, delivery staff and retail team who worked solidly through the covid lockdowns with us to make sure we could still look after our local customers either by delivery or click and collect while adhering to the challenging covid restrictions.”

Being fans of Plymouth Argyle for as long as they can remember it only made sense to unite their business with their team.

Forty years ago, Founder, Chris Higgins, seized the opportunity when he was invited to meet the Commercial Manager at PAFC where the conversation turned to potential sponsors. The light bulb moment saw Chris reach for his cheque book and the rest is history. Beacon Electrical became the first ever Argyle shirt sponsors, adorning the shirts with the business name. It just so happens that this was the time the football team reached the semi-finals of the 1983 FA-Cup game against Watford to which Mark exclaims, “A game which I still think we should have won!”

From that first sponsoring of the shirts, Beacon Electrical then went on sponsoring the hoarding boards around the ground and even advertised all along the top of the old Lyndhurst Stand, in which Mark fondly remembers standing and watching the games as a young boy.

“We’ve now made a huge commitment to sponsor the whole of the grandstand, which is now known as The Beacon Electrical Mayflower Grandstand.”

Noting that other stands in the grounds were being renamed, Mark approached James Greenacre and Matt Kimberley from Argyle and they were over-themoon to have a local business that wanted to come on board. It’s a collaboration that fitted into the PAFC vision of maintaining links with local businesses and fans, rather than grab the money from huge global entities.

The exciting new addition to their repertoire has given Beacon Electrical a greater chance to reach out to the fans by offering competitions and promotions throughout the season either by social media or by match-day activity. Mark recalls, “We have already given away a built-in dishwasher to the winner of our first competition, and a top of the range Dyson cleaner, and there are many to follow. Make sure you look out for deals on the Plymouth Argyle Facebook page, and on the Beacon Electrical Facebook and Instagram pages.”

Known for their amazing deals on appliances, Beacon Electrical has been a member of the buying group Euronics since the 1990’s. Using this enhanced buying power means that Mark and the team are able to offer extremely competitive prices, matching or beating the

Left; Nick, Chris & Mark Higgins Right; Nick Higgins & James Greenacre

likes of Currys, Ao & Argos. Whilst it’s impossible to keep everything in stock, they keep an extensive range in stock locally available for fast delivery, especially in the “kitchen appliance” department. With such strong direct access to all of the top Brands, the team can order specific items in for customers whether it be something they’ve requested or if it’s something that fits their specific needs.

Understanding the market well, they are aware now-adays, customers are looking for the complete solution when it comes to buying appliances, which is why they offer an in-house installation service for all large kitchen appliances, gas cookers (they only use local Gas Safe installers) and even TV’s - which are mainly displayed in their Totnes and Kingsbridge stores. To set themselves apart from the rest, they offer the installation services at a much lower price then Currys, Argos and AO.com as well as giving their customers the option of the “Beacon Protect warranty.” This is the two tiered competitive extended guarantee, depending on the level of cover needed.

Being a family run business, they employ a team that share the same passion and enthusiasm, “we look for people that have that glint in their eye and are prepared to go the extra mile for our customers,” says Mark, “and making sure the customer goes away happy in the knowledge we will look after them.” That is what still drives them after all these years, even though they get involved in the back office running of the company, Mark and Nick still love to get out onto the sales floor, or maybe on the phone, with the customers.

In the current climate, we are opting for more ecofriendly options which don’t cost a fortune, but will have large savings for our customers over the life span of the product. Over the last couple years, there has been a noticeable shift where people are aware of the running costs of all electrical appliances and the savings from eco-friendly appliances such as Heat Pump Dyers, which recycles the heat/energy. There are a great deal of products on the market now to help with running costs. Sometimes the smallest of items can make the greatest differences. It may come as a surprise but there has been a huge rise in dehumidifiers over the last years, as it’s been publicised they help with drying washing and are more cost effective than traditional tumble driers. Not to mention they purify the air of your home!

“Many other brands are extremely focused on using recycled materials in the construction of their appliances. Beko, Hotpoint, Bosch - they are very active in making sure their environmental impact is reduced.”

They’ve worked on creating technology to use less water and electricity in washing machines and dishwashers, keeping food fresher in refrigerators, and everyday appliances like air fryers and slow cookers can offer consumers more energy-efficient cooking choices. Simply switching your light bulbs can make a huge difference, “We have always celebrated the LED light bulb as one of the best ways to save energy. They generally save 90% of the energy used by a traditional light bulb used to use and last up to 30 times longer- but of course you do need to make sure you get the right ones !! We only stock the highest quality of LED light bulbs and most of them have at least a 3 year guarantee. This is important when you are buying something that should last in the region of 10 - 15 years, if not longer. As always, our experienced staff can help you to choose the right options with whatever electrical purchase you make.” advises Mark. It’s already been a pretty monumental year for Beacon Electrical, so what’s next on the goal list?

“Firstly, we want to make sure we continue to look after our existing, loyal customers. We need to thank them for their ongoing support of our local, family business and we need to make sure we continue to offer products and services to keep them happy again the next time they visit us.”

With the exciting partnership with Plymouth Argyle, which is believed to expand their reach to new audiences they haven’t engaged with before. The primary goal is to enhance their social media presence and connect with a younger demographic. While this presents a new opportunity with their limited involvement in this area, they’re committed to overcoming it and achieve their objective of engaging with all customers in the manner they find most comfortable.

Our online growth has been tremendous through the COVID-19 period and we have been able to continue that acceleration as we have return to a more normal day to day operation, we have expanded our team to have dedicated Web Sales operatives which enables us to translate our high level of customer service to the ecommerce channel something we are passionate about - providing the showroomlike experience online. We sell high ticket practical products that customers often need support when buying , we make sure we speak directly to these customers to make sure the orders are correct and to prepare them for the delivery and installation experience. info@beaconelectrical.co.uk

What’s On South Devon

MiriAM MArgolyes

Plymouth Pavilions

Friday 20th October

Live on stage for her biggest tour yet to promote her new book ‘Oh Miriam!’

Reliably outrageous and always entertaining, join Miriam, in conversation, for a riotous evening as full of life and surprises as the actress herself.

MArTin Tour

Plymouth Pavilions

Saturday 28th October

Join James on tour with fun, laughter, food and even some live music in this exclusive gastronomic experience.

“I’ll be cooking live on stage and hopefully you’ll pick up some tips and tricks along the way but above all else we will have a laugh so get ready to enjoy a great night out.”

Wedding shoW

St. Mellion Estate, Saltash

Sunday 22nd October

From 11am - 3pm, see over 30 wedding suppliers offering absolutely everything you need to create the wedding day of your dreams.

spooky science

The Box, Plymouth

Saturday 28th October

Explore our galleries by torchlight, perform a science experiment in our Learning Room, dance away to some spooky tracks and don’t forget to wear your best Halloween outfit. Get your tricks and treats at The Box this Halloween at our special family late!

WhiTney: Queen of The nighT

Plymouth Pavilions

Saturday 21st October

Direct from The West End, experience the ultimate Whitney Houston tribute show as it tours across the UK performing over 100 concerts every year! Whitney - Queen of the Night is a stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time.

hAlloWeen WreATh Workshop

Woolwell Centre, Woolwell

Friday 27th October

Enjoy some ‘me’ time and come along to Emma’s Flowers Halloween Wreath Making Workshop. Tickets include all materials, demonstrations and refreshments halfway through. Book online emmasflowers.co.uk

MonsTers bAll

Treasury Bar & Resturant

Saturday 28th October

The epic “80’s style” Halloween Ball is back for another year. With prizes for the best-dressed Halloween costume, a complimentary glass of “Dragon Blood Punch” for anyone in Costume, DJ sets and live music, it’s a Halloween Ball to remember. Tickets available on Eventbrite.

Tour de Moor

Harrowbeer Airfield, Yelverton

Sunday 8th October

It’s bold, it’s brave, it’s big-hearted and it’s the best fun you can have on a bike while backing your local hospice.

There’s three exciting routes to take part in and you can register on www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/ tourdemoor or why not come and support the riders.

Dartmoor Zoological Park

27th - 28th October

This Halloween, Dartmoor Zoo is opening its gates after dark to invite you to a truly FANG-tastic night at the zoo!

Join us on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th October for two FRIGHTfully good evenings, filled with shock horrors, hair raising delights and nail biting frights…

celebriTy chef JAMes

boo AT The zoo

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

For the whole month of October, we are reminded to make those appointments, have the conversation and help raise money to fight the fight.

The sad reality is that we all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, since 2020, it has become the most common cancer worldwide. This month is about raising awareness, raising money and reminding women of the importance of those screening appointments.

Breast Cancer UK estimates that around 30% of cases in the UK can be prevented by making lifestyle changes. We all know that living a healthier lifestyle is better for us and when we’ve got good health, we take it for granted. So why not act now, and do what we can when we can? It doesn’t need to be groundbreaking, but making the effort to get 10k steps in a day, go for those lovely swims, and make better food choices. It’s always hard to start something new, but after a while, it becomes habitual. And nobody has ever felt worse from that natural serotonin boost after moving your body.

Breast Cancer UK has a 30-day challenge which you can take part in. Spend the next 30 days during October doing ANY exercise-based challenge. It’s a great way to challenge yourself, build resilience, get fitter and raise money for Breast Cancer!

Having awareness about what we put into our bodies is just as important as what we put on them. Some cosmetics, hair products, cleaning and other everyday products contain chemicals that are linked to breast cancer such as Paraben, Phthalates and Triclosan, so it’s always worth checking the labels and consciously choosing other products.

With breast cancer now affecting every 1 in 7 women and around 400 men a year, it’s time to pay more attention to your breasts and the areas around them. Know your body and look out for changes. There are many symptoms and signs of breast cancer, everyone is different so if something doesn’t look or feel right, get it checked out.

My lovely mum, Mary Jones (below), was only diagnosed with breast cancer last year in 2022. After the original screening was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19, it was a cervical smear appointment letter that jolted Mary’s memory to rebook that missed mammogram screening. As the last screening appointment was in 2017, it was a very quick turnaround;

“I initially had a letter post mammogram asking me to attend the Primrose unit at Derriford as some calcifications had been spotted. I attended and had an ultrasound where they then performed a stereotactic ultrasound (a strange procedure). This came back as inconclusive so back up for another one. I was told that calcifications are common and probably won’t need treating.”

Unfortunately, after the second round of testing, Mary saw the consultant who confirmed the calcification was malignant and after various tests, Mary received the devastating news that she would need a mastectomy;

“I had a thing called DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). I had never heard of this and no lumps are felt at this stage as it is still in the nipple ducts but can spread if not detected early enough. I was very shocked at this diagnosis, the only bit of my body I liked was my boobs. After many tears and research about my condition. I then saw the amazing Mr Dixon who is a plastic surgeon. He explained that I was a candidate for a DIEP flap. They give you a tummy tuck and insert part of that tissue to perform an implant. It is an extremely long operation (10 hours).”

There were some complications post-op and necrosis of the wound but with three months of weekly hospital visits and the fantastic Primrose Nurses and Doctors, Mary eventually healed. Sadly, there’s some invasion into Mary’s breast tissue and she has to take immune therapy treatment for five years;

“My cancer was ER+ which means caused by too much oestrogen. Sadly there is a side effect of painful joints, especially knees and hips. But I have arthritis there, so it seems to inflame it. But I am alive and 1 year post-op. I have forgotten the discomfort of the first few months and was lucky not to have radio/chemotherapy.”

Had Mary not had that mammogram, things could have been so much worse and the treatment would have been more extensive and severe.

“SO LADIES AND MEN NEVER FORGET THAT MAMMOGRAM, IT CAN REALLY SAVE YOUR LIFE. I am extremely grateful to the doctors and nurses who looked after me and am blessed we have an NHS who still do this screening.”

Image Credit - Ashley Wilde

Mary Jones

Spooky Stays

If you want to get your heart racing this month, then you’re in luck! We’re in no short supply of haunted history in the South West and Cornwall. Why not book a stay? If you dare...

Devon, a county steeped in ancient history, is a repository of eerie legends and enigmatic phenomena. Revered as one of England’s foremost haunted locales, it beckons intrepid adventurers into the realm of the unexplained. Each site stands as a living testament to Devon’s rich heritage and its enduring link to the ethereal.

In this piece, we will escort you through some of Devon’s most haunted spots. From age-old manor houses to atmospheric inns, we will delve into their storied pasts and spine-tingling anecdotes that shroud them. Get ready for an exhilarating voyage into Devon’s supernatural dimension and why not book a stay and see for yourself.

Jamaica Inn Bolventor, Launceston

A visit to The Jamaica Inn in Launceston is an enchanting step back in time, coupled with a hauntingly mysterious allure. Nestled in Cornwall, this historic inn, famously featured in Daphne du Maurier’s novel, exudes traditional charm and eerie fascination. Upon entering, you’re transported to an era of smugglers and secrets.

Yet, beneath its quaint exterior lies a chilling secret: The Jamaica Inn is renowned for its paranormal activity. Stories of ghostly apparitions, phantom footsteps in deserted hallways, and unexplained cold spots have shrouded this inn in mystery. Its dimly lit corners seem to harbor restless spirits, leaving an indelible impression on those who dare to embrace its spectral charm.

Despite its haunted reputation, The Jamaica Inn remains a cherished destination, offering a captivating and spine-tingling stay that seamlessly blends historical immersion with ghostly intrigue.

www.jamaicainn.co.uk

Bodmin Jail Hotel

Bodmin, Cornwall

A stay at Bodmin Jail Hotel is an unforgettable experience, blending historical immersion with a hair-raising edge. Housed within the eerie confines of an 18th-century former prison, this luxurious hotel offers modern comfort within its chilling historical backdrop. However, what sets it apart is its reputation for being haunted. Guests have reported ghostly encounters, eerie whispers, and unexplained apparitions roaming the dimly lit corridors. For the adventurous, this hotel provides a unique opportunity to embrace the supernatural, where the weight of history and the presence of the paranormal converge, making it a stay that’s both captivating and spine-chilling.

www.bodminjail.org

Fisherman’s Cot

Bickleigh, Tiverton

The Fisherman’s Cot in Tiverton offers a unique blend of tranquility and intrigue. Nestled along the picturesque River Exe, this charming inn boasts riverside rooms that provide a serene atmosphere for a peaceful night’s rest. However, the Fisherman’s Cot is not just known for its natural beauty but also its reputation for being haunted. Guests have reported mysterious footsteps, ghostly apparitions, and unexplained sounds, adding an element of thrilling spookiness to the stay. For those seeking a paranormal adventure, this inn offers an eerie twist to the typical countryside retreat, making it a destination where history and the supernatural collide.

www.fishermanscotpub.co.uk

The Wellington Hotel

Boscastle, Cornwall

The Wellington Hotel, a 17th-century coaching inn in Boscastle, Cornwall, combines history with the supernatural. Overlooking the harbor and surviving a 2004 flood, it shelters preserved guest books from the 1800s, marked by a water-level indicator at the bar. This eerie locale is renowned for its ghostly encounters, with staff and guests reporting three distinct apparitions: a coachman, a child, and an elderly woman walking through walls. Room number nine is the hotspot for these paranormal activities, with reports ranging from strange sensations to speech loss. Offering 14 en-suite rooms, turreted accommodations, and an award-winning restaurant featured on Changing Rooms, the Wellington Hotel is a captivating blend of history and the supernatural.

www.wellingtonhotelboscastle.com

We believe that there is a special someone out there for every dog and cat. That ’s why we do our best to find loving new homes for all the animals in our care, no matter how long it takes.

By remembering Gables Dogs & Cats Home in your Will you can help continue to provide this commitment well into the future and ensure that Gables always there to help as many dogs and cats as possible and find the special home they deserve.

DISCOVER A HAUNTED

The

31st of October will see a flurry of children and adults buying costumes, pumpkins and giant bags of sweets ready to enjoy the festivities surrounding Halloween. If you are looking for some frightening festive fun, why not explore some intriguing locations that boast ghostly activity right here in Plymouth.

Saltram House

Saltram House is a grade I listed George the II era mansion house located in Plympton. It is one of Britain’s best preserved examples of an early Georgian house and retains much of its original décor and furnishings. This just sets it up for a whole host of paranormal happenings right?! According to local legend, Saltram House has long been haunted by the ghost of a kitchen maid who was once murdered there. Her presence is still around as a dark hooded figure who roams the corridors, floating through and melting into a solid wall that leads to the dining room, but never appearing on the other side.

Reel Cinema

The Reel Cinema, previously known as the ABC cinema is located at Derry’s Cross. The building is one of only a handful of buildings that survived the Plymouth Blitz during the Second World War. The entire Derry’s Cross area is known to be paranormally active; and there is documentation stating that at least three burial grounds were located there. Screen 2 within the cinema is said to be the most haunted, with sightings of a full figured woman dressed in white; a particular seat is said to cause feelings of being watched and feeling of extreme sadness.

Black Friar’s Distillery

This building is the oldest working gin distillery in all of England. World famous Plymouth Gin has been produced here since 1793 and the building dates back to the 14th century. There are said to be a few spirits here, not just the ones in bottles! Perhaps the most picked up paranormal activity is that of a women who was murdered in the Ladies restrooms. Some women have encountered a feeling of pure dread and uneasiness when entering the restrooms. There is also tales of a monk that wanders certain parts of the ancient site.

HAUNTED HISTORY

Elizabethan House

The Elizabethan house dates from 1584 and is a restored captain’s dwelling. Even today it is not hard to imagine the likes of Sir Walter Raleigh, Drake and Captain Cook strolling down these narrow cobbled streets. The most famous spooky story is that of a well known archaeologist who had a paranormal experience in 1983. He had arrived early at the House to set up for a lecture, and was making his way up the winding staircase. As he was climbing, he heard a peculiar sound so rushed to find out where it was coming from. As he entered the room, he saw the childs cradle rocking side to side, with not a soul to be seen.This cradle is still there today. There have also been reports, even on the hottest day- well, as hot as we get in Plymouth; of certain parts of the building being icy cold. Spooky!

Royal William Yard

Situated upon 16 acres the Royal William Yard’s main purpose was as a victualing (food and provisions) depot for the Royal Navy. Completed in 1835, Many individuals would have plied there trades here. With such a fascinating history, there’s no wonder this place is rife with spooky goings on. The Parade ground which has now been grassed over, once housed cattle to await their fate. On a number of occasions, mainly in the evenings people have heard the eerie sound of cattle hooves stomping upon cobbled stone. It is also said that within the vicinity of the Melville clock tower, people have felt an extreme oppressed feeling, and felt the need to leave. Tales of phantom music with no apparent source, ghostly apparitions and rushing feet ascending a staircase have all been reported.

J’s Grave

Back in the late 18th Century, an orphan baby was taken from a poor house in Newton Abbot. The little girl was named, as was custom, with a surname beginning with whatever letter the poor house had progressed too, in this case ‘J’. Later nicknamed Mary Jay, she spent her teenage years working as an apprentice on a farm just outside Manaton. It is said that on this farm is where Mary acquired her famous name of ‘Kitty’. Sadly, it wasn’t long before Kitty became pregnant, and she was cast out of the farm and labelled as a ‘slut’. Kitty knew all too well that if anyone found out she would never find work, so tragically Kitty J took the only other way out and was found hanging in one of the barns.

The custom of the day was that any suicide could not be buried on consecrated ground, and so they were interred at crossroads, sometimes with a stake driven through their hearts. This was to be the fate of Kitty J, and she was buried at the intersection of a road and Moorland track. This place soon became known as ‘Kitty J’s Grave

Kitty

Couldren recipes for the

Not only is it National Baking week from 14th - 20th but it’s also Halloween month. Grab your aprons and stoke those couldren fire - it’s time to bake! (And the kids can join in too).

Witches’ Fingers

Serves - 24

INGREDIENTS

• 375 g ready rolled shortcrust pastry, cut into 3 rectangles then each rectangle cut into 8 fingers

3

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let cool before serving with the salsa for dipping.

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 24 blanched almonds

• 1 medium egg, lightly beaten

• 10 g parmesan, finely grated

• 300 g jar mild salsa

1 2

Press your thumb into the tops to make an indentation for the fingernail. Dot on the tomato purée and press an almond ‘nail’ on each. Put on a baking sheet, brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle over the cheese.

Spooky gingerbread biscuits

Makes - 12

1

INGREDIENTS

• 350 g pack fresh ready-made gingerbread dough

Preheat the oven to 190ºC, fan 170ºC, gas 5. Roll out each pastry piece to the length of a finger. Shape into fingers with rounded fingertips and use a knife to gently score lines across the middle for knuckles.

Preheat the oven to 180ºC, fan 160ºC, gas 4. Roll out the gingerbread dough to the thickness of a pound coin. Stamp out Halloween shapes using the cookie cutters - and put on a large baking tray lined with baking parchment. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then leave to cool on a wire rack.

• 3 tsp fresh lemon juice

• 500 g icing sugar

• Food colouring of your choosing

• Writing icing in assorted colours

• Cookie cutters (Halloween themed)

2 3

Make the icing: put the water, lemon juice and icing sugar into a bowl. Mix well, until completely smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon - if needed, add more icing sugar to thicken, or a little warm water to thin.

Divide the icing between bowls, add the desired food colourings to each bowl. Spread the icing evenly over the biscuits and once the icing has set, decorate with the writing icing.

Spider Biscuits

Serves - 20

INGREDIENTS

• 70g butter, softened

• 50g peanut butter

• 150g golden caster sugar

• 1 medium egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 180g plain flour

• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 20 peanut butter cups, Rolos or Maltesers

• 100g milk chocolate, chopped

• icing eyes, or make your own

1

2

Scoop 18-20 tbsps of the mixture onto the trays, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading. Make a thumbprint in the centre of the cookies. Bake for 10-12 mins or until firm at the edges but still soft in the middle – they’ll harden a little as they cool. Leave to cool on the tray for a few mins before topping each biscuit with a peanut butter cup, Rolo or Malteser. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Graveyard Sausage

Stew Serves - 4

INGREDIENTS

•1 tbsp olive oil

• 8 reduced-fat sausages

• 1 onion, finely diced

• 1 celery stick, finely diced

• 1 tin butter beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 2 bay leaves

• 300ml chicken stock

• 3 tortillas

Heat the chocolate in the microwave in short bursts, or in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water, until just liquid. Scrape into a piping bag and leave to cool a little. Pipe the legs onto each spider, then stick two eyes on each. Leave to set. Will keep for three days in an airtight container.

Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and line two baking sheets with parchment. Using an electric hand whisk, cream the butter, peanut butter and sugar together until very light and fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla. Once combined, stir in the flour, bicarb and ¼ tsp salt. 3 2

• 2 carrots, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes

• 1 large handful fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped 3

1

Heat the oil in a large casserole pot. Brown the sausages in batches until brown all over. Remove from the pan, then add the diced onion, celery and carrot and cook for 10 minutes until softened and golden. Add the garlic, chopped tomatoes, beans, paprika, oregano, bay leaves and chicken stock then return the sausages to the pot. Simmer for 45 minutes, until thickened.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 6. Cut the tortillas into gravestone and cross shapes, each around 3-4 inches in height, and bake for 8-10 minutes until crisp.

Once the stew has finished cooking, transfer it to a glass baking dish and remove the bay leaves, then sprinkle over the chopped parsley to look like grass. Arrange the tortilla crisps on top and serve.

Image by BBC Good Food