Swansea Life August 2018

a w a r d - w i n n i n g M A G A Z IN E

SWA NSE A

LIFE AUGUST 2018 £2.95

361 new

SCHOO L’S

OUT

season looks

what t do in swanso ea bay

9 771750 843018

Holiday inspiration for you and your home

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Vibes

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Summer

Shot in Fairyhill’s 24-acre Gower garden

Combining old-world charm with 21st century cool, this is Fairyhill, but not as you know it. As we toast to our future we welcome you to start yours with us. Here’s to new beginnings.

Oldwalls, a collection of luxury wedding venues oldwallscollection.com

Contents...

AU G U ST

SWA NSE A

LIFE

2 018

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FASHION 10. ANIMAL MAGIC Take a walk on the wild side with animal print 14. HIGH STREET HOTTEST New season looks out now!

23. RAINBOW BRIGHTS The on trend look that is set to stay

Editor Laura Davies | 01792 545523 @LawsDx | laura.davies@trinitymirror.com PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@trinitymirror.com Photography Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Gayle Marsh, Hoosh Arabi, Robert Melen Contributors Lara Johnson & Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Sian Day, Victoria Wade, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Dr. Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards, Marc White, and Chris Peregrine

Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife Email: laura.davies@trinitymirror.com www.swansealife.co.uk

HAIR & BEAUTY 27. Beauty News What’s new for August 32. BEAUTY INGREDIENTS Time for summer DIY pampering 40. PEDI READY Get those toes looking holiday-ready

If we have published anything that is factually inaccurate, please contact the editor on 01792 545533, at postnews@mediawales.co.uk or at Evening Post, Urban Village, 220 High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW and once verified we will correct it here as soon as possible.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Swansea Life is part of Local World, which is owned by Trinity Mirror PLC, which is a member of IPSO, the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We adhere to the Editors’ Code Of Practice as enforced

by IPSO, who are contactable for advice at Independent Press Standards Organisation, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London.

EC4M 7LG. Website: http://www,ipso.co.ukTelephone: 0300 123 2220; email advice@ipso.co.uk

44. FOOD BENEFITS Why eating sushi is good for you

If you have a complaint concerning a potential breach of the Code of Practice, we will deal with your complaint directly or IPSO can refer your complaint to us. Please go to http://www.trinitymirror. com/howtocomplain where you can view our Complaints Policy and Procedure. A “How To Complain” pack is also available by writing to the Legal and Compliance Department, Trinity Mirror PLC, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP.

Average net distribution 7,500 copies sold and distributed in Swansea, Gower and the surrounding South West Wales areas.

Opinions expressed in Swansea Life magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or designer and the magazine is in no way liable for such opinions. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents are fully accurate, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies and late changes. No article, advertisement or graphic, in whole or in part, may be reproduced without prior permission of the publishers.

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45. JET LAG How to survive with time zone sleeping

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47. STAY COOL Tips to survive the heat

BRIDE 51. REAL WEDDING A Carmarthenshire couple tie the knot

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WHAT’S ON 140. DIARY DATES Your guide to the best events this August

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142. SUMMER HOLIDAY We speak to Ray Quinn about coming to the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff

57. WE LOVE Bridal inspiration for the big day

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OUT & ABOUT

SOCIAL DIARY

131. GET WALKING Join columnist Andrew Morgan on a summer stroll

148. LADIES DAY Fundraiser at the Britannia Inn

132. THE BIG SMOKE A luxury weekender in London

HOUSE & HOME

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91. SUNSHINE YELLOW The colour we want in our homes all year!

153. MAGGIE’S EVENT Canapes and drinks at the Maggie’s Centre

156 MOTORING SOCIAL 134. TEST DRIVE DIARY We test out the Audi Q8

156. ANNUAL TOURNAMENT Anyone for croquet?

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214. HEAD 1Phphphp 36. DRIVEhphp TIMEhphp hphp How does the Jeep 221. HEAD fare?

Renegade Phphphp hphp hphp hphp phphphphphphp

104. COASTAL LIVING Seaside decor to inspire 126. SHADES OF BLUES Let the sea guide your home interiors

226. HEAD Phphphp hphp hphp hphp phphphphphphp

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FOOD & DRINK 63. ICE, ICE, BABY Get cool with ice lollies 65. WE LOVE Food products we need to buy this month 70. REVIEW We head to Llanelli’s new Llwyn Country House

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TIME FOR YOU 160. EDDIE The businessman talks Rising Stars 163. OH BABY Products and essentials for your little one 176. REVEALED! The Swansea Life Awards shortlist

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E D I TO R’ S L E T TE R

Welcome...

Hopefully you are reading this issue of Swansea Life on your summer holiday, lying in a hammock while the sea breeze lifts the pages. Or perhaps you’re in a deckchair on one of Swansea’s gorgeous sandy beaches watching the world go by and praying the sunny weather lasts just a bit longer!

What a summer we have had so far! I don’t know about you, but I have certainly been making the most of the hot days and sultry, balmy, long evenings - even my barbeque and garden furniture have had their money’s worth this year!

The school holidays are in full swing and it is fair to say we are all in the summer mood. Inside this edition there are plenty of pages to satisfy your holiday needs whether it’s beauty tips and the latest travel products to lifestyle features about how to keep cool in the heat. It’s fair to say we have aimed to bring you a big serving of blue sky along with all our usual expert advice and inspiration.

Speaking of summer, this is the time of year when we begin to look ahead to the next season in fashion. While autumn may feel (and be) months away, the collections are all hitting stores now. Inside we showcase some of the newest trends but have tried to keep the pages as “summery” as possible, with features from bright fashions to stripes. I am sure we all agree that it is much too early to be thinking about investing in a new coat yet!

Similarly, we draw upon the newest home interiors and decor, again trying to keep summer still in mind - we are refusing to let autumn even pop into our minds here at Swansea Life.

One autumn event that we can be excused of talking about is our annual Swansea Life Awards on Friday, September 14, at the Brangwyn Hall. Inside we feature all the finalists that have been nominated in each category, just in case you missed it on social media. We have had an exceptional response as always and well done to all the shortlisted businesses - it’s great to see so many new entries this year so good luck to all. We have already sold a fantastic amount of tickets for the social event of the Swansea calendar so be quick, and get yours asap!

Keep enjoying the sunshine and enjoy the read!

DEBBIE ROBERTS

Advertising Manager 01792 545626 debbie.roberts@trinitymirror.com

AWA RD -WI N N I N G MA G A ZI N E

SWA NSE A

LIFE AUGUST 2018 £2.95

361 new

SCHOOL

OUT’S

season looks

Find us on Facebook @SwanseaLife

6 swansealife.co.uk

Holiday inspiration for you and your home

COVER IMAGE: Stripe Cold Shoulder Top, £14, Matalan, Parc Cwmdu and Llansamlet

9 771750 843018

Vibes

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Summer

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01792 545523 laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk @LawsDx

EDITOR

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LAURA DAVIES

WHAT TO SWANSE DO IN A BAY

SANDRA EVANS

EDITORIAL DESIGNER sandra.evans@trinitymirror.com

Swansea lives OUR PICK OF THE MONTHS BEST PARTY GET-TOGETHERS (FOM PAGE 148)

THE FOUNTAIN INN EAT • DRINK • SLEEP

148

Chari ty Ladies Day

DELICIOUS HOME COOKED FOOD 2 Course Lunchtime Special

£9.95 pp

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only Tues - Sat 12-5pm

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FFYNONE HOUSE SCHOOL PROM

Evening Specials Menu 2 Courses

£14.95 pp

Tues - Thurs 5pm-8pm Beer Garden • Sunday Lunches Parties Catered for • Bed and Breakfast

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Mumbles Rangers U13’s Dinner

Finalist

AWARDS 2018

156

ESTATE CAPITAL’S ANNUAL CROQUET DAY

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01792 881866 • www.fountaininn.co 111 Bolgoed Road, Pontarddulais SA4 8JP GREAT CUSTOMERS DESERVE GREAT REWARDS!

DOWNLOAD OUR APP NOW TO ACCESS OUR LOYALTY SCHEME

FASHION

FA S H I O N F L A S H W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES @LawsDx

tr ans itiona l

laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

How gorgeous is this blush coloured dress from Next! Elegant, sophisticated and chic.

Can we want it anymore?

Blush Satin Occasion Dress, £52, Next, Morfa Retail Park

You might not have not had your ‘big’ summer holiday yet but the summer sales are already on their last legs and the new ‘transitional’ ranges are landing fast.

A host of new looks have dropped from V by Very.co.uk such as this floral midi dress. Wear it now with heels and bare legs then, come autumn, spin your look by adding tights and ankle boots.

just like mummy

justblush?

stipes ahead

It’s a classic trend that never goes out of style.

Here’s how to wear them this summer Studio by Preen, £65, Debenhams, Swansea

V by Very Stripe Midi Dress, £45, Very.co.uk

IT’S A MATCH We love this co-ordinating outfit that is due to drop into River Island’s RI Plus collection this season.

shoe ENVY

Below: Mustard Polka Dot Maxi Dress, £29.95, and matching children’s dress, £15.95 Above: She Got it From Me T-shirt £14.95, matching I Got It From My Mama T-shirt, £9.95,available from Wantthattrend.com

Blue Stripe Satin Frill Hem Slip Dress, £40, River Island, Swansea Navy Stripe Jumpsuit, £48, Next, Morfa Retail Park and Swansea

Trousers, £38, and Jacket, £65, River Island, Swansea

How cute is Katie Piper’s new Mummy and Me Collection. With several designs to choose from including casual and occasionwear, this is fashion bonding at its best!

Stripe Beach Bag, £22, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea Black and White Sunset Stripe Vertical Stripes Block Jumpsuit, £39, Heel, £50, River Top Shop, Swansea Island, Swansea

We love this fun pair of pointed court shoes with a kitten heel and a green leather, leopard print upper.

Melon Two Part Sling Courts Green Leopard Mix, £59, Office, Swansea

the final straw?

This leaf motif basket looks designer but is a snip at just £18, from Matalan, Parc Cwmdu

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FASHION

animal magic

Take a walk on the wild side with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of on-trend animal prints laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

Jumper, £40, River Island, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Camel Midi Dress, £50, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea

Leopard Chevron Top, £29, Top Shop, Swansea

Nine by Savannah Miller Shirt, £42, Debenhams, Swansea

Green Leopard Print Animal Print Skirt, £38, Wrap Skirt, £22, F&F at Next, Parc Trostre Tesco, Parc Fforestfach

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@LawsDx

Red Leopard Print Midi Skirt, £70, House of Fraser, Cardif

H! by Henry Holland, £40, Debenhams, Swansea

Zebra Knot Blouse, £25, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

M&S Collection Skirt, £35, M&S, Parc Trostre

Zebra Jumpsuit, £45, White Leather Cone Heel Boots, £60, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Green Print Dress, £40, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Black Zebra Print Midi Shirt Dress, £24.99, New Look, Swansea

Red Leopard Print Midi Dress, £60, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea

V by Very Lace Trim Leopard Midi Dress, £55, Very.co.uk

Leopard Print Shirt Dress, £48 , Evans, Swansea

Stone Snake Print Plunge Neck Bodysuit, £17.99, New Look, Swansea

Studio by Preen, £199, Debenhams, Swansea

Zebra Ruffle Dress, £38, Top Shop, Swansea

Black Snakeskin Print Cross Strap Sandals, £17.99, New Look, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Leopard Print Wide Leg Trousers, £28, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

M&S Collection Boot, £34, M&S, Swansea

Studded T-Bar Court Shoe, £48, Very.co.uk

Light Brown Leopard Print Fedora Hat, £12.99, New Look, Swansea

M&S Collection Bag, £25, M&S, Swansea

Sliders, £40, River Island, Swansea

Principles Boot, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

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Dressed to impress

For This YEArs

WEDDiNGs

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FASHION FASHION

This versatile necklace collier in sterling silver features the PANDORA logo on one side and a circle of shimmering stones on the other.

Are you struggling to sleep in the heatwave? It may be worth investing in a light and cool pair of PJs. We love Ted Baker’s floral number which not only is nice and airy but super pretty too.

Pandora Logo Reversible Necklace, £70, Pandora, Swansea Quadrant

B by Ted Baker Light Pink Floral Print Kensington Camisole Vest, £19.50 and Satin Pyjama Shorts, £17.50, Debenhams, Swansea

SPEC APPEAL

Comprising two looks in one, it’s the perfect addition to any outfit thanks to its timeless expression.

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE

Karen Millen has just launched a new range of eyewear. Exclusive to Specsavers, the range of 26 trend-led frames mix feminine designs with contemporary silhouettes and stylish details. From animal-print to raspberry tones, and in a variety of shapes, there’s a style to flatter all faces.

Priced at £125, including standard singlevision lenses, the range, (pictured) is included in Specsavers’ two for one offer, Specsavers, Swansea and Gorseinon

LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

distinguish yourself

in charactful style This Autumn, Kurt Geiger is the place where style meets character. An attention-grabbing campaign enlists an eclectic line-up of British talent, from the iconic Dame Joan Collins to rising instastar Reece King. Each embody unique personal style and the Kurt Geiger ethos that style is what you wear but character is how you wear it.

PREGNANCY FASHION Spare a thought for all those heavily pregnant women having to cope with the heat in their last weeks of pregnancy, So, to cheer all the yummy mummy’s to be up, we have selected this gorgeous pink wrap dress by Katie Piper.

At £24.95, it’s worth going out and spoiling yourself!

Katie Piper Maternity Pink Short Sleeve Wrap Over Belted Dress, £24.95, www.wantthattrend.com

@LawsDx

A blank canvas sets the scene and each talent brought their own clothes which were paired with Kurt Geiger products. More interesting individuals will take part as part of Characterful Style whcih will be rolled out throughout the season.

Kurt Geiger at John Lewis and McArthur Glen Designer Outlet

BLOCK HEEL These suede sling back buckle shoes in rust are so versatile and comfortable at the same time. Literally they go with most items in my wardrobe this summer! They also come in black and bottle green.

Rust Suede Sling Back Buckle Shoe Boots, £45, River Island, Swansea

Stripe Viscose Bardot Top, £9, Shorts, £8, Matalan, Parc Cwmdu and Morriston

RAINBOW BRIGHTS

PJ PARTY

REVERSIBLE

This summer, Matalan have had a fantastic range of affordable and fashionable clothing that are ideal for beach days out. This outfit can be worn casual as separates or together with accessories and heels for a more standout, holiday look.

SPOT ON! We absolutely adore this chic polka dot print dress which oozes glamour.

Polka Dot Dress, £55, Oasis at Debenhams, Swansea

JUMP TO IT We love this geo print jumpsuit from Next which is perfect to wear on balmy August evenings and into the new season.

Then when the weather gets a little colder throw a long sleeve jumper or polo underneath for maximum wear. Definitely an investment piece!

Geo Print Jumpsuit, £38, Next, Swansea and Morfa Retail Park swansealife.co.uk 13

FASHION

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5 1. Yellow Lofty Jumper, £26; Gun Check Pencil Skirt, £28; White Cone Heel Boot, £45 2. Zebra Midi Dress, £30 3. Satin Slip Dress, £38 4. Multi Check Tie Waist Trousers, £28 5. Heart Slogan Jumper, £28 6. Zebra Jumpsuit, £45 7. Yellow Slouchy Jumper, £26 8. Stripe Sequin Skirt, £38 9. Yellow Strappy Heels, £28 10. Orange Colour Pop Buckle Crossbody Bag, £20 11. Square Stud 10 Clutch, £18

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HIGH STREET HOTTEST

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@LawsDx

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1. Check Twist Dress, £25, Earrings, £5 2. Drop Earrings, £5 3. Satin Short PJ Set, £10 4. Spot Scarf Dress, £18 5. Polka Dot Dress, £18 6. Striped Asymmetrical Skirt, £12.50 7. Satin Hanky Hem Skirt, £14 8. Button Mini Skirt, £12 9. Round Bag, £14 10. Blade heel Vamp shoe, £19

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6 1. Hat, £18, Earrings, £14, Jumper, £38 2. Dress, £50 3. Top, £35 4. Sunglasses, £14 5. Swimsuit, £36 6. Skirt, £32 7. Jumper, £30 8. Bag, £38 9. Heels, £65 10. Earrings, £12 11. Bag, £37

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1. Dress, £55 2. Per Una Dress, £49.50 3. Limited Edition Dress, £45 6 4. Earrings, £9.50 5. M&S Collection Jumper, £32.50 6. M&S Collection Skirt, £39.50 7. Trousers, £35 8. Skirt, £25 9. Bag, £25 10. Bag, £29.50 11.Shoe, £29.50

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1. Off Shoulder Top, £18, High Waist Shorts, £22 2. Dress, £40 3. Blouse, £24 4. Earrings, £8.50 5. Colour Block 7 Sweater, £24 6. Multi Ruffle Cami, £35 7. Pink Colour 8 Block Tee, £16 8. Skirt, £48 9. Lace-Up Ankle Boots, £49 10. Bag, £36 11. Backstar Trainers, £35

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holiday CHIC

Think classic, white dresses, floor-sweeping maxis and bright burnt oranges and reds all set against a backdrop of whitewash buildings and sun-trapped olive gardens. LAURA DAVIES picks out a selection of hot summer looks, all with a holiday to the Mediterranean in mind laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

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@LawsDx

Ivory Bardot Ruffle Lace Hem Pencil Dress, £35, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

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Iria Ribbon Stripe Dress, ÂŁ49, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

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Red Dress, £20, Heeled Sandals, £18, F&F at Tesco, Parc Fforestfach

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Orange Floral Print Ruffle Maxi Dress, £48, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

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Blouse, £39, Maxi Skirt, £45, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

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FASHION

Karl Lagerfeld, Ikonic Pave & Pearl Collar, £319, www.karl.com

M&S Collection Bracelet, £19.50, M&S, Swansea

Julliana Necklace, £22, Dune, Cardiff

Anabeth Statement Ring, £32, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Tassel Earrings, £12, Very.co.uk

all that

Glitters

Earrings, £8, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

Update your wardrobe with LAURA DAVIES’ jewellery picks laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Necklace, £16, River Island, Swansea

Earrings, £8.50, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Brook 2, Necklace, £3 s, Oliver Bona Cardiff

Karl Lagerfeld, Ikonic Pave & Pearl, £115, www.karl.com

J by Jasper Conran Earrings, £15, Debenhams, Swansea

Red and Black Polka Dot Earrings, £7.99, New Look, Swansea Karl Lagerfeld Ombre Tube Chain Hoop, £139, www.karl.com

22 swansealife.co.uk

Reverie Agate Slice Necklace, £49.50, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

M&S Collection Earrings, £12.50, M&S, Swansea

FASHION

Rainbow Off White ed Tipped Ribb 7.99, Cardigan, £1 sea , Swan New Look

Rain our when you can have bo P rite col the w £20 added J w u o v , ac P n a d a d b n r e r f r i g im t h h t w en up ark, ket, ole ne e rainbo Swa o y nsea th ve URA DAVIES’ picks our lo rainb ha brace ok with LA o y h Em

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e trip w S y at nbo , Lips ark i a 35 il P sy R Lip Top, £ Reta ap orfa r W t, M x Ne

Multi Strip eC £119, Jigsaw ami, .co.uk

BRIGHT laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Skirt, £65, River Island, Swansea

Rainbow Sparkle Pleated Skirt, £59.50, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff Rainbow Stripe Blanket, £20, Accessorize, Swansea

Stripe Sequin Clutch, £35, Therapy at House of Fraser, Cardiff

Rainbow Leather Keyring, £18, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Rainbow Jumper, £18, F&F at Tesco, Parc Fforestfach

Rainbow Stripe Culotte Wrap Jumpsuit, £24.99, New Look, Swansea

Multi Stripe Halterneck Dress, £45, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

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Embroidered Pinny, £12, F&F at Tesco, Llansamlet and Parc Trostre

Pure cotton woven dress £12-£16, M&S, Swansea

London Toile Medium Kids Sleeveless Dress, £24, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Sequin Skirt, £12, F&F at Tesco, Parc Fforestfach

FASHION

Cloud All-in-One, £14, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Pure Cotton Denim Jumpsuit £18 - £24, M&S, Swansea

Little Joule Girls’ Hettie Mouse Dress, £39.95, Joules, Mumbles

Girls’ Print Skirt, £14-£16, John Lewis, Cardif

Baker by Ted Baker Beano Tee, £20, Debenhams, Swansea

Mermaid ; Pink Swimsuit, £9 0, Swimsuit, £1 ff M&Co, Cardi

£1.80, White a e Smile Top, You Make M £1.80, Primark, Swanse Unicorn Top,

LAURA DAVIES looks at whats hot this summer for children

Blue Chinos with Braces, £8, F&F at Llansamlet and Parc Fforestfach

Little Joule Boys’ Harry Polo Shirt, £21.95 -£24.95, Joules, Mumbles

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Boys’ Dinosaur Intarsia Jumper, £18-£21, John Lewis, CardifF

@LawsDx

Pure Cotton Rugby Top £10-14, M&S, Swansea

Bears In Space Kids Short Sleeve Shirt, £18, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Tree All-in-One, £14, Mamas and Papas, Cardif

Pure Cotton Striped Top £5-£7 M&S, Swansea

laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

Baker by Ted Baker Beano Shirt, £24, Debenhams, Swansea

FASHION

Make a statement with bright colours, whether you decide to colour clash or simply stand out in a block colour. LAURA DAVIES picks out her colourful favourites

brights bold

Wrap Dress, £42 , Next, Morfa Retail Park and Swansea

laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Dress, £50, River Island, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Faith Bag, £28, Debenhams, Swansea Straight Fit Double Breasted Jacket, £199, Wide Flare Trouser, £140, Jigsaw.co.uk.

Tote Bag, £32, Very.co.uk

Red Button Front Jumpsuit, £34.99, New Look, Parc Trostre and Swansea

Girlfriend Blazer, £25, F&F at Tesco, Parc Fforestfach and Llansamlet

J by Jasper Conran Trousers, £49, Debenhams, Swansea

V by Very Mesh Jumper, £32, Very.co.uk

Blue and Yellow Earrings, £5.99, New Look, Swansea

Bag, £29.50, M&S, Swansea Cobalt Strappy Heels, £38, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Monsoon Jacquard Dress, £75, Accessorize Embellished Clutch Bag, £45, Kurt Geiger White Slingback Sandals, £65, Littlewoods.com M&S Collection Shoe, £35, M&S, Swansea

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CELEBRATE

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HAIR & BEAUTY

BEAUTY NEWS W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

PART ONE

NEW BRUSH COLLECTION

How fab are these makeup brushes by Swansea based brand Walford-Richards Designs! Made from top quality synthetic hair they have been designed to give the most flawless makeup application. The brush collection features 12 luxury cruelty-free brushes encased in a black faux leather zip pouch, £80, www.walfordrichardsdesigns.co.uk

KISS THIS!

SKIN ILLUSION: Natural Hydrating Foundation

We love Clarins’ new Skin Illusion, the first foundation veil from the brand with a serum texture and a unique bare skin finish. You won’t see a thing... except the difference! The new generation formula contains just the right amount of pigments in a blend of silky, non-greasy oils with different evaporation speeds. The complexion is even and luminous, leaving imperfections visibly reduced, for a barely-there, naturally radiant look.

Glass Bottle with Dropper 30ml, £30, available in 22 shades, Boots, Swansea (Out August 26)

Two British icons – ghd and Lulu Guinness – have joined forces in the fight against breast cancer. Introducing the limited edition ghd x Lulu Guinness collection, featuring Lulu’s iconic lip print on the new ghd gold styler and ghd air hairdryer, with £10 from every purchase going to Breast Cancer Now. ghd gold by Lulu Guinness, £139, featuring exclusive Lulu Guinness heat-resistant bag and ghd air by Lulu Guinness, £99, featuring limited edition pink accents and dust bag.

Available at selected hair salons and ghdhair.com

BLUSH COLOUR INFUSION: Fresh. Buildable.

Weightless.

We love the new blush range from Laura Mercier, which comes in 10 shades.

A sheer, buildable and silky-smooth cheek colour, Blush Colour Infusion blends seamlessly with skin for the most natural,fresh look. Pure colour pigments feel weightless and applies evenly to skin for a healthylooking flush of colour that lasts 10 hours. Infused with micro-fine powders, this next-generation formula can build from a diffused, sheer hint of color to a bold colour statement. Shades range from soft neutrals to vivid pops of color, with finishes ranging from matte to a subtle sheen with hidden pearl, to suit a variety of skin tones and skin types. £24 each from Laura Mercier, John Lewis, Cardiff

NOURISHING HAIR CARE

Aromachologie Hair Care by L’Occitane is just the treat for hair that is damaged, dry and sensitive.

Generous creamy formulas enriched with extracts of olive oil and olive tree leaves along with five essential oils of cedar, lavender, camomilla, lemon and eucalyptus help to nourish and repair from the first use. The Nourishing Hair Care trio provides concentrated nourishment for dry to very dry hair, right from the roots and all the way to the tips. Free from sulfates and silicones and scented with 100 per cent natural essential oils to ensure hair feels light and bouncy whilst having the natural scent of a fresh Provençal breeze.

Available in a Nourishing Care Shampoo, 300ml, £19; Conditioner, 250ml, £19; and Balm Mask, 200ml, £26, L’Occitane, Cardiff

FALL INTO TEMPTATION

NARS introduces the Fall 2018 Colour Collection, featuring the brand’s first Audacious Lipstick Palette, Quad Eyeshadows, and Brow Perfector.

Inspired by the seven deadly sins, the limited edition palette, £35, features seven new shades— from brazen berries to smoldering neutrals. The palette comes equipped with a portable lip brush for on-the-go application. The high-impact pigments deliver intense colour in a soft-matte finish without bleeding or feathering. The all-new, versatile Brow Perfector, £20, delivers effortless, buildable colour and features a durable spoolie brush for perfected diffusing, while the Mohave and Singapore Eyeshadow Quads, £40 each, envelop eyes in rich colours and a range of finishes. House of Fraser, Cardiff

ANTI AGE For the first time, Sisley has created a powerful serum which provides an unprecedented firming effect by targeting two new physiological modes of action: wakening elastin production at its origin, and a complete action on the forces of skin tension. It restores the density and resilience of younger skin.

SISLEŸ A L’INTÉGRAL ANTI-ÂGE Firming Concentrated Serum, £350, www.sisley-paris.com

swansealife.co.uk 27

Defy Time MEDICAL COSME TIC CLINIC

Dr Alan Jones

TIMELESS BEAUTY

Visit Dr Alan and his staff at Defy Time Medical Cosmetic Clinic in Swansea. He has 30 years experience as a GP, 16 years as a Cosmetic Doctor.

MEMBER OF British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) British Association of Body Sculpting (BABS) British Association of Sclerotherapy (BAS) General Medical Council Registered Health Inspectorate of Wales Registered Clinic

ACHIEVE A YOUNGER, FIRMER & FLAWLESS YOU F R E E P E R S O N A L & C O N F I D E N T I A L C O N S U LTAT I O N S

466 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea SA2 7DZ

•

01792 208466

•

www.defy-time.co.uk

HAIR & BEAUTY

LUXE MATTE LIPS

BEAUTY NEWS Proving that opposites attract for a perfectly unexpected paradox of oil-infused, super powders that offer a maximum matte look and feather-light feel. This breakthrough lipstick—a Bobbi Brown exclusive—glides on smoothly with pure powder pigments that are blended for intense colour potency and 12-hour, smooth-as-silk wear. The formula is complemented by light waxes that melt on the lips for a feather-light feel yet statementmaking finish that lasts all day. 18 lust-worthy shades include: Nude Reality, Semi-Naked, Boss Pink, Tawny Pink, Mauve Over, True Pink, Rebel Rose, Vibrant Violet, Bitten Peach, Cheeky Peach, Bold Nectar, Fever Pitch, On Fire, Red Carpet, Burnt Cherry, Razzberry, Crown Jewel, & Plum Noir.

W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

PART TWO

TREASURE CHEST

ALL NIGHT LONG

£28, available exclusively at John Lewis, Cardiff

Now there is no excuse to experiment with your eye makeup with this treasure trove of colours from Barry M. The eyeshadow palette contains 18 stunning matte and metallic baked shades in intensely rich and silky pigments. Apply them dry or with a wet brush to intensify the colour. £12,99, launching August 22, Superdrug, Swansea

FULL VINYL LIP LACQUER

Go to extremes with the new limited edition Full Vinyl Lip Lacquer by Nars. The new smooth, creamy formula gives lips intense colour and a mirror-like shine. The smooth texture glides on smoothly with a comfortable feel and a line-free look. Features vivid pigments that deliver buildable, full coverage colour with a reflective finish while Vitamin E ingredients impart a moisturising feel. The unique two-sided applicator includes a plush side that deposits the ideal amount of colour onto lips, and a smooth side to evenly distribute pigments and intensify shine.

Are you after a foundation that will have you covered until the early hours of the morning? Then Barry M has just the foundation for you. Say hello to All Night Long with its smooth, creamy formulation which is easy to blend and feels lightweight on the skin. With antioxidizing fruit extracts and Vitamin E to moisturise, it’s paraben free for a healthy look that’s yours!

All Night Long Foundation, £7.99, available August 22, Superdrug, Swansea

SUPREME BEAM & DAZZLESHADOW LIQUID

We love this latest collection from MAC which isn’t afraid to break makeup boundaries. Think holographic, glitter, shimmer and satin finishes which make your lips pop and skin glow.

The collection features Grand Illusion Glossy Liquid Lipcolour in 10 shades, (expect electric purple to holographic bright pink to iridescent ruby red, £18 each); Hyper Real Foundation, £26, in four shades; Iridescent Powder/Loose in two shades, £25.50 and 10 shimmer and satin finishes of Dazzleshadow Liquid, £16.50.

Available from August 2 at MAC, Debenhams, Swansea

Smooth and seductive. Utterly addictive. Take your slick of 10 ultrasaturated shades. £23 each, John Lewis, Cardiff

VERSICOLOUR VARNISH The gloss-stain fusion of Versicolour ascends to the next level. Captivate with a lip colour hybrid that’s glossier, higher coverage and harder impact than ever before.Versicolour Varnish has a watery-light formula that glides on creamy and comfortable to impart long-wearing, saturated full coverage and an always-fresh wet finish.

THE PERFECT TOOLS

Available in 14 shades, from burgundy, peach, pink and bright orange, £21, MAC at Debenhams, Swansea

Clarins new collection of six make-up brushes are the ultimate tools for a smooth and luminous complexion. They are made from super soft, synthetic brush hair to leave an ultra-fine, natural coverage on the skin, and finished with a birch wood handle crafted from sustainably managed forests. The generous and dense fibres allow for an ultra light application.

Brushes from £21-£31, Boots and Debenhams, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 29

THECUTTINGEDGE

Marc Isaac has successfully fused his work as an educator with his role running the two award-winning Hair Lounge salons. He told JENNY WHITE why education is at the core of keeping his business up-to-date.

The two award-winning Hair Lounge salons are only part of Marc Isaac’s story.

His passion for hair also encompasses a successful career as an educator, teaching the next generation of hairdressers at a time when they are much needed by the industry. Hair salons are currently facing a recruitment crisis, and Marc has made it his mission to continue a tradition of excellence by training students in Gower College Swansea, while also ensuring his staff are at the forefront of the latest developments.

“One of the secrets of a successful salon is to invest in educating your staff,” he says. “There are always new products and techniques being developed, and if you keep your staff abreast of these you get amazing results. Each member of staff goes on a minimum of five courses a year, and at the start of each

year we close the salons for six days of in-house training, so that if someone has discovered a new colouring technique, for example, we will deliver that to the rest the team.”

The results speak for themselves: Marc’s two branches of the Hair Lounge – one in Fforestfach and one in Skewen, have been winners in the Swansea Life Awards, The Welsh Hair and Beauty Awards, and

the British Hair and Beauty Awards.

Marc has two colour specialists who are educated to degree level in colouring, and is working to expand their number to six over the next year.

One of the challenges faced by salons today is facing the unrealistic expectations some customers have after seeing colour transformations on the internet: they do not always realise that a drastic colour change cannot be achieved in just one sitting; nor are they aware of the damage a dramatic colour change can do to their hair. By having highly qualified staff, Marc ensures the right advice is given, and that colour changes are done with great care and skill, resulting in happy customers whose hair stays in good condition.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

“We use the best colouring products available, plus Olaplex, which stops the hair from deteriorating and builds the strength back up,” he says. “It’s rewarding when customers comment on the condition of their hair – they say they can’t believe how much better their hair feels after having it coloured.”

Marc’s salons provide a beautiful and relaxing environment in which to spend a few hours: both are decorated in Parisian style, and each salon has a

development room for customers to enjoy while their colours are developing.

“We found that customers don’t like having to sit at a styling station while their colours develop so we created rooms with tub chairs, mood lighting, magazines, coffee and TV for them to enjoy while their colours are developing,” says Marc.

Having founded his first Hair Lounge six years ago, with the second branch in Skewen following three years ago, Marc

has become accustomed to juggling the demands of teaching and running a busy business.

“I have a massive passion for hair but since opening the salons I’ve also discovered I love business,” he says. “I’ve become passionate about bringing it all together - great hair, great education and great business. I find those three work really well together and I’m delighted with how much we have achieved in the last six years.”

38 Ravenhill Road | Fforestfach | Swansea | SA5 5AW | T: 01792 587444 72 New Road | Skewen | Neath Port Talbort | SA10 6HE | T: 01792 812858 www.hairloungebymarcisaac.co.uk

HAIR & BEAUTY

eat

yourself beautiful

Porridge oats, eggs, strawberries and beer are just some of the everyday kitchen items that can be used to make homemade beauty treatments for some summer body TLC. LAURA DAVIES looks at the top ten best ingredients for hair, face and body home treatments. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

4. Rice 1. Honey This natural ingredient is so versatile – combine it with ground almonds for a cleansing face and body scrub or apply it on its own for a hydrating face mask.

A few drops in a bath is great for reducing inflammation as it has natural antibacterial properties.

2. Olive oil Olive oil was favoured by the Egyptians as a go-to beauty treatment for hair and skin. Heated and massaged into the hair and scalp it makes a wonderful conditioner and applied sparingly onto the skin it makes a good softener. For dry hands and cuticles mix with aloe vera for fast absorption.

3. Sugar Sugar causes havoc for the skin when eaten, but when directly applied to it it’s actually a great exfoliator. Use rough granulated sugar and mix with olive oil for the best results. Apply pre-shave for a smooth finish and mix with peppermint oil for an effective foot scrub.

32 swansealife.co.uk

A full rice facial is favoured by Japanese women who are blessed with some of the healthiest and most beautiful skin in the world. Place rice in cold water for 20 minutes, mix thoroughly and then decant the water into a bottle. Soak a clean flannel in the bottled rice water and leave it on your face for 20 minutes. The leftover rice can be blended with water and used as a body scrub, add honey for a scrub with softening properties.

5. Porridge oats

production, and subsequent bacteria that causes acne. Mix beer with egg whites and mashed strawberries to make an anti-acne face pack (strawberries contain salicylic acid, which is commonly used in over the counter spot treatments).

8. Coconut oil Coconut oil is an excellent and gentle make-up remover, as well as being great at softening and hydrating skin and hair. It’s delicate enough to use as an eye cream and instead of shaving foam use coconut oil to leave skin smooth.

9. Milk

Porridge oats, aside from being a healthy substantial breakfast have great oil absorbing properties. Grind some oats with mixed granulated sugar and raw honey. Massage into the face and leave on for ten minutes. Oats and baking soda in a warm bath also provide soothing relief for chicken pox.

Favoured by Cleopatra herself, the milk bath is great for unclogging pores. The lactic acid in it has many health benefits for the skin and when mixed with green tea it makes an effective natural toner.

6. Eggs

10. Lemon

Mix eggs with banana, olive oil and avocado for an incredibly hydrating hair mask. Be sure to rinse with cold water at the end. If mixed with natural yoghurt, eggs also make moisturising face pack.

Fragrant and zesty, lemon can be used as a lightener for uneven skin tone or scars, though it may require time and multiple treatments.

If you have scars or dark patches on your knees and elbows, rub them with lemon halves or apply lemon juice and leave for 10-20 minutes.

7. Beer It may sound strange but beer is fantastic for treating acne. The secret ingredient in it is the yeast, which helps fight excess sebum

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H.I.W Registered, accredited clinic Member of British Association of Cosmetic Nurses BACN Member of SAVEFACE, accredited clinic Swansea Council Registered Royal College of Nursing Nursing & Midwifery Council NMC Chromogenix Centre of Excellence HydraFacial MD accredited clinic 5* Best Beauty and Spa Experience - Phorest Certificate of Endeavour with the WBTA Best Beauty Salon in the Swansea Life Awards Good Salon Guide five star awarded salon VISIA - Worlds Best Facial Analysis System

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover!

W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

Stylist & salon owner Lara Johnson shares her tips in her monthly column.

Colour statement Model: Bee Nixon Occupation: Student and model

BEE SAYS...

When I first spoke with the team at Lara Johnson I really felt that I was setting them an impossible challenge. My hair was very short and already coloured.

They gave me a new look which I really didn’t expect to feel so different

LARA JOHNSON LIFESTYLE SAYS...

Sometimes subtle changes in shape can make a huge difference. We reshaped Bee’s hair into a shape that enhances her elfin features. A short haircut doesn’t have to be masculine. We then played with the colour. Bee wanted something different for the summer. We created a bespoke colour from our Wella range following the current trend towards colours that are vibrant and fun. The great thing is that we can make the colour as permanent or as temporary as needed, sometimes it can be nice to try without going permanent.

After...

Before...

34 swansealife.co.uk

Step by step...

Summer half up bouffant

This look is a perfect style if your hair has a tendency to fall flat. We have included the use of some padding to show how to gain a more secure bouffant. It looks great on mid-length and long hair and is a good choice if you prefer to leave some of your hair down. It can be dressed as a soft look or straight.

Add some flowers for a wedding or a summer’s day.

Difficulty level: Medium Ideal hair length: Mid length to long hair Assistance needed? Get a friend to help but with practice it can be done Accessories: Can be dressed with flowers for a wedding or summer party.

What you need: • Styling irons • Brush • Hairband if your hair is long • Grips or pins • Hairspray

1

2

After...

Before...

3

1

This look has more bounce when it has movement. Set your hair with styling irons in long vertical sections

2

Begin at the crown of your head. Take a horizontal section of hair and lightly tease the root area. continue in the same way working up a couple of inches away from the hairline

3 4 5

Part your hair on the desired side and gently pull it back over the back combing towards the back of the bottom of your crown

4

5

Gather the top section of your hair that you teased back, and twist it. You can make it easier for yourself by putting in a thin band which will make it easier to achieve step 5 Push the twist against the scalp. Secure the twist in place at the base. If your hair is extremely thick you may need to use several grips. Finish off with medium hold hairspray swansealife.co.uk 35

HAIR & BEAUTY

REAL WOMEN, WINNING LOOKS W ITH

C H R I S

H O W E L LS

Swansea based International Make Up Artist and winner of the National Federation of Hairdressing’s Welsh Make Up Artist of the Year award, Chris Howells, gives a model a 70’s inspired look.

The beautiful Jade is a full time model and I was lucky enough to do a shoot with her recently. She is a total natural in front of the camera and can rock anything you throw at her. Her skin is fantastic and with her incredible cheekbones, the 70’s inspired look I created included a fabulous pop of highlight to really accentuate them.

I started with skin preparation, starting with Revive Moisture Renewal Serum and after applying to the skin all over I used a Jade Roller to massage the serum into the skin, gently massaging and encouraging lymphatic drainage, following with Revive Moisture Renewal Crème to ensure a beautifully plumped and glowing complexion. Revive skincare is incredible, pricey but so worth it.

I applied Cover FX Illuminating Primer lightly to Jade’s face and then followed with Chantecaille Tinted Moisturiser, applying with a flat top foundation brush, giving gorgeous coverage that looks barely there, yet flawless. Around the eyes I used Nars Creamy Concealer, where needed, smoothing it on with a concealer brush, then setting with Becca Under Eye, Brightening Powder. I applied Illamasqua Gel Sculpt Contour into the hollows of Jade’s face using a small angled contour brush, blending out so there were no “stripes.” Using Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder in Light, I loaded up the Powder Brush and gently pressed and rolled the powder down the centre of the face to ensure the makeup set and that Jade didn’t look too sweaty. The powder is talc free so doesn’t act like a heavy powder, which still allows that sought after “glow.”

Once that was ready, I used Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops in Moonlight and used the angled contour brush, mixing in a touch of primer to four drops. I blended it, then applied it to the cheekbones, cupids bow, brow bone and gently to other high points to create the blinding glow.

Jade’s eyes were really simple. I took the eye blending brush and buffed Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Peacock all over the lid quite heavily as we want a rich finish. From lash to brow-bone then taking the crease brush, I gently buffed out the edges, finessing the shape and exaggerating the sweep at the edge, also sweeping under the bottom lash.

Using a couple of drops of highlighter, I buffed it into the inner corner and onto the brow. Using Hourglass Skinny Liner I lined the eye right around on the inside and applied black mascara. The brow was shaped with NYX brow pencils in Taupe and brunette. To finish the complexion I used Chantecaille Bronzer and a large angled brush applying it to the high points creating dimension. Then Laura Mercier lip-colour in Red Amour was swept over her lips using the precision lip brush, lining the lip with Laura Mercier lip pencil in Ruby.

The finishing touch is a sweep of Angelika Blush by Nars applied with the fantastic fan brush to create the intensity but control the spread of blush. All the brushes used are from the brand new cruelty free brush set by Walford-Richards Designs, 12 premium quality brushes in their own case for £80, www.walfordrichardsdesigns.co.uk

36 swansealife.co.uk

after before

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DENTAL DENTAL IMPLANTS IMPLANTS •• ADULT ADULT ORTHODONTICS ORTHODONTICS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY Contact us today to arrange your first consultation: COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL & IMPLANT CLINIC

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BRIAN BROWN SALON MODELLING & MANAGEMENT AGENCY

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HAIR & BEAUTY

SAY GOODBYE TO STATIC AND FRIZZY

10 in 1 Vegan Multi-Tasking Marvel

Perfect for reducing static and frizz, leaving hair smoother and giving reflective shine– Philip Kingsley Preen Cream anti-static properties ensures your hair remains frizz-free, manageable and glossy throughout the day. The ultra lightweight protective formula can be used before styling to ensure your plaits remain smooth with no flyaways throughout the day and can also be used after styling, adding more as required.

Philip Kingsley Preen Cream 100ml, £19.50, www.philipkingsley.co.uk

Vanity Case Collaboration

L’Occitane has collaborated with content creator Josie of fashionmumblr.com, known for creating honest posts filled with her tips and insider knowledge on beauty, fashion and travel. Josie has selected her favourite L’Occitane products including the first product she ever used from the brand, Lavender Hand Cream and her favourite shower treat, Almond Shower Oil. With lots of mini skincare and beauty treats to discover, this vanity case is perfect for your upcoming summer holidays or a great way to get to get to know the brand.

Arbonne Intelligence CC Cream, £34, www.arbonne,.com

Fashion Mumblr x L’Occitane Vanity case, £25, L’Occitane, Cardiff

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE

THE POWER OF PINK For the 18th year running Elemis supports Breast Cancer Care with this limited edition Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm and through a donation of £25,000. With a new rose aromatic; English Rose, Rose Damascena and Rosehip Seed Oil are incorporated into the classic formula to soften, replenish and radiate skin whilst releasing a beautiful scent.

Not only do we love the gorgeous product, it comes in a beautiful keepsake box, with bespoke rose print design by luxury British fashion house Lily and Lionel. This is the perfect addition to any skincare regime, and any bathroom shelfie!

Limited Edition Pro=collagen Rose Cleansing Balm 200g, £68, Monks Spa at Machynys, Llanelli

The best of beauty and skincare comes together to provide smooth lightweight to medium coverage, concealing blemishes and dark spots, and delivering high performance skincare.

Arbonne’s vegan 10-in-1 CC Cream is the perfect beauty bag companion to take you through the summer and into the autumn, when the weather cools down and your skin needs hydration but you still want to show off your tan!

LAURA DAVIES rounds up the latest news, trends and best buys for your shopping basket this month laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

THE IDEAL TRAVEL COMPANION I have been a fan of the ESPA range for a good while, yet only seem to take advantage of the products when visiting my favourite spa. Imagine my delight at seeing this fantastic travel collection which features basically everything you need to take on holidays - and they all come in travel friendly sizes! Explore ESPA with this ultimate collection of travel friendly treatments for skin, body and mind. Packed for the journey, with an extensive range of our bestselling formulas, you’ll also discover the brand’s limited edition luggage tag and ‘Explore’ travel guide, with expertise from its spas around the world.

ESPA Beauty Explorer Collection, £65, John Lewis, Cardiff

eye shimmer We love Tom Ford’s Cream and Powder Eye Colour, a two-tiered eye colour that pairs two coveted formulas into one, to create a lustrous and sexy summertime eye. The ultra pigmented, metallic cream shadow glides onto lids with a rich, molten glow, and the sparkling celestial powder intensifies the look with alluring shimmer. £48, John Lewis, Cardiff

A mesmerising treasure

PLASTIC FREE

NATURAL DEODORANTS

We love the scent of Jo Malone’s latest fragrance, Rose & White Musk Absolu, a contrast between roses, fresh with morning dew in an English garden, and the heat of the Arabian desert with a scent that varies from transparent to deeply sensual.

Rose & White Musk Absolu 100ml Cologne, £200, Jo Malone, Cardiff

Ben & Anna Solid Deodorants, £9.95, www.benandanna.uk

Want to discover a deodorant that is kind to your skin and the environment?

We love the new Ben & Anna Solid Deodorants (£9.95), which are not only certified natural, organic and vegan, but also eco-friendly as they come in plasticfree packaging.

Each deodorant is packaged in a unique cardboard tube coated with a natural wax that is easy to use, friendly to the environment and keeps the product in perfect condition. To use, just simply press the bottom of the tube and push up. Once it is finished, you can put the tube in your paper recycling bin. swansealife.co.uk 39

HAIR & BEAUTY

get pedi ready

Ditching the tights, popping on some flip-flops and feeling the sunshine on your skin is one of the joys of summer - or is it? Get your tootsies ready with these simple, fast and affordable ways to whip your feet into shape.

1. POP ON SOME PEELING SOCKS

3. FILE YOUR FEET

5. TRY GLYCOLIC

8. PICK A POLISH

Wearing Beautyfeet Nourishing Heel Pad Socks assists the sebaceous gland, sweat glands and skin to revive damaged heels. It usually takes seven to 14 days to completely revive heels, but you should start to see results after one day. Alternatively, Superdrug's new Foot Peeling Socks are designed to be left on for an hour, and use alpha hydroxy acids to encourage dead skin to peel away over the course of a week.

Our feet are extremely hard-working, which, when combined with a lack of TLC can cause build-up of dry, hard skin and even cracked heels.

Therefore, just like the rest of the body, treat your feet to a light exfoliation once a week, to help get rid of any dry skin, and refresh and rejuvenate the skin cells. Always use a safe foot file which resembles 'sand paper on a stick' instead of a metal one which resembles a cheese grater!

There is a reason that NeoStrata PDS Cream is known by so many as a 'pedicure in a jar’.

Its ability to smooth away dry, cracked skin and leave feet baby soft in just a couple of weeks is a dream.

Add a pop of colour to your nails with a non-toxic nail polish such as Dr’s Remedy. This vitamin-enriched nail polish is infused with a special blend of ingredients, including organic tea tree oil, wheat protein, garlic bulb extract and lavender.

■ Beautyfeet Nourishing Heel Pad Socks, £4, currently reduced from £7.99, SockShop.co.uk

6. MOISTURISE DAILY

■ Foot Peeling Socks, £8.99, Superdrug, Swansea

■ Lloyds Pharmacy Foot Pedi, £34.99, Lloyds Pharmacy, Gorseinon, Killay and Swansea

2. SCRUB UP For the ultimate baby soft feet, use a foot polish followed by a heel balm and butter to keep feet moisturised, preventing hard skin build-up - especially in summer. For an extra treat, soak feet in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes before using the foot polish.

■ Sanctuary Spa Foot Polish, £6, Boots, Swansea and Morfa Retail Park ■ Weleda Birch Body Scrub, £9.95, Weleda.co.uk

40 swansealife.co.uk

■ Neostrata Problem Dry Skin Cream, £23, currently reduced from £33, Harleystreetemporium.com

■ Sol de Janeiro Samba Foot Fetish Care Smoothing Board and Cream, £25, CultBeauty.co.uk

4. TRIM YOUR TOENAILS Trim your nails after a bath or shower with a good quality nail clipper, cutting straight along the top.

Leave about 1mm of white tip and do not cut down the sides, as this can cause ingrowing nails. Smooth off with an emery board.

■ Masqd The Nail Set, £18, Boots, Swansea

Regular moisturising will keep your feet looking and feeling amazing, so use a urea-based cream night and morning. Urea is a natural, moisturising substance, available in two strengths - 10 per cent urea for keeping the skin soft and supple, or 25 per cent for when the skin has cracked and needs help healing.

■ Ureka 10% Urea Foot Care Cream, £5.25, FeetLife.co.uk

7. USE BALM Finish your DIY pedi with a generous slathering of nourishing foot balm, then put on a pair of clean socks to help lock in the moisture overnight.

■ Natural Spa Factory Sole Food Foot Nutrition balm, £18 for two, Naturalspafactory. com ■ Ameliorate Intensive Foot Treatment, £15, Feelunique.com

It minimises the appearance of dry, brittle nails, hydrates nail cuticles and improves the wear-time of your nail colour, providing a high shine.

■ Dr's Remedy Peaceful Pink Coral, £11.95, FeetLife.co.uk

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@RhydianMaherHairSalon

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DENTAL, IMPLANT OR ORTHODONTIC CONSULTATIONS IF BOOKED IN JULY 2018 - NORMALLY £75

A R E YO U H I D I N G SOMETHING MISSING YO U R S M I L E ?

F RO M YO U R S M I L E ?

DENTAL IMPLANTS • ADULT ORTHODONTICS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY Contact us today to arrange your first consultation: COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL & IMPLANT CLINIC

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

i h s su FO O D B E N E F ITS

LAURA DAVIES look at the top health benefits of the mouth-watering delicacy, sushi, which is packed full of nutrients for the body, mind and skin

1

laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

‘Sushi’ your way to less inflammation

Sushi, is rich in Omega3 Fish Oils, which are classed as essential fats, as the body can’t make them. They have a host of health benefits; Omega3’s reduce high cholesterol levels and studies have found they lower the risk of heart disease and overall inflammation; lowering blood pressure, triglycerides and maintaining heart rhythm. In short, these oils keep all systems ‘well oiled!’

2

Cut cravings

As you may already know, fish, is an excellent source of protein that balances blood sugar and keeps energy levels stable. This leads to longer spells of satiety, enhanced metabolism and less snacking (between meals), encouraging steady and safe weight loss. For weight loss, it may also be dependent on the type of sushi chosen.

Choose the ‘fishier’ choices with vegetables like salmon or tuna sashimi with seaweed salad, or miso soup with sashimi, or a veggie roll.

3

Food for your brain

The fish in sushi is the number one brain food! The essential fats, or Omega 3 fatty acids, nourish and repair brain cells. As fish is also rich in protein and essential fats, it helps focus the mind, increase concentration and maintain energy, making sushi a perfect lunchtime option during your working day!

44 swansealife.co.uk

4

@LawsDx

Stabilise your mood

By regularly eating sushi, the fish oils may help with more serious conditions like psychosis and bipolar disorders. Fish is also high in Vitamin B12, which keeps the brain ‘happy’ and staves off bouts of depression, anxiety and brain fog.

5

Prevent wrinkles

Sushi is a prolific source of antioxidants, which slows down cell damage, prevents permanent oxidative damage to the skin and slows down overall ageing. These antioxidants preserve the cell structure of the skin, help keep cells younger both externally and internally and are an integral essential to all anti-aging diets!

6

7

Forgo forgetfulness

The high content of Omega 3 essential fats of the fish in sushi, helps with memory and can also help with cognitive function. Therefore, eating regular sushi meals is beneficial for all ages in order to help protect the brain and maintain healthy cognition function.

8

Speed up muscle repair

9

Increase your immunity

Sushi is also an excellent source of protein and if exercising regularly, it may aid muscle repair and recovery. For maximum benefit have sushi at least twice or three times a week.

Sushi is also packed with other essential co-factor minerals, which play an important role in energy production and immunity. These minerals are Zinc, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorous and Iron.

Vitamin A, Carotene, Vitamin A and Retinol are plentiful too. Vitamin A and C are more prevalent in vegetarian sushi.

Give your bones a boost

Fish is also an exceptional source of calcium and it is the primary mineral for bone health. Eating sushi regularly may help to keep joints healthy and stave off more serious conditions like osteoporosis.

Calcium also forms the essential ‘building blocks’ for healthy hair and nails.

10

Opt out of obesity

Sea vegetables like Kombu, Nori and Wakame, which are found in sushi, are high in iodine. Iodine helps in the prevention of hypothyroidism or low thyroid function, which if uncontrolled may lead to obesity and lethargy.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

how to avoid jet lag Say goodbye to time-zone tiredness with these expert tips laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Jetting off on the summer holiday of a lifetime is one of the best feelings in the world, but spending the first few days battling jet lag? Not so much.

she suggests sticking to plain water, as artificial stimulants will affect your ability to sleep and increase jet lag recovery time. Drink enough water to make sure your urine is a pale straw colour.

Also known as ‘desynchronosis’ and ‘flight fatigue’, jet lag is a temporary disorder that causes fatigue, insomnia and sometimes other symptoms, as a result of air travel across different time zones.

You might also find that you get more dehydrated when you’re flying and need to drink more than normal.

It’s caused by a disruption to your circadian rhythm - the internal body clock that governs your daily sleep-wake pattern.

Besides fatigue and insomnia, unlucky travellers may experience a number of physical and emotional effects, including anxiety, constipation, diarrhoea, confusion, dehydration and headaches.

In other words: It’s not a fun start to your summer break.

1

.Stay hydrated and ditch the coffees

Before a flight, it can be tempting to load up on wine and beer to calm your nerves (or toast the holiday!), or caffeinated drinks to keep you awake, but this could be doing more harm than good.

Hydration can be key. Your body recovers best when it isn’t depleted of fluids. Tea, coffee (if you’re not used to them) and alcohol can dehydrate you, depending on what type you have. When it comes to choosing from the drinks trolley mid-flight,

2

Adjust your sleep pattern slowly

There are some sleeping strategies you can implement before you go away, to help ease you into the change of time zones when you arrive.

A few days before your flight, gradually adjusting your bedtime - either earlier if you’re flying east, or later if heading west. By beginning to shift your sleep schedule early on, you’ll feel more energised to get up and get going even on that first day.

There are online tools that can help you to plan the shift. A Jet Lag Calculator (hillarys.co.uk/ static/jet-lag-calculator) is really helpful; it analyses the number of time zones your flight crosses, in order to work out how many hours you’ll have to shift your body clock.

3

Turn off gadgets

4

Bring your own pillow

Try to maintain your personal sleep routine while you’re away from home. Make time to set out your bedtime stuff, such as your pyjamas and toilet bag, so that things will be ready when you return for the night. This has the important effect of familiarising you with your new sleep environment.

Also, try to preserve your pre-sleep habits and routines. These are important behavioural cues for sleep, so make sure you pack any items which support these behaviours, like photos, books, blankets or teddy bears - and consider taking your own pillow.

5

Adjust your watch

A simple but effective trick you can do during your flight is to change your watch, phone and laptop to match the time of your destination.

This will mentally prepare you for the new time zone you’re about to enter.

Imagine what you would be doing at your destination and try to mimic that as much as possible, especially meals and bedtime. You’ll be amazed at how quickly shifting your mind’s perspective and small actions can help your body adjust to the changes.

When you arrive at your destination, it can be really tempting to start updating your social media channels and checking up on the day’s news, but if you’re planning to get some shut-eye, this can really throw off your sleep schedule. The blue light emitted by your device can trick your brain into thinking it’s daytime even when it’s not.

If you find yourself awake late in the evening, choose a light evening meal and stretch your legs outdoors instead. Switch off electronic gadgets and read a book to help you fall asleep.

6

Snack on cherries

Struggling to sleep in your hotel? Instead of ordering room service, try and find a local fruit vendor. Montmorency tart cherries are one of the few natural sources of melatonin, the hormone responsible for the regulation of the body’s internal clock and sleep-wake cycle.

Cherries can help improve sleep quality, including sleep efficiency, the number of awakenings at night, nocturnal activity and actual time spent sleeping. To reap the benefits, have either a handful of cherries as a bedtime snack, or swill down a small serving of tart juice - you might just find that it stops you from staring at the ceiling all night.

swansealife.co.uk 45

OPHTHALMOLOGY

EYE HEALTH EXPERTISE At BMI Werndale Hospital all of the ophthalmologists bring a wealth of expertise and dedication.They are committed to delivering the highest quality treatment and care for patients with acute eye problems, longer-term conditions and those who require aesthetic or cosmetic surgery.

For more information or to get a quote for eye surgery please call on 01267 225639 or visit www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/werndale BMI Werndale Hospital Bancyfelin, Carmarthen SA33 5NT

Serious about health.

Passionate about care.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

TEN TOP TIPS to stay cool in the heat

Whether your going on a summer gettaway abroad or enjoying a staycation at home, LAURA DAVIES looks at ten useful tips that will help you stay cool in the sun laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

1. Keep hydrated

6. Take a tepid shower

Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming or exploring it’s easy to forget to hydrate when you’re having fun on holiday. Keep plenty of fluids with you and drink frequently throughout the day. Keep all bottles wrapped in a towel and in the shade - there’s nothing worse than a swig of warm water when you need to cool down.

Although it’s tempting to have a freezing cold shower in order to cool off, a tepid shower is actually much more effective at cooling you down as your body temperature doesn’t get so cold that it starts to produce more heat.

7. Choose cotton sheets

2. Blast cold water to the wrists

Getting to sleep can often be a difficult task if you are struggling with the heat, especially in accommodation without air conditioning.

Swap polyester sheets for lightweight cotton sheets - they are the best for keeping you cool as they are breathable and allow ventilation.

If you need a quick cool down, a blast of cold water to the wrists is a quick way to relieve overheating. Your wrists contain pulse points which are areas where your blood vessels are close to the surface of your skin. Rinsing them with cold water will cool off your blood and body temperature quickly.

8. Refrigerate your sheets before bed

3. Eat spicy food

Place bed sheets in a plastic bag and put them in the fridge or freezer a little while before bed, the cool sheets will provide relief whilst sleeping.

You may be tempted to cool down with a tall icy drink, but as your internal temperature cools, your body produces more heat to warm up, which leaves you even hotter.

Eating spicy food will actually help you cool down more quickly, it may seem unusual but spicy foods cause you to sweat, which in turn cools you down more quickly.

9. Keep blinds and curtains closed Keep blinds and curtains shut to avoid your room heating up during the day – you’ll be thankful for it when you get in and it’s cool.

4. Get a water spray

10. Hang a wet sheet by the window

Keep a small spray bottle filled with water on you at all times. A quick spritz is a great way to cool down whilst you’re out and about. The water mist will keep you cool for longer whilst it evaporates from your skin.

Soaking a sheet in cool water and hanging it in front of the window will create a cooling breeze as the wind blows through.

5. Lie low

holiday musthaves

Watermelon Rou nd Be a

Hot air rises, so If you’re struggling to get off to sleep because of the heat, place your mattress on the floor.

0, Tiger, Swanse l, £1 a we o T ch

Philip Kingsley Body & Volume Jet Set, £28.50, M&S, Swansea

Hello Sunshine Leather Passport Cover, £45, Radley, Cardiff

Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face SPF30, 30ml, £22, Boots, Swansea

First Class Tag, £16, Notanotherbill.com

Sunnylife Luxe Swan Inflatable, £58, Amara.com

Spring Bloom Scattered Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase, £165, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

BuyBusy B Adventure Travel Wallet, £25, John Lewis, Cardiff swansealife.co.uk 47

HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

FEEDING - YOUR BABY YOUR CHOICE Having a baby is for most mums a magical bonding experience but it is not uncommon to see some mum’s really struggling with breast-feeding. The key is to decide what is right for you and your baby and ensure they receive nourishment to grow and develop.

What are my options?

1. Exclusive breastfeeding i.e. your baby only has breast milk The benefits: • It is free, readily available and usually contains all the nutrients your baby needs.

• It contains antibodies from your own body which can help protect your baby frominfections and diseases (some studies have shown lower rates of diarrhea andvomiting illness, sudden infant death syndrome, obesity, heart problems and type 2 diabetes) • Studies have shown it can also benefit you too with lower reported rates of obesity, heart problems, breast and ovarian cancer and gives some protection against osteoporosis.

This month Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones, focusses on breastfeeding.

48 swansealife.co.uk

2. Expressing your milk then feeding via a bottle +/- breast feeding too For some mum’s this is a necessity either because their babies are not well enough to feed OR mum has problems with breastfeeding OR doesn’t like idea of breast feeding OR for other reasons (e.g. mum returning to work / way to involve partners in feeding). Using this method means that baby gets benefits of breast milk.

There are many devices / breast pumps that can help with expressing milk on the market – again your midwife / health visitor / friends and family can help. **It is important when using bottle-feeding methods that you follow the advice in preparing and storing either your breast milk or formula milk**

Some not common breast feeding problems.

• Soreness/pain/cracked nipples – breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt so if it does then it may be that your baby isn’t latched on (i.e. attached) properly or in the correct position. Your midwife or health visitor are great at helping with this.

• Mastitis – this is an infection of the breast tissue - often noticed by feeling feverish / flu like then developing a patch of red pinky hot skin (or lump if an abscess present) and sometimes nipple discharge.

You will need antibiotics for this condition (and possibly drainage if an abscess present) so don’t delay contacting your GP if you think you have mastitis.

3. Mixed feeding i.e. mix of breast and formula milk Many mums use this method when they are worried about the amount of milk or simply cannot make enough breast milk to exclusively feed their baby or cannot continue exclusively breastfeeding (e.g. returning to work).

If you are worried you are not making enough milk to exclusively breast feed and this is your preferred method of feeding baby then speak to your midwife or health visitor as they have great advice on this including simple tips for boosting supply.

Most formulas are made from cow’s milk – there are some from goat’s milk or soya products.

– if you think your baby may cow’s milk or lactose intolerance then speak to your health visitor before switching to a soya-based milk.

Again, ensure you prepare and store your milk as per instructions.

Where can I get more information / support with breastfeeding?

• Speaking to your midwife, health visitor, family or friends will often help you find solutions.

• National breastfeeding helpline offers advice and support between 09.30am and 9.30pm every day – 0300 100 0212 and has a webchat service UNICEF – The Baby Friendly Initiative and National Childbirth Trust websites have useful information

4. Exclusive formula milk feeding As its name suggests this is formula only feeding Whilst it is true that formula milk does not give some of the health benefits outlined above for you and your baby that breast milk does, it does not harm your baby.

As above, it is important to ensure you are using the right formulae for your baby’s age and prepare and store it as per the instructions.

How YOU feed your baby is YOUR choice and you should not feel guilty about the choice you make – your midwife and GP practice are here to support you.

fairytale YOUR

BY THE SEA

For a perfect setting for your dream wedding look no further than The Cliff Hotel & Spa. Exclusive use of our wedding suite & ballroom for up to 160 guests (250 for evening reception) with exclusive bar & terrace with simply stunning views over Cardigan Bay. For more details get in touch with our Wedding Team.

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reservations@grovenarberth.co.uk www.grovenarberth.co.uk 01834 860915

BRIDE

Emma and Simon Davies An elegant wedding at a stunning mansion house, was the perfect wedding venue for Carmarthenshire newlyweds Emma and Simon Davies. LAURA DAVIES speaks with the bride about the big day The couple: Emma Kate Davies, 27, a NHS dietitian married Simon Andrew Davies, 32 years old, a self employed agricultural and construction contractor. They both live in Pontyates, Carmarthenshire.

How did you meet?

We met when I was 16 years old and Simon was 21 out in Carmarthen. The moment I met Simon I instantly knew I wanted to get to know him better and well the rest is history.

Tell us about the proposal..

Simon proposed at about 7am on Christmas day in 2014. I absolutely love Christmas and

him proposing on this day made the day even more special for me.

What was the theme for the day, and did you have a colour scheme?

Where did you did married and why did you choose the venue?

I would say my theme was elegant and the colour scheme was blush pink, rose gold and gold.

Everything was held at Nanteos Mansion in Aberystwyth. I visited a few wedding venues but none of them were perfect I am slightly obsessed with high grand ceilings and chandeliers. Once I walked into Nanteos Mansion I was really impressed. The wedding co-ordinator showed me the Music Room which had a grand gold ceiling and a beautiful chandelier, I instantly knew I wanted to get married there. I actually booked the wedding venue without Simon even seeing it!

When did you know you had found “the dress� and what style did you go for?

I only went to one wedding shop which was Cariad Bridal in Swansea. I tried on about eight dresses but none felt the perfect dress for me. Vanessa, the shop owner, was amazing - she was really honest and she actually ended up choosing my dress. She asked me to try a dress by Mori Lee and I walked out of the changing room and my mum and my sister Lorna just said wow! I felt and looked like a princess.

swansealife.co.uk 51

BRIDE

What about your bridesmaids and groomsmen?

I knew exactly what I wanted my bridesmaids to wear and researched dresses before going shopping.. They wore a beautiful Rose Gold Kelsey Rose dress which we bought from Huw Rees Bridal in Llandeilo. The dresses really suited the wedding venue and theme. After discussing the venue and bridesmaids dresses with my photographer Rob from Purecreations Photography, he suggested that the men wore a tuxedo. Simon and I went to Dyfed Menswear in Gorslas to choose the suits. To be honest Simon didn’t really have any input. He was amazing as he knew I had an image in my head and just asked me what I wanted and that’s what he had. I have to say a tuxedo is timeless and again really suited the wedding venue.

Tell us about your floral arrangements?

I had the most amazing florist to do our floral arrangements - Wendy from Blodau Blodwen in Nantycaws. We had a few appointments to discuss what I wanted and Wendy also suggested a few ideas. I didn’t really mind what flowers were used as long as it matched my colour scheme and there was no foliage in the bouquets. The flowers were beautiful and they exceeded our expectations.

What about your cake?

I knew from day one that I wanted Heavenly Exquisite Desserts to make our wedding cake.

I’m not a big fan of icing and they decorate the

52 swansealife.co.uk

entire cake with chocolate including the flowers.

I had a three tier cake and the flavours were chocolate and blueberries, white chocolate and raspberries and salted caramel. The bottom tier was decorated with blush pearlescent chocolate, the middle tier was completely covered with gold leaf and the top tier was decorated with rose gold glitter. The cake was perfect!

How did you make your wedding personal to you? And did you have any DIY touches?

The ceremony was conducted through the medium of both Welsh and English but to make the ceremony personal to us we said our vows in Welsh. My sister Lorna also read a beautiful Welsh poem during the ceremony. Being a little bit of a perfectionist I did pay close attention to the little details. I had made an Emporio Armani gift basket for Simon to open the morning of our wedding day which included cufflinks, watch, socks, wallet and underwear. I also left little gifts in my bridesmaids rooms the night before the wedding which has pyjamas, lipstick, a personalised coat hanger and prosecco.

We had personalised wedding favours which were also made by Heavenly Exquisite Desserts and we had gold wooden place names which our guests could keep on the tables. We also had a photo mirror as I don’t really like photo booths, a light up dance floor and light up letters. The company, Exquisite by Design, who made our wedding invitations also made menus for each table.

We didn’t have a menu choice for the wedding breakfast so the guests were therefore able to see what was on the menu before the food arrived.

What were your wedding highlights?

The most memorable moment for me was seeing Simon, my soon to be husband waiting for me at the end of the aisle. I felt the happiest I could ever be. I was marrying my best friend.

I didn’t stop smiling from the moment I saw Simon. He became a little emotional when he saw me which the photographer captured and I had to stop myself from crying. It was the happiest moment of my life.

Did you have a first dance? Did you have any other entertainment?

Simon chose our first dance song which was Perfect by Ed Sheeran. He chose that song as he could relate to the lyrics. I also surprised my parents Kevin and Denise. On their wedding day they never got to have a first dance. I remember my dad saying what song he would have chosen for their first dance and I surprised them by dedicating Three Times a Lady by Lionel Richie to them. They finally got to have their first dance after 32 years of marriage. We also had the most amazing live band which was The Party Rockers and everyone was dancing all night.

Did you go on honeymoon?

We went to Thailand for our honeymoon to Koh Samui where we had our own hut and infinity pool. We got married on the Saturday and

we flew to Thailand on the Wednesday. I would recommend this for anyone that would want to go on honeymoon soon after the wedding as it gave us plenty of time to pack our suitcases after the wedding rather than having to do it before.

What was the best investment you made?

Definitely the wedding venue as it was breathtaking but also my hair, makeup and photographer. My flawless makeup was done

by Leah James at Hidden Beauty in Carmarthen and my hair was done by Taryn Williams at Taryn’s Freelance-Hair. They both made sure that I looked flawless for my wedding day. I think it’s also really important to research your photographer. We had Rob from Purecreations Photography. I instantly fell in love with his photographs the moment I saw his work and he captured the day perfectly.

If you could go back and change anything, what would it be?

I did plenty of research before booking suppliers and because I was organised, everything went to plan (other than the snow storm ‘storm Emma’) and we had the most perfect day. Given the circumstances we were lucky to even have a wedding day. I know that many other brides had to postpone their wedding due to the weather conditions. I am lucky to have such amazing and supportive family and friends, and all the suppliers were more than helpful leading up to and on the wedding day, ensuring that they made our wedding happen.

Steal the Style: Nanteos Mansion www.nanteos.com Leah James Makeup Artist www.leahjameshiddenbeauty.com Heavenly Exquisite Desserts www.heavenlychoc.co.uk Cariad Bridal www.cariadbridal.co.uk Purecreations Photography www.purecreationsphotography.com Blodau Blodwen Flowers www.blodwen.co.uk Taryns Freelance-Hair www.weddinghairdresser.moonfruit.com Huw Rees Brides www.huwreesbrides.com Pretty Seats and Bows www.pretty-seats-and-bows.co.uk The Party Rockers www.LiveWeddingMusic.co.uk Ultrabooth www.ultrabooth.co.uk Exquisite by Design www.exquisite-by-design.co.uk Dyfed Menswear www.dyfedmenswear.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 53

An enchanting waterside location for your wedding or special occasion

From small & intimate to large and opulent, our unique secluded venue can tailor an event perfect for you

Slebech Park | Slebech | Haverfordwest | Pembrokeshire | SA62 4AX 01437 752000 | www.slebech.co.uk

Have your Picture Perfect Wedding At Norton House Hotel we offer comfort, style and service, Ensuring your special day is one to remember

Weddings l Functions l Restaurant l Accommodation

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BRIDESMAID DUTY

BRIDE

Online brand Little Mistress has some gorgeous bridesmaid’s dresses if you are looking for the perfect gown to compliment your wedding dress and theme. And the best news is that they won’t break the bank either with prices coming in well under £100 a dress.

This high neck lace bodice maxi dress with a crossover waist detail and pleat chiffon skirt in bluebell, took our fancy and at £88 we think it’s a bargain buy!

all that glitters…

Opt for a timeless design with Swarovski’s bestselling tennis bracelet. This delicate strand of bezel-set clear crystals offers an elegant and minimalistic look, ideal for your big day and beyond.

Swarovski Crystal Tennis Bracelet, £89, John Lewis, Cardiff

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

SAY YES TO THE HIGH STREET DRESS!

Little Mistress Pale Blue Dress, £88, Little-mistress.com.

sweet dreams Make sure you get plenty of beauty sleep the night before your wedding with this sparkle eye-mask from Lipsy. White Bride Eyemask, £8, Lipsy.co.uk

CHILDS PLAY

If you don’t want to spend a small fortune on a wedding gown but still want to look the belle of the ball, head to Monsoon. There are plenty of stunning dresses to flatter all shapes and sizes in a variety of looks and materials. And if you are lucky you may pick up a bargain as many of the styles are going into the summer sales. So keep your eyes peeled. We love this gown - it’s timeless, classic and truly beautiful with a lavish floral lace design showcasing a sophisticated high neck.

Emilie Lace Bridal Maxi Dress, £499, Monsoon.co.uk

SCENT OF LOVE

Wedding season is truly upon us, which means it’s time to start thinking about wedding presents.

Looking for a way to keep little ones entertained at a wedding? This fun kit contains two small exercise books containing 12 sheets (24 pages) of plain white paper as well as five colouring pencils in green, blue, red, yellow and orange so they can draw to their heart's content.

Evergreen Wedding Kids Table Activity Set, £5, Paperchase, Cardiff

Wedding gifts are notoriously difficult presents to buy; pleasing both the bride and the groom is almost impossible, not to mention choosing a gift that is both special and practical. This year, Yankee Candle has the solution to every guest’s worries with their stunning Wedding Day collection. The fragrance is a sophisticated, soothing blend of florals and subtle fruits, making it a great gift and a great focal point for a centrepiece. Let Yankee Candle help you give a present fit for royalty on this wedding season.

BRIDAL 2019 We love the new bridal collection from Linea Raffaelli for 2019.

The brand travelled to Morrocco to do the photoshoot for Linea Raffaelli Bridal and its LineAmore collections. We can’t wait to see the rest of the range. www.linearaffaelli.be/en

JUST MARRIED...

This pair of Just Married passports is the perfect gift to send the happy couple off on their honeymoon with. Made from real leather, they come in classic white with a message printed in gold foil. Why not pair them with the matching luggage tags for a coordinated wedding gift?

Just Married Passport Holders, £22, and Just Married Luggage Tag Set, £18.50, Paperchase at Next, Morfa Retail Park

SNAP IT!

the ories with sting mem roid Sign.

Create la la Po t Gian g Ginger Ray nds will love takin d frie giving , p ro p n Family an is fu r their tos with th cool pho e perfect frame fo th frame e id n o every e polaro urite s! Place th best pose ith all of your favo wn o w ry ve r u yo in an area props for th o o b to . oth pho photo bo £13, roid Sign, Giant Pola ad Ginger Ray , Pontarddulais Ro ft Hobbycra k Retail Par

Pillar candles in large (£21.99), medium (£19.99), and small (£10.99). Jar candles, large (£23.99), medium (£19.99) and small (£8.99), Yankee Candle Shop, Swansea and www.yankeecandle.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 57

Join us for National Afternoon Tea Week 14th - 20th August 2018 Selection of finger sandwiches Mini puff pastry tart Mini steak and ale pie Mini nibbles and dips Macaroons c Mini plain scones with jam and clotted cream Lemon meringue pie Lime and coconut cheesecake Sweet treat skewer – Mini doughnut, chocolate brownie, strawberries Eclairs

£17.95pp Glass of Prosecco (optional £4.50 per person) Available daily between 2.30pm & 5.30pm, we kindly request 48 hours notice to book, booking is essential, excludes bank holidays, subject to availability.

The perfecT dress for every bride...

Award Winning Bridal Boutique Based In swansea city centre 35 Nelson street, swansea sA1 3QQ Book An Appointment Today • Tel: 01792 461108 www.cariadbridal.co.uk

T He P l ugH r HOsmaen

VOTED ‘BEST WEDDING VENUE IN WEST WALES’ 2017

THe PerfecT venue fOr YOur s Pe c I a l d aY

Images on facing page and above right courtesy of www.KarlBaker.com

Y

our wedding day will be the most important day of your life and our wedding co-ordinators will be on hand to make it truly memorable. Here at e Plough we understand your ideas and inspirations, your preferences and priorities. Together, we’ll create a magical and enchanting day that you’ll never forget.

Our gallery dining room makes the most of the countryside views and offers a truly inspiring setting for you and your guests. It extends onto a spacious terrace emphasising the landscaped gardens, which serve as an ideal location for those special wedding photographs. e perfect setting for your wedding celebrations for as little as two to as many as 250 guests.

The Plough Hotel Rhosmaen, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire SA19 6NP | 01558 823431 | info@ploughrhosmaen.com

www.ploughrhosmaen.com

FOOD & DRINK Cute and cooling, how does a funky shape make these fruity pops even more satisfying?

We don’t know, but it does…

Watermelon and Pineapple Lollies, £1.69 for 3, Co-op, Llanelli

Bubblegum Ice Lollies £2 For 5 at Morrisons

Rowntree’s Fruit Blaster, £1.80, available at newsagents and supermarkets

Haagen Daaz Peanut Butter, £3.89 for 3, Tesco, Llansamlet and Parc Trostre

If making your own lollies feels like too much faff on a hot day, cheat with these options for all ages…

In plain coconut or tropical flavours, these are ridiculously addictive and feel like they’re probably a little bit healthy.

Coco Loco coconut water popsicles, £1.99 for 4, Aldi, Gorseinon, Llansamlet

Lidl’s star offering is amazingly similar to the more familiar lolly also named after a major weather phenomenon.

We love both kinds (the lollies, not the storms).

Swirls of peanut butter around sweet - salty peanut butter ice cream coated in just the right thickness of Belgian chocolate. Decadent and then some.

Lickalix P opta £5.99 fo ils, r 3, Ocado

s, berry Vienna 5 Mini Straw a land, Swanse Ice 5, r fo 0 £1.5

ookie Ice Choc Chip C wiches, Cream Sand nd, Swansea £2 for 8, Icela

Hurricane lollies, £1.99 for 6, Lidl, Gorseinon and Neath

swansealife.co.uk 63

Christmas

At The King Arthur Hotel Th Christmas Christmas Menu 2018 Menu Party Lunch Menu 20

To FinishTo Star t To Start To Start Welsh Set Cream with Mulled Cream of Mushroom & Celeriac Soup, Cream of Mushroom & Celeriac Cream of Infused Mushroom & Celeria Wine, Pink Peppercorn Shortbread, Winter Truffle Oil Croutons (v) Soup, Truffle Oil Croutons (v) Soup, Tr uffle Oil Croutons (v Berries

King Arthur Fish Cake, Dressed Leaves, um Crab Pannacotta, Chorizo Crumble, Pannacotta, Chorizo Crab Cr Deconstructed Black Forest Gateau, House Tartare Sweet Potato Mousse, Herb Crostini Sweet Potato Mousse, Herb Cros

Chocolate & Olive Oil Sponge, Cherry Brandy Chantilly, Glazed Black Asparagus & Goat’s Cheese Salad, Toasted Pressing of Ham Hock Pressing Terrine, of Cherry Ham Hock Terrine Cherries, Pure Chocolate, Sorbet Walnuts

Spiced ClementineSpiced & Date Chutney, Clementine & Date Chutn Toasted Sourdough Shards Toasted Sourdough Shards Trio of Bara Brith & Butter Pudding, To Follow Mini Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce

Roast Pembrokeshire Turkey, Pork &

and a Little Cup of Chef ’s Eggnog Oven Roasted Figs, Per Las Welsh Oven Roasted Figs, Per Las Wel Cranberry Stuffing Blue Cheese, WatermelonBlue Jelly, Cheese, Water melon Jelly Pistachio &Pear, Polenta Cake, Cranberry Roast Topside of& Welsh Beef, Yorkshire William Pear, Honey & William Mustard Honey Mustar Compote, Pickled Strawberries Pudding Vinaigrette Vinaigrette

Pan Roast Salmon Fillet, Shellfish Butter Petit Fours & Coffee To Follow T o Follow Sauce Ballotin Pembrokeshire TurkeyPembrokeshire Ballotine, Turkey Lunch £19.95 Stuffed with Walnuts, Cranberry & Stuffed with Walnuts, Cranberr y Wild Mushroom Nut Roast, Cheese & Leek Dinner £22.95 Minced Belly Pork,Minced Pigs in Blankets, Belly Pork, Pigs in Blank Fondue Crisp Roast Potatoes Crisp Roast Potatoes Dinner Dance with live entertainment £27.95

To Finish

Braised Ox Cheeks, Pulled Brisket Braised Ox Cheeks, Pulled Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce Brisk Bon Bon, Charred Shallot Petals, Bon Bon, Charred Shallot Peta Smoked Garlic & Herb Mash, Red Smoked Garlic & Herb Mash, R Salted Caramel Cheesecake Wine Reduction Wine Reduction Joe’s Vanilla Ice Cream

Pan Roasted Brill Fillet, BlowPan Roasted Brill Fillet, BlowMini Mince Pies & Coffee Torched Cauliflower,T Caramelised orched Cauliflower, Caramelis Cauliflower Purée, Monkfish Scampi, Cauliflower Purée, Monkfish Scam 2 course £13.95 Sea Vegetables Sea Vegetables 3 course £16.95

Taking Bookings T Now The King Arthur Hotel Higher Green, Reynoldston Gower, Swansea SA3 1AD

The King www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk Higher G 01792390775 Gower, S info@kingarthurhotel.co.uk SA3 1AD

FOOD & DRINK

SWEET!

VEGETARIAN BBQ

For those with a sweet tooth, why not try these delicious fruity summer punch mallows, which contain cherries and raspberries.

RASPBERRY FRUIT BEEr

Vegetarians don’t need to miss out with M&S’ veggie hot dog selection that are available in Roasted Beetroot and Caramelised Onion and Vegetarian Smokey Broccoli, Sprinach and Kale, £3 for 400g. They are sure to be a big hit on the BBQ and will tempt vegetarians and meat eaters alike. M&S, Swansea

A light blonde ale blended with English Raspberry juice to create a refreshing, fruity drink with a subtle tartness. A perfect match with Moroccan dishes or a helping of summer pudding.

100g , £5, M&S, Swansea and Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

WE L VE

£2, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

What’s not to like?

BOL Foods has launched its Keralan Coconut Curry Veg Pot which is inspired by Kerala’s abundant use of aromatic spices and coconut, This dish is a fresh and colourful medley which is 100 per cent plant-based.

Keralan Coconut Curry Veg Pot, £3, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach and Parc Trostre

COOKIE CRUSH

TREAT YOURSELF

Have your cheesecake and eat it!

Get your goji berry fix and feel slightly less guilty about Indulging your sweet tooth with Diablo’s Choc Chip & Goji Berry Cookies, £1.99, Grapetree.co.uk.

THIS MONTH

WE L VE

A SPICY SPLASH OF FLAVOUR FOR VEGANS

LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

You either love or hate Marmite and fans will be delighted to hear the breakfast spread has now been released in a new reduced-salt version. The tasty toasttopper contains a minimum of 25 per cent less salt than its original counterpart and comes in a 250g, £3.09.

Asda, Llansamlet and Llanelli

Flying Goose Sriracha Mayo Sauce has been given the official seal of approval from the Vegan Society and is a flavour-packed spicy alternative to other mayo offerings currently on the market.

@LawsDx

Find bottles at Tesco, Morrisons, Aldi and Lidl, RRP £1.89 per 200ml bottle.

Frozen for Freshness Oppo’s delicious new cheesecake desserts are under 159 calories per pot, £1.90, and include Sicilian lemon, Madagascan vanilla, and raspberry. The range comes after two years of development and more than 250 recipe tweaks.

Sainsbury’s, Gorseinon and Swansea

Magnum’s new Chocolate & Hazelnut Praline is a pleasure worth giving in to.

Available in both tubs and on a stick, the sweet treat can be found in stores nationwide.

The 440ml tubs cost £3.85 and Magnum Sticks £2.

BEEF OR LOBSTER? NO NEED TO CHOOSE Add a touch of luxury to a barbecue with Iceland’s Surf and Turf Quarter Pounders. It’s a great combination of British beef and Norwegian lobster and costs £3 for a two pack.

The Iceland range also includes Luxury Venison Quarter Pounders, £2.50, and Luxury Wagyu Beef Quarter Pounders, £3. Iceland, Swansea

No summer is complete without a jug of Pimm’s, and Asda’s new frozen Pimm’s mix removes the hassle of slicing and dicing.

Containing frozen cucumber, strawberries, spiced orange peel and mint, just mix with lemonade and Pimm’s and you are good to go. Summer Cup Mix, £1.75, Asda, Llanelli and Llansamlet.

LIMITED EDITION

Grey Goose has teamed up with French artist Quentin Monge, famous for his illustrations of bikini-clad women and minimalist characters, to create this blue and white striped parasols design. The vodka is equally crisp and tasteful. Grey Goose Limited Edition Quentin Monge Vodka, £40, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 65

FOOD & DRINK

Summer drinks Home From picnics to BBQs we have your summer drinks list sorted.

DE14 Flight Suit Orange Pale Ale and DE14 End Point The IPA, £1.75 each, Morrisons, Parc Pemberton and Morfa Retail Park Everybody loves the sunshine and if you’re heading to the park, these funky cans, brewed in Burton on Trent, deserve a place in your cooler box. Cited as a brewer’s playground, Burton’s hop heads swear by the local water which shapes the flavour of the beer. A new release from DE14 nano-brewery, both ‘zing with orange flavours but in very different styles’. Flight Suit has heady marmalade aromas with punchy zesty citrus flavours, while End Point (one of the first beers rolled out of DE14) has a hop forward character and makes for a ‘modern take on the historic Burton IPA’.

M&S 9.5% Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Marlborough, New Zealand, £11, Marks & Spencer, Parc Trostre and Swansea Displaying all the expressive tropical and citrusy aromas and flavours we love in a New Zealand sauvignon blanc - but with a lighter palate and naturally lower abv - this is a crowd-pleaser without the need for complex layers.

Even better, you can add a splash of soda water and cube of good quality ice to create a mouth-watering white wine spritzer that won’t be drowned out by a lack of fruit or aromatics. Impressively refreshing for long, lazy lunches.

cooking with Sian Day

A deliciously simple recipe for August...

Cherry Trifle Cherries are at their best at the moment, plump, sweet and juicy. My daughter and I go to Ledbury in the summer and every time we would pass a lady selling amazing cherries in an old fashioned white cart from her own cherry orchard.

We love to stop by and buy a kilo or two and then devour them on the way home to Swansea. Our lips tainted dark cherry red. Cherries are so good for you and full of vitamin C and fibre.

Inventive chefs are finding ways to use the blossoms and berries in their Michelin star menus, elderflower tempura fritters anyone? With elderberry sorbet?

Cocktails are also utilising this lovely flower in the form of presses and spritzers Very refreshing!

La Terrasse Rose Pays d’Oc, 2017, France, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea A delicious invitation to step outside, this is the pink to sink on a sun-drenched terrace. Not only does the label bring the promise of something special (think garden party chic), but the sheer brilliance of the ballet-slipper pink and trendy glass stopper hints at something far more pricey. Utterly delicious, with summer berries on the nose and luscious red fruits backed by fresh acidity, the silky texture of the rose shows real poise.

Nero d’Avola Terre Siciliane 2017, Italy £7.99 for a 1.5L magnum, Lidl, Parc Tawe and Gorseinon You could be thinking the price sounds too good to be true - but this impressive wine more than delivers and its drinking appeal is endorsed by Lidl’s wine consultant and Master of Wine, Richard Bampfield, who says: “This wine has warming aromas and is perfect for barbecues. It’s juicy, with ripe fruit flavours and in a magnum it’s distinctly different. Pair with lamb burgers, spicy aubergine wedges or hard pecorino cheese!” Ditto.

Cotes Du Rhone Village 2017 Pouch, France (£17 for 1.5L, Marks & Spencer, Swansea A top scoring carryall, if you feel the urge to pull yourself away from a corkscrew and serve a wine on tap, we love this posh pouch. Generous and delicious from the word go, its smooth and fruity with lots of lovely crushed blackberry fruit aromas, dark cherry and plummy fruits, entwined with spice and a bright juicy finish.

Equivalent to two bottles, it stays fresh for a month and you can always save it for mid-week sipping with just the right measure to partner a scrummy sausage roll or chunk of hard cheese 66 swansealife.co.uk

YOU WILL NEED: ■ A jar of morello cherries in kirsh or juice ■

8 trifle sponges

■

A carton of ready made custard

■

500ml of double cream

■

Scattering of fresh cherries for the top of the triflel

METHOD 1 Layer half of the trifle sponges at the base of your bowl

2. Pour half of the cherry juice over the sponges, then grab a spoon and layer the fruits on top 3. Repeat 4. Pour over your custard 5. Whip the cream to a soft peak consistency 6. Pop in the fridge for an hour before serving 7. Scatter the cherries on top OPTIONAL EXTRAS Pour over 2 tablespoons of brandy over your sponges and toast some flakes of almonds in a dry pan and sprinkle on top.

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay

a UNIQUE

dINING EXPERIENCE a WaRM WELSH WELCoME aWaItS YoU Welcome to Llwyn Country House, our beautifully refurbished bijou hotel, near Llanelli. We offer our guests a warm Welsh welcome, whether you’re here to stay, to enjoy a meal in our restaurant, to help celebrate a special occasion or for a business event.

a La CaRtE

• SUNDAY LUNCH • AFTERNOON TEA • WEDDINGS • PRIVATE HIRE

FRI-Sat 6.30PM-9.30PM

LUNCHES WEd-Sat 12 - 2PM

EVENING dINNER MoN-tHUR 6.30PM-9.30PM

Tel: 01554 899994

www.llwyncountryhouse.co.uk LLWYN COUNTRY HOUSE, HEOL HENDRE, LLANELLI SA14 9SE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Ship Inn PORT EYNON

GOWER

We are a family run and owned independent Pub Situated in the most southerly point on the Gower. Port Eynon is known as a historic location for smuggling and is one of Gower’s best kept secrets. We are open every day from 12pm and we serve food all day from 12pm-10pm.

Port Eynon is steeped in a history of smuggling. The known outlaw in John Lucas retreated back to the southernmost tip of Gower, the ruined Salt House. It was believed that the church at Port Eynon was used as hiding place for contraband around the time of the battle of Trafalgar — kegs were hidden in the altar — and

within the Peninsula. Since taking over in 2014, as a business we have set out to rejuvenate this historic building through continued refurbishment to offer a warm and welcoming visit whilst maintaining the building’s character.

at other times, the goods were buried in the sand-dunes. It is understood that John was not all bad as he acted as a Robin Hood figure of the Gower as he shared the spoils of his smuggling trips with the poor

The Ship Inn provides a warm and welcoming environment to all visiting the Gower coast including our beloved 4-legged companions. We offer 2 bars and our outside terrace that are dog friendly whilst we also offer our restaurant area that we keep for people that prefer to dine without dogs. The decor provides a distinctly cosy and nautical theme throughout all our bars.

The Ship Inn’s

Summer 2018

What’s on…

We have live music most weekends over the summer so keep a look out on our Facebook page, TheShipInnGower. Or our website www.shipinngower.co.uk to keep updated!

• Fun filled weekend packed with live music from local groups, such as: Captain Cat and the Sailors, Baggywrinkle, The Bogtrotters, Shoal of Bass and more….

Events to look out for…

• Children’s treasure hunt around Port Eynon with prizes.

EVENTS

Every Saturday Tweke Lewis will be playing acoustic guitar in the restaurant from 8pm, make sure you book early as we get full very quickly.

ANNUAL SEA SHANTI FESTIVAL 2018

• If you think you have what it takes join in with our very own Sup race.

Friday the 27th July: We will have the lovely Bronwen Lewis singing Live in our back bar.

• Gower Sea Rowing Club regatta fun day with a “Charlie’s Aunt” style fancy dress competition at sea.

Saturday 28th July: 12pm we will have kids crafts and face paint. & Live Music in the evening.

• You can find out about the history and mysteries of the village in our poem’s and storytelling evening.

Saturday 11th August: Gower Triathlon, we will be having live music on in the evening.

• We are also hoping to hold our very own raft race.

Sunday 19th August: Live closeup magic by Jason Simons.

• We will be having an extended special seafood menu with lots to choose from for everyone alongside our regular menu.

Friday 24th – Monday 27th August: Live music all over the Bank Holiday.

• We have local craft ales and a massive range of Rum’s to get you in the shanty spirit.

Port Eynon, Gower, Swansea SA3 1NN • Tel: 01792 390204 Email: info@shipinngower.co.uk • www.shipinngower.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

A hidden gem in stunning Victorian house LAURA DAVIES visits the newly refurbished Llwyn Country House near Llanelli to try out their a la carte evening menu laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

I

t’s a Friday night, my husband is out, and I have a rare free evening to spend some quality time with my mum. And what better way to a have a good old catch up than with some quality food and drink at one of Llanelli’s newest restaurants.

So here we are at Llwyn Country House, near Llwynhendy. Despite not visiting the venue before, it is clearly signposted as you soon as you head over Loughor Bridge and is easy to find.

Pulling into the large car park, we are instantly drawn to the large ornate Victorian country house with its gorgeous stained glass windows and comfortable patio area. It truly is a gorgeous building and has very much a homely feel from the moment you step inside.

Llwyn Country House has only been open a few months and its new owners have done a superb job giving it a complete overhaul, with a bright modern dining room, while still retaining its original Victorian features, simple but elegant decor, and outdoor seating area.

It is fair to say my mum and I are impressed right from the start - always a good sign! We were shown to our table by friendly and attentive staff, where we admired the lovely, Victorian fireplace next to us and the beautiful crystal candles glowing on the top. The restaurant has a mix of diners from couples to a small party of ladies. The room is very light and airy and you almost feel like throwing on your comfy clothes and a pair slippers, it feels that relaxed and homely.

70 swansealife.co.uk

advertisement ADVERTISEMENT feature FEATURE

The menu is very impressive and offers a variety of delicioussounding dishes that made choosing a very difficult task.

Forget traditional battered fish and chips, lasagne and burgers, this is good, high end food at its best. For starters, I went for watercress and potato soup, (£4.45) while my mum chose the homemade ham hock and pea terrine with olive oil croutons (£5.45) and for mains I decided on herb crusted lamb, served with apricot and almond couscous, smoked aubergine puree, cucumber and Greek style mint yogurt, (£19.45) while my mum went for pan roasted supreme of chicken, with a black garlic puree, sauteed wild mushrooms and charred asparagus and creamy garlic sauce served with roasted potatoes, (£16.95). While we waited for our meals, we were served a selection of breads and olives with oil and balsamic vinegar which was a lovely touch.

Llwyn Country House is also associated with The Swigg in Swansea Marina, and the restaurant serves a la carte meals on Friday and Saturday evenings, Sunday lunches, afternoon teas and also caters for weddings.

We both had an enjoyable time at the restaurant and couldn’t fault the food or service. It is a real hidden gem, serving fantastic, fresh food, in the most beautiful historic building. I can see the restaurant growing from strength as the months go on and word of mouth spreads. It has fantastic potential and I wish the new owners well in their new venture. In my opinion, it’s already off to a winning start!

Pictures by: Adrian White • www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk

The focus here is all about using local produce from local suppliers and using seasonal foods to create the menu. Our food was served swiftly and looked a work of art on the plate. But not only did it look Instagram pictureworthy it also tasted delicious and extremely fresh. Starters were excellent and plentiful while our mains were equally as good. The lamb was cooked to my liking and was exceptionally flavoursome. My mother’s chicken was more than supreme and was tender and succulent with a delicious sauce.

Despite saying I wouldn’t have a dessert, I couldn’t resist it when I saw rhuburb and custard on the menu (£5.95). This is not your traditional grandmother’s own recipe. The rhuburb was cut into several small pieces and was served with what I initially thought was a scoop of vanilla icecream. As soon as I cut into it, I soon realised it was white chocolate with cold custard oozing out of it. It was delicious and so different. My mum went for the strawberries and cream, vanilla panna cotta served with fresh strawberries and strawberry daiquiri sorbet, (£5.95), it must have been good as she devoured the entire plate without even offering me some!

Llwyn Country House | Heol Hendre, Llanelli, SA14 9SE | Tel: 01554 899994 | www.llwyncountryhouse.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 71

The BeauforT arms

This charming pub is the perfect place to begin or end a visit to the beautiful Gower coast.

Don’t miss out on our daily offers: After school club

Fixed price lunch

Kids eat free*

2 courses for £10.95

*

One free kids main meal with the purchase of one full price adults main meal

Monday - Friday Midday - 5pm

Monday - Friday 3pm - 7pm

Steak and a pudding

Burger night

Rump steak and a pudding £15*

Any burger and a drink £10*

Excludes our Welsh cheese slate and our sharing slate

Monday 5pm - 10pm

Wednesday 5pm - 10pm

Pizza night

Free fizz

2 pizzas and 2 drinks £20*

Free bottle of Prosecco*

Excludes our Welsh cheese slate and our sharing slate

With the purchase of two x two courses

Friday 5pm - 10pm

Thursday 5pm - 10pm

WE’RE HAVING A BEER FESTIVAL 17TH - 19TH AUGUST

Free drink

with the purchase of a main meal* *T&Cs apply. Subject to availability. Valid until 31st October, 2018.

Visit www.sabrain.com for details.

Pernard Rd Church Ln

Kittle Hill Ln

WE ARE

HERE

Saint Teilo’s Church

B4436 Bishopston Rd

B4436

Co-op Food

TheBeaufortArmsSwansea

Beaufort_Arms

The Beaufort Arms 18 Pennard Road, Kittle, Swansea, SA3 3JG

Best places to Eat

Photo by Vibe Live

SWANSEA

The Swigg

Small plates & cocktails

1b National Waterfront Museum, Swansea SA1 3RD Tel: 01792 466026 • www.theswigg.net Steve Poole (co-founder): “The Swigg is a trendy, harbourside bar, kitchen and venue located in Swansea Marina. Swigg Swansea specialises in small plates, sourcing ingredients locally and from Swansea, Gower and South Wales.”

“Together we create our long standing ambition: to offer Swansea a unique and original harbour side bar and kitchen.

Our aim is simple, serve the finest food, great gins, cool cocktails, wonderful wine, craft beers and most importantly plenty of good times. Whether it’s trying our delicious, seasonal, locally sourced menu for a spot of lunch or dinner, or just dropping in to kick back and enjoy one of our exclusive drinks, come down and be part of the Swigg family.”

“New for Summer: check out our new outdoor area, designed to enjoy our beautiful harbour side location. Watching the sunset next to the waterfront whilst enjoying one of our great dishes, a cold drink and some cool vibes. What more could you want?”

Ruth (co-founder): ‘‘We are a small team that complement each other, from the boys in the kitchen to the girls out front. We’re a team that are passionate about creating something different in Swansea.

We’re so lucky to have such amazing, high quality ingredients on our doorstep, from food to gins and more!”

Saffron, Swigg General Manager: “Fuelled by my travels, I had a clear vision when I joined the Swigg team. I wanted us to be a one stop shop for wicked food, craft cocktails and the best coffee.

We’re a small team bursting with creativity and we can’t wait to show everyone what we’re made of!”

Steph: “The Swigg is a beautiful little spot. We’ve got a great team, all bringing our own ideas to the table to create something unique in Swansea. We are so lucky to have the Marina as a scenic harbourside backdrop to compliment the banging food and drinks we have created”.

Live music every Sunday 4-6pm

Advertising Feature

Best places to Eat

Restaurant Guide Three great places to eat and drink

SWANSEA

The Smiths Arms

S OKING O B G N AKI NOW T S PARTIE S A M T HRIS FOR C

51-52 Neath Road, Hafod, SA1 2HR Tel: 01792 466776

Family friendly pub serving food daily.

Serving for food Monday-Wednesday 12-3pm & 5-8pm, Thursday & Friday 12-8pm, Saturday 11.30-6pm Sunday carvery 12-4pm. Choice of 3 meats £6.45.

Curry & Pint night every Thursday 5-8pm.

Free newly refurbished function room for parties.

Car park at rear of building.

UR FOR YO W O N IRE ENQU ARTY TMAS P S I R H C

SWANSEA

Shepherds Country Inn 18 Heol Myddfai, Felindre, Swansea SA5 7ND • Tel: 01792 794715 www.shepherdsinn.co.uk • E: reservations@shepherdsinn.co.uk Family owned pub located in the lovely quiet village of Felindre (5 minutes off M4 J46).

Serving food Tuesday-Saturday 12-2pm & 6-9pm.

Lunchtime 2 Course special for £7.95.

Evening specials board as well as tempting homemade cheesecakes.

Burger & Pint offer Tues-Weds

£6.95.

Traditional Sunday Lunch served every Sunday 12-3pm Adults 1 Course £9.95 Childs 1 Course £4.95.

Large External Marquee with fully functioning bar available to hire for parties, charity events, etc.

Large Car park to the side of the building

coast and country in perfect harmony

DEVELOPMENT OF 5 HOMES OF 3 STYLES (4 AND 5 BEDS)

ONLY

3

MULTIPLE AWARD WINNING CLEWS HOMES

REMAINING

01792 653100 tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk

www.pablack.co.uk

01600 717 040

black

black

www.pablack.co.uk

www.pablack.co.uk

Prestige homes from Peter Alan Ltd

Llangennith, Swansea

Upper Killay, Swansea

• 4 bedroom detached property, including self contained annex • Sea Views over Llangennith beach and Rhossili down • Situated in over 3 acre plot • Off road parking • Business opportunities (subject to relevant permissions) • Versatile accommodation EPC - E

• Finished to a high standard throughout this 4 double bedroom detached property is not to be missed.

• High Specification Throughout • Gated Driveway & Detached Garage • Wheelchair Friendly Ground Floor • Backing onto fields, countryside views • EPC - AWIATED

Swansea 01792 641481 £560,000 Bethany Lane, West Cross,

Swansea 01792 641481 Eaton Crescent,

£550,000

£350,000

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

St Catwg Walk, Swansea

Graigola Road, Swansea

Lon Cedwyn, SWANSEA

• Detached property Neighbouring Clyne Gardens • gardens StEnclosed Annes,rear Mumbles, • Driveway and integral garage • Bishopston and Olchfa School catchment.

• Good access to City Centre and Mumbles.

EPC - E

• 4 bedroom detached dormer bungalow • Set in generous plot with Front and rear gardens Dylans View, Uplands, • Detached garage • Elevated views • Generous living space • EPC - E

• 4 / 5 Bedroom detached property with SEA VIEWS •Gower Modernised throughout by current owners Road, Sketty, • Contemporary fitted kitchen • Loft conversion with sea views • Off road parking to rear and detached garage • EPC - D

Swansea 01792

For sale with pa black Swansea 641481 01792 641481

Cardiff Monmouth Penarth Porthcawl Newport

£450,000 £320,000

Morriston 01792

£375,000

For sale with pa black Swansea 798201 01792 641481

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Swansea 01792

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For sale with pa black Swansea 641481 01792 641481

Delivering exceptional service for exceptional homes

£395,000

©LW

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

£625,000

THE ART OF COASTAL LIVING. PERFECTED. A UNIQUE RESIDENCE

|

A UNIQUE POSITION

01792653100 tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk PROPERTIES (HOMES) LTD

|

£ 2 .1 M I L L I O N

HOUSE & HOME

through the keyhole

‘This is a property with which one falls in love’

Improving on what is already there is a trick of the property game, and CHRIS PEREGRINE finds one success story. chris.peregrine@walesonline.co.uk

T

There is a stately presence about this detached ‘gentleman’s residence’ on the outskirts of Swansea.

That description, of course, is a throwback to a different era, recounting its 1932 origins when it was built on land belonging to Sir Tankerville Robert Armine Morris, of Sketty Park.

“The imposing “gentleman’s residence” is crafted in the art deco style, with high ceilings, ornate cornices and solid parquet floors upstairs and down,” says owner Dan Ashworth, who has lived there with his wife Sarah and their two children for 10 years.

The four bedroom property has been tastefully updated and fully

78 swansealife.co.uk

modernised since those far-off days, and benefits from double glazing in a sympathetic style, and loft and wall insulation. Nearly an acre of extensive mature gardens offer childhood adventures and complete seclusion, and there is a double garage and driveway, big enough for extra parking and secure behind electric gates, “This is a property with which one falls in love, enjoying its stately presence and peaceful privacy,” he says.

Many original character features survive alongside the modern makeover. There are three generous reception rooms, made up of a study, a TV lounge and a reading lounge. A fitted kitchen with an Aga takes its place on the ground floor, along with a cloakroom and conservatory. The four double bedrooms include a master with en-suite and there is also a family bathroom.

One of Sarah’s highlights is the outdoors, with trees, lawns, a large decking area, a feature waterfall and garden pond and a chalet.

“It’s just an escape when the gates close and you have got so much privacy,” she says. “There are fruit trees at the front and a water feature at the back. It is absolutely gorgeous.”

The porch and entrance has Welsh oak wood block flooring, as have the three reception rooms. The TV lounge has an art deco fireplace with cast iron inset with gas coal effect fire.

There are UPVC double glazed French doors in the quiet lounge, a limestone feature fireplace with inset fire and fitted cupboards either side. The study has a desk, cupboard space and shelving, while the wooden handmade fully fitted Burbidge kitchen/breakfast room has a range of ivory coloured wall, base and drawer units, and plenty of other features. There is an all-important utility room, while the conservatory has access to the rear garden via UPVC double glazed French doors.

The spacious landing has a picturesque window which overlooks the front garden, while the master bedroom has a modern range of maple-effect Sigma wardrobes, drawers, bedside cabinets, matching concealed TV wardrobe and dressing table. The modern fitted white Vernon Tutbury en-suite accompanies it. Fitted Sigma wardrobes can be found in the third bedroom and there are a range of wardrobes in the other two bedrooms, which have bedside or over bed cabinets.

The floor also houses a cloakroom and the bathroom, which is a modern white Duravit suite taking in a bath, a plumbedin Rainforest shower, handmade glass modesty screen and spot lighting. The garage has loft space and a kitchen area fitted with a range of solid oak’ wall, base and drawer units with granite worktops, and an integrated fridge and freezer.

There is a lawn in the front garden, bordered with trees and a variety of shrubs and bushes. A flagstone paved area leads around to the back garden, complete with a variety of trees and shrub borders. Flagstone steps lead to the lawn and there is a decked seating area. The chalet has power and lighting and there is also a shed. A feature waterfall and garden pond finish everything off.

PROPERTY: Penpant Farmhouse, Swansea Road, Llangyfelach, Swansea, SA5 7JA. PRICE: £625,000 BEDROOMS: 4 AGENT: Dawsons, Morriston, 01792 700777.

swansealife.co.uk 79

Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain

LLANCOED, FAIRWOOD, SWANSEA

LONG OAKS COTTAGE, PENMAEN, GOWER

THE OLD BARN, PANTLASAU, SWANSEA

Llancoed is a most striking, immaculate & individually designed detached family home. Briefly comprising 3 receptions, large kitchen/diner, 5 beds, 3 ensuites & family bathroom. Private garden with countryside views & ample parking. EPC G

Possibly the best hidden spot in South Gower, the fairy tale home is nestled at the foot of Cefn Bryn with glorious gardens. Quaint cottage with 3 beds, 3 receptions, kitchen, 2 bath together with a more modern self contained annex. Heated outdoor pool. EPC G

Characterful barn conversion in a fantastic rural setting with a mix of traditional features & modern design. Boasting copious living spaces, 5 beds & fabulous country views. Externally you have large garden, field, river & 4 stables with a tacking room. EPC D

Asking Price £725,000

Offers Over £800,000

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SEAWINDS, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

A magical location in an overwhelming area of natural beauty, surrounded by mountains & impressive woodland. Presenting accommodation of a very high standard incl 3 receptions, 4 beds, 4 bath, large kitchen & large utility. Glorious gardens and views over a lake. EPC C

With very impressive panorama and close proximity to Mumbles, Seawinds offers you a lovely detached family home arranged over 3 floors with, 4 receptions, 4 beds, 2 baths and double detached garage with room above. There is also an outdoor pool & entertainment areas. EPC D

Offers Over £699,950

Asking Price £995,000

THE OLD COW SHED, SKETTY, SWANSEA

SOUTHGATE ROAD, SOUTHGATE, SWANSEA

Magnificent home in a glorious setting, winning the Building Excellence Award in 2010. With stunning open plan living areas/kitchen, lounge, 6 beds, 4 shower/ bathrooms and beautiful grounds with a range of outdoor entertaining spaces. EPC C

Spectacular front row sea views & short stroll from local beaches & amenities. Generous home & generous grounds provides 2 receptions, stunning open plan kitchen/diner, utility, boot room, 6 beds & 4 baths. Gardens are beautiful with hot tub. Fabulous home or holiday let. EPC C

Asking Price £1,100,000

Offers Over £950,000

Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com

BRYNFIELD RD, LANGLAND, SWANSEA

MISTY HILLS CLOSE, THREE CROSSES, SWANSEA

MOORLAND AVENUE, NEWTON, SWANSEA

A beautiful Edwardian home in highly sought-after Langland. This quiet, tree lined road leads you directly to nearby Langland beach.

Presenting 4 double beds, 3 receptions & 2 baths. 2 gardens, detached garage & sea glimpses from upper floors. EPC C

Spectacular Gower countryside & sea views, fabulous village location, secluded cul-de-sac. Tranquil & private, very generous accommodation. Beautiful gardens & entertaining spaces. Walking distance to local pub and shops. EPC D

An executive, detached property finished to a very high standard.

This home is generous providing 4 receptions, modern kitchen & large utility, 5 double bedrooms 2 which have en-suite bathrooms, family bathroom and lovely low maintenance garden. EPC B

Asking Price £625,000

Asking Price £850,000

Offers Over £800,000

Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain Internationally Plus 75 offices globally 5000 professional associates all around the world

CARISSIMA, RHOSSILI, GOWER

ROSEMEAD HOUSE, LLANRHIDIAN, SWANSEA

Spectacular sea & countryside panoramas, this detached family home provides modern accommodation comprising fabulous kitchen/diner & large utility, lounge, 5 beds, 2 baths & 1 ensuite. Large block barn & garden with countryside views. EPC D

Perfectly private extended farmhouse surrounded by the most spectacular North Gower countryside views & set among approx 5 acres. Presenting generous accommodation of 5 beds, 4 receptions & 2 bathrooms. Glorious gardens & grounds. EPC D

Offers Over £650,000

Offers Over £750,000

GREAT HOUSE BARN, HORTON, SWANSEA

SHERBOURNE WALK, MAYALS, SWANSEA

This charming, captivating & characterful home sits in an elevated position in the seaside village of Horton, a very popular location. Presenting 4 receptions, 4 bedrooms & 3 bath.

There is also the flexibility to section off a 1 bed attached annex to provide flexibility. EPC D

An executive detached family home, set within a private development. Finished to a very high standard & comprising: Impressive entrance, 3 receptions, fitted kitchen & utility. 5 beds, 2 ensuites & family bathroom. Ample parking, double garage & enclosed rear garden. EPC C

Asking Price £649,950

Asking Price £1,050,000

Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com

HOUSE & HOME

1

L E S L E Y

TAY LO R

THE GUEST IS YET TO COME Expecting visitors this summer? Give them a stay to remember in a fabulous guest bedroom

2

3

Transforming your spare room into a guest bedroom can pay dividends.

Not only could it bring in extra income (should you decide to open it up to Airbnb guests), but you can also invite extended family and close friends for a weekend retreat.

And should you decide to do so, I know of a few style hacks that will ensure your guests never want to leave.

By keeping the colour scheme simple – not clinical – you can really go to town on bedding and accessories. A beautiful bedside lamp, the bestquality bedding your budget will allow and some sumptuous towels in a beautiful wicker basket will all add to the boutique hotel feel. If the room is small, keeping the detail around the bed is essential.

4

Some inspirational coffee table books not only offer reading material but will bring a real focal point to any surface while a fabulous mirror could become the centrepiece of your dreams.

But the most important detail of all? A decent pair of curtains or blackout blinds to ensure nothing stops your guests from getting a full night of shut eye!

1. Artwork, coffee table books and a quality lamp shade adds to the boutique hotel feel (Image courtesy of Elitis.fr) 2. By keeping the décor simple you can really go to town on accessories and bedding (Image courtesy of Elitis.fr) 3. A statement chair will bring character – and comfort – to your guest room (Image courtesy of Elitis.fr) 4. Use accessories to stamp your own personality on the room 5. Invest in the most luxurious bedding your budget will allow (Image courtesy of Elitis.fr)

Now, it’s fair to say most guest bedrooms are used sporadically, and there is the danger of the room becoming a dumping ground for clutter.

So storage is key. It goes without saying your guests will be bringing their baggage, quite literally, so they are going to need somewhere to stow it.

But if you’re going to invest in expensive furnishings make sure you put your needs – not those of your guests – first.

A small chest of drawers might be perfect for an overnight or weekend stay, but if you find other areas of your home becoming cluttered, why not invest in a larger unit or even a wardrobe and make use of the additional space yourself?

You can always leave a dedicated section for over-night guests and fill the rest with your own things.

5

And forget the sofa bed – opt for a divan with plenty of hidden storage.

Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling.

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Zen Paper & Wood Table Lamp, £32, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

HOUSE & HOME

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Large Jug, £28, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Smeg 4-Slice Toaster, £149.99, Very.co.uk

Apple Paper Weight, £30, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Solar Indian Summer Gold Lantern, £16, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

THIS MONTH

Metal Skeleton Wall Clock, £35, M&S, Swansea

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Gin Glass, £30, Debenhams, Swansea

Egg Timer, £10, George Home, Parc Trostre

Oliver Bonas Abstract Shapes Cheese Knives, £24, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff Condiment Set £32, Debenhams, Swansea

Oriental Treasure Mirror, £69.99, Very.co.uk

Gold Base Leaf Lamp With Cream Shade, £29.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

12 Piece Rose Gold Marble Effect Dinner Set, £45, Next, Morfa Retail Park

John Lewis Ada 3LT Marble Effect Glass Pendant, £210, John Lewis, Cardiff

Biba Pink Facet Vase, £35, House of Fraser, Cardiff

swansealife.co.uk 85

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HOUSE & HOME

2

3 1

SUNNY STATE

5

Inject some yellow pieces into your home for summer. LAURA DAVIES picks out some top buys laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

4 Iberia Living Collection at George Home, Parc Trostre

6

7

8

1. Throw with Pom Poms, £35, M&Co, Cardiff

6. Macy Table Lamp, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

2. Belgrave Large Sofa, £1,899.99, John Lewis, Cardiff

7. Geo Diamond Rug, £45, Next, Morfa Retail Park

3. Lemon & Citronella Candle In Jar, £6.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

8. Arthouse Tribal Stripe Wallpaper Ochre, £17.99, Very.co.uk

4. MW Matthew Williamson Cushion, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

9. Chunky Knit Pouffe in Mustard, £75, John Lewis, Cardiff

5. Yellow Throw, £24.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

10. Desire Accent Chair Saffron, £199, Jdwilliams.co.uk

10

9 swansealife.co.uk 91

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HOUSE & HOME

2 1 3

A TASTE OF THE

4

ORIENT

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Take yourself away to faraway climes with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of oriental-inspired home interiors laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Arthouse Kotori Blush Cushion (reversible) £19.99, Very. co.uk

6

7

8

9

11 1. Large Bird Decal Jug, £25, M&S, Swansea

10

2. Zen Bird Canvas, £22, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton 3. Pendant, £95, Debenhams, Swansea 4. Large Bird Decal Lantern, £19.50, M&S, Parc Trostre and Swansea 5. Mirror Jewellery Box, £12 , George Home at Asda, Llansamlet and Llanelli 6. Arthouse Kotori Blush Cushion (reversible) £19.99, Very.co.uk

94 swansealife.co.uk

7. Wallpaper Treasured Foliage Blush and Grey, £8, Wilko, Swansea and Parc Trostre 8. Bamboo Plant, £50, Debenhams, Swansea 9. Sara Miller Jasmine, Lemongrass & Ginger Diffuser, £28, Daisypark.co.uk 10. Hand Carved Blossom Rug, from £119.99-£299.99, Studio 11. Arthouse Kotori Blush Screen Room Divider, reduced from £99.99 to £79.99, Very.co.uk

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HOUSE & HOME

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Geo Cushion, £7, George Home, Parc Trostre

Biba Palm Chandelier, £220, House of Fraser, Cardiff

ai ul dd r a nt , Po elm Leaf Mirror, £28, Dun

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Vase, £28, Debenhams, Swansea

Gold Leaf Tealight Holder, £3, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

Flamingo Candlestick, £25, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Gold Scratch Vases (Set of 2), £32.99, Very.co.uk

Frame £16, Debenhams, Swansea

Let your home shimmer in the sun with LAURA DAVIES’ round up of rose gold and gold decor laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Harmony Gold Pendant, £150, John Lewis, Cardiff

Rose Gold Prosecco Flutes (Pack of 4), £26, Next, Morfa Retail Park

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Ava Dinner Candle Holder, £12.50, M&S, Parc Trostre and Swansea

Gold Base Leaf Lamp With Cream Shade, £29.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Gold Base Carafe, £22, John Lewis, Cardiff

Large Hexagon Lantern, £35, M&S, Swansea

Cutlery, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 97

HOUSE & HOME

Going away on holiday is always a headache for gardeners, who fear their container plants will frazzle in the heat, fruit and vegetables will wither and die and they’ll return to grass which looks like a hay field.

So, what measures can you take to protect your plants while you’re away?

Here are seven ways to make sure your garden is taken care of.

KEEP YOU GARDEN IN SHAPE WHILE YOU

holiday 1

Find a friendly neighbour

Get a friend or relative to water your plants for you while you’re away, preferably a neighbour who can pop in daily and is perhaps a fellow gardener, so the favour can be reciprocated. If you are growing fruit and veg, reward them with some of your harvest, or give them some cut flowers from your garden as a thank you on your return. Alternatively, if there are any responsible teenagers on your street who are looking for pocket money jobs, they might be willing to do it for a small fee.

2

Huddle containers together

Patio containers are among the trickiest elements to sustain if you don’t have someone to do your watering, as they rely totally on you for their moisture. You’ll need to give them a thorough soaking before you go away (and hopefully you’ll have added some slow-release water granules to your compost when planting), and then put them in saucers in the shade, huddled together, to create a microclimate and increase humidity.If you didn’t put water-retaining gel into the compost initially,

then lift the compost and plant out carefully if you can, adding some of the crystals to the compost. Water-retaining crystals will also soak up water if it rains while you’re away. Try not to put your pots right next to the house, where there may be an overhang, because if there is any rain you want them to be exposed to it.

Deadhead the plants thoroughly before you go, even removing the flowers which are just in bud, as this encourages further growth and hopefully you will come back to fresh blooms. Where practical, dig a hole in a shady border and place smaller pots rim deep into it, giving them and the surrounding soil a good watering, so they can absorb moisture from their surroundings.

3

Take down hanging baskets

Hanging baskets are the most vulnerable containers while you’re away, as they dry out very quickly, and in the height of summer need watering twice a day. So take them down and dig a hole in a shady border to sit the basket in, giving the basket and the surrounding soil a really good soak before you go, giving all the plants in it a good trim and hopefully surrounding plants will provide some shelter from the midday sun.

4

Consider using capillary matting

With indoor plants, place a piece of capillary matting in the bottom of the kitchen sink, bath or a tray and give it a good soaking, then place smaller pot plants on it, which should soak up the moisture in their roots. You can also use capillary matting with smaller outdoor pot plants, grouping them on one end of a sheet of saturated capillary matting and dipping the other end into a bucket of water, so that plants slowly wick up the water as they need it.

98 swansealife.co.uk

5

Install an irrigation system

There are many irrigation systems on the market, some which can be controlled by an app, with high-tech sensors which assess the soil dryness and can tell when plants need watering - such as the Hozelock Cloud Controller Kit (from £95.81, Amazon). If you’ve just a few pots, consider water globes, which can be filled and then placed upside down and their hollow spikes pushed into the soil, releasing as much water as the plant needs.

6

Freeze or call in a favour for fruit and veg

Water everything thoroughly before you go and keep your fingers crossed that fruit and veg will be in good shape when you return. Pick as much as you can a couple of days beforehand and freeze what you can’t use. To be honest, this is where you really could do with kindly neighbours to help you out and offer them the harvest that they pick.

7

Don’t worry about established shrubs and lawns

Your lawn may look tatty when you get home but it will recover when the autumn rain comes. Also, established trees and shrubs will be well-rooted and should be able to find water deep down.

Some shrubs may become stressed, but if you give them a good soak when you get home, they will recover.

sale summer

Garngoch, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 9WF Tel: 01792 892381

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HOUSE & HOME

Double Sided Beach Arrow, £8.50, Giselagraham.co.uk

Jay Haeckel Nature & Sea Life Mug, £9.50, Hurn & Hurn, Hurnandhurn.com sy rbet courte Gustave Cou m £32 per The Sea’ by fro al an, Wallmur ce.com of Bridgem re, Wallsau square met

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Nautical Sea Boat Themed Hooks, £15 each, Pushkahome.com.

coastal vibes

Fish Split Serve Bowls (mixed sku) £25, Debenhams, Swansea

Take inspiration from the seaside to create a relaxed and summery interior

Sally Denning Nautical Lime Wash Wooden Fish Duo on Plinth Ornament Decoration, £19.50, Giselagraham.co.uk

Wall Art Panel, Diagonal Pattern, £135, Coastalhome.co.uk

Azure Knitted Throw, £49, Linea Striped White Bedspread, £110, Linea Simply White Rowen Print Double Duvet Set, £65, Linea Seafare Grey Seersucker Check Double Duvet Set, £55, Linea Simply White Torren Stripe Cushion, £15, Linea Velvet Ikat Cushion, £25, Junipa Holden Check Double Duvet Set, £55, Linea Casual Collection White Matelassé Cushion, £35, Linea Simply White, all House of Fraser, Cardiff

Starfish Cushion, Natural, £34.95, Coastalhome.co.uk.

Sand, Sea Cushion, by Uma Prabhakar Gokhale, from £27, Artwow.co.

swansealife.co.uk 104

HOUSE & HOME Kinship Marble Coaster Set, £30, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Marble Laundry Bag, £16.99, Very.co.uk

A by Amara Short Marble Tealight-Taper Candle Holder, £16, Amara.com

marvel with

John Lewis Ada 3LT Marble Effect Glass Pendant, £215, John Lewis, Cardiff

LAURA DAVIES looks at the home trend that isn’t going anywhere laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Kaya Table Lamp, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

Fluid Marble Cushion, £15, Jdwilliams.co.uk

Marble Wall Clock, £15, George Home at Asda, Llanelli and Llansamlet National Trust Marble Effect Throw, £40, Shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

Hestia Marble Dolomite Vase, £18.99, Very.co.uk

Succulent, £14, Debenhams, Swansea

Trivet Stand Green Marble, £45, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Marble Blocks Calendar, £6 , George Home, Parc Trostre Marble Towels, £6-£14 ,Next, Morfa Retail Park

swansealife.co.uk 105

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HOUSE & HOME

AUGUST AMBASSADORS With JOSEPH ATKIN, Head Gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire

Hydrangea aspera

High season in the garden has, this year, been something of a battle – the gardener against the heat! There are however plenty of plants that thrive in these conditions but that will also cope with our normally much cooler, wetter Welsh summers. At Aberglasney we have been studiously examining the performance of plants to see which cope best with these somewhat unusual conditions. The result of our study has been rather pleasing as it seems there are plenty of great plants to choose from to create a drought proof but colourful garden.

Orlaya grandiflora

Lilium Conca D’or

This year we have used this annual in our bedding displays but it works equally well in the border.

Orlaya has a romantic frothy elegance with loose heads of creamy white flowers. For us it flowers for around four months. It can be sown anytime from late winter through to late spring depending on when you want it to flower. This makes it ideal for adding colour to a period of the season when you may be short of colour. A good example is an herbaceous border that has a great deal of spring and early summer flowering plants. Orlaya can be planted out in late spring and will liven up the border right through to the autumn. You should however plant them quite close together as the look spindly when planted sparsely.

Lilies are a long standing high summer staple for the herbaceous border but have many other uses.

This one has wonderful clear yellow flowers that work well in pastel or hot colour schemes buts its best attribute is its size. The plant can stand at over three meters tall making it an excellent source of height without taking up a great deal of room. We grow this plant either between spring flowering shrubs (which act as a support) or at the back of a herbaceous border. Over the years it will form a large clump which creates real impact as the huge flowers are held up high. Conca D’or is a member of the oriental trumpet hybrids which have been bred to be tall and there are many more equally good ones in different colours.

There is something about Lilies that people love, they always cause a stir at Aberglasney.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Height = 1m Spread = 50cm Position/Aspect = Any sunny Soil = Any well drained Pest and diseases = No real problems Style = Herbaceous, meadow, cottage garden, wildlife garden, bee friendly garden

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Cleome hassleriana Another excellent annual but a Cleome with a very different feel which has a much more exotic feel and upright habit. This needs to be sown with heat or bought as plugs in early spring and planted out after the last frost. Once more, it does the job of adding a long season of colour to a border or bedding display. Although again, it looks very different to a typical bedding plant with tall waving heads of butterfly like flowers.

This plant has always been a visitor favourite at Aberglasney and nearly always appears somewhere in the Gardens which is testament to its usefulness.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

110 swansealife.co.uk

Height = 1.5m Spread =30cm Position/Aspect = Sun Soil = Any fertile Pest and diseases = Avoid slug damage by growing plants to about 30cm Style = Any exotic theme, bedding, cottage garden, sensory garden

■

Height = 3m+ Spread = 1m max Position/Aspect = Sun or half shade Soil = Any fertile but not chalky Pest and diseases = Lily beetle or slugs but if you grow them on in a glasshouse early in the season this is easily dealt with Style = Herbaceous border, mixed border, cottage garden or very large pots

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Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk

STYLISH Kitchens

Whether you’re looking for a modern or traditional option, choose from Leading Brands including Laura Ashley, Rotpunkt and Sheraton to transform your kitchen. Our extensive studios showcase a wide range of options to suit every budget.

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

†

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

Shop with confidence – we won’t be beaten on price on Leading Brands

ALL of our customers surveyed• would recommend us to friends & family

9 /10 rating on

TRUSTPILOT‡

Book your FREE consultation at kitchens.leekes.co.uk or call 0800 038 3050

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

†

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply – ask in store for details. ‡ Checked on 25th June 2018. • Based on customer satisfaction survey from September 2017.

BLISSFUL

Bathrooms Create a luxurious haven, compact cloakroom or a functional family bathroom from the wide selection of Leading Brand bathrooms available at Leekes. Our studios are full of inspirational displays to help you find the perfect solution for your space.

Why choose us?

Up to 50 bathrooms and 30 kitchens to suit all sizes and budgets Expert advice from our teams FREE 3D professional design service

†

FREE pre-fit survey with an independent approved installer

Shop with confidence – we won’t be beaten on price on Leading Brands

Book your FREE consultation at leekes.co.uk/bathrooms or call 0800 038 3050

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

†

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply – ask in store for details.

VICTORIA WADE’S GARDEN Join Victoria Wade, an RHS Gold winning garden designer from Killay, with her seasonal growing tips.... www.victoriawade.co.uk

Bee friendly gardening The importance of bees to us all is indisputable, but unfortunately the UK’s bee population is under threat. Bees visit flowers to collect nectar and pollen, which they eat and feed to their larvae.

By moving from flower to flower, they are vital pollinators of many garden and wild flowers. Insect pollination is also essential for the cropping of a huge amount of the food we eat. We rely on bees every day, in both our gardens and allotments, and in the farmers’ fields.

The bee population is declining rapidly

@WadeLandscapes

Bee on chive

due to a number of factors, including an increased use of pesticides and a loss of natural habitats such as meadows and hedgerows.

There are a few simple things that you can do in your garden to give bees a much needed helping hand.

The best ways to encourage bees of all types into your garden is by providing nectar and pollen rich flowers throughout the year. We design all of our planting schemes to be as bee friendly as possible – the RHS website is a great resource for recommending bee friendly plants, and keep an eye out for the ‘perfect for pollinators’ label when shopping for plants in the garden centre.

Some of my favourites include Lavender, Catmint, Alliums, Foxgloves and Sedum.

A honeybee colony can drink up to 4 litres of water in a day- so be sure to provide water! Bees cannot swim or land on water so the shallow planted margins of a wildlife pond are perfect, or you could provide water in a shallow dish or bird bath with some small stones placed in it to allow them to land and drink safely.

You don’t need to have your own hive to have bees living in your garden- it

116 swansealife.co.uk

is simple to provide nest sites for all different species of bees. You can buy some very beautiful bug boxes, or easily make your own. Some bees will nest in hollow stems or bamboo canes, or in holes drilled into a post or log. Place these nest sites in sunny positions. Some solitary bees nest in the ground, either in bare soil or short turf. You may even find tree bumblebees nesting in a bird box!

Avoid using any pesticides or insecticides on your plants- they will harm all insects, including bees, not just the ones you are trying to get rid of.

There is no need to be afraid of beesgetting stung in your garden is unlikely, as long as you treat bees with respect- they will not sting unless they think they are in danger. You should avoid disturbing bumblebee nests or standing too close to a bee hive unless you are wearing a beekeeper’s suit.

And finally, if you see a bee in your garden that is on the floor or looking a bit worse for wear then a simple solution of sugar and water can help revive exhausted bees. Mix a few drops of water with a little bit of sugar on a spoon and place next to the bee so that it can have a little drink and hopefully gather the energy to fly again!

This complete kitchen

including all fully built units, shelving, Zanussi appliances, granite worktops, sink & tap.

Swansea

Nantyffin North, SA7 9RF  01792 343 645

£244

Cardiff

Cardiff Gate, CF23 8NL  029 2060 1861

per month over 5 years

Newport

East Retail Park, NP20 2NW  01633 740 386

For a Wren Kitchens brochure and to find your nearest showroom visit wrenkitchens.com

Kitchen price is for kitchen units, handles, appliances, worktops, sink and tap. Excludes props and small worktop appliances. Price checked on 03/07/2018 Interest free credit provided subject to application and status. Minimum spend – £4,000 for two years, £6,000 for three years, £10,000 for four years and £16,000 for five years. Kitchen Price £16,202, 10% deposit of £1,620.20 and then 60 monthly payments of £243.03 at 0% APR. Total amount payable £16,202. Interest free credit is available on all kitchen projects and Wren Installation services.

Full details are available at wrenkitchens.com/finance

CAMBRIA SASH WINDOW COMPANY

CELEBRATES 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS Celebrating a milestone this coming August is the well respected Cambria Sash Window Company.

Based in Llandysul, in Ceredigion, the company has always been synonymous with ultra high quality windows, doors, conservatory and orangery products fitted to the highest and most exacting standards.

The TEN YEAR anniversary is an achievement that Cambria Sash Window Company managing director Barry Morgan is very proud of.

Barry (55), who is a native of Mynyddygarreg near Kidwelly in West Wales, has a huge wealth of experience and expertise in the industry having been involved for over 30 years. He has clients from as far afield as Machynlleth in the north to Chepstow in the east and from Tenby in Pembrokeshire to clients in the Swansea Valley.

The company’s showroom opened in August of 2008

in Llandysul and to celebrate the decade of serving South & West Wales the company have organised an OPEN WEEKEND EVENT on Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th August 2018.

All customers who purchase products over the open weekend will receive a 10% DISCOUNT over standard priced products AND will be entered into a charity draw to win a JOHN LEWIS PICNIC SET. Barry proudly stated, “I’m immensely proud and privileged to have served the people across South & West Wales and to reach

CAMBRIA SASH WINDOW COMPANY MANAGING DIRECTOR BARRY MORGAN. BARRY IS CELEBRATING 10 YEARS AT HIS SHOWROOM IN LLANDYSUL AND IS LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING OLD CUSTOMERS AND NEW AT HIS AUGUST OPEN WEEKEND.

our ten year anniversary. I am already looking forward to the next ten years but firstly I would like to extend an invitation for anyone interested in a consultation for our ultra high quality products in doors, windows,

conservatories, orangeries and sunrooms to come along to our open day, take advantage of the discounts we have on offer and maybe win a fabulous John Lewis Picnic Set in our charity draw!”

OPEN WEEKEND EVENT SAT & SUN 4TH, 5TH AUGUST 2018 OPENS 10.30AM - 5.00PM • 10% DISCOUNT ON OFFER ACROSS OUR OPEN WEEKEND ON ANY PRODUCTS & YOU COULD WIN A JOHN LEWIS PICNIC SET!

CAMBRIA SASH WINDOW COMPANY ARE EXPERTS IN CONSERVATORIES, ORANGERIES AND SUN ROOMS BOTH IN ENGINEERED TIMBER & UPVC.

CAMBRIA SASH WINDOW COMPANY DON’T ONLY SUPPLY AND FIT TRADITIONAL STYLE WINDOWS & DOORS, THEY ALSO HAVE A LARGE VARIETY OF MODERN LOOKING DESIGNS IN A HOST OF DIFFERENT COLOURS AND MATERIALS.

Bizerta House, Wind Street, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 4BH Tel: 01559 362757 • Mob: 07817 627442 • www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk

10 YR ANNIVERSARY OPEN WEEKEND EVENT

10% OFF ALL WINDOWS, DOORS & ALL CONSERVATORIES & OTHER PRODUCTS THROUGHOUT OUR OPEN WEEKEND EVENT!

Bizerta House, Wind Street, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 4BH Tel: 01559 362757 • Mob: 07817 627442 • www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk

Change the way you think with timber alternative windows and doors.

Inspired by the natural beauty of real wood, without the drawbacks. No expensive maintenance, no laborious sanding and painting, just beautiful, traditional windows and doors for years to come.

Our award winning, ground breaking design fuses exquisite traditional timber aesthetics with modern technology to produce truly sensational windows and doors that provide security, energy efficiency, style and performance.

WINDOWS & DOORS REDEFINED Bizerta House, Wind Street, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 4BH Tel: 01559 362757 • Mob: 07817 627442 • www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk

The perfect low maintenance timber alternative sash window

The perfect low Manufactured by an award winning company, The perfect low The perfect low Bygone sash windows are your ideal low maintenance maintenance maintenancemaintenance replacement for original timber box sash windows and combine the lowtimber alternative timber alternative timber alternative maintenance and energy efficiency of modern sash window sash window material with the classic aesthetics and sash window

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T: 01559 362 757 www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk T: 01559 362 757 www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk

TO CELEBRATE To celebrateTHE TheCAMBRIA Cambria Sash SASH WINDOW COMPANY’S 10TH Window Company’s 10th Anniversary ANNIVERSARY BYGONE all Bygone Collection ALL will come ToWindows celebrate The Cambria COLLECTION WINDOWS WILL COME withAN an EXCLUSIVE exclusive 10% discount on all WITH 10% DISCOUNT Window Company’s 10th Anniv orders and enquiries received over the ON ALL ORDERS AND ENQUIRIES Open Weekend onCollection 4thTHE and OPEN 5th August.

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Bizerta House, Wind Street, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 4BH

Tel: 01559 362757 • Mob: 07817 627442 • www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk

CELEBRATE 10 YEARS of beautiful timber windows & doors at Cambria Sash

Join us for our open weekend on 4th & 5th Join us for our10% open on 4th & 5th August with offweekend all orders placed

August with 10% off all orders placed

Timber Windows of Cambria install the award-winning range of hand-made, engineered timber casement windows, sash windows and doors.

Our beautiful showroom in Cambria provides the perfect, friendly environment to see and experience the fantastic products on display and to talk to us about your home.

Showroom Address: Timber Windows of Cambria, Bizerta House, Bizerta House, Wind Street, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 4BH Wind Street, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 4BH OF CAMBRIA

Tel: 01559 362757 • Mob: 07817 627442 • www.cambriasashwindows.co.uk

LARGEST h Sout BED SPECIALIST ’ s e l a Over 100 Beds on Display W

DIVAN BEDS

METAL BED FRAMES

STORAGE BEDS

GREAT SELECTION OF BEDROOM FURNITURE

UPHOLSTERED BEDS

ADJUSTABLE BEDS

OAK BEDROOM FURNITURE

OTTOMAN BEDS

WOODEN BED FRAMES

Rest assured, we stock many great brands names:

FREE

DISPOSAL OF OLD BED

Unit 12-16 Tower Court St.Davids Rd, Llansamlet SA6 8RU (Behind Smyths Toy store)

Telephone: 01792 799213

www.sweetdreams-beds.co.uk

F RE E DE L IVE R

within 25 mile Y s

COMMERCIAL

WINDOWS • CONSERVATORIES • ROOFS GUTTERS • PRESSURE WASHING • PATIOS BUILDERS CLEANS • DRIVEWAYS • PATHS SOLAR PANELS • K RENDERING • CLADDING CHEWING GUM REMOVAL • LET CLEANS STEAM CLEANING • CARPETS • UPHOLSTERY Progleam provide a Full Exterior Maintenance Cleaning Package ALL year round!

Quality is Our No1 Priority!! Call now for a no obligation quotation

DOMESTIC

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T: 01792 905 858 M: 07979 205 330 www.progleam.co.uk • E: danjames@progleam.co.uk

Quality made truly affordable

A family-run business with over 75 years of experience FIRES • FIREPLACES • ELECTRIC • MULTIFUEL • GAS • STONE • MARBLE • WOOD

Visit our showroom at: Brisco Williams, Gorseinon Road, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 9GG 01792 892357 | www.brisco.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME Tea Light Holder, £5, Debenhams, Swansea

Wall Mural, £60, Odessa Wood and Glass Dome Ceiling Fitting, £32, Halston Velvet 3 Seater Sofa, £559, Ombre Chenille Rug from £65, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

Lamp Shade Mobius, £19, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

true [ blue [

Oliver Bonas Boolu Vase, £34, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

MW Matthew Williamson Table Lamp, £85, Debenhams, Swansea

Cool yourself down with LAURA DAVIES’ blue-coloured home picks laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Hexagon Tray in Blue, £20, John Lewis, Cardiff

Tiffany Fabric Accent Chair Kingfisher Blue, £249, Very.co.uk

Anabela Abstract Lamp Base, £85, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Mazrahi Rug Blue Large, £115, Jdwilliams.co.uk

126 swansealife.co.uk

Bathroom Set, £7, Debenhams, Swansea

Dynamo 1 Light Pendant, £96, Dar Lighting, Darlighting.co.uk

Carnaby Footstool in Velvet, £149, Atkin and Thyme, Atkinandthyme.co.uk

Origami Glass Vase, £8 , George Home, Parc Trostre

Denby Imperial Blue (Set of 2) Wine Glasses, £28, Very.co.uk

J by Jasper Conran Blue Knit Cushion, £32, Debenhams, Swansea

Calvin Armchair in Blue Velvet and Linen, £399, Atkin and Thyme, Atkinandthyme.co.uk

Seeded Hurricane, £9.50, M&S, Swansea

Fianco Table Lamp with Blue Shade, £58.20, Dar Lighting, Darlighting.co.uk

Throw, £25, Debenhams, Swansea

Chunky Knit Cushion, £14, Next, Parc Trostre

Alfie Armchair, £795, Content by Terence Conran, Contentbyterenceconran.com

Carved Vase in Blue, £35, John Lewis, Cardiff

swansealife.co.uk 127

HOUSE & HOME

How we market Homes of Distinction Delivering the finest service Exquisite homes of distinction from £350,000 and above are part of our pa black collection. Whether you’re an open or discreet seller, our proven marketing strategies, together with our highly experienced, hand-selected team will ensure your home is seen by the right buyers. Selling your luxury home within Wales is an honour, and we are committed to delivering you the very finest service.

Hand-selected for their expertise Selling a luxury home within the ebb and flow of the property market can be a challenge. Our bespoke pa black team has been hand-selected due to their experience, expertise, and ability to deliver. Their warm and dedicated approach extends to both seller and buyer, which results in a smoother sales process and provides a welcoming experience. We don’t leave things to change, which is why we proactively search for potential buyers to ensure your home is sold as swiftly as possible.

Never forgotten It only takes a matter of seconds to grab a buyer’s attention, and we ensure that your property is never forgotten. With consistent technological advances in the industry, we strive to be at the forefront, embracing those methods that get results and heighten the experience for you, our clients. With professional photography and HD video of your home, we aim to ensure your property will always stick in a buyer’s mind.

Widening our reach The importance of online marketing cannot be underestimated; it can often reach those buyers who may not be actively looking to move. Your home will have the benefit of being featured on not only our pa black website, but also that of Peter Alan, which attracts 40% more visitors than the average estate agent website (* according to the independent Homeflow benchmark tool). We also invest in premium listings on the leading property portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla, because we want your home to create an impact.

Swansea 01792 641481 | Swansea Marina 01792 463780 | Morriston 01792 798201 128 swansealife.co.uk

Advertisement Feature

For Sale Cwrt Ty Gwyn, Llangennech, Llanelli ÂŁ625,000 Freehold

Distinctively designed

Growing our network

Although online activity is vital, so are our printed materials. There is something comforting about having a beautifully put together property brochure in your hand that you can relax and read at your leisure. Our property details are designed with the discerning buyer in mind. We’re proud of the reputation the Distinctive Magazine has gained; frequently requested in our branches, each edition allows us to share our passion for the communities that we serve.

Peter Alan is part of one of the most successful estate agency companies in the UK. Formed in 1936, the Connells Group is a network of around 600 branches, strengthening our connections and increasing the opportunities open to us. Our recent acquisitions have seen our own network increase to 29 branches cross South Wales, and a growth in standalone branches specialising in pa black.

All avenues explored

Providing an alternative way to view

pa black maybe exclusive to Wales, buy your buyer may not be. This is why we advertise our pa black collection within the national press as well as local publications, such as Cardiff Life and Swansea Life.

An open house provides an opportunity for a buyer to view your home in a more relaxed setting. They often stay longer, as many buyers are vieing your property at the same time, so they don’t feel they need to rush. Potential buyers can explore your property at ease and start to see how they can make it their home. A member of our pa black team is always on hand to answer any questions, and taking those first steps into negotiation with those who want to take it further.

Social media plays a huge part in all our daily lives, and our social media strategy enables us to reach a following greater than other mediums can achieve today. We consistently look for opportunities to raise awareness of our brands, which, as a result, will positively impact on the future sale of your property.

Neath 01639 635115 | Gorseinon 01792 894422

pa black is exlusive to Wales swansealife.co.uk 129

HOLIDAYS

Walk like a royal, feel like a wizard or sing a long like a popstar this summer with our great range of London trips.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Executive coach travel • Bed and full English breakfast • Entry into Buckingham Palace and The Royal Mews • Entry into Clarence House

4 HOTEL 1 NIGHT only £189 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th August

LONDON – HILTON METROPOLE HOTEL Executive coach travel • Bed and full English breakfast • Free time in London

4 HOTEL 1 NIGHT only £139 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th August

THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER

2 NIGHTS only £239 10th, 31st August & 14th September 3 NIGHTS only £329 24th August

Executive coach travel • Bed and full English breakfast • Entry into the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour

4 HOTEL 1 NIGHT only £209 21st August

Executive coach travel • Bed and full English breakfast • Free time in London

ALTHORP HOUSE (Childhood Home of Princess Diana)

4 HOTEL 2 NIGHTS only £249 31st August

LONDON – THE TOWER HOTEL

Executive coach travel • Dinner, bed and full English breakfast • Entry into Althorp House and Gardens

4 HOTEL 1 NIGHT only £149 8th September

THEATRE BREAKS

Executive coach travel • Bed and full English breakfast • Theatre ticket for the Saturday evening performance • Return transfers from the theatre’s nearby pick up point

HAMPTON COURT & WINDSOR CASTLE Executive coach travel • Bed and full English breakfast • Entry into Hampton Court Palace and Gardens • Entry into Windsor Castle • Afternoon Tea in Windsor

4 HOTEL 1 NIGHT only £209 11th September

4 HOTEL 1 NIGHT only £259 Lion King or Dreamgirls 8th September Aladdin or The Lion King 18th September Aladdin or The Mousetrap 22nd September

Call in to one of our Shops or book online at edwardscoaches.co.uk Llansamlet Travel Shop

Neath Travel Shop

Dyffryn Close, Swansea Enterprise Park,

Unit 2, Angel Place, Neath, SA11 1RQ

Swansea Travel Shop 62 Plymouth Street, Swansea

Swansea, SA6 8QG, Tel: 01792 274444

Tel: 01639 250250

SA1 3QP Tel: 01792 456600

OUT & ABOUT

A N D R E W

M O R G A N ’ S

SWANSEA BAY WALK Join ANDREW MORGAN as he leads us on a Swansea Bay walk.

Upcoming Walks Aug WED 01

Foel Fynyddau (6 miles) Moderate meet 10.00amPontrhydyfen: Rhyslyn Car Park

THU 02

Three Parks Walk (Evening) (3 miles) Easy meet 7.00pm Francis St

SAT 04

Carreg Cennen (6 miles) Strenuous meet 11.00am Carreg Cennen Castle Car Park

SUN 05

Sugar Loaf (11.5 miles) Strenuous meet 8.30am Francis St

Parking ....................................... On-road parking (not on drive to King Arthur)

MON 06

Llandybie 1 (3 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 11.00am Llandybie: Railway Station Car Park

Arthur’s Stone

MON 06

Llandybie 2 (3 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 1.00pm Llandybie: Railway Station Car Park

TUE 07

Ogmore Vale West (6 miles) Moderate meet 10.30am Blackmill: Cattle Market CP

WED 08

Pennard (Evening) (3.5 miles) Moderate meet 7.00pm Pennard: School Car Park

SAT 11

Three Cliffs & Parkmill (4 miles) Easy meet 11.00am Penmaen: NT car park

SUN 12

Pumlumon (12 miles) Strenuous meet 8.15am Cross Hands (Heol Parc Mawr)

MON 13

Penllergare Valley Woods (4 miles) Easy/ Moderate meet 10.00am Valley Woods Car Park

TUE14

The Black Mountain (11.5 miles) Strenuous meet 9.30am Go Outdoors CP

WED15

Copper Quarter (Evening) (4 miles) Moderate meet 7.00pm Parc Tawe: Outside Costa

SAT18

Neath Abbey(6 miles) Moderate meet 11.00am Neath Abbey

SUN 19

Beacons’ High Ridges (11 miles) Strenuous meet 9.00am Francis St

TUE 21

Arthur’s Stone (Evening) (3 miles) Moderate meet 7.00pm Reynoldston near King Arthur

WED 22

Mynydd Dinas (7 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Baglan: Below Blaenbaglan School

SAT 25

Fforest Fawr via disused railway (6 miles) Moderate meet 11.00am Lay-by on right below Cray Reservoir

SUN 26

Carmarthen Fans (14 miles) Strenuous meet 8.30am Francis St

WED 29

Old Swansea (8 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 10.00am Quadrant Bus Station: By Greggs

WED 29

Kilvey Hill (Evening) (3 miles) Moderate meet 7.00pm Bonymaen Rugby Club Car Park

Start/Finish location ........ On road near King Arthur Hotel, Reynoldston Distance .................................... 3 miles (1.5 hours) Level ............................................ Moderate

you will find a Trig Point with views.

Continue straight on towards the car park at the top of Cefn Bryn.

Even though mid-summer’s day has passed and the days are getting shorter, Swansea Ramblers will still take the opportunity to get out in the evening daylight for some fresh air after work. With an evening walk at least once a week, there will be one that you’ll enjoy.

Today’s walk takes place at 7pm on Tuesday 21st August and we’ll experience the panoramic views over the sea and much of Gower.

Starting from the front of the King Arthur Hotel, cross the green on the footpath. Reaching the higher road, turn left to the road junction where a rough path ascends Cefn Bryn. When you get to the top, note where this path comes up - as you’ll be using it again for the descent back. Head straight ahead then turn diagonally right towards a slight rise in the ground where

Turn left (north) along the broad grassy track to Arthur’s Stone. This is a prehistoric burial chamber, known in Welsh as Maen Ceti.

Enjoy the views then turn right and follow the broad, grassy, curving processional path that eventually returns you to the other side of the same car park. Continue through the car park and along the path you used earlier. When you come to the junction for the Trig, keep to the left path instead of the Trig and follow this back to the junction where you ascended to the top of the ridge.

Here retrace your way back to Reynoldston and maybe reward yourself with refreshments in the King Arthur. Join us in the evening for the led walk and enjoy it even better in the company of Swansea Ramblers.

Transport: Traveline: www.traveline-cymru.info • 0871 200 22 33 or BayTrans: www.baytrans.org.uk/ Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

ultimate luxury experience LAURA DAVIES stays the weekend at the award-winning Sofitel London St James - a striking, luxurious 5-star central London hotel embraced in rich history. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

hen it comes to London hotel’s, it really doesn’t get much better than the luxurious five star Sofitel London St James Hotel. Not only does the Grade II listed building look impressive,with its neoclassical architectural features, it is situated conveniently in a prestigious central London address, embraced in rich history - in the bustling centre of Piccadilly.

W

First impressions of the hotel were excellent. The lobby was a real feast for the eyes with its elegant black and white marble floors, large windows decadent red-velvet chairs and sofas, large persian rug and impressive and extravagant floral displays.

Check in was quick and easy and after being given a drink and a warm towel, we were taken to our bedroom which overlooked Pall Mall. The clock-patterned wallpaper was definitely eye-catching as we entered our room, which had black furniture and black and white pictures of London around the room. The bathroom was pleasant with its checkerboard tiles and was bright and airy giving it a modern edge. There was even a turndown service and pillow menu offering a selection of room scents and spa products and hot drinks and nightcaps for a price.

We were staying for two nights and decided to take advantage of its restaurant, The Balcon. It’s not very often you can say a hotel restaurant in the heart of London, was busy, and it was evident after our meal, 132 swansealife.co.uk

why it was so popular. The menu was excellent, offering mainly French cuisine at reasonable prices given the grandness of the hotel. The restaurant had a lovely, welcoming vibe with diners, hotel guests and non guests, enjoying the artdeco style restaurant. The room has subdued lighting and romantic candles with large arch windows giving the view of the Crimean war memorial outside, As you dine you can feast your eyes on the soaring ceiling with a stunning ornate chandelier in the centre of the room, ornate columns and wrought iron staircases which pay homage to the building’s years as a bank.

Our meals were fantastic and beautifully presented, Sea Bream with samphire, salsify and laverbread, £22, and Turbot Menuire, baby potatoes with brown shrimp butter, £35.

Dessert of raspberry souffle and white chocolate ice cream, was probably the best I have tasted. After dinner, we retreated to the adjoining bar St James Bar, for cocktails, which is very much modelled on Coco Chanel’s 1920s Paris appartment. Chinoiserie, walnut-framed silk panels, antique lamps and French gilt chairs enhance the luxurious ambiance. We were luckily enough to see a period drama being filmed outside the hotel, which added to the charm and history

of the area we were staying in. It was like we were transported back in time! The Sofitel St James was the perfect backdrop.

After a fantastic sleep, we enjoyed breakfast, again at the Balcon. It was just as impressive as dinner. There was a continental breakfast as well as hot a la carte options. I chose the smashed avocado and grapefruit which was delicious as well as a selection of fresh juices and smoothies. After our hearty breakfast, we explored more of the hotel and stumbled upon a beautiful vintage room full of beautiful cream-andpink décor reminiscent of a traditional English rose garden.

Delicate and serene, it is the perfect place to relax with a book from the library or indulge in a French accented afternoon tea serenaded by a harpist. The hotel also boasts a spa which is in keeping with the hotel’s style of grandeaur, as well as a hammam-style steam room and whirlpool tub and a fitness room.

Our stay at Sofitel St James was pure luxury. We couldn’t have wished for a better location to be. It is fair to say we fell in love with the timeless British feel of the hotel and its vintage charm with a nod to the romantic French touches. C’est magnifique!

Sofitel London St James | 6 Waterloo Place | Sw1y 4An London | 020 7747 2200 | sofitelstjames.com swansealife.co.uk 133

MOTORING

■ WHAT IS IT?

Just when you thought Audi couldn’t stretch its range any further, along comes the Q8, an answer to a question no one really was asking. Like spilt water spreading to fill every crevice, Audi is working its way towards critical mass by taking a rolling pin to its line-up and spreading it wafer-thin.

The German firm says the Q8 is a car for buyers who want the elegance of a luxury coupe and the convenience of a large SUV - but quite how many of those buyers exist remains to be seen. Based on the firm’s range-topping Q7 SUV, the Q8 is shorter both in height and length, but wider, and debuts the new ‘face of the Q family’ with a bold and imposing grille.

■ WHAT’S NEW?

Audi is targeting buyers of the BMW X6 and Mercedes Benz GLE here, which means the Q8 has to stand out from the crowd. With looks dominated by that new nose and swooping body lines, it cuts a fine figure in the tough SUV-coupe class.

FIRST DRIVE:

AUDI Q8

James Baggott test the latest of Audi’s nichebusting SUVs - the Q8.

■ WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

Audi has employed some clever technical tricks to increase efficiency. A mild hybrid system (MHEV) uses a large battery to increase the amount of time the engine can use its start-stop system, and even allows it to completely shut down and coast at speeds between 34mph-99mph.

At launch, just one engine will be available, a 3.0-litre diesel badged 50 TDI. This offers 286bhp and 600Nm of torque and is able to propel the Q8 to 60mph in 6.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 144mph. Fuel economy and emissions have yet to be revealed. A less powerful 3.0-litre diesel and a 3.0-litre petrol will join the range later this year.

■ WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Our test route was thousands of metres above sea level in the Atacama mountains in Chile, where we struggled to breathe, and so too did the Audi engines. That said, despite some wheezing, the high-powered 3.0-litre diesel model we tested performed well, albeit with some unusual audible rattling.

The steering felt weightier than you’d expect in an Audi SUV, and on the smaller wheeled option with air-suspension cranked up to comfort, it coped well with the rutted roads that crossed the South American deserts. Its dynamic ability was hard to fathom on these arrow straight highways, but on the few bends we did tackle there was little body roll.

134 swansealife.co.uk

■ HOW DOES IT LOOK?

Unless you’re in the market for a large coupe SUV, chances are something like the Q8 won’t appeal.

However, Audi has done a great job of making a sloping roofed off-roader look handsome. It’s far more attractive than the awkward BMW X6 and that’s likely to ultimately win it attention.

■ WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

Inside, the smart twin-screen set-up first seen on the A8 has been implemented. It splits heating and car controls to the lower display and entertainment to the top. It’s minutely adjustable and a real joy to use. Haptic feedback, that makes it feel like you’re pressing a physical button rather than a touchscreen, makes it easy to work with on the move, and the controls are intuitive.

Especially clever is the latest natural language voice control, which lets you say things like, ‘I’m hungry’, or, ‘I need fuel’, and the system will pull up nearby restaurants or petrol stations. The satnav can learn your regular routes too - even if you haven’t added them to the system - and will warn you of unusual traffic issues on your commute.

The dash swoops around the driver and passenger in coupe-car style and the multi-adjustable seats are very comfy. The interior materials look and feel luxurious too, but our test car’s centre console did squeak a little too much for a brand new car.

■ WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

The S line specification includes LED headlights, 21-inch alloy wheels and adaptive sport air suspension as standard. A reversing camera, phone charging box, ambient lighting, powered tailgate and Keyless-Go are some of the other highlights also included.

A high-end Vorsprung specification will be made available shortly after launch which adds huge 22-inch alloys, sportier (and heated) seats, a head-up display, more leather, panoramic glass sunroof, and power door closure, among many other niceties.

■ VERDICT

In a market of frankly quite ugly large SUV coupes, the Audi Q8 stands out as a bit of a looker. The whopping new grille takes some getting used to, but it helps it cut a dramatic figure on the road.

Although it’ll appeal to limited numbers of buyers, the Q8 is a compelling package that’s enjoyable to drive, comfortable and packed with usable and useful technology. Audi might be spreading its range rather thinly these days, but this could well be yet another niche it’s filled rather successfully indeed.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model as tested: Audi Q8 50 TDI S Line ■ Price: £65,000 (est) ■ Engine: 3.0-litre V6 TDI ■ Power: 286bhp ■ Torque: 600Nm ■ Max speed: 144mph ■ 0-60mph: 6.3s ■ MPG: TBC ■ Emissions: TBC ■ Rivals: BMW X6, Mercedes Benz GLE, Maserati Levante

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first drive

MOTORING

THE UPDATED JEEP RENEGADE

The Jeep Renegade’s been given a new look for 2018, but is it enough to bring it to the front of its segment? Ryan Hirons finds out.

■ WHAT IS IT?

Much like Fatboy Slim in the Nineties, Jeep’s back once again for the Renegade, with a facelifted version of its compact SUV. Introduced back in 2013, the Renegade was brought in by the FCAowned iconic American firm to capitalise on the boom in popularity for big-in-nature, but small-instature cars with using its legendary ruggedness as a key selling point. It’s proven popular so far in parts of Europe, but the Renegade remains a rare sight on UK roads - though Jeep will be hoping a refresh of the model might bring it to the forefront of a market that shows no signs of slowing down.

■ WHAT’S NEW?

On the face of things, this may look little more than just a fresh face on an ageing body - and you actually wouldn’t be too far wrong. The new Renegade doesn’t revolutionise the formula, but there’s definitely some noteworthy changes - the most obvious being its new front fascia that brings an array of LEDs to the mix. New powertrain options are present, too. An entirely refreshed petrol range features for the compact SUV though diesel options remain unchanged at the core, with a few minor tweaks to update them.

■ WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

One of the new petrol options on offer powered our Jeep Renegade test car. It’s a three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged unit, delivering 118bhp and 190Nm of torque, here paired up to a six-speed manual gearbox that sends power through to the front wheels. There’s been no official word on how that translates into performance times or efficiency yet. It’s a flexible enough unit, offering a nice, wide band of power across the rev range that proves plentiful around the town - although a lack of refinement becomes quite noticeable on the motorway cruise. The six-speed gearbox has a positive feel to it too, with a satisfying robustness to each change and with ratios well-matched to the engine.

■ WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The Renegade never really set the world alight with its driving experience upon introduction, and the facelift version hasn’t really done anything to fix that. While the new petrol engines are very good, the SUV is little on the vague side in terms of steering input - making it a less town friendly than rivals. At speed, poor ride quality and high wind noise means it’s not well suited to chewing up motorway miles either. What it does offer over rivals is genuine go-anywhere capability - at least in off-road focused Trailhawk form. The sense of ruggedness is pedalled by marketing across the compact SUV spectrum, but the Renegade actually has the actions to back the words. A brief off-road run in the trail-rated version proved pleasant, tackling some pretty tough conditions without so much as a wheel spun.

■ HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The Jeep Renegade is arguably one of the more interesting cars in its segment when it comes to design, scaling down the trademark boxy Jeep style into a funky little shape. A bit of nip-and-tuck has done it no harm, either. This facelift hasn’t brought a whole lot in the way of visual changes, but a redesigned front fascia with full, circular LED headlights brings it up-to-date and allows it to further stand out in a very crowded market. It’s a shape that suits brighter colours, too. Our test car was finished in a dark blue hue, but a glance at some more vibrant tones on offer gave us a better impression of how quirky the Renegade looks.

■ WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The boxy theme continues to the interior of the Jeep Renegade - but we wish it hadn’t. Space is quite cramped up front and it’s hard to find a driving position that’s just about right - often feeling too high sat, far away from the pedals while also being too close to the steering wheel. You’d struggle to fit any regular sized humans in the back row, too. That said, headroom is plentiful thanks to

the car’s tall design and although hard plastics are present - there’s also faux-leather seats which feel plush, along with a dashboard coated in soft-touch plastic.

There are plenty of quirks to be found too, adding to the funky nature of the Renegade. Take a glance around the cabin and you’ll see speaker surrounds that feature embossed emblems of the iconic seven-slot Jeep grille, which can also be found next to the rear-view mirror. A little glance at the bottom right corner of the windscreen will reveal a miniature Willy’s Jeep decal, too.

■ WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Exact specifications and pricing for the UK have yet to be confirmed, so it’s hard to say just how much value you’re getting for money, but we can tell you our Limited trim test car had a reasonable amount of kit on. Exterior equipment included the new LED headlights and 19-inch alloy wheels, while inside the car, cruise control, a panoramic sunroof and an 8.4-inch infotainment display with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay took the spotlight. There’s new safety assistance tech for the facelift Renegade as well. Lane departure warning and ‘Intelligent speed assist’ - which automatically adjusts cruise speed - with traffic sign recognition will both come as standard across Europe.

Automatic parking will come later in 2018, too.

■ VERDICT

While a facelift of the Jeep Renegade has gone some way into improving the quirky SUV, we still think it will remain an infrequent sight on UK roads.

It just doesn’t drive as well as its rivals, and space is pretty limited. That said, if you want to stand out, this is the car to do it, offering bags of funk in a tiny package. It helps that the Jeep badge brings tons of appeal, too. And if you truly want to take your compact SUV off-road, the Renegade Trailhawk might actually be the class leader.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model as tested: Jeep Renegade Limited ■ Price: TBA ■ Engine: 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder ■ Power (bhp): 118 ■ Torque (Nm): 190 ■ Max speed (mph): TBA ■ 0-60mph: TBA ■ MPG: TBA ■ Emissions (g/km): TBA

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CAR TYRES

CAR BATTERIES

EXHAUSTS

SERVICING

DIAGNOSTICS

SUSPENSION

BRAKES

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

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We have over 34 years experience and are all fully qualified mechanics.

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WHAT’S ON

Got something to tell us about, for inclusion in the What’s On section?

Please contact Laura Davies... laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

THIS AUGUST...

WEDNESDAY

1

THURSDAY

2

Pirates: The Truth Behind the Tales Exhibition

Summer Party Racenight

National Waterfront Museum, until September 30.

Ffos Las racecourse, 4pm - midnight

FRIDAY

3

National Eisteddfod of Wales

SATURDAY

4

Bump in the Night Margam Castle, Port Talbot, 8pm.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Gower Agricultural Show

BBC National Orchestra Of Wales

Dinosaurs in the Park

Penrice Castle Park, 9am-6pm

Wales Millennium Centre, 1.30pm

Gnoll Country Park, Neath, 12pm

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

Burry Port Raft Race,

Marina Market

The Black Chair, St. Fagans

Dylan Thomas Square, 10am-3pm

National History Museum, Cardiff, 10am – 5pm

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Under Milk Wood by Dylan Thomas

The Reluctant Dragon at the open-air theatre

Street Food Friday at Unit Nineteen

Clyne Farm Centre, 5.30pm.

Oystermouth Castle, 2pm.

8

@LawsDX

Cardiff, Until August 11

5

WEDNESDAY

01792 545523

6

7

9 10 Little Wind Street, Swansea

11 12 13 Burry Port Harbour, from 5pm

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TUESDAY

14

SUMMER HOLIDAY THE MUSICAL WMC until August 18, 7pm

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Beach Fun Day

Green Man Festival

Make your own Comics Family Workshop

Carmarthenshire Family Funday,

Gower Heritage Centre, 10am-5.30pm

Crickhowell, Brecon Beacons, Until August 19

Dylan Thomas centre, 1pm-4pm

United Counties Showground Carmarthen, 10am-4pm

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Women in Art: Portraits from the Collection

Sean Paul live in concert

Bon Jovi Experience

Glynn Vivian,.

10am-5pm

Cardiff Motorpoint Arena, 6.30pm

Swansea Grand Theatre, 7.30pm.

17 18

15 16

WEDNESDAY

19 20 21

22 Medieval Fun Week

Gower Heritage Centre, August 18 – August 26

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

The Dreamboys

Swansea Bay Beer and Cider Festival

Outdoor cinema, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

Llanelli Music and Jazz Festival

Pontarddulais Show

Swansea Grand Theatre, 7.30pm.

Brangwyn Hall, 12pm

Natonial Botanical Gardens, 7pm

The Diplomat Hotel, 1pm - midnight

Pentre Road,

23 24 25 26 27 TUESDAY

28 Evita

WMC, until September 1, 7.30pm

Previous Cast of Evita

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Dinosaurs in the Jungle

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again

Unicorn Princess Tea

Plantasia until August 31, 10.30am-4.30pm

Pontardawe Arts Centre, 2pm and 7.30pm

Llanelly House, 2pm

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WHAT’S ON

interview

We’re all going on a summer holiday!

Brand new stage musical Summer Holiday is coming to Cardiff with the famous red double-decker bus making a stop at the Wales Millennium Centre . Based on the iconic 1960’s film of the same name, starring Cliff Richard and The Shadows. It will include all of the number one hits from the movie, plus some additional classics.

LAURA DAVIES speaks to X Factor and Dancing On Ice star Ray Quinn, who plays the lead character. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

T

ell us a bit more about Summer Holiday?

Summer Holiday the musical is based on the iconic movie from the ‘60s. I play the role of Don, made famous by Sir Clifford Richards.

With a group of friends we take a trip around Europe in a big red double decker bus - and along the way the adventure turns into a romance and lots of fun!

The audience are in for a huge delight! It’s fast paced and exciting, with iconic songs that everyone will know and want to sing along to. In a nutshell it’s what I would call good old fashioned entertainment at its best!

Did you watch the film a few times to help you with the role?

You are touring all over the country, i'm guessing that must be hard at times, being away from home so much?

Yeah it gets little tough at times. I get to see my fans who have been with me since year dot! I miss my family and friends, but when I get time off I spend it at home with them, which is always special.

It seems like a lifetime ago, you finished runner up on the X Factor to Leona Lewis. Can you believe it was 12 years ago now? What was it like to be on the show?

I know, I was reminded about this last week in an interview and it made me gasp… 12 years - wow! It was such an amazing and crazy period a whirlwind of ups and downs and to be in the final with Leona was incredible. X Factor was such a great learning experience for me and will remain one of my career highlights – I loved it!

To play the lead part in Summer Holiday, a role made famous by Sir Cliff Richard must be a huge honour?

I’m very excited but also a bit nervous at the same time.

When I was offered the role I jumped at the chance and then it hit me! This is my first role as lead male and on a personal note, it was my nan’s favourite movie and she adored Sir Cliff Richard! So big boots to fill and I’m up for the challenge and I know my nan would be so proud..

@LawsDx

You won Dancing on Ice in 2009. Did you have much ice skating experience before you went on the show?

Sophie Matthew and Ray Quinn

I get asked this a lot and when I tell them ‘no’, they say ‘really?!’ I never set foot on the ice before I was selected to be in DOI. I like a challenge and I am kind of fearless sometimes (a little too much!).

Working with Jane and Chris was amazing. I would go to rehearsals each week wanting to take things to the next level and they would always support my ideas for new moves and having them mentor me was such a big part of making those idea come true.

Yeah, I have watched the movie several times to get my head around the role. I want to stamp my own identity on the part, but at the same time want to do justice to the original. I have to have a bit of a ‘60s posh London accent, so that’s totally new to me. And those iconic songs, such iconic hits!

Did you suffer any bad injuries during the show?

How many weeks rehearsals did you have to do for this show?

Yeah I had a couple of accidents on the Ice, luckily not too bad but you have to expect injuries as it can be a pretty dangerous environment. Luckily I’m still standing!

We had three weeks of intense rehearsals in north London studios, followed by a week of tech rehearsal in the theatre before opening in Liverpool. I know this sounds short but everyone in the cast and production team are so committed to making the show great and with my crazy schedule it had to be done!

When you're not working, what do you like to do?

Like most people I like to spend my downtime at home with my family doing the normal things. I don’t get to do this on a regular basis as I am on tour a lot, so it’s important to me as that’s when I can totally relax and chill and recharge my batteries.

Summer Holiday is at the Wales Millennium Centre from August 14-18.

142 swansealife.co.uk

If you hadn't of done the X Factor, what sort of job do you think you would have done?

I wanted to be a copper (police officer) or barber when I was kid. I’ve been known to cut hair when on tour for the guys in the show. However, it all changed when my mum took me to see my first show and I told her “this is what I want to do mum!”

Who was your hero growing up?

Sammy Davis Jnr, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Jean Kelly Fred Astaire…

Well I could go on for days when it comes to this subject. My love for Swing and The Rat Pack comes from my childhood. My dad is such a massive fan of this era and he would play his records in the house and I started to sing along.

When it comes to singing and dancing there’s no one to touch the great Jean or Fred.

What would be your dream job and why?

Playing James Bond. I’m a massive fan of the Bond movies. My ultimate Bond was Sean Connery - he is Mister Cool I wanted to be him. I love action movies and I think this is the ultimate British role.

What was it like to have Simon Cowell as your mentor on the X Factor?

It was amazing to have him as my mentor. He is a great chap to work with and he gave me such great advice that has stayed with me throughout my career.

Do you still get nervous before you go on stage?

Yeah you bet! Opening night is the most intense time for me.

Once on stage I’m fine, but those few seconds in the wings…oh boy! I love my job and couldn’t imagine doing anything else now.

swansealife.co.uk 143

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SOUTH WALES MINERS’ MUSEUM JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER HESE are heady days indeed for The South Wales Miners' Museum, with two awards confirming its place at the top table.

T

Visitors have been going to the Afan Forest Park site to get a flavour of the

coal mining industry since it opened in 1976.

And the hard graft put in by a dedicated band of volunteers over the decades has since got the recognition it deserved with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service last year.

But that was not the end of the plaudits as last month it received Museum Accreditation, a UK-wide programme which sets standards for museum management, collection care and visitor experience.

The museum’s heritage officer Eamonn Scullion is in no doubt about the significance of the two official pats on the back.

“The Queen’s Award for Voluntary

Supported by

Service recognises the work of the volunteers in keeping it open for 40 years and their achievements in making it an engaging, pleasant and fun place,” he said. “It is a testament to the hard work of the volunteers to provide the best visitor experience and volunteer environment possible.

“The accreditation puts it on a professional footing, working to the same standards as places like the National Museum. It ensures attention to detail in our exhibitions, collection care and visitor experience.”

And those standards are set to be maintained by a current project being undertaken there, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Regenerate NPT.

Past to Present, which is halfway through its three year term, aims to modernise the museum and secure its future.

Work is continuing on upgrading exhibits and interpretation throughout the museum. There are new interactive timelines, and an interactive archive where visitors can access the entire image, oral history and video collection.

New interpretation has been added to existing exhibits, providing the miner’s viewpoint and giving a taste of life underground.

Whole new exhibit displays have been added, showcasing objects from the

collection that have not been seen in at least 10 years.

Aspects of coal mining and mining communities not normally covered in museums are celebrated. And the material comes from the most impeccable of sources, from the people who know exactly what it is like to work underground.

Ex-miners have created all of the exhibits themselves to give an authentic view of what was once Wales’ largest industry.

And if you are lucky enough to visit when one of the ex-miner volunteers is present, they will give you a tour.

Mining has been in their blood for

generations and they want to pass on their experiences and stories to the next generation.

There are outdoor exhibits and a digital walk. One of the highlights of any tour is a visit to the blacksmith’s shop for a view of an important part of the colliery. You can see the sights and hear the sounds of the haulage engine house, and learn about the steam train the Glyndwr.

And from this August there will be the chance to wander along the new Hidden Heritage walk in the beautiful setting of the forest park as you are transported back to a time when coal was king.

Afan Forest Park | Cynonville | Port Talbot | SA13 3H Tel: 01639 851833 | www.south-wales-miners-museum.co.uk

COMINGUPAT GWYNHALL...

Johnny Cash Roadshow

MARS Live plus support

Fat Barrys Ghoul Band

Crafty’s Halloween Spooktacular

As Seen In London’s West End Saturday 8th September

Halloween Spectacular Friday 26th October

Money For Nothing Dire Straits Europe’s No.1 Tribute Show Saturday 17th November

Saturday 29th September

The Cavern Beatles Friday 12th October

The Ultimate Classic Rock

Fun Family Entertainment Tuesday 30th October

An evening of classic rock anthems from legends past & present Saturday 3rd November

Joe Longthorne

King Of Pop – Starring NAVI

The 50th Anniversary Tour 2018 Saturday 24th November

The world’s No.1 Michael Jackson Tribute – Chosen by Michael Saturday 8th December

PLUSMANYMANYMORE… Tel: 0300 365 6677 www.gwynhall.com

Wales’ Largest 3 day Agricultural Show

Pembrokeshire County Show 14 – 16 August 2018

This year with…

• Joseph’s Amazing Camels • Inter Hunt Relay • Harness Racing …and so much more!

Also Featuring • Family Free Play Zone • Wonderful Food & Drink • Superb Skateboard Park • Valero Countryside Paddock

Buy discounted tickets and get more info at pembsshow.org

1 Adult & 3 Children

Registered Charity No. 1160533

2 Adult & 3 Children

£18/day £35/day

SA SAVE VER R

FA FAMI MILY LY

SOCIAL DIARY • LADIES DAY

Charity Ladies Day WHERE: At the Britannia Inn, Llanmadoc Tell Me More: The annual charity ladies day took place at The Britannia Inn. The afternoon raised nearly £7,000 for local charities. They are Ty Olwen , Maggie’s , Singleton Chemotherapy Unit , Children’s Cancer and due to exceeding the amount raised The Old Mill Cancer Centre in Penclawdd and the Loughor Inshore Rescue Boat also received donations. The organisers of the charity day have raised £25,000 in four years.

Pictures: Robert Melen

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Birthdays, Hen Parties, Anniversaries, Baby Showers, Engagements, Charity Events and much more Castle Leisure can cater for pretty much any celebration Choose between Afternoon Tea or Evening Buffet with the use of a private room + bespoke party packages also available

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Try your hand at Bingo and be in with a chance of winning £45,000 played every afternoon and evening Castle Bingo at Cardiff, Newport, Merthyr Tydfil, Nantgarw, Bridgend, Neath and Swansea Contact us www.castlebingo.co.uk @castlebingo, #castlebingo

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SOCIAL DIARY • school prom

FFYNONE HOUSE SCHOOL PROM WHere: Village Hotel, Swansea Tell Me More: Pupils at Ffynone House School celebrated their end of year with a prom at the Village Hotel. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY • prosecco FESTIVAL

ROTARY CLUB MERGER WHERE: Sketty Hall Tell Me More: Swansea oldest and youngest Rotary clubs merged in order to create a more dynamic new club in time for the Centenary of Swansea Rotary in 1919. Several people were awarded the Rotary Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of their contribution to Rotary and the local community. They included Kev Johns, MBE, horologist (clock-keeper) David Mitchell and his wife Gail, Dr Mair Williams MBE and her partner David. Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi was made an honorary member while Steve Bolchover was installed as President.

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SOCIAL DIARY • FUNDRAISER

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Maggies Fundraiser WHERE: Maggie’s Centre, Singleton Tell Me More: A drinks and canapes evening was held at the Maggie’s Centre to raise funds for the charity.

Pictures: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk

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SOCIAL DIARY • SUMMER DINNER

Mumbles Rangers U13’s Dinner WHere: The Gower Hotel in Bishopston.

Tell Me More: The dinner was held to to raise money for the Mumbles Rangers Under 13’s teams to go on tour at the end of the summer.

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SOCIAL DIARY • CROQUET DAY

ESTATE CAPITAL’S ANNUAL CROQUET DAY WHERE: Mansion House, Swansea Tell Me More: Estate Capital’s Annual Croquet Day took place at the Mansion House in Swansea on July 20th. They raised ££2,110 for the Lord Mayor’s Charity. Pictures: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotograp​hy.co.uk

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Bringing on Back the 60s • 5.9.18 The Nick Ross Orchestra • 8.9.18 New Jersey Nights • 11 – 15.09.18

Blood Brothers • 25 – 29.09.18

Sun Records • 6.10.18

Tabby McTat • 8.10.18

Neil Oliver • 17.10.18

Milkshake! Live • 30.10.18

Cilla • 6 – 11.18

Awful Auntie • 14-17.11.18

The Manfreds • 24.11.18

Eric & Ern • 4.12.18

AWSOME AUTUMN HIGHLIGHTS

Hello Shoppers! £3 for 3 hours at St Davids Multi Storey Car Park in Swansea City Centre Monday - Saturday

FREE parking every Sunday at all Swansea Council City Centre car parks

www.bigheartofswansea.co.uk

/BigHeartSwansea

TIME FOR YOU

BY INVITATION W I T H

E D D I E

W H I T N E Y

Swansea businessman Eddie Whitney keeps us up to date with his charity work and social diary...

G

Great news for my favourite drama group!

Following my June edition discussing how the wonderful The Rising Stars Theatre company had recently performed at the Taliesin theatre, I had a call from the amazing people at Urban Foundry.

Urban Foundry intend to run a two day mini-festival featuring young people with additional needs; this is scheduled for the first weekend in September at their Unit Nineteen venue on Little Wind Street in the city centre. It aims to bring other likeminded groups from around the south of the UK to explore the benefits from a series of workshops and networking sessions.

A few meetings later and some very excited members and parents… the date and schedule is set!

A visit from the Firebird Theatre Company, based in the Old Vic in Bristol will kick off the first day, this will give exclusive access for Rising Stars to such an opportunity and a chance to experience how the others work, exchange ideas and discuss the possibility to work together in the future.

It’s not all about work, work, work: in the evening a sing-a-long ‘Greatest Showman’ party with live karaoke and open like you have never seen before! This will bring day one to a close…

After a well deserved rest, the work will continue on the second day with an exclusive

session of Rebound Therapy with Boost Rebound - a very rare opportunity to be involved in this kind of work. Workshops and networking with like minded groups will follow.

At the end of the second day The Rising Stars Theatre Company will give a performance at Unit Nineteen for all those involved; this will be open to the public and it promises to be a night to remember, with some great food and drink. Put the date in your diaries: Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 2! Tickets will be available soon through Urban Foundry.

This is what our city and community needs: all people no matter what their background or abilities working together. If you would like to be involved or contribute, or you think your group would benefit from attending any of the workshops please get in touch.

Hard work for all concerned… but The Rising Stars Theatre Company also know how to party when the sun goes down!

Eddie x

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CELEBRATING THE TALENTED

BUSINESS WOMEN IN OUR SWANSEA BAY REGION

SWANSEA BA

BUSINEY SS LIFE

The Women in Business Awards, now in their ninth year, are held annually to recognise the hard work undertaken by female entrepreneurs in the region in a variety of categories including mentoring, innovation, growth and expansion.

For full category details and to nominate visit:

www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/WIBA2018

Newborn Photography Specialist Create beautiful portraits to display with pride in your home.

Awarded the Newborn Safety Certificate and Licentiate with the Master Photographers Association.

Book from your twelve week scan.

Session fee ÂŁ65. Special offer For Swansea Life readers the first 10 bookings will also receive a complementary 12 x 10 mounted print.

Jenny McDonnell LMPA 07940 219143 www.mcdonnellphotography.co.uk jenny@mcdonnellphotography.co.uk

Family Portraits - Cake Smashes - Childrens Photography

TIME FOR YOU Galt Toys Teether Soft Book, £6.99, Preciouslittleone.com

Jangly Koala Activity Toy, £15, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Hey Sunshine My First Curl & Tooth Box Set, £12, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Edelweiss Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sensitive 50ml, £13.95 Weleda.co.uk Hero Sit and Play offspring, £29.99, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Mini Monsters Baby Giraffe Toy, £12, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Personalised Silvercloud Counting Sheep Baby Bouncer, £55, www.my1styears.com

OH BABY LAURA DAVIES rounds up newborn essentials, gifts and keepsakes for your little ones laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk

@LawsDx

Ocarro Jewel Emerald Pushchair, £799, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Hape Scoot Around Rider, £54.99, Argos, Swansea and Parc Pemberton

Organic Children Fruity Favourites, £35, www.greenpeople.co.uk

Matchstick Monkey Grey Gift Set, £29.95, www.matchstickmonkey.com​ Personalised Large Pink Elephant Soft Toy, £50, www.my1styears.com Peter Rabbit Activity Spiral Toy, £17.99, John Lewis, Cardiff

Silver Cross Balmoral Pram Black £1,600, www.silvercrossbaby.com

Peter Rabbit Baby Dinner Set, £14, Paperchase at Next, Morfa Retail Park

Johnson’s Top-To-Toe Newborn Starter Pack, £8, Asda, Llanelli and Llansamlet

Personalised Pastel Animal Snack Boxes Set of 3, £16, www.my1styears.com

Super Soft Pack-Away Pocket Highchair, £14, JoJo Maman Bébé, Cardiff

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TIME FOR YOU

ASK S A R A

Sara Plant, Partner and Head of Family Law at Peter Lynn & Partners Solicitors talks this month about the most overlooked aspect of a divorce.

The Most Overlooked Aspect of a Divorce A divorce can be an extremely emotional and often painful time.

Although some divorces can be amicable, many can turn in to bitter battles, and it is when emotions are high that people often overlook key documents.

While the focus of each couple may include children, homes, assets, and many other important aspects of family life, the most commonly overlooked document is the Will.

Sara Plant, Head of Divorce and Family Law commented “Until a divorce is finalised and the Decree Absolute has been issued, existing legal documentation such as a Will remains binding. Unfortunately, this can result in assets and inheritance being distributed to the party you are trying to obtain a divorce from in the event of a sudden death�.

There have been many examples where this has proven true, and failure to review your Will or to not have a Will in place can have a serious impact on the inheritance and asset distribution when someone passes on.

Consider the following scenario that has proven true on a number of occasions.

A married couple decides to separate and eventually, both parties settle down with new partners. Neither

person wants to remarry so do not finalise a divorce however after a number of years, the husband dies.

His new partner, with whom he has a child, expects the inheritance to be distributed to her however as he had not written a new Will, his assets will not go to his new partner and their child.

Another common scenario is when high-value marital assets involved are in the divorce that leads to a long, bitter legal battle.

If one party passes away before the divorce is finalised, their estate is left as per the original Will, often with all assets left to the surviving spouse – a situation which would not have been intended.

In both these scenarios, there is the option to challenge the Will, however, this can be expensive and time consuming with no successful outcome guaranteed.

What can be done is to update or write a Will once you start divorce proceedings.

If you do reconcile it can always be changed, but if one party does pass away suddenly during divorce proceedings, your assets are less likely to end up in the hands of the wrong people.

For expert advice on Divorce and other Wills and Probate matters, contact 01792 450010 or email advice@plandp.co.uk to arrange a free initial consultation.

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DISCOVER MUMBLES

Msummer U Mfestival B L2018 ES

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We are celebrating our second year anniversary.

We would like to thank all our fabulous clients and team who have made this second year an even better one.

At No. 64 our philosophy is simple, total relaxation and 5 star customer care.

No. 64 is dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of services and attention to detail

Call us on 01792 360449 Find us at: 64 Newton Road, Mumbles, SA3 4BE To find out more please pop in, call or come and visit us

/06/2018 15:30 Page 1

Newton Road closure and shopping ext DISCOVER MUMBLES

MUMBLES SUMMER F E S T I V A L 2 018 w w w. m umb le sfe stiva l . co.uk

Thursday JULY 26th

“LET’S GET TOGETHER” SUMMER PICNIC MPoarp-keUpts

5.30pm till 10pm

Newton Road, Mu

Newton Rd will be closed from White Rose to Oyster

mouth school junction from

5 ATTRACTIONS TO ENJOY WH ILE YOU

Saturday 18th August 2018 from 2pm-4pm at Murton Church Hall

The “Let’s Get Together” Summer Picnic is being hosted by five local Women’s Institutes. One of the campaigns supported by the WI is Alleviating Loneliness and this event aims to support that, along with the Jo Cox Big Get

Together campaign.

The event invites families, friends, any groups or individuals to come along with their own picnics and enjoy the company of others.

There will be a craft display,

Street Food information on each WI and Street willow weaving.

Entertainment Strawberries, ice cream and other refreshments will be available at a small charge.

For further information call in association with Mumbles Traders 01792 449577.

Supported by Mumbles, Murton Village, Newton, Parkmill and Pennard WI groups

Carousel Kids Ri Face Pain

Please com Mumbles the day

Pop -up Al Fresco Seating Areas For further information visit

www.mumblesfestival.co.

OrDer nOw a Full range OF BBQ prODucTs

Traditional butchers suppliers of Quality Beef, Lamb & Pork, Salt Marsh Lamb, award wining Sausages & Burgers, Dry-Cured Bacon, Chicken & Turkey.

Home Delivery available 20 Newton Rd, Mumbles Swansea Tel: 01792 366500 also at 8 Station Rd, Penclawdd, Swansea Tel: 01792 850084

www.tuckersbutchers.co.uk

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We’re back in Mumbles Douglas-Jones Mercer closed its Mumbles office in the mid 1990’s. Last year we went back to our roots, opening once again in Newton Road. Since then the office has grown steadily with two dedicated solicitors based permanently at the office.

With the experience that DJM has built up over the years, we have maintained an excellent rapport with local businesses throughout the Mumbles area. We look forward to continuing that reputation by working more closely with local estate agents, banks and building societies, as well as other business professionals and individuals.

Mike Snowdon CHAIRMAN

Hana Littlehales

ASSOCIATE SOLICITOR

info@djm.law.co.uk Amy Cooper-Davies SOLICITOR

www.djm.law.co.uk

@DJMSolicitors

16 Axis Court, Mallard Way, Swansea Vale, Swansea SA7 0AJ Telephone: 01792 650000 Chelston House, 103 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Telephone: 01792 304090

DISCOVER MUMBLES

MUMBLES SUMMER F E S T I V A L 2 018 w w w. m umb le sfe stiva l . co.uk MUMBLES RAFT RACE

12, and Pretty Woman, Thursday, September, 13 Two silver screen classics one for children, the other for grown ups - will return to the big screen in Swansea this autumn. First up is kids’ favourite Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the inaugural movie in the blockbuster series about the boy wizard and his friends at Hogwarts. It will be followed a night later by 1990 rom com Pretty Woman, starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts.

5 August 2018 12.30 pm on August 5th will see the start of the race which will take a different route for the first time in over 30 years. The race will be an ‘Out and back’ race from Knab Rock around a halfway marker and back to eh slipway near to Verdi’s.

OYSTERMOUTH CASTLE EVENTS 12 - 13 September 2018

it’s an ideal event for all abilities. You can choose from the Middle, Sprint or Super Sprint distances and can race with all abilities within you team/ club. Relay distances are also available and from age 14 and over.

MUMBLES TRIATHLON

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Wednesday, September,

29 September 2018 With 3 distances available,

THE NEW CAFE VALANCE To enjoy one of The friendliesT welcome in wales open 7 days a week from 9am

* liVe mUsic on friday niGhTs * afTer work social beTween 5-7pm wiTh The Tapas deal and 2 cockTails for £11.95

light

lunches

Freshly cooked food with a lighter touch from our salads kart to skinny pizzas.

Or a selection of breads and olives.

Breakfast

taPas thursDaY

£9.95 for 3 tapas dishes

Drinks

is a Big Deal from only £6.95

Join us for breakfast with warm home-baked croissants Or perhaps sausages or bacon from Tuckers Newton Road freshly baked baps from our kitchen.

Every moment has its flavours Cocktails made with locally sourced spirits served in the bar and on the terraces where visitors and locals mingle.

Stay up to date at www.cafevalance.com 50 NewtoN Rd, the MuMbles, swaNsea sa3 4bQ •

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Swansea Sharks Swim School We Believe Swimming and Water Safety is an Essential Life Skill

EA S HA

IM

OL

W

S

To book please phone 01792 202795 or call in to Sharks Swim & Triathlon Shop on Sketty Cross

NS

RKS

S WA

Want your child to learn to swim and become a strong swimmer?

We teach children from age 3+ including those with disabilities.

SCHO

www.SharksSwimSchool.co.uk

Mumbles

516 Mumbles Road, Mumbles

Tel: 01792 366133

TIDES GALLERY

JO FROST OCEAN ART

ORIGINAL FINE WORKS OF ART Paintings, Sculptures & Jewellery.

624 Mumbles Road, SA3 4EA Tel: 07918733830

BRACELET BAY • MUMBLES • SWANSEA • SA3 4JT • 01792 369408

WINNER OF THE BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Welsh Italian Awards 2017

BREAKFAST

CAFÉ BAR

We serve a selection of tasty breakfasts in our Café Bar available daily 9.45am - 11.15am

Check out our new menu including a range of pasta specials Open daily 9.30am - 11pm

FOR HIRE

La Fontanella function room available

RESTAURANT LUNCHTIME SPECIAL

TWO COURSES FOR JUST £12.95 AVAILABLE IN OUR RESTAURANT

www.castellamare.co.uk Castellamare

castellamareUk

ITALIAN RESTAURANT Selection of fresh seafood and locally caught fish Vegans catered for Open Mon-Fri 12noon-2.30pm & 6pm-10pm Sat & Sun 12noon-10pm

AWARDS 2018

Principal Sponsor

AN INDIAN SUMMER’S NIGHT Celebrating Swansea Bay’s finest with a heady fusion of music, dance and Eastern inspired cuisine BRANGWYN HALL, SWANSEA 14TH SEPTEMBER 2018

THE VOTING IS OVER...

HERE ARE THE FINALISTS Congratulations to all the finalists in the 2018 Swansea Life Awards!

It’s YOU who have decided which companies help us all get the most out of living and working in the Swansea Bay area. We believe there is no better place to be. And judging by your response, you do too!

Now, here are the finalists in each of the 16 different categories for the 2018 Swansea Life awards taking in everything from leisure and tourism to wedding venues, homes and gardens, beauty, fashion and

eating and drinking out.

The Swansea Life Awards are the city’s most prestigious, high profile, most deeply sought after business awards.

Swansea’s most aspirational and stylish magazine is getting ready to celebrate the best the area can offer.

Now come and be part of it and join us for THE party of the year!

Tickets NOW AVAILABLE

For ticket enquiries contact Isabel Goodman: Tel: 01792 545511 • Email: isabel.goodman@mediawales.co.uk

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£75

per person

THE SHORTLIST In no particular order...

BEAUTY

Charlotte Bellham Make Up Artistry Figaro’s Barbers & Supplies Sun Lounge Morriston

CAFE CULTURE

Bluebell Coffee Kitchen NO6 Hundred Pearls Coffee Shop

EVENT

BBC1 Big Weekend Cinema & Co White Collar Boxing - Funky Pump

BEST PUB

The Bucket List Rake & Riddle Welcome to Town

HAIR

Hair Lounge - Marc Isaac Rhydian Maher Trimology Barbers

HEALTH/GYM/SPA

Funky Pump Personal Training Studio Zumba with Sion

LEISURE & TOURISM Clyne Gardens Egypt Centre LC Swansea

HOTEL

Dragon Hotel Morgans Village Hotel

WEDDING VENUE King Arthur Hotel Oxwich Bay Hotel

RESTAURANT

Bistrot Pierre The Fountain Inn Rasoi Indian Kitchen

AFTER DARK

Old Havana No Sign Wine Bar Peppermint

FASHION RETAILER (LOCAL) 102 Couture Solo Stardust Boutique

FASHION RETAILER (NATIONAL) Next Primark Zara

HOMES & GARDENS Oyster Gallery & Interiors Pyle Garden Centre Wagman Windows

WEDDING RETAILER Allison Jayne Bridal Cariad Bridal Eva Ashley Bridal

WEDDING SERVICES Fonz & The Poet Francis Floral Designs Unique Life Ceremonies

Category sponsors: MANOR PARK COUNTRY HOUSE LIMITED

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NEXT MONTH IN SWANSEA LIFE

New season fashion trends What’s new in home decor Back to school cool All your society pictures!

Real life wedding stories

OUT AUGUST 31

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70TH ANNIVERSARY

Swansea International Festival 22.09.18 – 07.10.18

Bringing the best of the world to Swansea.

Sharing the best of Swansea with the world.

SIR KARL JENKINS BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES

ROB BRYDON ● ELIN MANAHAN THOMAS ● JOCELYN FREEMAN ● MARMEN QUARTET ● GOULD PIANO TRIO ● ROBERT PLANE ● MILOŠ AND ENSEMBLE 7 ● LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE ● MORRISTON ORPHEUS CHOIR SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION MOCSA YOUNG WELSH SINGER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION ● WELSH NATIONAL OPERA ● GILBERT & SULLIVAN ● NOW THE HERO / NAWR YR ARWR ● THE SWANSEA FRINGE ● AND MORE!

MUSIC ● THEATRE ● COMEDY

Book your tickets now! www.swanseafestival.org Swansea International Festival would like to thank the following organisations for their support:

The Vera Smart Trust and The Friends of Swansea International Festival

Discover your dream wedding rings Visit us in store to view our collection.

Quadrant Shopping Centre, Swansea | 01792 462999 | stephenhughesfinediamonds.com  StephenHughesLtd  SHughesLtd  StephenHughesLtd