Swansea Life May 2019 by Swansea Life

SWA NSE A

LIFE may 2019 £2.95

OUT & N I ABOUTE SWANS A

BUY ME NOW! New season stripes, sunny sandals & high street styles

YOUR 15 PAGES OTFPARTY BRILLIANURES PICT

148

GREAT SUMMER LOOKS

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Contents... M AY

actiNG Editor Peter Slee | 01792 545559 peter.slee@reachplc.com PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@mediawales.co.uk

2 01 9

Photography Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Hoosh Arabi, Robert Melen Contributors Chris Peregrine, Lara Johnson, Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Sian Day, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Dr Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards, Marc White and Daniel Turner

editoral designer Sandra Evans | sandra.evans@reachplc.com advertising For all advertsising inquiries, please call Debbie Roberts | 01792 545626 or email debbie.roberts@reachplc.com Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife

FASHION

HAIR & BEAUTY

9. LOOK WHAT WE FOUND This month’s ‘must-buy’ treasures

32. FEAT OF CLAY Six purifying products to try

10.

33. BOB’S YOUR UNCLE Styling products to tame your mane

NEW SEASON STRIPES Inject life into standard Breton colourways by experimenting with summer 2019’s bohemian and matchy-matchy stripe styles

13. FEET FIRST How the slider became the go-to footwear of summer 14. HIGH STREET HOTTIES Check out our favourite style trends for May

34. MAKEOVER MAGIC The team at Lara Johnson cast a magic hair spell 41. NEED A GOOD NIGHT’S KIP? Foolproof ways to supercharge your snoozing

22. COMPETITION TIME Win £200 to spend at Next

ON THE COVER: From a selection at M&Co

4 SWANSEA LIFE

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. Swansea Life is part of Trinity Mirror North West & North Wales Ltd, a subsidiary company of Reach 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: www,ipso.co.uk Telephone: 0300 123 2220; email advice@ipso.co.uk 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 www.reachplc.com/how-to-complain 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, Reach PLC, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP.

116 BRIDE

FOOD & DRINK

HOUSE & HOME

45.

58.

82. CREATE A HOME YOU LOVE Smart ideas for clearing your home of unwanted clutter

OUR PERFECT DAY Join Swansea couple Christina and Chris Bate on their romantic day in Gower

50. BY DESIGN Shop the best wedding guest outfits here 53. WEDDING INSIDER Top tips for planning your walk up the aisle 142. REAL WEDDING BBC Masterchef finalist Dale Williams and his bride Natalie tell us about their white-themed wedding at Oldwalls

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.

REAL HOME COOKING Sian Day whips up a comforting, zesty and light, lemon meringue pie for the ultimate dessert.

62. A GREAT TASTE OF THE ORIENT We put the new food line-up at the Celtic Manor Resort under the spotlight

85. STYLE GURU Mumbles’ Lesley Taylor’s simple ideas for stylish living 97. IN THE GARDEN Aberglasney’s Joseph Atkins helps to pick the perfect blooms for your patch 116. LOOK WHAT WE FOUND Swansea high street garden-buy inspiration to love!

SWA NSEA

LIFE SWANSEA LIFE 5

From the editor

Some years ago, when I was still quite new in this role, a workmate took me to one side and told me he thought I might be one of the luckiest lifestyle magazine editors around. He was referring to me doing a job that I love and living in an area of which I never, ever tire.

He was right, and I have often reflected on that luck in the years since. Because you’ve told the team here that we’ve made a bold, brave magazine that increasingly celebrates the region and gives varied new voices a place to talk about who they are and what they stand for. It goes without saying, then, that I am incredibly proud of what the SL crew creates and curates for you each month. Our sometimes tongue-in-cheek take on life in Swansea makes me smile, as I hope it does you, too! So this month, we continue with that trend as we lay the foundations for the summer months that are now just around the corner.

As always, the May issue is a celebration of style for all ages. While it is often thought that the sensible approach is to take refuge in the tried-and-tested classic looks, this month’s pages put forward a spirited argument that we sometimes need the freshness and excitement of new fashion. So ditch the navy jumper in favour of something perhaps both bolder and brighter (page 16) – it’s more fun and definitely more fabulous! Even better, you might just win £200 towards that new look.

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Elsewhere, see how local couples celebrated their big day with wedding stories and ideas from our hugely popular Real Life weddings section. And of course, there’s the usual eclectic mix of stories and images we hope will inspire you to dream a little, too. We can’t change everything. But we are proud to play a part in increasing the visibility of more of the great women and men who make up the area we all love, via our pages. Of course, you can play a part, too. We love to hear your stories and ideas. So now it’s over to you. What do you like and what is missing? Let us know on twitter @SwanseaLife and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues. Please, do, get in touch!

what we’re loving in may

42 6 SWANSEA LIFE

The gin’n’ tonic is not merely a drink these days, but a national pastime. So we’re delighted this once humble highball has got a great new dedicated venue to enjoy it in Swansea. Check out some of the brilliant opening night pictures at ‘Gin Ne Sais Quoi’ in SA1 on page140-141

PETER SLEE Acting editor

Contact me at peter.slee@reachplc.com 01792 455559 Find us on Facebook @SwanseaLife

140 97

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FA S H I O N F L A S H TIE A RIBBON! energy... Cycling shorts are the new leggings, but don’t fret — no bike-riding is required. Big sports energy is everywhere for this summer; contrast with tailoring and heels to look more polished, less gym.

White hoody: £25 Black cycling shorts: £14 , Miss Selfridge, Swansea

neon

The spring/summer 2019 catwalks saw several retro trends re-emerge. There were tie-dye cycling shorts and shoulder padded power suits, but the one Eighties trend from which there really was no escape was neon. Fluorescent shades already hit the fashion scene last year, hitting micro-trend status largely thanks to the Kardashians. But, those of us who thought the in-your-face look was nothing more than a passing Instagram trend are about to be proven wrong. Proving that the trend is going to be sticking around for quite some time, here are three of our favourite buys..

It’s official: bows are making a major comeback. The coolest of fashion customers are pairing this must-have SS19 accessory with a kitten-heel shoe for a look we are absolutely loving: Pointy flat bow mules, £15.99, Bon Prix

Bird bag, £38; Kath Kidston, Cardiff Style note Convertible rucksack, £129.95; Seasalt, Mumbles

fab 3 handbags Zing into summer with some new season arm candy

Rain or Shine Retailers call it 'transitional'. We call it tricky - that period at the start of summer when there might be sunny days but the mercury hasn't really risen much and it's not quite time to pack away our spring clothes.

One thing you can ditch now though? Big winter coats. Instead, you need a versatile jacket or two that will see you through to summer proper.

Hidden depths Find this cutie at Principles in Debenhams, Swansea, £28

As the Nineties style renaissance continues to evolve, there’s a sense we’re moving through the decade and inching ever closer to the dreaded Noughties.

GET THE LOOK...

FASHION

Case in point? Cast your mind back to 1997, when a girl group called All Saints released their debut single, I Know Where It’s At. With their street-wise tomboyish styling, the R’n’B four-piece catapulted cargo pants into the mainstream, and soon everyone was wearing the many-pocketed baggy trousers. Now they’re back. Both the band and the cargo pants! They’re not quite the same as their pre-millennium counterparts, though. This time around, we’re seeing more high-waisted styles and a much slimmer fit.

Trend-wise, there's lots to choose from right now, whatever your style. We love this one from Fat Face in Mumbles; Khaki Worker Jacket, £69; Karen Check Ditsy Dress, £55.

Bright orange neon clear cat eyes sunglasses, £7.99; New Look, Swansea

Neon bikini top, £7.99; F&F at Tesco Extra, Parc Fforestfach

Hoot platforms, £72; Office, Swansea

White broderie shirt, £32; Khaki camouflage utility trousers, £39, Miss Selfridge, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 9

FASHION

SWA NSE A

LIFE

LOVES

How to wear new season stripes Stripes are a staple part of any wardrobe, and so they should be. With so much on offer style-wise, it seems like the perfect trend to invest in. But in reality, finding a style to suit your individual body shape is no easy task. Horizontal, vertical, fine or wide - narrowing down the stripe that works for you is the key to getting your look right.

Inject life into standard Breton colourways by experimenting with summer 2019's bohemian and matchy-matchy stripe styles

Linen blend stripe jumpsuit and shirt, Bonmarche, Swansea

10 SWANSEA LIFE

Trousers, £15; Matalan, Morriston

Navy and white stripe straw floppy hat, £25; Oh For Shore stripe straw beach shopper bag, £25; Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Navy stripe asymmetrical neckline jumper, £25; Tu at Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Stripe cut-out buckle swimsuit, £12; Primark, Swansea

Stripe Bardot, £16; Matalan. Cwmdu

Sienne stitch stripe vest, £45; Monsoon, Swansea

Ivory jersey jackey, £35; Roman Originals

Nadine stripe midi dress, £55; Fat Face, Mumbles

Friends stripe keyring, £2; Primark, Parc Trostre

Cord stripe skirt, £24; Next, Swansea

TOMS Alpargata uni stripe espadrilles, £44; John Lewis, Cardiff

Mono- stripe shorts with bow, £3; Primark, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 11

FASHION

Summer is on the horizon, so kit out your little ones with some new season styles.

Hat, from £12; stripe T-shirt, from £4.50; windbreaker jacket, from £16; shorts, from £16; socks, from £5; all from M&S Frugi baby organic cotton Godrevy the Crab dungarees, £26; John Lewis, Cardiff

Baby all in one, £5; George Asda, Gorseinon

Flower sandal, £3; Primark, Swansea Nathalie Lete satin bomber jacket, £17.99 ; H&M, Swansea Neon spot pinny, £10; TescoExtra, Llansamlet

Kiko printed dress, £20; White Stuff, Cardiff

Mantaray Koi carp swimshort, £11; Debenhams, Swansea

12 SWANSEA LIFE

Yellow shark t-shirt, £4; F&F at TescoExtra, Parc Fforestfach

Baby all-in-one, £5; George at Asda, Gorseinon

Latino, £78; Dune

SLIDERS Leather suede slider from George, Llansamlet; £12.50

A must-have in the style elite, the basic slip-on has had something of a lavish makeover for summer 2019 taking you effortlessly from poolside to party.

Rose gold glitter t-bar sandals, £25; M&Co, Swansea

Ludo slider, £85; Dune of London

Black wooden platforms, £22; New Look, Swansea

Orange pom pom; River Island, Swansea

Summer sandal £16.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa

Leopard footbed sandal, £12.99; Deichmann, Cardiff

Pom pom slip-on sandals; £19.99; Bon Prix, Swansea

Katrina Espadrille flat mules, £35; White Stuff, Cardiff

SWANSEA LIFE 13

FASHION 1

1. Snake print shirt, £16; black trousers, £20 2. Mono print midi shirt dress, £28 3. F&F yellow chain print oversized shirt, £ 16 4. Navy paisley wide leg trouser; £18 5. Rust bag £18, F&F

HIGH STREET HOTTEST

We’ve been checking out this season’s high street styles

1. From a selection at Matalan, Swansea 2. Embroidered blouse, £14 3. Rust biker, £30 4. Textured beach shirt, £14 5. Pom Pom sandals, £18 6. Necklace, £6

5 5

14 SWANSEA LIFE

2 2

2 3

3 4 1. From a selection at River Island, Parc Fforestfach 2. Polka shorts, £28 3. Capri glasses, £14 4. Skirt, £30 5. Striped trousers, £25 6. Bikini, £45 7. Bag, £32 8. Gladiator sandals, £45

4 4

5 1. From a selection at Next, Parc Morfa 2. Large spot dress, £45 3. Cat eye sunglasses, £12 4. Cord stripe jacket, £38 5. Trousers, £48 6. Circle bag, £30 7. Heels, £46 8. Rust shoes, £30

1. Star by Julien Macdonald, £79 2. Mood by Jon Richards, £14 3. J by Jasper Conran, £75 4. B by Ted Baker £19.50 5. B by Ted Baker Shorts £17.50 6. Polka dot bag, £30 7. Faith sandals, £39

SWANSEA LIFE 15

SUMMER IN THE CITY

6 WAYS TO WEAR A BLAZER Blazer £65 Honey T-shirt £14 City T-shirt £14 Jeans £48 Bag £36 Fragrance £22 Green Aviator Glasses £10 White Pumps £22 Yellow Pumps £25

16 SWANSEA LIFE

BOLD STRIPES

Mix pattern, texture and colour for a bold on trend look

Blazer £62 Top £18 Jeans £28 Bag £34 Shoes £32 Polish £10 (set of 3) Earrings £12.50 Necklace £12.50

SWANSEA LIFE 17

APERFECT PERFECT COMBO

Blazer £50 Cami £15 Jeans £48 Shoes £38 Bag £75 Fragrance £14 Earrings £8.50 Lipstick £8 Highlighter £6 Sunglasses £14

A perfect blazer

and denim combo for any occasion

18 SWANSEA LIFE

The blazer and denim combo for any occasion

HAPPY SUMMER DAYS Don’t forget your sunnies for that ultimate summer look

Blazer £68 Jumpsuit £42 Shoes £58 Bag £28 Fragrance £14 Sunglasses £12 Earrings £8.50 Belt £12

SWANSEA LIFE 19

Blazer £60 Trousers £35 Shorts £30 Shoes £26 Hat £16 White Top £5.50 Bag £40 Earrings £8.50 Sunglasses £12 Belt £18

TAILORING FOR SUMMER 20 SWANSEA LIFE

Elevate your look with bold accessories

Make an impact with this seasons brights

STATEMENT COLOURS Blazer £68 Cami £15 Trousers £28 Shoes £38 Belt £12 Bag £24 Lipstick £8 Highlighter £6 Sunglasses £12 Necklace £26 Earrings £10

All available at next.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 21

COMPETITION

WIN £200 TO SPEND AT NEXT*

Swansea Life has teamed up with Next to give one lucky reader the chance to win £200 to spend in Next Swansea stores. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is the following... TELL US WHY YOU DESERVE TO WIN A SUMMER MAKEOVER Send your answers with your details and a daytime telephone number to Peter Slee: Next Competition, 220 High Street, Swansea SA1 1NW or email peter.slee@reachplc.com All entries need to arrive by noon Friday June 7th 2019

*Normal Media Wales rules apply

22 SWANSEA LIFE

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Award-winning celebrity hairdresser Lee Stafford is opening his first Academy in Wales at NPTC Group of Colleges.

Bydd yn gweithio gyda’r Tîm Trin Gwallt a Therapïau Cymhwysol yn y Coleg ac yn helpu i ddarparu hyfforddiant o’r radd flaenaf o safon seren Michelin.

He will work with the Hair and Applied Therapies team at the College and help deliver first class Michelin Star standard training.

Am fwy o wybodaeth, cysylltwch â  For more information contact:

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HAIR & BEAUTY

4 CATWALK-INSPIRED WAYS TO WEAR GLITTER

FROM SUBTLE TO SHOW-STOPPING Sparkle was sprinkled liberally backstage at the SS19 shows, says Katie Wright.

Glitzy make-up is usually associated with the festive season, when we add a bit of sparkle to match our party dresses. But at the SS19 shows, make-up artists proved that dazzle dust isn’t just for Christmas. From lids to lips and even hair, glitter and shine were used in beautiful ways, and with festival season just around the corner, it’s your turn to try the trend – all you need to decide is how glitzy to go. Here, we’ve got the inside scoop on four backstage glitter make-up looks, and the products you need to recreate them at home.

1. Glitter eyes At Simone Rocha, MAC make-up artist Sam Bryant proved that less is definitely more, with a subtle glitter eye look. Clean skin and brushed up brows were complemented with a smattering of silver sparkle, concentrated on the inner corner of the eye. 26 SWANSEA LIFE

Model backstage at Halpern SS19.

How to make it stick? A layer of clear lip gloss will give the glitter something to grip on to, while also adding extra shine.

It takes more than just gloss to get these wings to stay put, which is why Ffrench began with a thin layer of false lash glue to thoroughly cement the sparkles.

■ Delfy silver glitter, £18.10

■ MAC glitter in gold hologram, £16.50

■ Make Up For Ever star lit glitter in blancamethyste, £16.50, Escentual

■ MAC Dazzleshadow Liquid in blinking brilliant, £16.50

2. Glitter wings The cat-eye flick was taken to the next level at Valentino with diamante eye jewels, and at Halpern, where models were daubed with major glitter wings, the latter created by MAC’s Isamaya Ffrench. The make-up artist used a combination of sparkling eyeshadow (in copper and champagne tones) followed by a holographic loose glitter, to create a multi-dimensional look.

■ Duo lash clear adhesive, £8, Space NK

3. Metallic lips To match the jewelled eyes at Valentino, some models were given red diamante-encrusted pouts, while at Jeremy Scott, metallic lips came in a variety of hues. To create the foil effect at Jeremy Scott, make-up artist Kabuki used the same combination of MAC products as at Halpern. The finish was so different, however, because a mixing medium gel was applied first to create a shimmering base, then pink glitter was dabbed on top for extra sparkle. ■ MAC Dazzleshadow Liquid in love yourself, £16.50 ■ MAC Glitter in pink, £16.50

4. Halo hair It’s not often you see hair glitter on the catwalk, especially not at Paris Fashion Week, but hairstylist Paul Hanlon went full Coachella on the models at Giambattista Valli, adding masses of sparkles to their locks. As with many a catwalk hair design, it helps to take this look down a notch if you’re doing it off the runway. Rather than loading down your strands with lots of product, add a smattering at your roots, then comb it through to create a halo effect. ■ IGK Hair house party glitter stick in disco pink, £15, Space NK ■ Beauty Blvd glitter love in molly dolly, £4.50

Model backstage at Jeremy Scoot SS19, make-up by MAC. SWANSEA LIFE 27

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HAIR & BEAUTY

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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 Swansea woman a new seasonal look for May.

after

Clare asked if I could teach her how to achieve a classy night time look. She has lovely skin and looks after it using a daily SPF and both cleansing and treating her skin daily. To start, I misted Clare’s face with Caudalie Grape Water Spray, followed with Nuxe Huille Prodigieuse Oil and finished with Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream. This leaves an amazing glow to the skin and is a perfect remedy for dull, dehydrated skin. I then took Tatcha Silk Canvas Primer applying this to the whole face and neck. From the Walford-Richards Designs Complete Brush Collection I took the Flat Top Foundation Brush and applied the Hourglass Vanish Liquid Foundation, buffing it gently into the skin. I then took a deeper shade of vanish liquid foundation and buffed this into the hollows of the cheeks, the temples and the outer parts of the face. The next job was perfecting under the eyes and around the nose with Nyx Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Concealer using the Concealer Brush. My latest make-up crush is by the Luxury New York-based brand Kjaer Weis. Kjaer Weis is fully organic, vegan and contains no nasty or irritating ingredients. Its formulas are superb and just melt onto the skin with incredible pay-off but also a natural texture. For the cheek colour, I took a Kjaer Weis crème cheek colour in Desired Glow and blended it with the angled detail brush to the cheek bone and up towards the temple. I then set the complexion with the Powder Brush, in a press and roll motion using Hourglass Veil Setting Powder. Using the Tom Ford Ultimate Bronzer in Terra, I applied it to the high points of Clare’s face, forehead and jawline with the Angled Powder Brush. Then using my fingers, I added some Kjaer Weis Highlight to the top of the cheekbones, brow-bone, tip of the nose and top lip. This highlight gives an incredible natural glow that works on all ages and especially well on dry/dehydrated skin. On the eyes, I used Cocoa and Smoke Caviar Sticks by Laura Mercier, applied with the all-over eye brush then two shades from the Kim Kardashian X Mario Palette (that I was lucky to have been gifted by Mario himself), a mid-brown blended into the crease and up to the inner brow and a sparkly gold onto the ball of the eye. I followed with lashings of mascara. My go-to mascara is: Clinique Flutter to Full Mascara. After curling the lashes, I finished the eyes with Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Zero to the waterline and along the upper inner lash line, too. Then I applied Eylure Lashes in Luxe Baroque. For the Brows I used Brow Sculpting pencil by Hourglass in Dark Brunette and Eylure Brow Mascara in Brunette. The Lips were by an incredible brand called Bite Beauty. Firstly I lined the lips with Lip Pencil in #60 followed by Crystal Crème Lip Crayon in Leche and a little lip gloss in Flat White. All brushes used are all from the Complete Makeup Brush Collection available at: www. Walfordrichardsdesigns. co.uk and are now available individually as well as in a set of 12.

before

Make-up by Chris Howells. Chris is available for all your make-up needs, beauty, evening, event, wedding or just a special occasion. Make-up lessons are also available. Contact chrishowellsuk@yahoo.co.uk for details. Photography by James Richards

30 SWANSEA LIFE

HAIR & BEAUTY

POLLUTION, PORES OR OILY SKIN?

Are you worried about pollution, pores or oily skin? Clay has numerous beauty benefits, as Katie Wright discovers

When it comes to beauty industry ingredients, clay is nothing new. As well as being used for fashion pots and crockery, the sludgy stuff has been part of skincare regimes for thousands of years, dating back to Roman spas. It’s quite remarkable, then, that the historic healing substance is helping address some very modern skin concerns. “Clay acts almost like a magnet, and really draws everything out from underneath the skin,” says Sarah Inomata, skincare expert and international sales executive at boscia, the brand famous for its peel-off luminizing black charcoal mask, which combines the purifying powers of clay and charcoal.

“The main clay that we use is the calcium montmorillonite clay, sourced in France. It’s also known as bentonite clay and contains 67 different types of minerals – that’s what really digs deep into the pores.” By leaving the mask on until it dries (about 20 minutes), then peeling it off, it takes with it many of the nasties that get under the skin’s surface on a daily basis – both visible and invisible. “Extra sweat, pollution... we’re all a little bit more oily, especially in the summertime, and in the city there’s a lot of pollution and smog that accumulates throughout the day. “So this is something that, if you add it into your regular routine, really does help

maintain that skin health, but also helps minimise visible pores.” But unlike harsh acids or scrubs, clay products are gentle enough to be used even on sensitive skin. “That’s why clays are so popular, especially in a mask format,” Inomata says, “because they’re applied quickly and they’re so powerful, but not in a harsh way.” She recommends using a clay mask a couple of times a week, then you can ‘top up’ with a clay cleanser for daily use if you have oily skin. “It’s a less potent formula if it’s in a cleanser. So do your mask once or twice a week to get a deep clean, and then use your cleanser every day. You don’t want to ‘over-clay’.”

Feat of clay: Six purifying products to try now...

Boscia luminizing black mask, £27.50, Boots

32 SWANSEA LIFE

Men-U 3-minute D-TOX, £17.45

Dr Roebuck’s Uluru purifying mask, £25, SpaceNK

Green People No. 1 exfoliating face scrub for men, £13.50

Face Gym Brazilian pink clay training stick, £38.50, Selfridges

Nivea shower clay with ginger and basil, £1.18 (was £2.39), Superdrug

SIX STYLING PRODUCTS TO tame your mane

Here comes the bob It’s been the surprise celeb hair hit of the year. Just when it seemed like long, pastel-toned waves were going to dominate 2019, a whole host of Hollywood stars went and lopped off their locks in favour of a short, sleek bob. Actor Charlize Theron and model Irina Shayk were ahead of the pack, both debuting sharp, brunette ‘dos during awards season. Then Khloe Kardashian and Kristen Bell showed off their blonde, blunt bobs, while Chrissy Teigen opted for a choppy, tousled look. Over on this side of the pond, Dua Lipa is the queen of the bob. The pop star has been rocking her signature dark brown ‘do. “I believe the bob is so popular because it’s modern and easy to look after,” says Belle Cannan, co-founder of Salon Sloane. “You can do it yourself. For example, it can be straight-ironed for work or slightly tonged giving a sexy look for the evening.” But if you’ve currently got long hair, cutting it to shorter than shoulder length can be a daunting prospect. How to decide whether a bob is right for you? First of all, this isn’t a retro throwback haircut, Cannan says: “What makes these bobs modern is that they

Ouai hair oil, £24

Matrix style link prepsmooth setter, £8.90 (was £14.90), Notino

have no fringe and you can give it a choppier feel by cutting into the outline, depending on the hair type.” And because there’s no fringe, the modern bob is more versatile. “When it’s sleek and straight it’s perfect for a more professional look, or wavy for a natural sexy evening look.” Another good thing about this style is that it suits everyone - as long as it’s not too short. “Once the length is below the jawline it doesn’t change the shape of the face,” the hair stylist explains.

Soap & Glory control sleek heat-activated smoothing cream, £9, Boots

Hair Rituel by Sisley precious hair care oil, £75

But it helps to tailor the cut according to your hair type, so talk to your hairdresser before deciding: “For fine hair it would be better keeping to a blunt cut and for thick wavy hair, you need more texture, so do this by chopping into the ends.” If you don’t want to opt for the popular chocolate brown bob, Cannan suggests using colour, “to frame or contour the face with ombre lights, which will enhance the eye colour and skin tone”. Once you’ve got your dream bob, when it comes to styling you’ve got two options: “Use texturing spray and a curling tong for a wavy look,” Cannan recommends. “Salt spray will give fine hair more texture and the feeling of thicker hair. “For a sleek look, try a hair oil, then finish with a shaping hair spray.”

Biolage RAW replenish oil-mist, £17.24 (RRP £22.99), LookFantastic

L’Oreal professionnel TecniArt beach waves, £9.75 (was £15), Toni & Guy SWANSEA LIFE 33

HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover! W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

Stylist and Mumbles salon owner Lara Johnson shares her best insider tips in her monthly column

C o l o ur stateme n t Model: Emily Thomas Occupation: Student and part-time receptionist

emily says... I have worn my hair short and bleached for a long time and I fancied a change. I like the idea of growing it into something a little longer and softer. I was also fed up with the washed-out colour and wanted something with a bit more guts but nothing too way out because of work.

the Lara Johnson team says... Emily’s hair looks great short but it needed to be cut into a shape that not only flatters her face shape but just as importantly, her lifestyle. After chatting with Emily we decided that she would like to go for a little elfin haircut while still keeping some of the length through the top, giving her the option to grow it into a slightly longer style. We kept the colour light but have broken it up with Emily’s natural tones placed throughout. This gives the colour more depth whilst stopping it looking too grown out.

ter af

We finished Emily’s hair with Sebastian Professional products to create both texture and shine. B e f o re ...

34 SWANSEA LIFE

...

Step by step... W at e r f a l l P l a i t This style uses the French plait technique. But instead of picking up a new section of hair from the bottom, you allow it to flow through, creating a waterfall effect. The waterfall plait is perfect for any occasion and is a gorgeous choice for the boho bride. It takes some practice to perfect but looks fabulous when you get it right! Difficulty level: Hard until you find your rhythm. Try it on a friend first to get the technique Ideal hair length: Any Assistance needed: Yes, but with practice you can do this with your own hair What you need: • Brush • Clear hair band • Grips • Hairspray (optional)

. r.. te af

Brush your hair to remove any knots and make a short parting on the chosen side of your head. Take a section of hair to begin your plait with three equal parts. Begin plaiting by crossing section 1 over 2 and then section 3 over 1. Add hair in from the top of your head to section 2 and then cross it over to section 3.

Next, instead of crossing section 1 over 2, drop it out and pick up a new piece of hair from just behind it. Cross this over section 2 and continue plaiting.

Continue plaiting, allowing some of each top section 1 to fall, then replace with hair from underneath (3) to maintain the thickness.

4 5

When you reach behind your ear continue the plait as a classic three-stranded plait. To further enhance the plait, smooth and define with some styling irons.

SWANSEA LIFE 35

HAIR & BEAUTY

Beauty buzz: why women should strike oil

Katie Wright asks a skincare pro to clear up the myths surrounding beauty oils If you’ve got oily or acne-prone skin, or even just suffer from the odd blockage, the idea of slathering an oil onto your face can be a horrifying thought. At home, you’ve got a bathroom shelf full of clarifying clay masks and mattifying make-up – why on earth would you want to add something greasy into the mix?

skin, which can clog the pores.

impurities.

Certain light, natural plant oils have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, mimicking the natural and positive effects of sebum.

The bigger issue occurs when we try to overstrip oil from the skin. This will only lead to the skin producing more oil, leading to increased breakouts. Using a lightweight oil will help to regulate the skin’s oil production and calm the targeted area. ■ Are oils the best long-term treatment for blemish-prone skin?

“There has always been scepticism and confusion surrounding the use of facial oils, especially with regard to acne-prone skin,” says Richard Walker, founder of Swansea’s Dr Botanicals.

Although oils may alleviate some common concerns for blemish-prone faces, they are definitely not a long-term solution. The key with blemish-prone skin is maintaining a regular skincare routine.

But, according to Walker, a facial oil won’t exacerbate your acne. In fact, even those prone to spots can benefit from a facial oil – you just need to know which one to choose and how to use it.

In some cases, however, the advice of a professional dermatologist may be essential for the longterm treatment of acne-prone skin.” ■ Can oils cause acne or make it worse?

Here, the skincare expert talks us through the main misconceptions about oily and acne-prone skin types, and how to find the best oil for you... ■ Are certain facial oils good for blemish-prone skin? Although some facial oils can be problematic for blemish-prone skin, there are some key ingredients that can really be of help. The key thing to consider is if the particular oil is light in weight. Oils such as avocado or coconut are quite heavy and should be avoided, due to the film they leave on the

Five of the

Optimum Phyto sleep facial oil, £6.35 (was £12.99), Superdrug 36 SWANSEA LIFE

Oils such as hemp, jojoba and omega are great examples of these, and can also help protect cell membranes and alleviate sensitivity. ■ Can oils make oily skin less oily? Although this is a controversial question, certain oils can actually help balance the level of oil that our skin naturally produces. When natural or organic oils penetrate the skin and mix with sebum (the natural oil that our skin produces), they can help draw out

Heavy oils can congest the skin and cause breakouts, which will definitely inflame and irritate existing acne conditions. Oils such as coconut, olive and wheatgerm should be avoided, as they may block pores and cause increased blemishes. ■ How and when should a facial oil be applied? A facial oil should always be the last step of your skincare routine. So you must ensure that you have applied all water-based products before a facial oil. A lightweight facial oil can be used in the morning and at night for best results.

best facial oils for acne-prone skin

PHB ethical beauty superfood facial oil, £36

Dr Botanicals Moroccan rose superfood facial oil, £39

Tropic super greens nutrient boost oil, £42

Elemis superfood facial oil, £45

SANCTA MARIA HOSPITAL

Make your transformation. The experienced team of cosmetics consultants at Sancta Maria Hospital offer a wide range of treatments from Breast Augmentation Face Lifts Liposuction Tummy Tuck Start your journey today by booking a consultation Visit www.hmtsanctamaria.org or call 01792 479 040 Sancta Maria Hospital. Care You Can Trust.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Get ready to fall in love with half marathon running It’s officially marathon season. Many people are lacing up their running shoes, in full-blown training mode. It’s an inspiring time to be scrolling through Instagram, with all of the motivational fitness posts and healthy meal prep snaps. There are, of course plenty of reasons to get active this year. Evidence continues to stack up that exercise has a powerful effect on our minds as well as our physical health, and plenty of people say that running has a particularly positive impact on their mental health. So, ahead of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon on June 23, we have been out to meet some of those planning to take part to find out why it’s so special to them and to ask them: ‘ What’s the big deal?’

Tracey, 57 from Brynhyfryd took up running with her sister 18 years ago and hasn’t looked back since…

What made you want to take up running? “I started running in 2001 when Race for Life came to Swansea. In 1996, my sister lost her young daughter Abigail to cancer (when

she was 22 months), and in 2000 I lost my husband Kim to cancer when he was 43. It was my sister, Karen, who suggested we take up the Race for Life 5k challenge to raise money for Cancer Research, as cancer had so cruelly stolen loved ones from us at such young ages. We followed a ‘Couch to 5k programme’ and soon found that we actually enjoyed running – and that was the start of many years of challenges for us. We ran 5ks 10ks, half and full marathons, then moved onto triathlon - which ultimately resulted in us completing an Ironman together in Austria in 2010.” It is fair to say running has changed your life. What have been your greatest achievements? “Besides the races, I became a UKA qualified running coach and British Triathlon coach, and twice a week I work with children and young people at the pool and the running

Advertisement Feature track. Last year, I completed my second Ironman race in Copenhagen, and hopefully, with my coaching, I am motivating the next generation into a healthy lifestyle.” Why do you #RunSwansea? “I signed up to the Swansea Half Marathon in 2014 as I was so excited to have a half marathon race on my doorstep. I had travelled to many races over the years and a half marathon used to be my favourite distance (when I was a bit fitter/faster) so entering the inaugural Swansea Half was a no brainer. I continue to run it each year as I set myself a personal challenge in 2014 to run EVERY Swansea Half until I’m 70 (and beyond if possible) – I’m 57 at the moment and will hopefully be lucky enough to continue in good health and keep returning.”

soon a I heard about the Swansea half in 2014 I was in. It ticks all the boxes, fast flat course, great views and on my door step! The Swansea 13.1 mile race is special for me as already I feel a sense of heritage and commitment to our home half marathon. The fast course always represents a challenge that demands preparation. I have huge respect for anybody completing the distance and simple awe for the really fast. How do they do that!?” Final note… Whether it’s to run hard (to achieve a personal best) or just for fun, I aim to keep running this half with a smile…for as long as my knees let me!

Why is running the Swansea Half so important to you? “Life sometimes gets in the way of training or hitting PB’s but I honestly feel compelled to run my home half marathon. The event (unlike my finish times) has however gone from strength to strength and I particularly enjoyed 2018’s race, the atmosphere and bling! Having run every year since 2014 I plan on running every year until my body says no. I love the race and I think it’s really important to support local events like this so given I will turn 40 this year I’m hoping I’ll be able to keep going for many more years to come!”

Tom Mullen. from Sketty in Swansea is 40 and took up running approximately seven years ago. What is your reason to run? “Like lots of people my age, I reached a point in my mid 30s where I was in poor shape and needed to do something to shift the pounds. In 2012 I discovered running - or rather it discovered me. I only went on the treadmill in the gym to do something different to swimming and cycling and found that pushing myself harder on the treadmill was more rewarding than either of those things combined.

Hugo Thompson from Southgate is 54 and has been running for the last 22 years after his wife talked him into his first 10k race. He listened and the rest, shall we say, is history. Why do you run? “It’s fun, relaxing and a challenge, although not all at the same time! I love running; daytime, night, hot, cold, windy, wet, it doesn’t matter. A run can ease the stress of a work day, make you smile, lets you explore, see stunning scenery, listen to the sea and even see the stars. It is easy and cheap, helps your circulation and helps to keep you trim (helping keep the Welsh cakes at bay). What’s not to like!. Why do you #RunSwansea? “Prior to the JCP Swansea Half Marathon I’d run one half marathon in Llanelli. So as

I still didn’t run outside, though, until the year leading up to the JCP Swansea Half Marathon in 2014. I felt very self-conscious about running outside and so all of my running was in the gym. However the real change was running the 10k in Swansea in 2013 and that was it…I was hooked!” What’s been your experience? “The next step up was a half marathon and then it turned out that there was going to be one on my doorstep - I had no excuse now! The inaugural JCP Swansea Half Marathon in 2014 was a fantastic event, even though I run most of the route regularly given where I live. Swansea in the sunshine and when the crowds are out is a fantastic experience (and for some reason the sun always comes out for race day). After running in 2014 I wanted to improve my time and ran my PB in Swansea in 2015.” What’s next for you? “This year will be a first as I will hopefully have completed my first marathon about nine weeks before Swansea so I’ll either feel in fantastic shape or my body will slowly be returning back to normal after marathon fatigue... either way I’ll be looking to pick up medal number six next month.”

*If you feel inspired by any of these stories or you have your own reason to #RunSwansea then make it count and #BeYourBest at the sixth edition of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon this June. The event is a 13.1 mile race on closed roads, that is flat and fast on a course that is perfect for beginners, and first time half marathon runners. Taking place on June 23, entries will close soon, so reserve your place at the start line of the iconic Brangwyn hall for an incredible experience, from the city to the sea. Go to: www. swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk to book your place or register your family on the fun dash where all generations can follow the steps of their loved ones on the official route of the half marathon. To find out more information on both races, stay up to date with all the latest news, visit the website or like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_ HM #RunSwansea #BeYourBest on Twitter.

GENERAL ENTRIES CLOSE ON MAY18 TO BOOK YOUR PLACE GO TO: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk Go to www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details, ‘like’ the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #RunSwansea on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon. SWANSEA LIFE 39

HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

Cervical Cancer Screening The number of women going for cervical screening has dropped which is a massive worry. We all remember the huge positive impact the late Jade Goody had on raising awareness of cervical cancer. But that effect seems to be wearing off, sadly. WHAT IS CERVICAL CANCER? It is cancer of the neck of the womb. It thankfully remains quite rare but is the second most common cancer in women aged under 40. WHAT CAUSES IT? Cervical cancer is nearly always linked with various strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This virus is also seen in throat and anal cancers. WILL A SMEAR TEST TELL ME IF I DO OR DON’T HAVE CANCER? The smear test is not designed to pick up cancer. It is a test to pick up abnormalities in the cervical cells that could lead to cancer in the future. It won’t prevent 100 per cent of cancers, sadly, but is a very effective test.

A third of women in their late 20s miss their smear test despite cancer being most common in this age group. Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones takes a look at how screening can help...

Therefore, if you have any symptoms that you are concerned about e.g. change to period pattern (eg bleeding between periods / after intercourse) or pain or discharge then you should contact your GP (even if you have had a normal smear as a smear is not 100 per cent accurate). WHO IS INVITED FOR TESTING? All women aged between 25-49 are automatically routinely invited every three years for testing and those aged 50-64 are invited every five years. Your previous test results will inform the frequency of your testing. There are some exceptions to the usual programme, however, so check the cervical screening Wales website. If you have had surgery to remove your cervix or are transgender (and do not have a cervix) then you are normally removed from the smear programme. HOW IS THE TEST DONE? The smear test involves having a discussion with the patient about any symptoms they may have and explaining the test. This is

40 SWANSEA LIFE

followed by inserting a plastic speculum into the vagina, which is then gently opened up to visualise the cervix. A soft brush is then rotated clockwise and anti-clockwise around the cervix to take a sample of the cells inside the canal and on the outside of the cervix. The cells on the brush are then transferred to a container with a special transport liquid and then taken to the laboratory to be analysed for HPV and cell changes (if HPV found). WILL IT HURT? It is natural that some people will feel anxious about the test which can mean that they tense up or have other conditions which may make it uncomfortable. If you are worried about it hurting, or have had a bad experience in the past, let your doctor or nurse know as they will have many tips to relax you and make it more comfortable. IS IT EFFECTIVE? All smears now have a test for the HPV virus as part of the analysis of the cells WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULT? Usually around four weeks after the smear. WHY ARE SMEARS ONLY ROUTINELY AVAILABLE TO THOSE AGED BETWEEN 25-49? We often get asked this. For a screening programme to be effective, there are a number of criteria it needs to pass including the need for there to be a clear test available that can give reliable results. This is to avoid unnecessary harm to patients (through having additional investigations from false positive results) OR from giving false negatives (i.e. falsely reassuring ladies that they do not have the disease). CAN IT BE TREATED? There are different treatments depending on the diagnosis. Cervical screening Wales website has lots of detail on the types of treatment available. Where can I get more information? ■

www.cervicalscreeningwales.wales.nhs.uk

■

www.Jostrust.org.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING

11 top tips

for a good night’s kip

Do the washing up

Washing dishes can calm the mind and decrease stress, according to a study by Florida State University. But you have to do it “mindfully” – smelling the soap and feeling the water on your skin. People who washed dishes in this way reported a 27% drop in anxiety.

2 3

Rock yourself

Rocking is known to be relaxing and to promote sleepiness. If you rock on your feet, the motion can relieve stress by stimulating acupressure points on your soles.

Think of five good things

When you hit the sack, write down or say out loud five things that were good about your day. Psychological studies by UK and Canadian universities have shown that just thinking about what’s good in your life, rather than what’s bad, can help you fall asleep faster and for longer.

Try to stay awake

Sounds bonkers, but it might just work. Researchers at the University of Glasgow asked one group of insomniacs to try to fall asleep as they normally would, and another group to keep their eyes open and stay awake as long as possible. Result? The second group fell

A whopping 35% of us suffer sleep problems and have done for more than five years. So could the answer be in new book, 222 Ways to Trick Yourself to Sleep? Here are 13 foolproof ways to start supercharging your snoozing asleep faster and said they felt less anxious about drifting off.

Drop a few degrees

The body’s core temperature needs to fall by about 10C to trigger our brains into starting the surge in melatonin production that helps us drift off. The ideal bedroom temperature is about 18 C.

6 7

A clean sheet

Are you washing your bed sheets weekly? Well, you should be. Bed linen not only soaks up sweat and body oils, it also harbours dead skin cells – food for dust mites, which can cause allergies and disturb sleep.

Declutter!

People in cluttered environments take longer to doze off and have worse sleep than minimalists, according to researchers at St Lawrence University, in New York State. Ensure every surface in your bedroom has no more than three or four items on it.

Shun too much sugar

A high-sugar diet can deprive you of sweet dreams, a study in America found, because spikes and crashes in blood sugar after eating sweet foods can cause restlessness and disturb sleep.

9 10 11

Go nuts for walnuts

You’d do well to snack on walnuts in the early evening. They contain their own source of melatonin, the University of Texas found, and eating them increases levels of the hormone in your blood.

Lie still

If you wake up in the night, try to move as little as possible. Your body interprets tossing and turning as a sign that it’s time to wake up. Movement can also trigger adrenaline production.

Take a 2pm nap

Short naps can refresh you, and improve concentration and alertness. But timing is everything. Between 1pm and 3pm we experience a small dip in core body temperature. The ideal nap time might be around 2pm. 222 Ways to Trick Yourself to Sleep, by Kim Jones, published by Piatkus, retails at £12.99. SWANSEA LIFE 41

HEALTH & WELLBEING

RUTH MADOC: ‘at my age, you have to live each day and ignore death’

Gabrielle Fagan catches up with the unstoppable Glynneath actress Ruth Madoc, to talk broken hips, feminism and retirement

uth Madoc became a household name playing chief yellowcoat Gladys Pugh in BBC One’s hugely successful sitcom, Hi-de-Hi! about a holiday camp set in the late Fifties.

Even today, the 76-year-old whose roots are still firmly entrenched in Glynneath is still greeted by fans with ‘Hi-de-Hi’. But over the years, her career has spanned an array of roles in theatre and musicals, from Fiddler On The Roof to Gypsy. Remarkably, it’s only two months since she broke her hip in a fall while rehearsing for her role in Calendar Girls, but she’s confounded doctors with her recovery and vows to return to the stage in September. Here, she talks about ‘bouncing back’ from adversity, how show business helps keeps her young, and her health regime... ■ Have you enjoyed testing out gadgets and technology for the new TV show Hard To Please OAPs? “It’s been amazing and such fun - Harry Redknapp is charming, Sheila Ferguson is a hoot, Michael [Whitehall] is fabulous, Amanda [Barrie] and June [Brown] are my icons, and I’ve known John Sergeant and Lionel Blair a long time. “It’s about mature minds having to cope with the ghastly gadgets they concoct now, but I’m definitely not a grumpy old woman who thinks things were better in the old days - not at all. “Some of the modern advances are brilliant, especially mobiles and emails, but I can’t be bothered with things like Alexa, a virtual assistant which you can ask to do things. I’m a doer, not someone who wants to shout at a gadget which couldn’t understand what I was saying half the time. I’ve given mine to my grandchildren.” “I’m not convinced about an electric car. Ours ran out of charge in a thunderstorm when we were on a motorway! Women of my age are used to getting on and sorting things out and so it was me, who got drenched outside trying to work the charging station, while John Sergeant and Lionel Blair sheltered inside!” ■ How have you coped with breaking your hip? “It’s the first accident I’ve had in 60 years in the business. It was a bad fall and a real shock. It was my own fault - I slipped during a warm-up

42 SWANSEA LIFE

"Gladys used her womanly wiles to get on, which would probably be frowned upon today, but she had an innate intelligence and was good at her job. She was definitely glamorous - I modelled her look on a famous French ballet dancer, Zizi Jeanmaire."

for a Calendar Girls routine, just after I'd done a high kick. I was screaming my head off because the pain was horrible, agonising and worse than childbirth. I knew immediately I'd broken something and kept saying, 'Get me an ambulance!' "I now have a 10" nail in my hip and leg, and a bolt to keep it in place. The pain isn't significant any more. There was no sign of arthritis, so I didn't need a replacement joint. I was walking with a Zimmer frame three days after it happened, as I was determined to get back on my feet. Now, I'm only using one crutch and by July, I'll just have a stick for a short while.

■ How do you look after your health? "As well as regular exercise, I walk as much as I can. I love exploring the Welsh coastline. I'm very lucky, I haven't had any real health problems apart from bladder cancer 16 years ago. I have a check up every five years and all's fine.

"I've just visited my specialist and even he's amazed at my progress. Most people are still hobbling around at my stage, but lying on a bed, I could get my leg to go up into a pretty reasonable high kick. It's amazing how the body can heal."

"Of course, it was serious, but it didn't change my perspective on life. My mother was a matron of a general hospital, so I grew up with the attitude that if you get things, you just have to deal with them.

■ Did you worry that it could end your career?

What about your wellbeing? "Always being able to earn my own living and having that independence has been very important to my wellbeing - it's helped me weather any tough times.

"Never for a moment, although I was worried - wrongly as it turns out - about the long-term effect on my mobility. "Working's vital to me and I can't wait to get back to Calendar Girls in September. Bouncing back isn't new to me - I was performing within two weeks of giving birth to each my two children. That's what show business gives you - a drive to get up and get on. "Fortunately, years of dance training, as well as performing in musicals, have kept my muscles alive and toned. I've always been conscious of keeping myself fit so I could perform, and I've done isometrics - a type of strength training involving the contraction of muscle tissue at a specific angle - for years." ■ Did you have any hesitation about the nudity in Calendar Girls? "After all my years in the business, that didn't worry me at all. I first bared my bosoms when I was 29 for the film of Under Milk Wood with Richard Burton. It was a scene with David Jason and my only worry was getting pneumonia, because it was freezing on the quayside of Fishguard harbour. "Last year, I bared my bosoms for ITV's The Real Full Monty: Ladies' Night, helping raise awareness of breast cancer, which was great fun." ■ What impact did your role in Hi-de-Hi! have on you? "The effect's never gone really. Gladys was

"My mum was way ahead of her time and was a feminist of the 1930s. She instilled in me a belief in independence, determination and a work ethic. I'm also a very optimistic person and have always been able to see the humour in life. As you get older, you've seen a lot, so you don't get so anxious and worried about things. a wonderful, unexpected thing to happen. I was nearly 40 and it took up nearly nine years of my life and changed my career. Without that, it could have taken years longer to get appreciated. "I never watched a single episode while I was doing it though, because I was so frightened I'd hate myself. Despite the accolades we kept getting, I kept thinking, 'I hope to God I'm doing this right'. Also, there's nothing like kids for keeping your feet on the ground, and my two children used to say, 'You're not going off to do that Gladys Puke again are you?' That was their name for her!" ■ How do you feel about Gladys? "I knew Gladys so well, because I'd met women like her while growing up in South Wales in the Fifties and Sixties. She was a woman of her time - like two tonnes of nutty slack rolling down the Welsh valleys.

■ How do you feel about ageing? "I've never really bothered about my age - I feel about 50. People don't seem to take it into account when they book you, they just rely on what they see in front of them, which is great. "Keeping yourself alert, aware and continuing to learn keeps you young. If you keep your mind tuned up, your body will follow. I've never gone for grey hair - unless it's for a role - I love being a redhead, it's such fun. "I've certainly not thought about retiring, because I can still learn scripts quickly. At my age, you have to live each day and ignore death, really. As a grandmother of five, aged between eight and 11, I just hope the good Lord gives me enough longevity to see them get into their careers and find out what they're going to do with their lives." SWANSEA LIFE 43

St Donat’s Castle

A PICTURE PERFECT 12TH CENTURY CASTLE IN THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN

2020 ay rd u t sa es dat ble ila ava

Oliver & Ruth Photography

Sacha Miller Photography

O + C Photography

Steve Gerard Photography

A magical setting for your special day With stunning sea views and colourful Tudor gardens, St Donat’s Castle is in an idyllic location and offers a romantic backdrop for your wedding day. Sitting on the stunning South Wales coast, St Donat’s Castle is only a 50-minute drive from Swansea and is available to hire in the summer months between June and September.

Castle Licensed outdoor ceremony

Invite up to 160 loved ones

Exquisite gardens and sea views

For more information contact

01446 799 100 bookings@atlanticcollege.org events.atlanticcollege.org UWC Atlantic College, St Donat’s Castle, Llantwit Major, Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1WF

BRIDE

real wedding Christina Smedley and Chris Bate Air hostess Christina Smedley, 30, from Birchgrove and electrician Chris Bate, 37, from Alltwen, tied the knot at St Samlet Church followed by a marquee reception at The Oxwich Bay Hotel, Gower. The happy couple told PETER SLEE about their big day... The proposal After a hectic Christmas Eve in 2009, I came home to Chris cooking me a romantic meal, which was very rare. The meal was topped off by Chris getting down on one knee during dessert and asking me to be his wife. The perfect start to Christmas. Theme We didn’t have a theme as such, but with the wedding being in March, my love of being Welsh and St David’s Day all in the same month, we incorporated it all. We had a Welsh male choir and harpist Katie Bayliss in the church, singing and playing Welsh

traditional songs. Our venue was dressed by The Wedding Business which completely exceeded all of our expectations and incorporated hundreds of daffodils into our already wow-factor décor.

what I ever imaged my dress to be. It made me feel like a princess. Before the wedding, I ended up losing a little more weight than expected and the seamstress finished it at 5pm the day before!

Wedding dress

Why the venue?

On a random Sunday in July 2017, my sister persuaded me to go to a dress appointment she had booked for me. We went to White Orchid Bridal, where I picked one of every style dress in the shop. My dress was the third I tried on and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. My dress was a low back, drop waist ball gown and was the complete opposite to

Because of my love for travel and spending my life within work by the beach, as a surprise, Chris booked Oxwich Bay for our wedding reception. Upon seeing Oxwich for the first time, I knew he had made the right decision. The beautiful marquee overlooking the bay and the Gower coastline was everything I could have imagined for our day.

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Morning beauty prep

Photography and videography

I had Farhana Ali for make-up and Kacie from Halo Hair doing all of the bridal prep in the morning. I am lucky enough that Alison from the award-winning Seren Jewellery is a very close family friend and not only did she design and make mine and the bridal partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bespoke wedding jewellery, she also helped to get us ready too!

This was of huge importance for us on our day. Everyone says how quick the day goes, so in order for us to capture as much as we could, we knew we had to have the best. We had Rob and Sarah of Pure Creations Photography and John Mark Films for the videography.

Bridal party I had my sister, Beth, as my maid of honour and my two best friends Catherine and Louise and my three nieces Madison, Brooke and Carly as my bridesmaids. My two sons Harrison and Hadley were my pageboys and not forgetting my bridesman Andrew, who was also my master of ceremonies. My maid of honour and bridesman both delivered a speech and they were absolutely incredible.

46 SWANSEA LIFE

We have recently received our breathtaking pictures and video and we cannot be more thankful to both for not only capturing memories forever, but for almost making us feel like we are reliving our day every time we view our photos and video! Favourite part Apart from our two sons witnessing us getting married, we hired Silver Service singing waiters to surprise our guests. They disguised themselves as members of staff, serving canapes and the wedding breakfast before grabbing everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

attention by falling over and bursting out into song. The whole marquee erupted, and the atmosphere was amazing. They got my fouryear-old up to sing a solo of “You to me are everything”. Needless to say, he stole the show! Band We won our band, who were “Helix and the Hounds” in a competition leading up to the wedding. We ended up going to see them in most of their gigs and became good friends. The dancefloor was never empty with the help of our DIY flipflops and the fact our guests instantly became huge fans of our band just like ourselves.

Honeymoon We went away for a short break over the weekend following our wedding, just the two of us, which was exactly what we needed. We will be doing a familymoon in June to the Dominican Republic with our sons as we all need the break and quality time together after the madness of the wedding. Church: St Samlet Church, Llansamlet. Venue: Oxwich Bay Photographs: Pure Creations Photography

Want to see your wedding in Swansea Life or WM magazine? We are always looking for beautifully photographed events to feature. What we’re looking for: We’ll want to see hi-res photographs of the bride getting ready, bouquets, floral arrangements, and décor, the vow exchange, first dance, the wedding cake, portraits of the couple and wedding party, and your guests having a great time. We’re always excited to see real couples’ cool, inventive ideas, so please include as many detailed shots as possible. Tell us a bit about yourselves and your wedding as well – maybe you wore your mother’s gown, or drew inspiration from a favourite film. One thing, you’ll need the official ok from your cameraman for us to use the images. Where to send it: email all of the information above to peter.slee@reachplc.com

SWANSEA LIFE 47

ASCOT Ladies Day at Norton House Hotel on Thursday 20th June 2019 12 - 4pm

• DreSS TO ImpreSS • COCkTAIL ON ArrIvAL • 5 COurSe meAL • BeST HAT plus Jimmy Webb as michael Buble @ £49 per person. (Book a table of 10 and table organiser goes free)

To Book Call 01792 404891 www.nortonhousehotel.co.uk • functions@nortonhousehotel.co.uk Telephone: 01792 404891 Norton House Hotel, Norton Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 5TQ

BRIDE

wedding wines

Domaine Maby Tavel Cuvee prima donna rose, £11.50, The Wine Society

Rose

With wedding season coming into full swing, these are the perfect summer drinks to have on your radar, says Sam Wylie-Harris

“Apparently, coral is this summer’s key wedding colour,” says Linda Harrison of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. “Tap into this trend and serve a delicious chilled rose. With flavours of summer berries. The southern Rhone in France produces some brilliant roses, dry in style with more flavour than other areas, and extremely versatile.”

Whites

“Crisp chilled whites are an essential, with citrus and green fruit flavours to refresh the palate,” says Harrison, “making them perfect for summer weddings. “Pinot Grigio lovers should try Picpoul de Pinet, a region in southern France that makes deliciously light, citrus-filled wines that are effortlessly enjoyable. These clean whites are great as an aperitif or to accompany simple fish dishes.” Villemarin Picpoul de Pinet, Coteaux du Languedoc, £9.99, Majestic

Reception drinks “Sparkling wine is still the first choice for reception drinks. If you’re holding your wedding in a marquee at home and sourcing your own wines, then splash out on champagne. Or, closer to home, try some of the fantastic English sparkling wines that are now available,” suggests tastings manager Lydia Harrison, at the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. “Made from the same grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and in the same traditional method – they will taste very similar and work perfectly as an aperitif with some nibbles or Greyfriars canapes. sparkling “But if you’re choosing classic cuvee, from a banqueting wine £23, list or [are] on a budget, Greyfriars you’re probably looking for prosecco as a starting point. If you do, Prosecco DOCG guarantees a top quality version of this popular fizz. “If you’re lucky, there may also be a cava option. Although from Spain, this sparkler is made in exactly the same way as champagne and often with the same grapes – but at a much more affordable price.”

Reds

Domaine Mantry Saint Amour, £16.73, Alpine Wines

Lighter red wines are best for summer weddings, with softer tannins and refreshing acidity. Well known examples are Beaujolais or Valpolicella; serve them slightly chilled to accentuate their fruitiness. For a less well known light red, seek out a South African pinotage which has the same great acidity and red fruit flavour palate.

Magnums

“Magnums are twice the size of traditional bottles, doubling the fun and halving the odds of glasses running dry during dinner and toasts,” says George Clements, founder of The Magnum Company. “For the wedding reception, Marie Demets has aways been a good price and, being a largely pinot noir based champagne, very drinkable on a summer day. Lately, LangloisChateau Cremant or an English cider have proved attractive Langlois-Chateau Cremant de Loire, £38, alternatives.” magnum, The Magnum Company

SWANSEA LIFE 49

BRIDE

matchIT

Whether your guests follow your colour palette or choose their own, we pick out some fabulous wedding outfits oozing with glam

green

Chiffon dress £45; floral dress £80; lace dress £70 Roman Originals

Destiny print dress £189, Coast

Oz pierced earrings, white, £69, Swarovski

Dream Girl shoes, £38, Joe Browns

Paige tapework pencil dress, mint green, £199, Phase Eight, John Lewis

Embellished shift dress £68, Lipsy

Payton bow and feather fascinator £35, Phase Eight

Green SAMIA perspex sandals, £35, Miss Selfridge

pink John Lewis & Partners elle floral down brim disc occasion hat, vintage pink, £130

Aimee manipulated shift dress, £139, Coast Melody dress, £299, Hobbs

Melody jacket, £399, Hobbs

VIP flip hem dress, £135, Lipsy

Pink pastel shell flower stud earrings, £8, Laura Ashley John Lewis Giovanna loop side disc occasion hat, magenta, £99

Accessorize amelie gem barrette hair clip pink, £15

Laura Ashley knot front satin box clutch bag, £30 Banksy, £90, Dune

50 SWANSEA LIFE

Sylvia ring fascinator £49, Phase Eight

Madonna loop and roses pillbox fascinator, £75, John Lewis

blue BLUE

Lipsy lace shift dress £50

Swarovski ocean view clip earrings £159

Julien Macdonald, blue cut feather spray fascinator, £50 Debenhams

Swarovski ocean view bracelet blue, £69

Guess, blue silk tie heels, coming soon Indra peacock blue tapework dress, £140, Phase Eight

Corraly kitten heel £75, Dune London

yellow

Duck egg blue crisita feather disc fascinator £65, Phase Eight

Beauty bag, £70, Dune

Astal, £65, Dune

VIP lace midi dress, £110, Lipsy

Una plait pillbox fascinator, £59, Phase Eight

Julien Macdonald feather band yellow fascinator, £40, Debenhams

silver

Halterneck embellished dress, £85, Lipsy Alice satin bow clutch bag, £59, Phase Eight

Silver metallic plain shrug, £28, Roman Originals

Metallic bandage dress, £85, Lipsy

Silver floral jacquard bolero, £25, Roman Originals

Silver ribbon fascinator £28, Roman Originals

Celebration clutch, £175, Dune

Pearl and diamante flower sterling silver earrings £15, Laura Ashley

Silver jacquard rose gown dress £80 Roman Originals

SWANSEA LIFE 51

g in ew ks i V n ur ri Yo l & d r a o y F g me a t S n & di ne inclu i D 9 e, in t £14 W us J

Last Minute Weddings & Winter Wedding Package*

for any available date in the next 6 months Minimum of 50 wedding breakfast guests on Sunday to Friday - £2,250 Minimum of 70 wedding breakfast guests on Saturdays - £3,150 Add extra guests @ £45/ head

Packages include: Sumptuous two course Wedding Breakfast Opera house for your Wedding Ceremony Exclusive use of Conservatory for your Day Wedding Reception and your Evening Party Fabulous photo opportunities inside and outside the Castle Nicolini Room Lounge and Breakfast Room lounge Free Bridal Suite for Bridal Couple on night of wedding Table linen and napkins in ivory or white and Candelabra (add your own decorations) Last Minute Wedding Package Upgrade to full Exclusive and get use of all ground floor, including evening Function Room on ‘LMWP 80’. 80 Guests to Wedding Breakfast and 80 to Evening Buffet. Minimum of 40 overnight. ANY DATE WEDDINGS on WEEKENDS Two Course Wedding Breakfast with exclusive use of venue Saturdays - £4,500 for 70 guests | Friday Special Deal - £3,000 for 60 guests (when having 50 guests staying overnight at £75pp) *Sunday to Thursday/ midweek requires a Minimum 50 guests at your wedding breakfast. Saturdays require a minimum of 70 to your wedding breakfast.

01639 731167 - www.craigynoscastleweddings.com - Nr. Swansea ASK US ABOUT OUR NEW EXCITING 2 DAY EXCLUSIVE WEDDING PACKAGE

BRIDE

Wedding trends to know for summer 2019 For couples hoping to walk down the aisle in style, knowing what’s hot and what’s not can be all-important. So with summer on its way, who wouldn’t be excited for what lies ahead. Think gin and tonics on the lawn, soft florals and foliage and the great Welsh outdoors! Here’s Swansea wedding PR specialist Shakira Obaid’s top tips to help you feel a million dollars on your wedding day.

1. Bringing the outdoors in: Natural, whimsical and romantic. Luscious yet simple greenery, living walls, elegant centrepieces. Tall cylinder vases with one simple green stem and a white rose looks so effective while also being budget friendly. Wild British flowers and wood is also on trend for that ‘Alice in Wonderland’ vibe.

2. Bringing the indoors out: Who can ignore the rise in demand for outside weddings? Wales might not be the South of France in terms of sunshine but our landscape can certainly rival it, especially when Britain’s First Designated Area of Outstanding Natural beauty is on our doorstep, Gower! Registrars have recently relaxed their policies to allow for outdoor weddings too, providing the venue has a licensed indoor area to officially sign the papers. The government is hoping to relax laws, though, so you can officiate outside! Watch this space.

3. Floral creativity: Florals are massive this season and come in all different forms. Some ideas include florist covered giant 53 SWANSEA LIFE

hoops, floral arches and floral head accessories. A lot of green foliage tends to be incorporated too. Classic blush pink is beautiful in summer or if you want to go high trend, opt for ‘Living coral’. Coral hues with foliage and contrasted with an accent colour such as navy is huge this season.

4. Cocktail hour: While prosecco still reigns supreme, couples are opting to get more creative with their drinks reception and summer lends itself perfectly to this. Lavish gin and tonics, served in classic gin goblets with colourful garnishes and botanicals are all the rage. You can also celebrate local produce by opting for a craft gin brand such as Cygnet or Gwyr gin. A G&T looks great for that ‘Instagram’ shot too.

5. Talking of Instagram: The ‘Insta-spot’ is a growing trend and you heard it here first! All you need is a fabulous backdrop and a ring-light which provides the perfect selfie! Stylish restaurant and bars in London kick-started this trend and it’s set to be the next big thing in weddings.

■ Image credit: Loveseen photography www.loveseen.co.uk

BRIDE

3. Floral creativity: Florals are massive this season and come in all different forms. Some ideas include florist covered giant

■ Image credit: Loveseen photography www.loveseen.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 53

FA L L I N LOV E W I T H C E LT I C MANOR

P L A N Y O U R D R E A M W E D D I N G AT C E LT I C - M A N O R . C O M R E Q U E S T A B R O C H U R E O R A R R A N G E A N A P P O I N T M E N T TO V I S I T O N 0 1 6 3 3 4 1 0 2 5 2

Bryngarw House,, one of South Wales’ most exclusive wedding venues, is now under new management. We speak to Bliss Kelsall, Weddings and Events Manager,, about her new role and why her team would love to show couples around the beautiful venue located in Bryngarw Country Park near Bridgend.

When did you discover you had a passion for organising weddings?

How do you remain up-todate with the latest wedding industry trends?

I’ve always been a highly organised person; I am forever writing lists. A previous job led me to attending a wedding fayre one day, and I immediately realised that working within the wedding industry was what I was destined to do!

When you live and breathe all things weddings, you naturally follow the trends, and I am lucky enough to have some fantastic relationships with suppliers. I like to get to know my couple’s vision of their wedding day when I first meet them. Of course, everyone’s taste is different, so a neutral, elegant venue like Bryngarw House offers the flexibility for couples to add decorations, to suit individual tastes.

What do you love most about your job? Without a doubt, the passion I have for my job is because I can play a part in making someone happy, and that’s such a good feeling. I put my heart and soul into Bryngarw House because I want every one of our couples to have the most perfect wedding day.

What improvements have been made to Bryngarw House since the beginning of 2019? We have certainly been very busy. Bryngarw House has undergone complete refurbishment, from

repainting works throughout the venue, to deep cleaning and brand-new furniture. We have new Chiavari chairs, a new twinkle light dancefloor and a beautiful new handmade floral archway, to name just a few of the improvements. We wanted everything to be clean and fresh for all our couples, ahead of a busy year of weddings. What else do you have planned for the venue? We will be giving our couples the option of a ‘Gin Bar’ during their evening celebrations, with special gin-based cocktails on offer. Throughout the year, we will be holding showcase events where the venue will be dressed as you would expect on a wedding day, and the team will be on hand to answer questions and conduct

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viewings. Keep an eye on our Facebook page ‘Bryngarw House Weddings’ for details. How can couples get in touch to arrange their exclusive viewing? Couples can fill out a simple enquiry form on our website, www.bryngarwhouse.com, call us directly on 01656 729009, or register their interest for one of our showcases. A member of the wedding team will get in touch to arrange an appointment. During this appointment our couples will have a tour of the venue. They will have the opportunity to discuss availability, packages and prices in detail, and receive a personal quote based on a provisional wedding date. They most definitely won’t be disappointed!

www.bryngarwhouse.com | Tel: 01656 729009 | events@bryngarwweddings.com @bryngarwhouse |

@bryngarwweddings

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JAZZ FLAVOURS TO ENJOY AS JUSTIN’S CATERING COOKS UP TREATS AT GOWER HERITAGE CENTRE’S BIG MUSIC WEEKEND

T is always nice to celebrate a birthday in style, even if it is just your first one.

Justin’s Catering took over the Mill Tea Rooms at Gower Heritage Centre last June, and owner Justin Hayward is hoping that Gower Jazz Festival will be a fitting way to mark the first year of operations, and also bring the considerable fayre on offer to a wider audience. It will be high quality music all the way at the Parkmill visitor destination over the weekend of June 8 and 9, and it all comes with a promise. You will not need to get hungry or thirsty as the Mill Tea Rooms will refresh all parts. “I have been in the catering business for 25 years after starting at 15,” said Justin. “The opportunity came up to work for myself, so I decided to bring on board Justin’s Catering. We do hog roasts and weddings, buffets, so any type of outside catering we will cater for. We cater for all budgets, working with the customer within theirs. We like

to be realistic on it because not everyone has the same budget. So we try and accommodate as many people as we can with different types of budgets. “I am based down at the Gower Heritage Centre, which is my main source of income, but do catering for outside events, which is starting to grow in the first year. In the first year we have mainly concentrated on the Gower Heritage Centre. I have got a great team behind me as well, so with that team I can now move on to develop the outside catering side, which has slowly taken off. I wanted to get the heritage centre side right first before I grew the outside catering side of it as well. “I am definitely looking forward to the jazz festival. We are going to move forward with the food side of it as well, so there will be different types of specials for the jazz, the type of food which goes with jazz. The normal menu will be on in the day, and then we will switch to a festival menu on Saturday evening for a quicker service.” So how about these New Orleans jazz-inspired offerings? Louis Armstrong’s Rice and Beans It is a very tuneful dish of belly pork and bacon cooked in cajun spices with rice and red kidney beans.

Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo How about a shrimps and smoked sausage combo cooked in a spiced broth with onions, peppers, tomatoes and celery served with herb rice.

of a brioche bun, chips and a salad garnish. Gower Cream Tea This treat and a half includes a large scone, a Welsh cake, a slice of bara brith, butter, jam and clotted cream, all with a pot of Welsh tea or fresh Fairtrade coffee. There is also a main meals section and a children's menu, not forgetting a selection of local ales and ciders. Let the music play

Cajun Chicken Salad Cajun chicken sounds a good bet, and this dish is served with a festival salad and a honey mustard dressing. Here are five of the finest offerings on the normal menu The Gower Breakfast Cockles, bacon, onions and laverbread combine in a pleasing way to help set you up for the day ahead. It comes from the breakfast menu, which is available until 1pm. Gower Cockle Pie From Pembrokeshire comes Pastai Gocos, cockles cooked in a creamy cheese sauce and covered with breadcrumbs and grated cheese. Lamb Broth You may know it better as cawl, which means it is more filling than a normal bowl of soup and offers a satisfying meal in its own right. Gower Minted Lamb Burger It speaks for itself really, but has some decent back-up in the form

“It’s nice to be putting on a festival in Gower,” said organiser Dave Cottle, chairman of Swansea Jazzland, based at The Garage in Uplands. “We have got some of the finest musicians from around South Wales. Our top line act is Alan Barnes, one of the UK’s finest sax players, and for blues fans there is Li Harding.” The line-up June 8: Noon

Steve Williams Trio

1.45pm Tom Langshaw Trio 3.30pm Afternoon In Paris 5.15pm Groucho Club 6.45pm Alan Barnes workshop 8pm

Alan Barnes Quartet

9.45pm Li Harding/ Gary Phillips Band June 9: 12.15pm Constellation Big Band 1.45pm Sarah Meek/ Guy Shotton Quartet 3.15pm Guardalavaca De Cuba

Gower Heritage Centre | Parkmill | Gower | SA3 2EH Telephone: 01792 371206 Visit: www.justinscateringltd.co.uk Ticket information: www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk www.swanseajazzland.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

FLOWERPOWER WINES: 8 BLOOMING MARVELLOUS TIPPLES TO TRY NOW La Dame en Rose 2018, France; £6, Marks & Spencer, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park The colour’s captivating and with a grand name that suggests a ‘Best in Show’ and the type of rose you’d come across in the famous Great Pavilion at Chelsea, this new release looks inviting from the word go.

Home cooking

with Gorseinon’s

Sian Day

A deliciously simple recipe for May...

Lemon meringue pie

Tesco Finest Marlborough Pinot Noir 2018, New Zealand; TescoExtra, Swansea A plush and very pretty pinot. Raspberry and florals accord beautifully and the wine is intense, seductive and generous in fruit (but without any heaviness), with swathes of black cherries, raspberries and a tender note of spice. Elegant, fresh and perfectly poised.

Yalumba Organic Viognier 2018, South Australia ; £9.99, Waitrose, Cowbridge Viognier may have its home in France, but it can excel Down Under too, as this top drop demonstrates. Yalumba are cited as one of the most influential producers of viognier in the world; this is deliciously intense with a powerful perfume of peach, apricot and honeysuckle with juicy, youthful peach and apricot flavours. Unoaked, fresh acidity flows to the finish.

I haven’t made one in years and was inspired after seeing a gigantic pie in a patisserie shop on a recent visit to Cornwall. The whole family said “please mum can you make one of those?” So I picked up some lemons and proceeded to grant their wish. I have to say I did cheat a little. No, I didn’t buy a packet mix, but I did buy a shop bought pastry case as I didn’t have my trusted Kenwood with us as we were away on holiday in a caravan which wasn’t quite equipped for baking days. My grandmother would make this pie for a Sunday afternoon and it would all go in one sitting. It is best eaten on the same day as anything pastry based is, otherwise it gets soggy and we don’t want soggy bottoms now do we?

Gran Lopez Garnacha Rosado 2017, Campo de Borja DO, Spain (£9.99, Laithwaite’s) A gorgeous copper pink, scented wild strawberry fruits and freshly squeezed pink grapefruit comes spilling out of this fresh, fun and easy drinking rose. Softly refreshing with a creamy mouthfeel, ripe berry fruits give a seductive weight to the wine, with some subtle spice on the mouthwatering finish. A modern style of Spanish rose that’s not a wallflower and easily grows on you.

Co-op Irresistible Viognier, 2017 Pays D’Oc, France ; £8, Co-op , Mumbles Another open bouquet with much to offer, this sumptuous viognier from the South of France has pretty apricot-scented aromas and a rich, honeyed mouthfeel, supported by vibrant acidity which heightens the freshness. Versatile enough to enjoy with or without food, its distinctive scent brings to mind apricot-yellow blooms and a beautiful country garden.

ingredients ■ 1 Pastry case FOR THE FILLING ■ 3 large lemons zested and juiced ■ 3 egg yolks ■ 1 whole egg ■ 100g caster sugar ■ 200mls cold water ■ 2 tbsp cornflour MERINGUE ■ 4 egg whites ■ 200g caster sugar ■ 2 tsp cornflour method Begin by zesting and juicing the 3 lemons, ensure no pips escape into the lemony mixture Into a saucepan mix the sugar, corn flour, juice and zest of lemons and 200mls water

Bring to a boil so the mixture thickens, keep stirring. Then take off the heat and add in the butter, egg yolks and 1 whole egg, return to a medium heat and stir vigorously until thickened. Meanwhile, beat the egg whites with a tablespoon of sugar at a time, sift in the corn flour and continue whisking until firm peaks form. Then pour the lemony mixture into the pastry case, then dollop the meringue on top using a light touch as you want to keep it rustic looking by giving it gentle swirls, just don’t squash the air out of the meringue. Place into oven for 15-20 minutes until golden. Allow to cool before serving

! Bon appetit

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay SWANSEA LIFE 58

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TURKISH KITCHEN AUTHENTIC TURKISH CUISINE

• Open every day, 11am till 11pm • Eat in or take away • Vegetarian and vegan options • Free parking on Road Weddings-Birthdays-Engagements-Baby Showers-Families-Events. Follow us on Facebook for exclusive offers and discounts 21 High Street, Swansea, SA1 1LF T: 01792 650444 / www.swanseaturkishkitchen.com turkishkitchen1

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FOOD & DRINK

veganism, but not as you know it!

Ella Walker meets Henry Firth and Ian Theasby, who have discovered the world of veganism has really opened up since their debut cookbook. hassle from non-vegans, these days, not so much. Partly, Firth reckons, it’s “because our stance is quite chill”, and even little knocks from family and friends have practically subsided. “The mocking in the last two to three years has kind of stopped,” he muses. “More and more people are trying a little bit of vegan food, and it’s becoming more and more OK to dabble.”

Henry Firth and Ian Theasby are what you’d call sprightly. The Yorkshire-born housemates and business partners are the irrepressibly positive minds behind ‘social media sensation’ BOSH! The plant-based recipe platform has had more than one billion views to date, and the duo, both 34, are now on their second cookbook, BISH BASH BOSH! This one, they explain, is full of all their favourite meals – especially ones nicked from restaurants, takeaways and childhood memories; ones they’d wanted to “veganise” but hadn’t managed to squeeze into their debut collection. “The landscape has completely changed,” says Theasby. Firth believes we’ve got to a place “where it

is OK to eat vegan ‘chicken nuggets’ and to present them at a dinner table to a meateater – and not have to have an argument about it”. In fact, when a few years ago they might have come up against quite a bit of griping and

Firth says: “It’s great because you feel so good. Two, three, four days in, there’s this lightness of being that stays with you, that helps you persist – as long as you’re not just eating pasta and chips. Some people will do seven days a week, some will do one day a week, but it just becomes normal.” “It’s less a hope, more an expectation that that’s what will happen,” adds Theasby. “All the signs are there.”

NEW YORK-STYLE BAKED STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKE

Ingredients: (Serves 10-12) • • • • • • • • • • • • •

400g cashews 120g light digestive biscuits 120g ginger biscuits 100ml light olive oil A pinch of salt 300g dairy-free white chocolate 2 lemons 340g silken tofu 300g icing sugar 2tbsp coconut oil 3tsp vanilla extract 400g strawberries 50g golden caster sugar

■ Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C and base-line a 23cm springform cake tin with parchment paper (don’t grease the sides). 2. Put cashews in a pan of hot water and boil for 15 minutes until soft and rehydrated (alternatively, soak overnight in cold water). Drain. 3. Put biscuits in a food processor and blitz to crumbs. Add oil and a pinch of salt and pulse to mix. Tip into the lined cake tin and press firmly until well compacted and even. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until firm. Remove and leave to cool for 10 minutes. Lower temperature to 110°C and put the tray back in.

60 SWANSEA LIFE

4. Pour 3cm of hot water into a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Lower to a simmer. Put a heatproof bowl on top of the

pan, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bottom. Break the chocolate into the bowl and leave to melt (alternatively, melt in the microwave in 15-second bursts). Remove and leave to cool a little. Separate two tablespoons of the chocolate from the main batch. 5. Zest the lemons into a liquidiser then cut them in half and squeeze in the juice. Add the main batch of chocolate, the silken tofu, drained cashews, icing sugar, coconut oil and vanilla extract and blend until smooth. 6. Layer up your cheesecake. Lightly brush the biscuit base with the reserved two tablespoons of melted chocolate. Pour over the cheesecake mixture and shake gently to level it. Lightly run your finger over the surface to get rid of any bubbles. Put the tin on a hot baking tray in the oven and bake for 80-90 minutes, until set but still slightly wobbly in the middle. Remove from the oven and run a thin spatula or knife around the edge to separate the cake from the tin, then leave it to cool to room temperature. Transfer the cheesecake to a plate. Refrigerate. 7. Hull the strawberries and halve or quarter. Put them into the medium saucepan with the caster sugar. Put the pan over a medium heat and stir. Macerate for two to three minutes so the sugar melts and strawberries soften slightly. Set aside to cool then pile on to the cheesecake. Serve.

ROASTED SWEET POTATO TAGINE “It’s sweet, fragrant and easy to make. You can replace the preserved lemon with the grated zest of a lemon, the juice of half a lemon and an extra pinch of salt. It’s also great with salad rather than the couscous for a lighter lunch.”

■ Ingredients:

(Serves 6) • 1kg sweet potatoes • 3tbsp olive oil • 2 medium red onions • 1 fresh red chilli • 2 garlic cloves • 6cm piece fresh ginger • 30g fresh coriander • 100g dried apricots • 2tbsp harissa paste • 2tsp ras el hanout • 2tsp ground cumin • 2tsp ground coriander • 1/2tsp sugar • 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes • 200ml water • 1 x 240g tin chickpeas • Salt and black pepper

■ For the lemon and almond couscous: • • • • • • •

1 preserved lemon 1 1/2tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1tsp ground cumin 300g couscous 400ml boiling water 50g flaked almonds 20g fresh coriander leaves

■ Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Chop sweet potatoes into 3cm chunks, spread over a baking tray, drizzle with one tablespoon of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Put in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. 2. Peel and finely chop the onions. Rip the stem from the chilli, cut it in half lengthways and remove the seeds, then finely chop. Peel and grate the garlic. Peel ginger by scraping off the skin with a spoon and grate. Pluck the leaves from the coriander, put them to one side and thinly slice the stems. Roughly chop the dried apricots. Drain the chickpeas.

3. To make the tagine, place saucepan over a medium heat and add the rest of the olive oil. Add onions and fry for four to five minutes, stirring, until starting to soften. Add chilli, garlic, ginger and chopped coriander stems and stir for two minutes. Add harissa paste, ras el hanout, cumin, ground coriander and sugar and stir for one minute. Add chopped tomatoes and water. Lower the heat and simmer for seven to nine minutes. Stir in drained chickpeas and apricots. Put the lid on and simmer for eight to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Take the lid off the pan, taste and season. Add coriander leaves and roasted sweet potato and stir. Reduce the heat to low and put the lid back on the pan. 4. To make the couscous, halve the preserved lemon and put it into a mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, cumin, couscous and boiling water. Cover with a dinner plate and set aside for eight to 10 minutes. 5. Spread flaked almonds over a baking tray. Put in the oven and bake for four minutes, until lightly browned. Finely chop coriander leaves. 6. Remove the preserved lemon and fluff the couscous with a fork. Reserve a quarter of the toasted almonds and chopped coriander leaves and fold the rest into the couscous. Taste and season with salt and pepper. 7. Divide the couscous among bowls and top with the tagine. Garnish with the reserved almonds and coriander and serve.

BISH BASH BOSH! by Henry Firth and Ian Theasby is published by HQ, HarperCollins, priced £20.

FOOD & DRINK

62 SWANSEA LIFE

A great taste of the Orient

As it opens a new Asian diner, Karen Price pays a visit to Celtic Manor Resort to find out more about its seven restaurants, the chefs behind them and the kind of dishes they serve hungry guests

he Celtic Manor Resort may be renowned for its exceptional golfing facilities , after all, it famously hosted the Ryder Cup in 2010. But it’s also something of a foodie destination too.

The Newport-based five-star hotel has six restaurants at its main site serving everything from steaks to seafood as well as a 200-yearold country inn just a few miles away that offers a seasonal menu of locally-sourced dishes. Now it’s just launched a new Asian diner which replaces Cen, the restaurant opened by Masterchef finalist Larkin Cen three years ago. When his contract came to an end, it was not renewed by mutual consent. Cen - based in the Manor House - is now called Pad and the team of chefs, who developed dishes alongside Larkin, have refined a similar menu featuring fresh, contemporary Asian cuisine. We were invited by the hotel to be part of a Chef’s Table tasting event and find out more about his restaurants, meet some of the chefs and sample some of the dishes.

and bite through it was the sea salt and malt vinegar seasoning from Halon Mon that really brought out the flavours of this dish. Course three was from Steak On Six and I must confess I was a little disappointed to see that we were having salmon rather than steak from their signature restaurant which showcases steaks from the British Isles. Gareth Pembridge is head chef, having previously helped the Newbridge on Usk win its first AA rosette when it was owned by radio DJ Chris Evans. He also worked as a sous chef under celebrity TV chef Matt Tebbutt at the Foxhunter Inn, near Abergavenny. It turned out that the Welsh Penderyn whisky-cured smoked salmon, which was hand-carved in front of us, was a perfect chance to showcase that. Far despite its name, Steak On Six is more than about simply steak. It was then back to new restaurant Pad for a main dish, Malaysian laska with prawns and scallops. I love scallops so was expecting great things from this dish and, served with rice noodles, coconut, lemon grass, ginger and chilli, they were certainly succulent though far too spicy for my liking and had me reaching for the water glass on more than one occasion.

The evening began in the Mulberry Bar at the resort hotel, where we enjoyed its signature cocktail (the Mulberry, of course), before we were taken to a private dining room, complete with large oak table next to a roaring fireplace, just a short walk away at the Manor House. Seated just outside Pad – which with its wicker seats and pale wooden slat blinds has a very contemporary feel that contrasts to the traditional Manor House – we were brought our appetiser of beef gyozas with a dipping sauce to give us a taste of what the new diner offers. The ground beef was beautifully tender and the dough was perfectly thin all accompanied by a lovely dipping sauce.

Newbridge on Usk provided the final main course of the tasting menu, herb crusted lamb rump.

And so the meal itself began. The first main dish was crispy pork belly from The Grill, which is run by Paul Ngigi and serves everything from steaks to pasta in relaxed surroundings. Served with potato and chive salad, corn salsa and ranch dressing, the meat just melted in the mouth and the Bourbon glaze provided some welcome sweetness.

After so much savoury stuff, we were lucky enough to have two dessert offerings. First up was salted caramel whoopie pie from the Olive Tree, which is run by Carl Cleghorn and is renowned for its afternoon teas. With a glossy coating of caramel sauce, it looked like a work of art.

The next course was something completely different: Tenby Harbour ale battered halloumi, which is on the menu at Rafters, the restaurant based at the Twenty Ten Clubhouse and headed up by Vangelis Tzortzis. It may have looked like a plate of traditional fish and chips but it was something completely different. The semi-hard cheese was complemented by the batter, which was crisp and not at all greasy and came with a delicate infusion of ale. The polenta chips, mushy peas, tarragon and lemon tartare sauce all added texture

Adam Whittle is head chef and started his career as an apprentice at the Celtic Manor Resort before moving on to the Michelin starred Crown at Whitebrook and taking his first head chef post at the White Hart Village Inn, Llangybi. His lamb was served with celeriac and rosemary terrine, hispi cabbage, onion and carrot. While the jus was delicious, the lamb was a tad under-cooked for my liking and my piece was a little chewy.

The meal ended with peanut butter parfait from The Rib, which is a smokehouse and grill headed up by Justin Llewellyn. The chocolate mousse, caramelised bananas and peanut butter shortbread were, quite frankly, a dream finish. Many restaurants have come and gone at the Celtic Manor over the years - Epicure, The Crown, Terry M’s and now Cen, among them . But here, the resort appears to have struck just the right balance. Pad adds something new – and very welcome – to the mix.

The Celtic Manor | www.celtic-manor.com/dining SWANSEA LIFE 63

New Worlds To Explore... Summerland offers prospective purchasers the rare opportunity to buy a modern, high-specification home nestled in the heart of Caswell, one of the most sought-after locations within the Gower Peninsula. Located in a peaceful rural setting enriched with local identity, this exceptional development boasts a varied selection of contemporary and luxurious house types bordered by lush, mature hedgerows and the dense deciduous woodland of the wider landscape. Driven by quality and functionality, each individual home has been specifically designed for modern family life. With meticulous attention to detail and internal specifications of the highest standard throughout, every aspect of this development provides prospective purchasers the opportunity to find the living space of their dreams. Externally, a combination of cladding, painted render and stone work create the optimal balance of contemporary and tradition. As a result, the design enhances the area’s character, maintaining the coastal feel you’d expect from a development merely a minute’s walk away from the award winning Caswell Bay.

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Show Home Opening Soon... Interested in seeing one of our stunning homes in person? Our showhome will be opening in the near future. Keep an eye on our Twitter page for updates:

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Until then... Visit us at the marketing suite located on site to discuss your oppportunties at Summerland: Summerland Lane, Newton, Swansea. SA3 4RS

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

MUMBLES HILL HOUSE, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

LONG OAKS COTTAGE, PENMAEN, GOWER

A truly amazing & rare opportunity with an outstanding position & incredible views. Set in approx 1.43 acres you have the option to renovate the existing substantial, detached house, or redevelop & build your dream home (subject to planning consents). There is currently a pre planning application with a positive status, for a replacement dwelling, with detached garage & granny annexe. Ref no: 2018/2713/PRE. EPC F

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

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An impressive home perfectly located within short walking distance of Mumbles village & promenade. This large detached 6 bed family home is beautifully presented presenting 4 receptions, kitchen/breakfast room, conservatory, large garden & ample parking with double garage. EPC C

Situated in glorious grounds with heavenly countryside surroundings in this fabulous Art Deco period property. A spacious detached family home with generous living spaces, 4 beds, detached garage & beautiful gardens. You also have a paddock and a close to local amenities whilst also having Dyffryn Woods on your doorstep. EPC E

Contact: 01792 367301

Asking Price £875,000

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

Asking Price 750,00

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

MUMBLES HILL HOUSE, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

LONG OAKS COTTAGE, PENMAEN, GOWER

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

Contact: 01792 367301

Offers Over £1,500,000

Asking Price £775,000

PLAS NEWYDD, NEWTON ROAD, MUMBLES

THE PADDOCK, DYFFRYN, NEATH

Situated in glorious grounds with heavenly countryside surroundings in this fabulous Art Deco period property. A spacious detached family home with generous living spaces, 4 beds, detached garage & beautiful gardens. You also have a paddock and are close to local amenities whilst also having Dyffryn Woods on your doorstep. EPC E

Contact: 01792 367301

Asking Price £875,000

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

Asking Price 750,000

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

LLANCOED, FAIRWOOD, SWANSEA

BRANDY HOUSE LANDIMORE, NORTH GOWER

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

Spectacular estuary & great salt marsh views, stretching as far across the estuary to Burry Port - just magical! Set in this picture perfect hamlet of Landimore, Brandy House is a four bed, detached family home which is full of character and surprises, sat in approx 1.5 acres. Amazing panoramic countryside, woodland & estuary views, it really is quite special.

Contact: 01792 367301

Asking Price £695,000

Offers Over 699,995

REMBRANDT COURT, SKETTY, SWANSEA

SUMMER HOUSE, THREE CROSSES, SWANSEA

Exceptional room sizes & impressive regal character of the property, this beautiful ground floor apartment is presented with elegance & presents 3 beds, 1 reception & 2 bathrooms. Beautiful communal grounds & located close to the amenities in Sketty. EPC D

A superb family home set in idyllic countryside & beautiful gardens on the outskirts of Gower. Offering lovely living spaces, 4 beds, garage & a generous peaceful garden. Summer House also has stunning views towards the Devonshire coastline, Bristol Channel & rural scenery. EPC E

Contact: 01792 367301

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

Offers Over £659,500

Internationally Plus 75 offices globally 5000 professional associates all around the world

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

LLANCOED, FAIRWOOD, SWANSEA

BRANDY HOUSE LANDIMORE, NORTH GOWER

Contact: 01792 367301

Asking Price £695,000

Offers Over 699,995

REMBRANDT COURT, SKETTY, SWANSEA

SUMMER HOUSE, THREE CROSSES, SWANSEA

Contact: 01792 367301

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

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Recycled sari garland, £12.99 from Oxfam

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Soft green balloon vase in recycled glass, £35.90, thefarthing.co.uk

Reclaimed teak threedrawer unit, £425, adrianreynolds.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 69

HOUSE & HOME

Perfect living

Step inside this stylish and luxurious real home sitting in its own grounds in Mumbles peter.slee@reachplc.com house within walking distance of Mumbles yet still sitting in its own grounds and with a woodland backdrop can be a rare thing indeed.

But that is exactly what you get with Plas Newydd. An impressive, attractive and beautifully kept home perfectly located not too far from the Mumbles promenade and yet still very private due to the spot it sits on. The six-bedroomed detached home opposite Underhill Park is generously proportioned and comes with lovely grounds to make the most of alfresco entertaining and relaxation opportunities. Estate agents Fine & Country say its vast but welcoming entrance hallway lies at the heart of the property, providing access to all areas of the home. Its spacious dining room is at the front of the house with its outlook to the front garden and mature trees. The sitting room also has the same green, lush outlook but comes with doors which open up. The lounge, a more generous space again, has a grand feature marble fireplace with a gas coal 70 SWANSEA LIFE

effect fire. “A huge conservatory adjoins the lounge creating a very light, wonderful social space or simply a spot to relax and catch up on that reading.,” says agent Beth Evans. “ You can also enjoy the Mediterranean-style rear garden with its water feature which gives you a perfect setting for a spot of sheltered alfresco dining. The kitchen/breakfast room has a wealth of fitted country style units and room for a central table. There is also a handy utility room which has fitted base and wall units, built-in storage and can comfortably house a washing machine, tumble dryer, fridge/freezer.” Up on the first floor with its five bedrooms, the main is to the front of the property with an en-suite which includes a steam shower, Jacuzzi bath and underfloor heating. The mammoth second bedroom, also with an en-suite bathroom, is at the rear of the house overlooking the rear garden and woodland. A further three generous, light double bedrooms and family bathroom are also on this first floor. From the naturally bright and open landing, go up again to the second floor with its vast bedroom occupying the majority of the floor along with a shower room and a separate sauna room.

“It really is a wonderful space with a lot of potential uses from a teenager who wants their own space, guest accommodation or even as a home work space,” says Beth.. Externally, Plas Newydd also offers something special with a number of outdoor areas making the most of its location. To the rear there is a private courtyard which has a peaceful, woodland backdrop, a water feature where the new owner will be able to enjoy the relaxing sounds of nature. To the front of the property with its lush greenery and lawn, there is also a terrace across the entire length of the house . “A perfect for spot for a bit of sunbathing or a cuppa in the fresh air,” adds Beth.

THE DETAILS: Asking price: £875,000 Agents: Fine & Country 77 Newton Road, Mumbles T: 01792 367301 E: swansea@fineandcountry.com

SWANSEA LIFE 71

www.pablack.co.uk

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Prestige homes from Peter Alan Ltd

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• 4 Bedroom Detached property • Victorian character features • Driveway / Off road parking • Sea Views • Sought after location • Catchment for well regarded schools • EPC - F

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

• Detached Georgian style property • 4 double bedrooms • Two enView, suitesUplands, Dylans • Spacious reception rooms • Conservatory • Detached double garage • EPC - C

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COASTAL LIVING ON YOUR DOORSTEP AT THE LINKS The Links at Rest Bay, Porthcawl comprises bespoke studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. The first phase of thirty-five homes are situated within the Victorian Grade-II listed building, surrounded by landscaped gardens. Phase two will offer a collection of carefully-designed new build properties in the adjacent grounds. The new homes overlook South Wales’ top surfing beach, offer magnificent panoramic sea views and are positioned next to the award-winning Royal Porthcawl Golf Club.

Prices from £200,000 - £750,000 MARKETING SUITE OPEN DAILY 10AM - 5PM REST BAY, PORTHCAWL CF36 3UP For further information contact: 01656771600 porthcawl@peteralan.co.uk Computer generated image shown for illustrative purposes only. Prices correct at time of print.

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HOUSE & HOME

The housing market’s spring selling season is under way – and for some, this may mean down-sizing from a family-sized property to a new smaller home that better suits their needs at this stage in life. This can feel like a massive change, of course, and moving is often a big upheaval. But with some careful consideration, downsizing can be a really positive experience, according to NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) Propertymark. “The most important thing to consider is that you ‘right-size’ and find a property which suits your lifestyle,” says Mark Bentley, NAEA Propertymark president. “Moving to a smaller property also releases equity trapped in the property, gives you a home which is easier to manage and, depending on the location, it could mean better access to local amenities, which will improve your quality of life.” Considering downsizing soon? Here are some tips from NAEA Propertymark to help keep the process simple and cost-effective...

78 SWANSEA LIFE

top tips for downsizing Deciding to move into a smaller property can be a huge step. Vicky Shaw tells us how to minimise stress and avoid wasting money 1 Be practical and ruthless If you’re moving to a smaller home, you’ll need a big clear-out. Approach it as though you’re having the ultimate spring clean, or a ‘house detox’. Your loft, garage and kitchen are all rooms that tend to accumulate clutter, so they’re a good place to start. If an item has too much sentimental value to part with it, but you have no room for it, perhaps offer it to a family member, or consider putting it into storage to give yourself a bit more time.

2 Get organised Make a list of rooms you need to clear out, the other tasks you need to complete, and the timescale you need to do it in. Knowing what you have to do and the time you have for each task will make the move less stressful.

3 Establish how much room you have Don’t start throwing furniture out until you’ve

established how much space you have in your new home, as it could be costly to replace it all. Equally, if you over-estimate the space, you’ll find it difficult to fit everything in on moving day. Draw up a to-scale floor plan to see how your furniture will fit into each room.

4 Think about the additional costs Although downsizing may mean lower day-to-day running costs, there are various one-off moving costs to consider. Factor in any estate agency fees, report costs, solicitors’ fees and removals.

5 Ask your buyer before you throw it out If you’re considering getting rid of some items, ask your buyer if they may be interested in buying it. Made-to-measure items such as curtains may not fit in your new home – but your buyer may want them.

6 See who else wants your unwanted items You could also try other ways of selling items, such as by placing them on online marketplaces or auctions. The money could go towards moving costs. Or, you could donate it your local charity shop or advertise it as ‘free to a good home’ so others can get use out of it.

7 Consider your new budget Moving may mean your outgoings will change, and you’ll have to budget slightly differently. Bills such as council tax, insurance and energy costs may change, and you may find you need to use transport more, or less, depending on the distance to local amenities.

8 Be clear when hiring movers When you’re researching the cost of hiring a moving company, be clear about what your requirements are and make sure you know what you’re paying for. Whether you need help packing or if you’re just looking for someone to move your stuff from A to B, professional movers can do as little or as much as you like. Alternatively, you can cut costs by roping in family or friends to help with the move. Not only can they help transferring items between the properties, but they can help with sorting through years of memories and personal items too.

9 Avoid splurging Making a new home ‘yours’ is exciting, but try and hold off splurging on lots of new decorative items for the home. Until you know how you will live in a smaller space, it may not be a good idea to make any new purchases, in case they don’t fit in.

10 Freshen up with low-cost improvements

This is no ordinary shop, it’s an M&S shop and it’s on its way to Mumbles Here is a first look at what is on its way to Mumbles. Perched on top of a Marks & Spencer Simply Food store in Mumbles, images of new luxury apartments, which will sell from £300,000, have been released. The up-scale Oyster Court development on the site of the old British Legion car park in Newton Road features nine exclusive apartments for sale with Dawsons. Each will also have access to communal grounds, secure gated parking and a lift. Two and three-bedroom apartments are available, as well as duplex and penthouses, and prices are likely to start from around £300,000 for two bedrooms, rising to £600,000 for three. In a letter submitted to the council as part of the Newton Road application in 2017, M&S said it had been looking to open a store in the village for the past six years. It confirmed it would commit to a 15-year lease to run one of its food hall branches, creating around 50 jobs in the process.

A fresh lick of paint can give your new home a makeover at a relatively low cost. It may also be something you can do yourself, rather than hiring a professional.

SWANSEA LIFE 79

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HOUSE & HOME

Keep, donate, sell & bin ...it’s all about the clean!

Tall rustic wooden ladder with basket storage, £114.95, Melody Maison.

Traditional spring cleans may be out of fashion – but it’s still a good time to clear any lingering winter cobwebs and clutter, writes Gabrielle Fagan Rushing to polish windows, scour surfaces, sweep away cobwebs and generally spruce up your rooms as part of that annual big spring clean? Thought not! It seems today’s busy lives and stretched schedules are helping kill off the tradition of a seasonal deep clean, according to recent research by home appliance specialists, Beko. The brand quizzed 2,000 people – and found that 38% believed the notion of springcleaning was dying out. On top of that, only half of the people polled set aside time each week to clean their home, and three in 10 admit they only manage to squeeze in a few chores at the weekends. But, even if you don’t quite feel the urge to go into a seasonal cleaning frenzy, there are a few easy-peasy ways to get a spring clean result without too much time and effort...

■ Clear that clutter “It’s the perfect time to re-evaluate your home, de-clutter and get it organised,” says Nicola Lewis, aka pro sorter-outer of stuff, This Girl Can Organise (thisgirlcanorganise.com), who offers a professional home organiser service and counts celebrities including Gemma Collins among her clients. “Start by walking around your home with a notepad and pen, and plan the process,” Lewis suggests. “Ask yourself, ‘How can I improve this and manage the available space better?’ Clarify in your mind what you should keep or get rid of.” Lewis’ step-by-step plan: First, clear the room as much as possible. Next, sort items into four piles: Keep, donate, sell and bin. Clean away dirt and dust, then before placing furniture and items back into their

places, really consider their location and position, so that it all really suits you and the people living in your home.

■ Clean it green Add to that glow of satisfaction at the end of a good clean by knowing you’ve used planet-friendly products. There’s a wide variety of eco-friendly ranges out there these days – or you could Google DIY recipes and make your own (that way you can avoid excess packaging and harsh chemicals altogether). The National Trust’s new range of household cleaning items is made in the UK and uses a combination of natural ingredients, fragrances and 100% bioplastic bottles.

■ Tool up There’s a homely, nostalgic feel to vintagestyle cleaning kit – even though it might remind you that in the past you’d have been spared the annual cleaning chore, which would have been delegated to below-stairs servants! Companies such as Re-Found Objects specialise in reclaimed, vintage and handmade household items, meaning you can stock up in a more sustainable way too. Dunelm’s chic Housekeeper’s range is full of vintage-inspired designs too – including a housekeeper’s lambswool duster, £6.99; feather duster, £7; utilities grey storage tin, £15, and housekeeper’s wooden airer, £29.99.

Clean It Green organic washing up liquid – Citrus, £5; Furniture wax polish tin, £5; Multi-surface spray – mint, £6; Laundry liquid, £7; Fabric softener, £7; Floor cleaner – herbal, £7; Pot brush, £3.50; Vegetable brush, £3.50; Organic creamy furniture polish, £10, National Trust

Whatever task you’re tacking, ensure you’ve got all the right tools for the job at hand from the start, so your enthusiasm doesn’t wane as you search for that missing dustpan or broom.

■ Mattress makeover Most of us wash the bed sheets every one to two weeks, but when was the last time you actually cleaned your mattress? “It’s a little-known fact that you should actually clean some mattresses every six months to prevent dust mites, dead skin and dirt accumulating,” says Neil Robinson, chief sleep officer for bed specialists, Sealy UK. “Use a vacuum-cleaner to remove dirt, hair and crumbs.”

■ Plant up a room Indoor greenery can clean the air, as well as injecting life and colour into a space, which is a perfect way of welcoming spring, declares Claire Bishop, houseplant buyer for Dobbies Garden Centres.

Housekeepers lambswool duster, £6.99; Feather duster, £7; Housekeeper tea towels, £9.99; Wooden dish brush, £2; Zen stripe pack of three tea towels, £6.50; Water’s Edge clock, £18; Grey storage tin, £15; Pegs grey storage tin, £7; Housekeepers wooden airer, £29.99; Ultimate towels from £8; Grass storage baskets from £6, Dunelm

“Houseplants are brilliant anti-pollutants and help to increase oxygen levels. For me, stepping into a room of lush and leafy greenery is a definite mood booster,” she enthuses.

Once that’s done, prolong that fresh scent with a spring-friendly scented candle or room diffuser. Bright tangy citrus is a popular scent, which makes any home feel fresh and inviting.

“My favourite is lavender, which can add a lovely calming fragrance to any room and is particularly good for aiding sleep in a bedroom. Simply ensure it has plenty of fresh air and natural light.” Bishop’s top tip: Don’t overlook existing houseplants in a spring clean. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to help remove dust and promote good health. Remove yellowing foliage and trim damaged leaves of larger plants with sharp scissors. Some houseplants may also need re-potting and feeding in spring.

■ Scent the air

Plant up a room Indoor greenery can clean the air as well as injecting life and colour into a space

Even if you haven’t swept and polished every nook and cranny, you could simply throw open the windows, to allow rooms to air and banish any lingering, stale odours of winter.

Scent the air lemongrass and lavender candle, £22, Charlotte Harley Candles

SWANSEA LIFE 83

Waterstone Homes returns to Swansea with stunning new houses

ADVERTISING FEATURE

OLLOWING the success of Waterstone Homes’ first residential development in Swansea, we spoke with Clare Brown, the company’s Field Sales Manager, about the housebuilder’s brand-new luxury development coming to the beautiful suburb of Killay.

WHY HAVE YOU DECIDED TO BUILD YOUR NEXT DEVELOPMENT IN SWANSEA? Our new development comes off the back of our previous Swansea scheme, Howells’ Reach, in 2016. This original development proved to be one of our most popular schemes to date, selling out within just six months, which is testament to the strength of the property market in Swansea. Since then, we have always wanted to make a return to the area. Swansea is a prime sought-after location with everything you could possibly want and need. From fantastic shopping and dining, stunning countryside, great transport links and good schools, universities and employment opportunities, it’s got it all, which is why we chose to build here once again. WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT? ‘Copper Beeches’

is made up of nine 4-bedroom private residential family homes, incorporating a mix of semi-detached and detached properties. There are five house types in total, all of which have spacious, modern open-plan living and private drives and garages. With just nine properties on site, the homes are large with ample outdoor space. They are not piled on top of each other – there’s room to breathe. The development is set in the sought-after suburb, Killay, on the cusp of the Gower and Swansea city itself. Thanks to its location on the city’s outskirts, with its tree-lined streets and surrounding woodland, Copper Beeches has a relaxed, village feel with easily accessible local amenities including numerous bars and restaurants. And with the M4 as well as the train station being only 15 minutes away, it also provides easy access to West Wales and London,

offering buyers the best of both worlds. We’ve also worked to make the development more affordable, with lower starting prices than our first city development. WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE HOMES? We have taken care to ensure that the new homes fit in with and complement the local neighbourhood. Part of our strategy is to adopt design elements of other houses in the area into our own properties. With a mix of Victorian, pre-70s and self-build homes, there was a lot to consider and a specific period was difficult to define, so we chose to go for simplified style that would stand the test of time. Our aim is always to build homes with quality and longevity in mind, which is why we opt for timeless designs and high-end materials that will fit in their setting not just today, but in the future. HOW DO THE HOMES COMPARE TO OTHER NEW BUILD PROPERTIES IN THE AREA? There is a high level of quality and prestige associated with the Waterstone brand and

we pride ourselves on providing highspecification homes with superior finishes. The homes at Killay are designed for modern day living, offering open plan and cutting-edge kitchens compared to many new build competitors. They have also been designed with family life and functionality firmly in mind. Our homes also hold their value on the property market very well. House prices at our first Swansea scheme at Howells’ Reach have already risen by 5% so buying one of our new properties at Killay could be a real investment. WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT THE WATERSTONE HOMES CLIENT SERVICE? We offer a very personalised service and are committed to helping buyers make their home perfect, with several customisable options available for every home. We also offer partexchange.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON SITE NOW? Building work has now commenced on site and drainage systems are currently being installed, following the demolition of the original building. The homes are due to be completed and available late autumn and prices will range from £389,995 to £669,995. As the development is so exclusive, we will not have a sales office on site. We have just started offering private appointments and two of the homes have already been reserved off plan. Brochures are available on request and can be downloaded from the website. We are also working on a virtual reality experience for the development, which will enable customers to take a virtual walkthrough of the properties. With two properties reserved, we only have seven homes available.

HOUSE & HOME

L E S L E Y

TAY LO R

Let there be light

Want to trip the light fantastic in your home? Lesley Taylor has everything you need to make it shine

Summer is almost upon us, which means bright mornings and sunlit evenings.

home appear cold and clinical. Opt for an off-white shade in a satin finish.

But it’s not always like this.

Now it’s time to consider your home’s artificial lighting scheme.

There are some days when the sky will still be dark when we set out for work and when we get back. So now is the perfect time to take action and give your home’s lighting scheme a shake-up before winter is back upon us. It might sound odd, but the first thing you want to do is a little bit of gardening.

1. The days when a single, central light was used to illuminate the entire room are long gone

If your home is surrounded by towering trees that are positioned close to windows and doors, give them a really good trim. The spring and summer months are a great time to do this as you’ll know how the tree looks in full bloom. Not only will your garden look neater but your newly-trimmed trees won’t block the light from getting into the home.

2. Consider using under-cupboard lighting to illuminate the kitchen worktops 3. Highlight the most important areas of the room, such as the dining section of this kitchen diner 4. White walls will reflect, not absorb, natural light

And don’t forget to look at what might be stopping the light inside of your home. Trinkets and unnecessary clutter on the window sills might be providing a barrier.

Once your windows are clutter free, consider the predominant colour that runs through your home. A paler colour, such as a bright white, will not only make your home appear brighter but bigger too. That’s because white walls make the most of any natural light in the home, reflecting it, instead of absorbing it. However, if you do opt for a paint job – one quick word of warning. Don’t go for a brilliant white – which can make the

Gone are the days when a solitary light fixture was placed in the centre of a room, with a few corner lamps to add support. Re-designing your home’s lighting scheme can transform how you use each room. You could give your kitchen an informal dining area all thanks to a dedicated light above a small table. To illuminate the rest of the kitchen run a length of strip lighting below the wall cupboards to light worktops and food preparation areas. Another on-trend look is three lowslung pendant lights above a long dining room table, creating beautiful mood lighting and highlighting the area of the room used most.

EDIT Home & Design’s Lesley Taylor of Mumbles 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. For more information on her work, head to lesleytaylor.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 85

Blinds VERTICAL BLINDS

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Spread the Cost. Ask for more information Spread the costs of all Blinds and Shutters across 6, 9 or 12months at 0% Interest when you spend £600 or more with a minimum 25% deposit. Representative Example for: Window Blinds Purchase Price £1000 Minimum Deposit (25%) £250 Amount of Credit £750 12 Monthly Payments £62.50

Total Payable Duration of Agreement Rate of Interest (Fixed) APR Representative

£1000 12 months 0% 0% APR

Payment plans are offered by Close Brothers Retail Finance. Close Brothers Retail Finance is a trading name of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Finance is only available to permanent UK residents aged between 18-75, subject to status, terms and conditions apply.

CHILD SAFETY NEW 2017 FREE HOME FABRIC CONTROLS TO SELECTION FREE design advice and an RANGE ALL BLINDS obligation FREE quotation.

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For more information visit out website www.chicblinds.co.uk Email: sales@chicblinds.co.uk or visit our 3 showrooms

HOUSE & HOME Pendant light, £45, Debenhams

Chair, £107.50, Maisonsdu Monde.com

Rattan pet house, £175, Cox & Cox

Lamp, £68, Oliver Bonas

with woven Teak cabinet 50, £8 s, or do cane riors outthereinte .com

got lots to discuss Rattan is all over the high street for spring and summer. Why? Well, perhaps because the kitsch 1970s rattan vibe is super-stylish and sustainable. Here’s our pick of some of the best...

Grove cushion, £70, Soho House Retail

Table, £99.99; chair, £59.99, H&M Home Liana double wardrobe, ash and rattan, £699, Made.com

Left to right: Stool, £38, Habitat; lantern, £50, Amara; storage basket,£25, Sassandbelle.co.uk; candle holder, £55, Amara.com

90 SWANSEA LIFE

STYLE INSPIRATION Introducing our new Summer Collection

FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

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

OUR SOFA COLLECTION

ACCENT CHAIR

Get set for summer with everything you need for your home at Leekes. Choose the ideal addition for every room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from statement furniture pieces to on-trend accessories.

OUR DINING COLLECTION

Perfect for family feasts, entertaining friends and intimate gatherings, at Leekes you’ll find an extensive dining collection in a range of sizes and style so you are sure to find something to suit you and your home.

FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

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

9.4 /10 rating on

TRUSTPILOT‡

OUR BED COLLECTION

9.4 /10 rating on

Enjoy a restful night’s sleep when you choose from our selection of beds and divans in a range of sizes and styles. Plus create a statement and choose beautiful bedding from our huge range of Leading Brands.

TRUSTPILOT‡

OUR GARDEN COLLECTION

With the long days and warm nights finally making an appearance, your garden will soon be the social hub of your home. Be prepared to welcome guests with our extensive selection of garden sets at Leekes.

FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

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

fantastic offers in store LEATHER & FABRIC SOFAS OVER 3 FLOORS HUGE SELECTION!

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ON YOUR OLD SUITE

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Leather & Fabric Sofas

995 Carmarthen Road, Fforesftfach, Swansea, SA5 4AE Tel: 01792 586611 www.leathersofacompanyuk.com ALSO AT: 4 Beaufort Rd, Plasmarl, Swansea, SAG 8JG | Tel: 01792 771759

HOUSE & HOME

May Luxuries

With Joseph Atkin, head gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire

Hydrangea aspera

In this part of Wales, you will be hard pressed to find a better month in the garden than May. This is when the freshness of spring meets the colour and fullness of summer and herbaceous borders, shrubberies and woodland gardens all look fantastic. With it being such an easy month, it allows us to grow some ‘luxury plants.’ At Aberglasney we define a luxury plant as something that is rare, something that does not flower for particularly long or something that takes a long time to establish. Every garden should have some of these plants and May offers a great choice.

Halesia carolina

Primula aurantiaca

This relatively rare and slow growing tree is a real showstopper when in flower. Aptly called the snowdrop tree it looks like someone has pinned dainty snowdrop flowers to a small tree. These flowers are pleasantly tinged pink and come out just before the leaves. This is a wonderful characteristic that helps the flowers really stand out whilst being nicely surrounded by fresh green shoots. At Aberglasney we grow this tree in several different locations and it always seems to thrive. It does take around three years to flower after planting but is worth the wait. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

This rare Asiatic primrose is a wonderful little plant and a real show stopper. Like many of its relatives it forms neat clumps that cover the ground. Dainty rich orange heads of flowers are held on stiff dark brown stems. The veins on the leaves are also stained dark brown further complimenting the orange flowers. This particular primula is also quite steady growing and forms a neat clump when positioned between other plants. It makes a good subject for a small garden or small-scale situation where it can compliment other slow growing plants.

Height = 8m but after 50 years Spread = 4 m but after 50 years Position/Aspect = For us, any Soil = Any neutral to acid Pest and diseases = No real problems Style = Shrubbery, woodland, specimen tree, mixed border

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Trillium vaseyi

For many years Aberglasney has had a wonderful collection of trilliums but the big question is always which one is the best? Vaseyi is the most spectacular and has the largest flowers that we know of. All trillium have elegant three petalled lily like flowers and have interesting leaves that are also divided into three. Typically, a woodland or shade garden plant, they are one of the most gratifying to grow. Once established they will flower every year for many years but generally take seven years to flower from seed. With that in mind treating yourself to a fully grown one is a good idea. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

97 SWANSEA LIFE

Height = 70cm Spread = 30cm Position/Aspect = Any shaded Soil = Neutral to acid with plenty of compost Pest and diseases = No real problems for us Style = Woodland, shaded rock garden, shade border

Height = 30cm Spread = 40cm Position/Aspect = Any damp Soil = Any damp Pest and diseases = Vine weevil can be a problem in pots but not in the garden Style = Bog garden, herbaceous border, woodland garden, Asiatic or exotic garden

HOUSE & HOME

Five-star luxury This stylish, sophisticated metropolitan look is full of classy textures and rich hues for a more grown-up take on glamour

Gatsby white mirrored side table, £129.99, Hoshome.com *All prices correct at time of going to press

Culinary concepts curve table lamp, £110, Next

Large orchid in ceramic pot, £79, Marks & Spencer

Above: Esme headboard, £99-£175, Next Below: Fitzgerald silver mirror tray, £38.50, Laura Ashley

Large candle lantern, £49.99; wooden frame, £12.99; vase, £17.99, all H&M

98 SWANSEA LIFE

Luxe hexagon silver/grey wallpaper Arthouse, £12.99 per 5.3sqm roll, arthouse.com

Porcelain soap dispenser, £17.99; porcelain toothbrush mug, £8.99; porcelain pot with lid, £12.99; cotton terry bath towel, £19.99; hand towel, £12.99; flannels, £8.99 for three, all H&M

Ribbed embossed faux-fur throw, £12, George at Asda Velvet cushion cover, £12.99, H&M

NO great shakes? Well, you can fix that with one of these chic cocktail shakers, an essential part of this oppulent look Left to right: Renaissance cocktail shaker, £8.50, Argos; Pineapple cocktail shaker, £25, John Lewis; Retro glass cocktail shaker, £29, cult furniture.com

Marble nesting tables, £199.99, Zara Home

SWANSEA LIFE 99

Living Spaces... Relax & entertain in luxury

Eight FREE design downloads available on our website

• Free Quotations with 3D Imaging • 2 Years Interest Free Credit • 10 Year Insurance Warranty

FREEPHONE 0800 808 3224 www.securahome.co.uk Unit C1 Kestrel Way, Garngoch Ind Est, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 9WN

•• Bespoke Bespoke furniture furniture and and furnishings furnishings • • Spatial planning • Bathroom design • Bathroom design

•• Home Home furnishings furnishings • • Swansea showroom • SS19 collections now available • SS19 collections now available

EDIT your home to perfection… • Bespoke furniture andhome furnishings • Home Beautiful furnishings and full interior designfurnishings services for all areas of the home. Call in to our Swansea showroom to view our full collection and for free, in store consultations. • Spatial planning • Swansea showroom 512B Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BU | 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk • Bathroom design • SS19 collections now available

3) Personalise to perfection

EDIT your Once you’ve found the sofa style you love, the fun can really start!

With our help, you’ll choose from modular elements to build a custom piece of furniture, created just for you and your home. Plus, if we have your room measurements we can also create a plan for you to see exactly how it will fit.

dream sofa… EDIT your You’ll also be able to pick from a huge range of materials and colours to build your bespoke sofa – right down to the finish for the legs!

From space saving loveseats to sumptuous corner sofas, EDIT Home + Design in Mumbles specialises in helping you create the furniture of your dreams. Expert interior designer Jacqueline Turpin explains how…

dream dream sofa… sofa…

1) Say hello!

2) Leave the hard work to us

From space saving loveseats to sumptuous corner sofas, EDIT Home + Design in Mumbles specialises in helping you create the furniture of your dreams. Expert designer Turpin explains how… �irst thingsinterior first – come and visitJacqueline us in our �wansea showroom!

1) Say hello!

�ere you can see some of our sofas on display and get your hands on our fabulous collection. �irst things first – come and visit us in our �wansea showroom!

�ogether, we’ll find out what you like, work out �ere you can see some of our sofas on display what you need and start showing you seating and get your hands on our fabulous collection. solutions you may never have thought of. �ogether, we’ll find out what you like, work out what you need and start showing you seating solutions you may never have thought of.

�easuring up can be a headache, so we can do it for you!

2) Leave the hard work toallowususand Our home consultations to walk 4) Sit back through your space together and find out how you use it onrelax! a daily basis – not just on special �easuring up can be a headache, so we can do it for you!

Our home allow us to walk You’veconsultations designed your dream sofa, made any final occasions! �here’s a together small initial charge forhow this, through your space and find out changes and paid your deposit - so now it’s time for but when you–order your sofa. you it’s use itworkshops on a daily basis not just special ourrefunded to start crafting itonfor you! occasions! �here’s a small initial charge for this, Once it’s ready, we’ll take care of the delivery and �aking stepswhen means canyour makesofa. sure but it’s these refunded youwe order with our white glove service we’ll even take the your new sofasteps doesn’t justyou, lookso and feel good, �aking these means we can make sure packaging away for that all you have to do your new sofa doesn’t just look and feel good, is put feet up enjoy! but that it’syour designed toand fit your room and your but that it’s designed to fit your room and your lifestyle lifestyle too. too.

Jacky x

512B Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BU | 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

3) Personalise to perfection

EDIT your

Once you’ve found the sofa style you love, the fun can really start!

dream sofa…

You’ll also be able to pick from a huge range of materials and colours to build your bespoke sofa – right down to the finish for the legs!

1) Say hello! �irst things first – come and visit us in our �wansea showroom! �ere you can see some of our sofas on display and get your hands on our fabulous collection. �ogether, we’ll find out what you like, work out what you need and start showing you seating solutions you may never have thought of.

2) Leave the hard work to us �easuring up can be a headache, so we can do it for you! home consultations allow us to walk 4)Our Sit back and through your space together and find out how relax! you use it on a daily basis – not just on special You’ve designed your dream sofa, made any final occasions! �here’s a small initial charge for this, changes and paid your deposit - so now it’s time for it’s refunded when you order ourbut workshops to start crafting it for your you! sofa. Once it’s ready, we’ll take care of the delivery and �aking these steps means we can make sure with our white glove service we’ll even take the your newaway sofafor doesn’t justthat look packaging you, so alland you feel havegood, to do is put up and enjoy! butyour that feet it’s designed to fit your room and your

Jacky x lifestyle too.

512B Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BU | 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

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HOUSE & HOME

green SPRING

A new season is upon us so invite it into your home with these gorgeous green accessories, says Amber Graafland

Bordallo Pinheiro cabbage cake stand, £77, Amara

Sjalsligt decoration set, £15, Ikea

Caspian paper lamp shade in Swedish green, was £40, now £30, Cuckooland

Vintage desk lamp in Gloss Green, £129, Cuckooland

Fearne cushion cover, £3.99, H&M Home

Leaf-shaped table runner, £15.99; bowl, £4.99; fork, £3.99; spoon, £3.99; vase £11.99, all Zara Home

114 SWANSEA LIFE

Green fluted plant pot small, £9.99; large, £19.99; white pot, £19.99; fluted yellow pot, £14.99; watering can, £19.99; plant pot with copper saucer, £19.99, all H&M Home

Coco velvet accent chair, was £349.99, now £299.99, Oak Furniture Land

Dundas throw (army green), was £115, now £96, Soho Home

Monstera leaf coasters, £12, Albert & Moo

Sommar pack of six glasses, £2.75, Ikea

Sjalsligt decoration set, £15, Ikea

SWANSEA LIFE 115

HOUSE & HOME

RELAX

Look

Ashford Bistro set in ‘lilac’, £79. Available at Wyevale Garden Centres

what we found! Have you fallen out of love with your garden? If the spring tidy-up never happened and you’re feeling uncomfortable about inviting friends around as the weather warms up, now is the time to take action. Give it some lasting style and a fun feel with Swansea Life’s top seasonal buys...

SIMPLE

Home global solar large black metal lantern, £25; Argos, Swansea

UNWIND

Wyevale, Swansea

RUSTIC

Garden bench, £69.99; HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

WARMING

Table top garden heater, from a range at Brisco, Gorseinon

SOLID

Concrete flower pot, £7.99; HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

116 SWANSEA LIFE

STYLISH

Marlow square table and four chairs, £699; M&S, Swansea

Fab Ha bP alm

Sp EN rin gs TL ou tdo E T or BRIGHT rug OU Foscarini , £4 C 9.9 H Aplomb outdoor 5; C uc suspension light, ko ola £407; Nest.co.uk nd .co mk

GREAT DEAL

Country metal duo seat, £95; Wilko, Morriston

COMFY

St Ives rope garden armchair with cushions, £349; John Lewis, Cardiff

CUTE

Rusty baby pig sculpture, £20; National Trust, Rhossili

SHOW HOUSE Garden Trading wooden storeage unit, £49.95; Cuckooland.com

NATURE

Homely Ladybird house, £9.50; M&S, Swansea

Nostalgia anti-slip tiles, £41 per m2, The Baked Tile Company at EDIT in Mumbles www.bakedtiles.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 117

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Welcome to

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FIND US AT THE GARDEN CENTRE

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Pontarddulais GARDEN CENTRE est 1969

Welcome to

Pontarddulais Garden Centre Garden

FIND US AT THE GARDEN CENTRE

Tel: 01792 882287

Tel: 01792 885959

Pontarddulais GARDEN CENTRE est 1969

HOUSE & HOME

tips for kitting out your own home bar Sam Wylie-Harris shares her top tips for serving cocktails at home in style. We’re in the midst of a cocktail renaissance, when every bar is worth its salt – a pinch of Maldon can nicely temper sweetness and highlight freshness, by the way. Likewise, if a drink is too sweet – add lime or bitters; too tart – add sugar syrup; too strong – add a few drops of water to a stirred drink, and if it’s a shaken cocktail, pour it back into the shaker and shake again with fresh ice. But I digress. Back to the original point: Whether you’re perched on a plush velvet bar stool or something more urban, chances are, the bartender has curated a well thought-out drinks list, with some new takes on the classics and a few modern twists to showcase the intrinsic beauty of a wellcrafted cocktail - but what if you want to be the one fixing the drinks and calling the shots? Luxe Loop marble drinks trolley, £375, Oliver Bonas

120 SWANSEA LIFE

While cocktails are synonymous with the high life, there isn’t actually any secret or mystique to creating a beautifully balanced

drink – you just need a few tools of the trade, and a suitably stylish setting always helps. Here’s how to lay the foundations for your own little black book of cocktails...

1. Presentation A drinks trolley always makes a great showpiece. It’s where you want to place your prized stemware (we’ll come to that later), crystal decanter (could be a family heirloom), ice bucket, tongs, and other bits and bobs. They can be pricey, but they certainly make a great investment piece if you can afford the outlay. Otherwise, charity shops are good hunting ground for vintage tea trolleys, which can be painted piano black or glossy white to look the part. A cocktail tray on a sideboard always looks attractive too, and the high street currently has some great options.

Chair and cocktail tray, from a selection, Oliver Bonas

4. Spirits

Capri Martini glasses, set of two, £15.60, Kelly Hoppen

2. Bar tools The bar essentials for making cocktails are a jigger (dual spirit measuring cup), Boston shaker (two separate cups which form a tight seal, so there’s no spillage when you shake), mixing glass (if you prefer your martini stirred and not shaken), strainer (to hold back any herbs, fruit or ice when you strain the drink), long bar spoon, sharp knife and a citrus juicer.

This is the fun bit, when you can really tailor your taste (and tray or trolley) with reasonable quality spirits, good-looking labels (we all love to drink with our eyes) and limited editions, such as ornamental cages which can be used as a fruit bowl when the bottle is removed. For your building block to make the classics, you’ll need a bottle of vodka, gin, white and dark rum, tequila, whisky, rye whisky, brandy and Campari. Then you’ll need the most commonly used liqueurs, such as orange liqueur (Cointreau is an obvious choice) and sweet and dry Italian vermouths.

5. Syrups, bitters and salt For cocktails such as a daiquiri, which call for sugar syrup, you’ll need a bottle of Monin pure cane syrup. For a Manhattan, Angostura Bitters and to salt the rim of a margarita, Maldon sea salt.

3. Stemware

6. Juice

Some of us would happily drink from anything, from a trendy jam jar to a candy-coloured crystal coupe, but ideally you should have at least four styles of stemware (nothing wrong with cheating and doubling up with a similar type of glass for various cocktails). And they should look as glamorous and exciting as possible – within budget – bearing in mind you need to be prepared for breakages.

The golden cocktail rule is all citrus juice must be freshly squeezed, hence the juicer in your tools list.

For short, mixed drinks on the rocks, you’ll need an old fashioned or tumbler. A high ball for long, mixed drinks. Short drinks which are shaken, strained and served without ice should be poured into a martini glass or coupe (good for cocktails with egg whites). Champagne or wine cocktails should be served in a flute or a large wine glass.

Pallo tinted glass champagne saucers, set of four, £34, Oliver Bonas

7. Garnishing Garnish is the cherry on the cake. Think of the meticulous care professional bartenders put into garnishing a cocktail. Not only does it make a drink look instantly more appealing, it smells good too and can be tweaked to complement or create a contrasting flavour profile. Whether it’s a lemon, lime or orange, you’ll need a sharp knife to cut a long, thin strip of peel to twist into a curly shape. Note: As with any recipe, using the best quality spirits, freshest fruit, premium mixers and good quality (large) ice cubes will always give you the best results... Chin-chin!

SWANSEA LIFE 121

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Living

NEW FOR 2019

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LANGDALE

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Bedrooms

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NEW FOR 2019

We do not underestimate the importance of a good nights sleep. Most of us spend more time in our beds than we do on any other piece of furniture in the home. With an offering of different tensions and sizes we make it easy for you to find your perfect match. Our bed department stock all of the UK’s leading brands including Harrison, Sealy, Slumberland and Vispring.

NOLTE

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Dining

NEW FOR 2019

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TREVISO Dining Table Event price from £1,420

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Outdoor furniture

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Make the most of your garden this summer with our brand new range of outdoor furniture. If it’s lounging with a book or entertaining friends we offer something to do it all. Your garden will be the place to be this summer. All items available for immediate delivery while stocks last.

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Invitation to our Spring Savings Collection

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

Mwyndy Cross, Llantrisant, Cardiff, CF72 8PN Tel: 01443 222929

www.arthurllewellynjenkins.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME

It pays to do your homework says Phil It’s all about Information, information, information, says the property guru. Luke Rix-Standing finds out more. Ever moved into a new house and realised that your new neighbour is the drummer for an amateur metal band? Or snapped up a new pad only to discover that the bedroom turns into a swamp every time it rains?

a property. “I know of one sale where the buyer didn’t do their research,” says Spencer, “and bought a house without realising the neighbours were running a business with 24hour deliveries.”

The very last thing you want at the sharp end of a property deal is a sudden, nasty surprise. So, how can you ensure you don’t end up as another anecdote on Phil Spencer’s list?

We sincerely hope the answer is no, but given how complex, difficult and murky property deals can be, that may be more by luck than judgement.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg, and Spencer is full of anecdotes about property purchases that went pear-shaped. He says: “I’ve worked on several cases of buying a house from a divorcing couple, when you find out later that the person still in the house doesn’t want to sell. That makes for an extremely complicated negotiation.

■ Knowledge is power

Property expert and investor Phil Spencer has headed up Channel 4’s Location, Location, Location alongside Kirstie Allsopp for almost two decades, and has now set up Move IQ, a website that uses complex algorithms to produce 45-page status reports on properties. We don’t want to alarm you, but there are a lot of traps you can fall into when assessing 128 SWANSEA LIFE

“There are lots of examples of people buying houses, and then finding out that the right permissions weren’t in place for building work done by the previous owner. If a house has probate, that can be complicated... Honestly, it’s a minefield.”

Unfortunately, the most worrying warning signs are the ones you can’t see. “Your priority is misinformation,” says Spencer, “you need all your info to be as accurate as possible, and it will come primarily from the estate agent and the vendor. Ask direct questions, ask them again, and then ask the same questions of different people.” We wouldn’t want to cast any aspersions, but you can take it as read that estate agents aren’t going to lead with the negatives.

“The key thing,” says Spencer, “is to ascertain why the house is being sold. People often try to muddy the waters and it’s up to you to get to the bottom of it. Have they outgrown the house, are there financial reasons, or is there an argument with a neighbour? “There are plenty of valid reasons for selling, but it’s going to come down to negotiation, and you want to know how motivated the vendor is to do the deal. Will they want to conclude quickly, and how willing might they be to agree to a price reduction?” Once you’ve got a number on the seller, you can turn your attention to the house itself. “You need to understand the marketing history,” says Spencer. “Is there any interest, has anybody made an offer, and has anybody had a survey done?” If the house has been on the market for six months under a different agent, undergone repeated surveys and fallen through three times, then that’s need-to-know information.

■ Price Next up is the price – is it reasonable? “The internet has made making comparisons easier than ever, but you need to be sure you’re looking at fairly recent sales,” says Spencer. “Pounds per square foot is a useful rough guide; work it out for the property

you’re interested in, and compare with others in the area. “Remember, this is just a rule of thumb, and takes no account of condition, views, garden, and so on.”

■ Buyers and sellers You and your vendor don’t need to be bosom buddies – or even make each other’s Christmas card lists – but there’s a certain amount of trust at the heart of every sale. “You don’t have to go for dinner, but you want to know that they’re selling you the truth,” says Spencer. “If you ask a direct question, you need to be confident you’re getting an honest, if probably gilded, answer.” Unmotivated sellers can spell trouble – lastminute mind-changing can be infuriating and costly – and be wary of overly-canny sellers straining every sinew to show their house at its best. “If the table is laid for dinner, there’s fresh bread baking, and the smell of percolating coffee,” says Spencer, “keep your wits about you! “I’ve also seen examples of sellers stowing things in storage to make their house look roomy enough for children and two adults. There is, if you move half your stuff out.” Beware stubbornness, not just in your vendor but in yourself. “Sometimes

people become ‘principled’ in property negotiations,” Spencer says. “It’s not the time – if you’re paying good money for something, don’t fall out over a loo seat or a fridge. I’ve seen little things like that derail massive property deals – just respect that it’s someone’s home and they can get a bit emotional.”

■ Bricks and mortar For many, a house viewing involves scouring every nook and cranny for dry rot, blue tack stains and missing roof tiles. But for Spencer, such practical pitfalls are a secondary concern. “I wouldn’t get overly het up about it,” he says, “the surveyor will come in and give the house the once over. “If it’s of interest, by all means go over the house with a fine tooth comb – you can easily see for yourself if the windows are rotting, there are cracks in the walls or the bath leaks. Just remember, there’s nothing wrong with any of these – so long as it’s reflected in the price.” “Much more important are pre-existing works and renovations, and the paperwork surrounding them” he adds “If you do end up negotiating, you want to be able to warn your surveyor and solicitor about any extensions, because you’ll need the forms and permissions that support that work.”

For more information, check out Phil’s tips here www.moveiq.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 129

HOUSE & HOME

Hanging basket

masterclass

o often my hanging baskets end up looking lacklustre and forlorn, with gaps where filler plants should have gone, holes in my moss liners and a lack of regular watering.

However, expert Nathan Syrett, assistant plant manager at Squire’s Garden Centres, has been running hanging basket

It’s time to create a riot of colour with hanging baskets. Hannah Stephenson tries a masterclass to learn the secrets of success masterclasses at its Stanmore store for a number of years, and offers the following advice to hanging basket hopefuls (including me)...

2. Make a reservoir

Cut a small circle of plastic from your compost bag to make a reservoir in the bottom of your liner, to hold just enough water to keep the compost moist, while still allowing free drainage at the sides.

1. Choose the right materials and plants Go for the biggest basket you can, as this will hold more compost and require slightly less watering than smaller baskets. Metal-framed baskets are ideal, but you will have to line them. Various water-retaining liners include coir and sphagnum moss, although you can even cut up an old woolly jumper to line a basket, which will soak up the water and keep in the compost. If using moss (which you can buy at garden centres), use long strands of it laid laterally across the inside of the basket, working from the bottom, so the moss does not escape out of the holes. Build the lining up in circles until it reaches the top of the basket, and lift it up to make sure you can’t see any gaps. 130 SWANSEA LIFE

3. Add your compost Multipurpose compost, preferably the sort which has added plant food, is ideal, although you will still have to feed your basket plants during the summer, bearing in mind how many of the nutrients will be washed away when you’re constantly watering. When you reach the top of the basket, firm the compost down so there are no air holes.

4. Choose your plants If you want your basket to be admired from all sides, choose one larger plant to put in the centre, such as an upright fuchsia or geranium, and select around five other plants to place around it. These could range from trailing petunias and calibrachoa, to bacopa, lobelia, nemesia, diascia and helichrysum, although there are many other suitable plants available.

7. Be waterwise Water your basket well using a watering can rose. That way, the water will seep into the compost to reach your plants, rather than running straight through it.

5. Position the tall and the small Try positioning your chosen plants on top of the compost before planting, so you can decide which looks best where. Make sure your gaps are even when placing the outer plants. Usually the tallest plant will go in the centre, surrounded by the lower trailers, which need to be planted closer to the edge, but if your basket is going to face in a particular direction, put the biggest plant at the back and the lower trailers in front of it. To minimise any damage when planting, remove each plant from its pot and use the pot alone as the planting template, easing it down into the planting hole to make it the right size. Then your plant will slot right in. Cover it with the compost you removed to make space for the hole. Repeat using the plant pot template until all your plants are in.

6. Hang it up Hang up your basket on a wall bracket or other hook or frame (some hanging baskets are really heavy, so make sure your bracket is secured tightly and is strong enough to take the weight).

8. Keep it healthy Keep your basket well watered. In the height of summer youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to do it twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Feed your basket bedding plants regularly with either plant food or tomato food, following the instructions on the packet, and deadhead often to encourage further blooms.

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Plan the ultimate family holiday with Edwards and visit the most magical place on Earth! Spot your favourite Characters, explore two fantastic Parks and create lasting memories along the way.

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Dates 21st, 25th & 31st July 2019 2nd, 8th, 15th, 25th & 30th August 2019 Bonfire & Christmas departures now on sale

OUT & ABOUT

A N D R E W

M O R G A N ’ S

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

Distance ..................................... 4 miles + 4 miles (2 hours + 2 hours)

Upcoming walks

Level ............................................. Moderate

MAY 2019

Start/Finish location ......... Bynea

Parking ........................................ Car park off B4297, opposite Yspitty Road

Loughor in the morning and Bynea in the afternoon!

Thu 02 Evening Walk: Three Crosses (3 miles) Easy meet 7pm Three Crosses: Dukesfield Sat 04 Whiteford Point (6 miles) Moderate meet 11am Cwm Ivy Car Park Sun 05 Kidwelly (13 miles) Strenuous meet 10am Kidwelly Public Car Park Tue 07 Whiteford Burrows (6 miles) Moderate meet 10am Cwm Ivy Car Park

On Sunday June 2, Swansea Ramblers has another figure of eight walk that allows you to do either a morning walk or an afternoon walk, or combine the two for an all-day adventure. The morning walk of about two hours will visit the east bank of the Loughor Estuary with views along the river. After a quick lunch, we’ll head west towards Penclacwydd and the Millennium Coastal Path for another two hour walk with views over the estuary. Details, as always, can be found on our website. Come along with us on one or both of these walks to discover our local countryside. I’ll just describe here the afternoon walk that will leave the western end of the car park to turn right to the B4297. Turn left to follow this street until you are opposite the railway station. Turning left into Berwick Road, continue straight on at the bend to pass between farm buildings and into a field. Keep to the right hand hedgerow and continue straight until you almost reach the busy A484 bypass. Just before, a path on the right takes you into Berwic

Wed 01 Carmarthen Fans & Lakes (9 miles) Strenuous meet 9.30am Go Outdoors CP (Llansamlet)

Thu 09 Evening Walk: Clyne (4 miles) Moderate meet 7pm Blackpill: Woodman Inn Car Park Sat 11

Bluebell Stroll at Dinefwr (4 miles) Easy/ Moderate meet 11am Llandeilo: Central car park

Sun 12 Llanthony (11 miles) Strenuous meet 8.30am Guildhall (Francis St) Tue 14 Meidrim in Carmarthenshire (7 miles) Moderate meet 10am Cross Hands (B&M CP) Wed 15 Bluebells in Penllegare Woods (4 miles) Easy meet 10.30am Penllergare Valley Woods CP

Nature Reserve. Follow the path west, past the pond to exit onto a disused single track road leading to the A484/B4304 roundabout.

Thu 16 Evening Walk: Three Parks Walk (3 miles) Easy meet 7pm Guildhall (Francis St)

This is a busy road section so very carefully, cross to the southern verge of the B4304 using the crossing intended for pedestrians (but without a zebra crossing or lights!) Continue at the side of the road until it is safe to cross to its northern side. Follow this verge to a quieter road junction ascending right to a road bridge (still watch for traffic). Ignore the right turn at the top of the bridge and go straight ahead for a quarter of a mile on a blocked-off road that leads to Penclacwydd. Cross the road and go past the Wetlands Centre to join the coast path. Continue with views of the Loughor Estuary for just over a mile. The Millennium Bridge over the A484 will come into view. Cross this and return to the nearby car park to finish.

Sun 19 Brecon Beacons: The High Ridges (11 miles) Strenuous meet 9am Guildhall (Francis St)

Transport: Traveline: www.traveline-cymru.info • 0871 200 22 33 or BayTrans: www.baytrans.org.uk/

Wed 29 Evening Walk: Mumbles & Langland (4 miles) Moderate meet 7pm Mumbles: Plunch Lane: Forte’s Cafe

Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk

Thu 30 Scurlage to Rhossili (7 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 11.15am Scurlage: Monksland Road/ Salisbury Close

Sat 18

Carreg Cennen (6 miles) Moderate meet 11am Carreg Cennen Castle Car Park

Mon 20 Abercrave Woods & Cribarth (4 miles) Moderate meet 10am Ynyswen: Jct. A4067/ Cribarth Road Tue 21 Evening Walk: Ystradgynlais (3 miles) Easy/ Moderate meet 7pm Ystradgynlais: Ynyscedwyn Iron Works Thu 23 Upper Killay to Blackpill & Clyne Gardens (6 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 10.30am Upper Killay: Railway Inn Sat 25

Brynamman, Cwm Melyn & Cwm Pedol (6 miles) Moderate meet 11am Brynamman: A4068: Public car park

Sun 26 Cribarth (10 miles) Moderate meet 8.45am Guildhall (Francis Street)

SWANSEA LIFE 133

OUT & ABOUT

Swansea Plantasia

Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary

It’s had a £1.1m revamp and is now a truly multi-sensory experience so you will feel like you’re in the amazon rainforest rather than at a Swansea retail park. It provides visitors with all the sights, sounds and smells of a real rainforest.

The sanctuary, open daily from 10.30am to 5pm, rescues and provides a home for many types of unwanted animals, especially primates, such as chimpanzees, baboons, mandrills, spider monkeys, vervets, capuchins, mangabeys and marmosets.

New attractions include a rope bridge spanning the “rainforest” floor, which gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the attraction, and a tunnel which you can crawl through and see an ant colony.

But you will also find other animals in need like wolf dogs, horses, donkeys, cattle and pigs. Where: Caehopkin, Abercrave SA9 1UD

If you fancy getting up close and personal with meerkats you can pop your head inside a plastic dome and be among the cute beasts.

Details: www.ape-monkey-rescue.org.uk

Folly Farm

Open daily from 10am to 5pm.

It may be called a farm, but this attraction has been voted the 10th best zoo in the world and has more than 750 animals.

Where: Parc Tawe, Swansea, SA1 2AL Details: Call 01792 474555

WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre A real haven for nature lovers, you can get up close and personal with an array of species. See colourful flamingos, go bug hunting or pond dipping, enjoy bird watching and explore the reserve where you will see butterflies, dragonflies and so much more. Open seven days a week from 9.30am to 5pm, you can even hand feed the rarest goose in the world just make sure you don’t get pecked! Where: Llwynhendy, Llanelli SA14 9SH Details: Call 01554 741087 or visit www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/llanelli

favourite days out

If you’re looking for a great day out for all of the family in South West Wales then you’re in luck as there are so many choices you can make. Whether you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, want to make learning fun or are keen to discover more about the history on your doorstep, there are so many places to visit. Here, in no particular order, we bring you some of our favourite attractions all the family can enjoy museum, and stone circles as well as a coffee shop, and the Rock and Dinosaur shop. Where: Abercraf, Swansea SA9 1GJ Details: Visit www.showcaves.co.uk

Gnoll Estate Country Park

National Showcaves Centre for Wales The three different caves - Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave and Bone Cave - each offer a unique underground experience and you can even walk behind 40ft-high waterfalls. On site there’s one of the world’s largest collections of life-sized dinosaur models, ranging from the ever popular Tyrannosaurus Rex and Brachiosaurs, to the lesser-known Tsintaosaurus. There are also two covered children’s play areas, a farmyard area, Iron Age village, 134 SWANSEA LIFE

You can meet the animals up close and personal, become a zookeeper for a day, enjoy 17 different rides in the vintage funfair or go on an adventure in the eight play areas.

Set among 240 acres of woodland and wide open spaces, this park has a variety of attractions. There’s a playground and an adventure playground for older kids and a variety of picnic spots and benches set about the parkland. There’s a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course, plus you can try your hand at orienteering or geocaching. There are fishing ponds, four large duck ponds and two impressive 18thcentury cascades. The Gnoll House ruins include an ice house, the shell of The Ivy Tower and the Fish pond House. None of these are explorable sadly but they’re fun for kids to spot and interesting to wander around the exterior of. Where: Gnoll Estate, Fairyland, Neath SA11 3BS Details: Call 01639 635808 or visit www.gnollestatecountrypark.co.uk

Where: Folly Farm, Begelly, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire SA68 0XA Details: www.folly-farm.co.uk

Oakwood Theme Park A must for all adrenalin junkies... Take the family for an adventurous day out where you can enjoy a host of rides - big and small including the jewel in the crown, Megafobia. But there are plenty of attractions for the little ones too, including the giant tea cups ride and mini golf. Where: Oakwood Theme Park, Canaston Bridge, Narberth SA67 8DE

Details: www.oakwoodthemepark.co.uk

Gwili Railway One of the UK’s most picturesque preserved lines, it follows the River Gwili on a steady uphill journey through farmland and wooded hillsides. At Bronwydd, passengers can visit the working signalbox and gift shop, while at Llwyfan Cerrig they can ride on the miniature railway and picnic alongside the river. Call 01267 238213 to check operating times before you travel there. Where: Bronwydd Arms Railway Station, Bronwydd Arms, Carmarthen SA33 6HT Details: Visit gwili-railway.co.uk

Margam Country Park Margam country Park has an industrial past and a gorgeous garden for you to explore and they’re full of surprises. You will come across cattle, sheep and

pigs and children can enjoy an adventure play area complete with castle, sky run and elevated walkway. The park holds many events throughout the year – check the website for opening hours which vary. Where: Margam, Neath Port Talbot SA13 2TJ Details: Visit www.margamcountrypark.co.uk

Gower Heritage Centre The Gower Heritage Centre was established in 1990 as a countryside crafts centre situated in historical and beautiful surroundings. The 12th-century water-powered corn and saw mill was renovated, and experienced crafts people took up residence on site. Today the centre is recognised as a vibrant crafts and rural life museum that welcomes visitors daily from 10am to 5pm. Where: Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill SA3 2EH Details: www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

National Botanic Garden of Wales You’ll find an inspiring range of themed gardens, the world’s largest single-span glasshouse, the British Bird of Prey Centre, a tropical Butterfly House, play areas and a national nature reserve, all set in a Regency landscape which provides the stage for a packed programme of events throughout the year. Where: Middleton Hall, Llanarthne SA32 8HN Details: Visit botanicgarden.wales

Castell Henllys Castell Henllys Iron Age Village is set within 30 acres of beautiful woodland and river meadows in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. As well as being home to expertlyrecreated Iron Age roundhouses built exactly where they would have stood more than 2,000 years ago, these natural surroundings are teeming with wildlife such as otters, swallows and bats.

Dinefwr A magical land of power and influence for more than 2,000 years, Dinefwr is an iconic place in the history of Wales. Two forts are evidence of a dominant Roman presence. The powerful Lord Rhys held court at Dinefwr and influenced decisions in Wales. The visionaries, George and Cecil Rice designed the 18thcentury landscape that you see today. The ‘hands-on’ Newton House gives visitors an atmospheric circa 1912 experience. Exhibitions on the first floor tell Dinefwr’s story and inspire visitors to explore the castle and park. Visit the website for opening times. Where: Dynevor Ave, Llandeilo SA19 6RT Details: Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dinefwr

Where: Meline SA41 3UR Details: Visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales

Newton House, Dinefwr COPYRIGHT: NATIONAL TRUST

SWANSEA LIFE 135

WHAT’S ON

SEE YOU AT...

Swansea Life selects the shows and events you don’t want to miss

MADNESS

Where? Ffos Las Racecourse When? May 25

Celebrate more than 40 years of one of the most iconic British bands as they perform live to thousands of racegoers after a race day at the Pontyates course. With 15 top-10 UK singles including One Step Beyond, the Baggy Trousers band are promising to play their big numbers at the event, including ‘One Step Beyond’, ‘My Girl’, ‘Our House’ and ‘It Must Be Love’, as well as some of their new tracks too. Gates: 3pm The racing event starts at 6pm with the band on stage from 9.15pm

Tickets: From £40pp Details: 01554 811092 to book

Faces of Deep Th-inking

WHERE: Tides Fine Art Gallery, Mumbles WHEN: Until June 6 Gallery open Thursday to Sunday inclusive 10-4.30pm Swansea University 2013 graduate Jamie Hyatt opens with his pen and ink studies exhibition, ‘Faces of Deep Th-inking’.

“They say a sign of patience is to grow a Beard,” he says. “They haven’t tried drawing every individual hair to make a beard!” One not to miss, we’d say, with Jamie’s immense patience and dedication to meticulous detail absolutely spot-on.

Where? St Helen’s, Swansea When? June 11-14

TICKETS: Free entry DETAILS: 07918 733830

Where: Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea When: May 18, 7.30pm

Guitar virtuoso John Etheridge brings his band Sweet Chorus to the Taliesin for the first time. Now celebrating its 14th year together, John Etheridge's Sweet Chorus was originally formed as a personal tribute by John to his mentor and inspiration Stephane Grappelli with whom he worked for five years in the ‘70s and early ‘80s. Taking its cue from the Hot Club of France – the legendary group that featured Grappelli and Django Reinhardt – the band features John's dazzling guitar work and the scintillating violin of Chris Garrick. Tickets: Available from the Taliesin box office and also online from its website www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk priced at £14, with concessions at £12. 136 SWANSEA LIFE

What’s it all about? It continues to be hats off to St Helen’s Balconiers for ensuring that first class cricket carries on in Swansea. John Etheridge – by Doreen Pallier

JOHN ETHERIDGE'S SWEET CHORUS

CRICKET, LOVELY CRICKET

The famous seafront ground has seen some dramatic stuff down the years, and there could be more of the same when Glamorgan make their annual appearance there. As last year, they take on Derbyshire in a Specsavers County Championship four day match (starting at 11am) to reward the unstinting efforts of the Balconiers who make it all possible by raising what is required to ensure Glamorgan play at home away from their Sophia Gardens headquarters in Cardiff. But, St Helen’s is the county’s spiritual home after all.

Tickets: Adults £15, students £10, under 17s go free Details: tickets.glamorgancricket.com

Wales on Wheels Gower Good Food Festival

Where? National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter When? May 18 11am-4pm

Vehicles of all kinds gather on Swansea's Museum Green and Dylan Thomas Square for a celebration of Wales on wheels. From motorcycles, buses and trucks, to the amazing Penydarren steam locomotive. The event will provide what is a rare opportunity to see the replica on the move as she is fired up and driven down the track at various times from 12 noon.

Tickets: Free entry Details: 0300 111 2 333

Where? Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill When? May 26-27

The Gower Heritage Centre has been holding successful foodie events for years now, and the Gower Good Food Festival is no exception. It is now back for its third year. Organisers say the two-day event will see some of the best and most delicious food and drink Gower's local producers have to offer. It’s not all just about sampling tasty food though, as the organisers have also lined up a range of different activities to take part, including guided tours of the mill and animal feeding sessions. as well as demonstrations by the centre's blacksmith and glass blowers and the chance to get crafty in workshops for pottery and making hand-puppets. For some retro fun, keep an eye out for Punch and Judy shows.

Tickets: Normal admission fees apply Details: www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

Dead Ringer For Love – Meatloaf and Cher

Rita ora

Where? Motorpoint Arena Cardiff When? May 21 6.30pm-11pm

WHERE? Grand Theatre, Swansea WHEN? May 31

She’s sold a staggering seven million singles, had 13 top 10 singles (five of which received platinum status and five of which are gold certified) as well as having a number 1 platinum-selling debut album all under her belt. After appearances on Hollywood’s silver screen, Rita Ora returned to music last year with a sold out 30-date European tour. Her latest five hit singles have amassed more than a billion Spotify streams worldwide, with global hit Your Song reaching more than 352 million streams alone.

This high energy tribute to two of music’s most formidable stars is sure to make your ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Dreams Come Through’ as the Grand turns back time for a celebration of the work of Meatloaf and Cher. A full live band will take show-goers on a journey spanning the careers of two of the eras most globally renowned stars. Combining the epic, operatic goth anthems of Meatloaf and the iconic show-stopping dance hits from the Goddess of Pop, Dead Ringer For Love will have you revelling in power ballads ‘I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)’, ‘Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad’ and ‘Just Like Jesse James’ and dancing to feel-good sensations ‘If I Could Turn Back Time’, ‘Strong Enough’ and ‘Bat Out of Hell’.

She heads to the capital this month with tickets likely to be some of the most sought-after of the summer!

Tickets: 029 2022 4488 Details: motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

TICKETS: £26 DETAILS: 01792 475715

ART EXHIBITION

Where? Aberglasney Gardens, Llangathan When? May 11-30

The Royal Watercolour Society of Wales is teaming up with Associazione Italiana Acquerellisti (AIA) for a joint exhibition for a two-part event with a second leg being held in Milan next spring. The Watercolour Society was formed by six like-minded artists, living in and around Cardiff, to exhibit and promote this medium by holding regular exhibitions of their work throughout Wales. The first exhibition was held in 1959 at the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff. Today the society has around 40 members all professional artists living and working in Wales. Entry to the Society is by election. It aims to promote and showcase the art of watercolour, through the paintings of its members. The AIA was founded in 1974 in Milan on the initiative of a small group of famous Italian painters who wanted to revive the watercolour technique in Italy. It promotes “pure watercolour” that is just water and colours without the use of other components. There will be an open evening for the exhibition on May 18 from 6.30pm. The evening is open to all. Normal admission to the gardens does not apply on the evening, but does at all other times.

Tickets: Normal entry ticket prices Details: 01558 668998 or info@aberglasney.org

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@maggiesswansea

Walk for Maggie’s

Sunday 14th July

Join us for a family fun-filled day at our brand new location:

Millennium Coastal Path, Llanelli

Our 5km walk starts at Burry Port Harbour and follows the Millennium Coastal Path to Festival Fields.

Registration: £10 (under 16’s go FREE!) Register online and help support local people with cancer, their families and friends across South West Wales. maggiescentres.org/how-you-can-help/take-part/ all-events/walk-maggies-swansea-2019 Maggie Keswick Jencks Cancer Caring Centres Trust (Maggie’s) is a registered charity, No. SC024414

SOCIAL DIARY

LADIES LUNCH WHere: Langland Brasserie. Tell Me More: A fundraising ladies lunch and fashion show organised by Lynne Kettles from Solo of Mumbles in support of the Pettifor Trust charity fund. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi.

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SOCIAL DIARY

GIN AND RUM BAR OPENING WHERE: ‘J’ Shed, SA1 Swansea Waterfront. Tell Me More: A VIP night to mark the opening of Swansea’s latest gin and rum bar, Gin Ne Sais Quoi in Kings Road – completing a £2m investment in the ‘J’ Shed.

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SOCIAL DIARY • REAL LIFE WEDDING

Dale Williams & Natalie WilliamS wedding Where: Oldwalls Gower. Tell Me More: BBC Masterchef finalist Dale Williams, founder of Dale Recruitment, and Natalie Williams married at Oldwalls Gower.

How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal...

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

Dale proposed in the Cotswolds, but the day didn’t go quite as planned! He hired a classic car with a soft top and had planned to whisk me off to a beautiful spot for a picnic, but somebody crashed into the back of us within two minutes of driving off! If that wasn’t enough, the picnic was in the boot and got squashed during the crash. We ended up having to eat a squashed picnic in this tiny two-seater classic car because it had started raining too. Dale had booked this beautiful country hotel, The White Rabbit, champagne was waiting as they were expecting to be welcoming a newly-engaged couple. When we got to the hotel Dale ran in ahead of me in a panic to advise them he hadn’t popped the question yet. I did think he wasn’t acting his usual self! Eventually, he got down on one knee in the hotel room and it was perfect, natural and romantic. We then went for a beautiful meal to celebrate.

I’d been to a few dress shops and nothing really grabbed me. Then I tried on a beautiful Justin Alexander dress and fell in love instantly!

Where did you get married and why did you choose the venue? We got married at Oldwalls Gower. From the moment we walked in we just fell in love with it all. The venue was everything we were looking for and so much more. Despite my maid of honour being the commercial head for the Oldwalls Group, they treated us just like any other couple. The service was outstanding. Exclusivity and on-site accommodation was important to us as so Oldwalls ticked all the boxes. Also, Dale was a BBC Masterchef finalist and is an incredible cook, so the food was always going to be an important part of the day and we knew Oldwalls had a reputation for first class food. Our five-course wedding breakfast didn’t disappoint. The chateaubriand was the talk of the day! What was the theme for the day, and did you have a colour scheme? We just wanted classic, simple and elegant. The colour scheme was white and neutrals. The venue took care of the finishing touches for us, such as chair sashes, linen, glass wear etc, but it was accentuated beautifully by our florist, Eve Francesca – she was incredible! 142 SWANSEA LIFE

What about your bridesmaids and groomsmen? We are lucky to have so many amazing friends. I found my bridemaids dresses on ASOS by a brand called Jarlo. They were a bargain and the girls looked so elegant! The groomsmen looked dashing too… Tell us about your floral arrangements? We worked with Swansea-based florist, Eve Francesca, as she seems to know the venue so well and what would emphasise its beauty. Eve was so easy to work with, she just got the vision from the very start. I wanted beautiful white and green floral displays for the centrepieces, plus

a showstopping floral arch for the aisle. The flowers were one of my favourite things about the whole day! How did you make your wedding personal to you? And did you have any DIY touches? Each table had a photo frame with a picture of me and Dale in them taken on one various holidays we’d been on. We used these as our table names. We also had our ‘nickname’ NALE printed on the photo booth pictures. What were your wedding highlights? Walking down the aisle and hearing Dale’s speech. If you could go back and change anything, what would it be? Nicer weather! Everything else was perfect.

Suppliers: Venue: Oldwalls Gower Photographer: Ryan Welch Photography Florist: Eve Francesca

Dress: Perfection Bridal Cake: The Pretty Cake Company Photobooth: Ultrabooth Cars: Oldwalls Gower

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SOCIAL DIARY

HANDS UP FOR DOWN’S charity ball WHERE: National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. Tell Me More: Swansea-based charity Hands Up For Down’s hosted its second charity ball in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day. Photos: Gareth John.

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SOCIAL DIARY

National Autistic Society WHere: Village Hotel Swansea Tell Me More: The Swansea branch of The National Autistic Society held its annual Purple Ball. Photos: VK Photography.

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SOCIAL DIARY

High Sheriff ceremony WHERE: Guildhall, Swansea Tell Me More: Sally Goldstone, a solicitor practising in family law in Swansea, was sworn in as the new High Sheriff of West Glamorgan, replacing Henry Gilbert whose one-year term of office has come to an end.

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SOCIAL DIARY

RETIREMENT PARTY WHere: Morgans Hotel, Swansea. Tell Me More: Nurses from the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Morriston Hospital arranged an afternoon tea for friend and colleague Davena Assadi to mark her retirement from the job after 41 years. Pictures: Robert Melen.

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SOCIAL DIARY

RISING STARS SHOW WHere: Taliesin Theatre, Swansea. Tell Me More: A Rising Stars show dedicated to the memory of Kirsty Smith. “Shine” was full of foot tapping songs, dazzling dances, comedy and music.

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SOCIAL DIARY

CITIZEN AWARDS NIGHT WHERE: Margam Park Orangery. Tell Me More: An evening to honour local people in the 2019 Mayor of Neath Port Talbot Citizen Awards. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY

Institute of Directors Networking event WHERE: Village Hotel Swansea. Tell Me More: Solicitor Peter Lynn was the guest speaker at the networking event. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi.

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SOCIAL DIARY

TRAVEL SHOWCASE Where: Morgans Hotel, Swansea Tell Me More: An evening event staged by The Travel House with leading operators showcasing the USA and Canada as a travel destinations. Pictures: Jonathan Myers.

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SOCIAL DIARY

Superboule 21 WHERE: Swansea Marina. Tell Me More: Sixteen teams got in the Gallic spirit for the 21st annual boules tournament to raise money for the Lord Mayor of Swanseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charity fund. The winners were Gorseinon-based Rainbow Warriors.

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TIME FOR YOU

HOWZAT! The ultimate room with a sporting view? Peter Slee checks one out...

■ STAY

What’s that I can hear in the distance? The sound of a chambermaid’s trolley being pushed along a hotel corridor? Room service knocking at our door? No! Think instead of the sound of a red leather ball thumping onto a bat. Then a home crowd cheering as the batsman finds the boundary. The scene from the expansive windows of our hotel room isn’t quite the norm. Instead of rural countryside or a city street, ours is the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, home of Hampshire cricket and one of just two top-level cricket grounds in the UK to boast its own purpose-built pitch-facing hotel (the second being Old Trafford, the home of Lancashire, in Manchester). The Hilton opened four years ago finally slotting into position to fill the north-east perimeter of the ground, and complete a circle. The design was clever in its simplicity – 171 rooms in total, on three floors, with 83 of them, each with a balcony, looking directly onto the playing surface, high above the rows of conventional seating. What’s not to love particularly for a cricket fan like me?

■ ROOMS

If you define luxury as glitz, gadgets and hot and cold running cocktails, this isn’t for you. It’s a place of rather subtler charms. Rooms are decked out in monochrome hues, tempered with light-brown fabrics. Stylish and sophisticated, with deep carpets, huge beds, the kind of bathroom you dream of having in your own home and, of course, those floor to ceiling windows offering up views to die for.

■ TASTE

A huge bar with slightly worn sofas, discreet lighting and comfy nooks 154 SWANSEA LIFE

demands loitering in, drink in hand. It opens up to Beefy’s, a restaurant named in honour of English cricket’s greatest allrounder, Ian Botham. He never, of course, played for Hampshire and the stadium’s relative youth means he had long since retired before the red ribbon was cut ensuring that he didn’t play international cricket here either. But the hotel’s house restaurant makes the best of it, covering its walls with black-and-white images of the man in his considerable pomp – conversing with friend and teammate Viv Richards during a batting partnership for Somerset; puffing on a cigar in the England dressing room after a victory in the mid-’80s, still in his whites; arms aloft having played a cut to the fence for the Test side, holding the pose; collecting his OBE from Buckingham Palace in 1992 and turning out for Scunthorpe on a wintry afternoon – a reminder that his sporting talents stretched to the football pitch. The food extends the trend. Big and brash. The 18-hour slow roasted beef cheek with shallots was brilliant value at £14. But we thought the 8oz centre cut fillet at a tad over £30 a little on the pricey side. Yes, it was good but even so! Who knows? Maybe that is the way with celebrity restaurants? Breakfast is fabulous with breads, cakes and pastries, fruit, yoghurts and everything else you can think of. Or try a full English which we loved for its attention to detail.

■ SERVICE AND

FACILITIES

The staff throughout are a sound asset: interested, unaffectedly friendly and unobtrusively efficient. The team here has created a warm and welcoming presence for guests and key staff seem engaged and motivated, giving the feel

of a smaller hotel with personal service geared to individual guests. If you fancy a round of golf on the adjoining par69 course, then go for it. Everything is available to hire. Elsewhere, there is a spa with a hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms and adjoining nail spa, fitness suite and treatment rooms at additional cost. The executive lounge is a great, free perk for anyone staying in one of the Hilton’s up-scale rooms with drinks and light-bites on tap for huge parts of the day.

■ Style &

character

This Hilton outpost blends soothing contemporary looks with something of the appeal of a country house hotel. A big part of the equation is space; this is a huge site and there’s a generously rambling feel. Remarkably, there’s plenty to please a wide range of ages and interests, from extended families to adults on a quiet break, spa visitors as well as golf and cricketing activity enthusiasts.

need to know: Hilton at The Ageas Bowl Southampton Website: www3.hilton.com Telephone: 023 8202 0900 Prices: Start from £79 for a double guest room when booking direct at www.hilton.com

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

OCEAN LIVING CARE HOME HAS BEEN AWARDED WINNER OF THE “MUMBLES IN BLOOM” COMMERCIAL PREMISES CATEGORY 2018

HE spectacular location of Ocean Living makes this residential home for the elderly unparalleled.

Ocean living is located directly on the sea front promenade, directly opposite Knab rock and Verdi’s and boasts incredible sea views of Mumbles. The terrace is full of beautiful hanging baskets in summer,

recently winning commercial premises for “Mumbles in Bloom”. There is no better place than this to sit and watch the world go by! Residents at Ocean living have prime seats to sit and enjoy events such as The Wales air show, Mumbles raft race and the daily activities with children sailing with Mumbles yacht club. One resident, Mr Phillip E, ventures out every morning on his mobility scooter. He rides his scooter up to the village every morning to buy the papers, stops off at the pilot, a few doors down from Ocean living, for a pint and carries on along the promenade to the pier before heading back to Ocean living. Access to Ocean living couldn’t be easier also, with it all being on the flat, he simply rides up the ramp to the terrace area and parks his scooter safety.

For further details please log on to Care inspectorate Wales for Ocean Living’s most recent inspection report.

Ocean Living are proud of achieving 5 stars for their food standards

Promoting independence and community ties are key to the well-being of the residents at Ocean living, whilst at the same time the residents are looked after by qualified dedicated care staff offering person centred care to suit their individual needs. With only 15 residents, Ocean living can ensure high standards of quality care.

RESIDENTIAL HOME FOR THE ELDERLY

“Ocean living is an excellent place. There is a lovely atmosphere, great food and lovely staff. We are very pleased that mum has settled so well. Overall score 5/5 for care/support, management, rooms, value for money and overall standard”. March 2019 Russell H (son of resident)

Located on the sea front in Mumbles, overlooking Swansea Bay (opposite Verdi’s), Ocean Living has all the hallmarks of sophistication and style but with a unique homely feel that is enjoyed by residents, their family and friends.

Freshly cooked to order meals are made by our resident chef, including breakfast, three course lunch, supper and of course home-baked cakes and desserts and all are serviced in our restaurant quality dining room. In-room dining facilities are also available if preferred - our aim is to make our residents feel at home.

Ocean Living has been developed and designed specifically for luxury senior care living, with generous room sizes, opulent interior design, magnificent en suites and comfort all round. Ocean Living is registered for 15 residents.

“Very good food. The staff are excellent and the rooms are very good. The area outside is very good with plenty to do and see. I would recommend the care home to my friends and family”. Philip E would highly recommend Ocean Living and his overall score is 5/5 for care/ support, food & drink, staff, safety/security and being treated with dignity. April 2019 Philip E (resident)

734-736 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EL | Tel: 01792 361818 | info@ocean-living.co.uk | www.ocean-living.co.uk

Hengoed Care Providing 24:7 Nursing, Residential & Dementia care A family run home with family values

Home from Home

Facilities and features include:

Staff gymnasium Resident gymnasium Staff training suites with in-house trainer Doctor in-house surgeries Dentist Chiropody Opticians Coffee shop

Hairdressing salon Library Bright & airy modern living spaces En-suite facilities Dementia facilities Award winning gardens Nature park & community farm with accessible viewing & seating areas

Nicola Williams General Manager

Hengoed Court/ Park Care Home Tel: 01792 797265 Management@hengoedcourt.co.uk

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TIME FOR YOU

Top yoga kit you’ll bend over backwards to own L iz Connor reveals her hot picks – so you can tone, stretch and soothe stress while in the comfort of your own home

If you’ve ever been stressed to the point of feeling overwhelmed (statistics suggest that a staggering three in four Brits do, according to a recent survey commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation), then you might have tried yoga as a solution for bringing things back into balance. You only have to look at the influx of trendy yoga studios and high-street brands popping up around the country for proof of its booming popularity, with leisure centres, schools and even workplaces all adopting forms of the practice. In fact, a study by Lancaster University and Cambridge University Press recently found that ‘yoga’ is among one of the top 15 most popular words used in British society today. Yoga was developed in India some 5,000 years ago, and is one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophical traditions. As well as being great for building strength and improving flexibility, yoga is fiercely tied into 158 SWANSEA LIFE

the mind and studies have found it can have a positive effect on your mental health. However, in recent times – from boozy beer yoga to comical dog yoga – the practice has had some pretty zany takes over the years. But if you just fancy giving some regular Hatha practice a go (that’s the most common form of yoga, FYI), we’ve rounded up some nifty kit for getting you started from the comfort of your own living room...

■ Gaiam yoga block, £ 11.99, Johnlewis.com If you’re looking to improve your flexibility, a foam block is a great prop for easing the body into more challenging poses. You can slide one under your sacroiliac joint

for a greater stretch during a bridge, or place it at the sit bone to help support the hips during Pigeon pose. A block can also shorten the distance between your hand and the floor, helping you to balance without injury in more advanced poses like Half Moon. This one from Gaiam is lightweight, gentle on joints and comes in a cool grey.

■ SportFX Logo Bra, £19.99, Sportfx.com There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable and worrying about ill-fitting kit when you’re moving through a range of different poses (there’s always the chance you might encounter an embarrassing mid-Downward Dog slip!), so it’s always a sensible

idea to invest in a suitable sports bra. We’re a big fan of a v-neck style, which not only looks flattering but keeps everything firmly in place. This one from SportFX also has an elasticated chest band for extra staying power. ■ Men’s Patagonia M’s Mahnya fleece pants – feather grey, £60, Yogamatters.com With so many different yoga brands on the market, shopping for the right pair of pants can be a bit of a head-scratcher. This pair from Patagonia are a great option for guys who aren’t sure where to start. Made from a comforting blend of organic cotton, polyester and elastane fleece, they’re super-soft and comfortable to move in. Sitting low on the hips, they also have a slim fit at the foot, so your flow won’t be interrupted by any loose fabric getting in the way.

■ Google Home Hub, £139, Store.google.com A Google Home Hub isn’t just for reading out the weather forecast and playing music – it can also coach you through your yoga practice, whatever level you might be at. Simply ask it to fire up a yoga class and it’ll stream a follow-along tutorial from YouTube (we love Yoga With Adrienne’s 30 Days of Yoga challenge). If you often forget to make time to stretch, you can also ask Google to remind you to work-out at a specific time of the day, like first thing in the morning.

■ Homedics stretch back stretching mat, £249.99, Lookfantastic.com It’s no secret that making time to stretch can work wonders for the body and soul. If you’re looking for a super gentle way to reap the benefits of a yoga practice, this smart mat, below, is a great way to release tension when you get home. It’s fitted with several air chambers that inflate in sequence to encourage your back to stretch, release and relax. It comes with four pre-programmed choreographed sequences that can be customised so you get just the right level of intensity.

■ AmazonBasics yoga towel, £11.22, Amazon.co.uk A sweaty, slippery yoga mat is never fun. If you like to add some heat to your practice, it’s worthwhile investing in a non-slip towel; it’ll provide a soft and stable surface for your hands, while soaking up excess moisture. And it can be chucked into the washing machine afterwards and used again and again.

■ Domyos organic cotton yoga strap, £3.99, Decathlon.co.uk One of the hardest things about starting out in yoga is feeling you’re nowhere near as bendy as the super-fit yogis on Instagram. Don’t let this stop you though – there’s actually far more to it than being bendy! But if one of your beginner goals is to be able to touch your toes, a yoga strap can help to open up tight hamstrings and gently get you where you need to be over time. With a straight back, you simply need to place the middle of the strap around the balls of your feet and gently pull yourself forward so you really feel the stretch. After a few months of regular practice, you might actually surprise yourself by being able to grab your toes with your fingers.

SWANSEA LIFE 159

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ASK

P ETER LYNN & PARTNERS

Sara Plant, head of divorce and family law talks this month about achieving a fair divorce

TIME FOR YOU

How can I get a fair divorce settlement if my other half is hiding the true value of their business? Getting divorced or dissolving a civil partnership would be simple if everyone agreed on the value of their assets, wouldn’t it? When it comes to business assets, though, the process can be anything but simple and there are so many questions to ask... •

Every business has assets, but how many are owned outright and how many are leased?

•

What kind of assets are there – from computers and printers to vehicles?

•

How has the value of those assets depreciated in recent years?

•

Does the business own property? Has it been valued recently?

•

Does the business own intellectual property which may be valuable, such as patents or trademarks?

•

Does the business have different trading arms with different names where there may be more funds or assets?

For partners and spouses not involved in a business, all of this can make your head spin. However, to get the fair settlement you deserve, it’s important to know the real market value of assets and the value of a business as a going concern. What can you do if your former spouse or partner isn’t co-operative about their business?

You can: •

Apply directly to the court to get information from your spouse or partner’s bank and accountant.

•

Get your solicitor to investigate the accounts and assets, using forensic accountants, valuers, surveyors, and other professionals.

•

Agree on a single independent expert to value the business.

•

Appoint two experts – yours and your former spouse’s – to value the business.

•

Explore mediation.

How do you choose the right legal firm for you? Look for a practice which deals regularly with divorce cases involving businesses, particularly where there is a high value to the businesses involved. Our experienced Peter Lynn & Partners team deals regularly with high financial value divorce cases and has the correct contacts to obtain the true financial picture of a business owner, with business and share allocation being a particular area of expertise. That helps you receive the fair settlement you deserve.

Being open is key in a divorce or civil partnership dissolution. When one partner isn’t open, and you feel they are hiding things, this can make the process even more difficult and hold things up when you want to move on.

Our friendly and approachable team are specialists in high-end divorce and as a commercial practice we have particular insight into business accounts and company valuations and have a team of commercial specialists on hand that most other family lawyers do not.

Some people have been known to try to ‘hide’ funds between different business concerns, or undervalue their assets.

For more information and to arrange a free initial meeting, call 01792 450010 or email Divorce@plandp.co.uk

To arrange a free initial meeting, call 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk 160 SWANSEA LIFE

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COMING NEXT MONTH IN SWANSEA LIFE

High street heroes to love for summer! FurnitureVillage

The six summer 2019 fashion trends that actually work in real life

Miss Selfridge

‘It’s a blend of new and unusual’ a Swansea Life reader home to inspire

Shop savvy in Swansea to get a Scandi look for less ON SALE JUNE 15

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